It is useless to ask me to control or suppress it, for I feel that the task is beyond my power.

My love, however, is not base nor selfish, papa, but founded on virtue and honor.

It may seem strange that I should make such a confession to you, for I know it is un--usual in young persons like me to do so; but remember, dear papa, that except yourself I have no friend.

If I had a mother, or a sister, or a cousin of my own sex, to whom I might confide and unburden my feelings, then indeed it is not probable I would make to you the confession which I have made; but we are alone, and you are the only being left me on whom can rest my sorrow--for indeed my heart is full of sorrow." "Well, well, I know not what to say.

You are a true girl, Helen, and the very error, if it be one, is diminished by the magnanimity and truth which prompted you to disclose it to me.