In your present temper, were I to read the entire book instead of one Psalm, I fear you would receive no benefit." The girls were awed more by the tone than words, and sat silent and abashed.

The reading was concluded, and then he offered up a prayer earnest and heartfelt.

Instead of leaving the room immediately, the pupils waited as for something, and taking a bundle of letters from the desk, their tutor distributed them as the direction indicated.
"My budget is not so large as usual, and I regret it for your sakes, as I fear some are disappointed.

Miss Hamilton, here are two for you;" and he handed them to her without looking up.
"Two for Florry, and none for me ?" asked Mary, while her voice slightly trembled.

He was leaving the room, but turned toward her.
"I am very sorry, Miss Mary, but hope you will find a comforting message in your cousin's." Gently he spoke, yet his eyes rested on Florence the while, and, with a suppressed sigh, he passed on.