If I did so, it was only because I thought, because I feared from your manner, when we met at times, still more from your evident avoidance to meet me at all, that you were unhappy (for I know you kind and honest),--unhappy at the thought that you had wounded me, and my heart could not bear that, nor, perhaps, my pride either.

That you should have forgotten me--" "Forgotten you!" "That you should have been captivated," continued Susan, in a more hurried tone, "by one so superior to me in all things as Lucretia, is very natural.

I thought, then--thought only--that nothing could cloud your happiness but some reproach of a conscience too sensitive.

For this I have met you,--met you without a thought which Lucretia would have a right to blame, could she read my heart; met you," and the voice for the first time faltered, "that I might say, 'Be at peace; it is your sister that addresses you.

Requite Lucretia's love,--it is deep and strong; give her, as she gives to you, a whole heart; and in your happiness I, your sister--sister to both--I shall be blest.'" With a smile inexpressibly touching and ingenuous, she held out her hand as she ceased.