every unworthy feeling has been rooted from my heart, and that in future you may command my deference and affection.

"ALICE SEYMOUR."

CHAPTER XIV.

MR. HARCOURT lost no time in obeying the summons of Mrs. Seymour; and affecting indeed was the interview between the brother and sister.

Much had she to forgive; but Mr. Harcourt was completely humbled, and a sincere penitent. When he looked at the dying form of his poor sister, and listened to the angelic sweetness of her voice, which instead of reproaches breathed the kindest expressions, and endeavours to sooth the grief he now evinced, he felt the sharp stings of conscience, and thought that years of contrition would be necessary to wipe out the stain

of his guilt. On his knees he promised to be more than a father to her child; that she should be his only object in this world; that she should be made as happy as fortune and kindness could render her.

"For riches she shall never want," said he, "and I will watch over her as a jewel beyond price; and when I die, I shall take care to leave her under the protection of those who will as anxiously take charge of her. In short, my sister, have not a care for your Alice. I feel that the only means left me for making my peace with God and with myself, is to do my duty towards your child. May my future conduct plead for me, and obtain for my faulty heart that forgiveness which I know I scarcely can expect to obtain."

Mrs. Seymour received these promises with joy. Her only earthly care was removed; and with tranquil hope, she cast all her thoughts upon that God, before whom she humbly expected soon to ap

I

pear; and waited with patient resignation for that moment when it should please the Almighty to end her sufferings, and take her to himself.

Every comfort and luxury now poured in upon Mrs. Seymour and her daughter; and Mr. Harcourt's only care seemed to be the study of ameliorations for his sis ter's sufferings, and composing the afflicted state of poor Alice's spirits, by words of sympathy and consolation. He was anxious they should be removed to a more commodious lodging; but Dr. Wilmot told him it would be risking too much for Mrs. Seymour, and even shorten the few days that were yet spared to her. Indeed, she became perceptibly weaker, and was now not able to leave her bed.

Alice of course never left her; and she watched by her side with that intensity of anxiety, known only to those who have witnessed the last moments of their dearest tie on earth.

Mr. Harcourt behaved liberally to Mr. Turner; and although he said he never could replace his talented assistant, yet the magnificent present which he received amply remunerated him for any temporary inconvenience.

Lady G― and her family were rejoiced at the improved prospects of their dear young friend, although they fully participated in her present grief and mournful anticipations. With most considerate kindness, they were unremitting in their attentions to the invalid; and affectionately endeavoured by all in their power to sooth the bitter sorrow of our heroine.

Poor child! she vainly strove to subdue it: particularly in the presence of her mother was she anxious to appear composed; and fervently did she pray signation to support herself with fortitude under the coming blow.

for re

In the hour of deep affliction we are