It seems so unnecessary, so inconsistent with her usual munificence of action." The glow of wounded pride warmed my cheek.

I had become happy in my vocation, but I could not bear to hear it depreciated, nor the motives of my benefactress misunderstood and misrepresented.
"Mrs.Linwood is as wise as she is kind," I answered, hastily.

"It is my happiness and good she consults, not her own pleasure.

Giving does not impoverish either her ample purse or her generous heart.

She knows my nature, knows that I could not bear the stagnation of a life of luxurious ease." "Edith can,--why not you ?" "We are so different.