"I am content to be under the safeguard of Leonard." "Amabel," said her father, "you know not what I shall endure in thus parting with you.

I would give all I possess to be able to accompany you, but a sense of duty restrains me.

I have taken the resolution to remain here with my family during the continuance of the pestilence, and I must abide by it.

I little thought how severely my constancy would be tried.

But hard though it be, I must submit I shall commit you, therefore, to the care of an all-merciful Providence, who will not fail to watch over and protect you." "Have no fear for me, father," replied Amabel; "and do not weep, dear mother," she added to Mrs.Bloundel, who, unable to restrain her grief, was now drowned in tears; "I shall be well cared for.