TURNS OF FORTUNE. a 53

placing her beyond the reach of the most har-
rowing of all poverties, that which keeps up an
appearance above its means. ‘ Her cheerful-
ness, her industry, her goodness, have all been
noted,” he continued. ‘She has proved her-
self capable of accommodating herself to her
circumstances; the most difficult of all things
to a young girl enervated by luxury and indul-
gence. Andif my friend can establish an inter-
est in her affections, he has no higher views of
earthly happiness, and I think he ought to have
no other. You will, I am sure, forgive me for
having counselled the trial. If deep adversity
had followed your exertions—if you had failed
instead of*succeeded—I should have been at
hand to succour and to aid.”

Sarah Bond had never forgotten the emotion
of Mabel, caused by the mention of the curate’s
name when they quitted their old neighbourhood,
and the very reserve Mabel showed proved to
Sarah’s searching and clear judgment, that the
feeling was unchanged. Truly in that hour
was her chastened heart joyful and grateful.
‘¢Mabel must wait,’*she said, ‘ until the pros-
pect of advancement became a reality; for it
would be an ill return of disinterested love

for a penniless orphan to become a burden in-,

stead of a blessing. Mabel would grow more

worthy every day; they were doing well; ay,

he might look round the white-washed walls and

smile, but they were prosperous, healthful, hap-
I