There was one present from whom the secret of your birth must be strictly kept--at least, for awhile--and my impatience carried me too far." "I only obeyed a natural impulse, madam," said Alizon; "but I am at a loss to conceive what claim I can possibly have to the consideration you show me." "Listen to me, and you shall learn," replied Mistress Nutter.

"It is a sad tale, and its recital will tear open old wounds, but it must not be withheld on that account.

I do not ask you to bury the secrets I am about to impart in the recesses of your bosom.

You will do so when you learn them, without my telling you.

When little more than your age I was wedded; but not to him I would have chosen if choice had been permitted me.