She had never known plenty, scarcely competency; but the present was beyond comparison with those innocent years when the coronet of virtue was hers.
Every year her melancholy increased, her means diminished.

At last no one seemed to notice her, save a kind-hearted African, who often called to inquire after her health and to see if she needed any fuel, he having the responsibility of furnishing that article, and she in return mending or making garments.
"How much you earn dis week, Mag ?" asked he one Saturday evening.
"Little enough, Jim.

Two or three days without any dinner.

I washed for the Reeds, and did a small job for Mrs.Bellmont; that's all.

I shall starve soon, unless I can get more to do.