Page:Women worth emulating (1877) Internet Archive.djvu/121

Rh from the lips of a child a blessed truth: "Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings He perfecteth praise."

The losses of property recorded, rather limited the Duchess of Gordon's liberality; and her visitations and benefactions to the poor, her schools, and other charities taxed her personal resources to their full extent. In the spring of 1835, while the family were out at dinner, her jewel chest was stolen from their town house in Belgrave Square. Scarcely any but the plainest of her ornaments was left her. Her comment on this was, "My treasure is where thieves do not break through and steal."

Queen Adelaide, who was a personal friend, sympathising in her loss, sent her a handsome present of her own favourite jewels—a gift valued for the spirit of the giver, more than for any other worth. In 1836, the Duchess of Gordon became a widow. She had the inexpressible satisfaction of seeing that change of heart in her beloved husband which is, the Christian's greatest consolation in bereavement. Her faithfulness was thus recompensed, and her deep sorrow sanctified.

Removing to her dower house, Huntly Lodge, henceforth her life and fortune were devoted to extending the Saviour's kingdom. Her work in founding schools was followed by building places of worship. To this end, when she had not money to give, she devoted relics of former splendour. A gold vase, worth £1,200 was so dedicated. Then,