It was better--oh, how much better!--when she laid her head at night

on her lonely pillow, to have in memory the face of a poor sick

woman, which had changed from suffering to peace as she talked to

her of higher things than the body's needs, and bore her mind up

into a region of tranquil thought, than to be left with no image to

dwell upon but an image of her own shattered hopes. Yes, this was

far better; and by the power of such memories the unhappy one had

many peaceful seasons and nights of sweet repose.

All around Ivy Cliff, Irene and Rose were known as ministrant

spirits to the poor and humble. The father of Rose was a man of

wealth, and she had his entire sympathy and encouragement. Irene had

no regular duties at home, Margaret being housekeeper and directress

in all departments. So there was nothing to hinder the free course

of her will as to the employment of time. With all her pride of

independence, the ease with which Mrs. Talbot drew Irene in one

direction, and now Miss Carman in another, showed how easily she

might be influenced when off her guard. This is true in most cases

of your very self-willed people, and the reason why so many of them

get astray. Only conceal the hand that leads them, and you may often

take them where you will. Ah, if Hartley Emerson had been wise

enough, prudent enough and loving enough to have influenced aright

the fine young spirit he was seeking to make one with his own, how

different would the result have been!

In the region round about, our two young friends came in time to be

known as the "Sisters of Charity." It was not said of them

mockingly, nor in gay depreciation, nor in mean ill-nature, but in

expression of a common sentiment, that recognized their high,

self-imposed mission.

Thus it had been with Irene since her return to the old home at Ivy

Cliff.




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