And, ungrateful indeed I should be, if I did not comply; for, though her manner is harsh and cold to me, she has never ill-used me, as she has done her favourite child, my little sister Jennet, but has always allowed me a separate chamber, where I can retire when I please, to read, or meditate, or pray.

For, alas! dear young lady, I dare not pray before my mother.

Be not shocked at what I tell you, but I cannot hide it.

My poor mother denies herself the consolation of religion--never addresses herself to Heaven in prayer--never opens the book of Life and Truth--never enters church.

In her own mistaken way she has brought up poor little Jennet, who has been taught to make a scoff at religious truths and ordinances, and has never been suffered to keep holy the Sabbath-day.