124 BEAUTY.

 

tions and deal in flattering words where
such things are taken in the place of truth
and sincerity.

Such, with a groundwork of good sense,
good principles, and purity of character,
was Mary Marvel.

Some few days after the conversation with
which this sketch opens occurred, Mary
was engaged in dressing for an evening
party, when her aunt came into her room.

“ How do I look, aunt?” inquired Mary,
who had nearly completed her toilet.

Mrs. Hartley shook her head and looked
grave.

‘“*' What is the matter, aunt? Am I over-
dressed, as you say, again ?”

““T would rather say, under-dressed,” re-
plied the aunt. “But you certainly are
not going in this style?”

““ How do you mean?” And Mary threw
_a glance of satisfaction into her mirror.

“You intend wearing your lace-cape ?”

“Oh dear, no !”

Mary’s neck and shoulders were too