Thus we proceeded up the park, and entered the hall; and as I ascended the stairs to my own chamber, I had but one thought within me: my heart was filled to overflowing with one single earnest wish.

Having entered the room, and shut the door, I fell upon my knees and offered up a fervent but not impetuous prayer: 'Thy will be done,' I strove to say throughout; but, 'Father, all things are possible with Thee, and may it be Thy will,' was sure to follow.

That wish--that prayer--both men and women would have scorned me for--'But, Father, _Thou_ wilt _not_ despise!' I said, and felt that it was true.

It seemed to me that another's welfare was at least as ardently implored for as my own; nay, even _that_ was the principal object of my heart's desire.

I might have been deceiving myself; but that idea gave me confidence to ask, and power to hope I did not ask in vain.