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 question of the enamoured youth. The gloomy prospect of futurity had robbed Miss Benley of that vivacity, which, in her happier days she was wont to possess.

Harry Benley having informed his mother of the stranger’s civility, the good woman walked to the wicket gate, that formed an entrance to the garden, to welcome her daughter’s return; and thanking Trueman for his politeness, invited him to partake of their morning’s refreshment.

‘I am sorry,’ said the venerable matron, ‘that my means, and my incliantioninclination [sic] to make you welcome, are not in unison with each other, but that which I have to give, I give freely.—There was a time.—

‘I have heard of your misfortunes, madam,’ interrupted Trueman; and I sincerely sympathize in your sufferings. But do not yield to despair. The hand which inflicts distress can also bestow happiness; and though the pitiless storm of stern adversity to day beats hard and heavy on your defenceless roof, to-morrow prosperity’s cheering sun may raise your sinking hopes, and repair the ravages of the ruthless blast.

Mrs Benley and her daughter could not avoid making their observations on the strangeness of the visit; while he congratulated himself on the completion of his wish for an introduction to this amiable family.