"You have a great influence over her." "Yes--and no!" said Felix.

"I had at first, I think; but now it is six of one and half-a-dozen of the other; it is reciprocal.

She affects me strongly--for she is so strong.

I don't believe you know her; it 's a beautiful nature." "Oh, yes, Felix; I have always thought Gertrude's nature beautiful." "Well, if you think so now," cried the young man, "wait and see! She 's a folded flower.

Let me pluck her from the parent tree and you will see her expand.