104 TRUE RICHES; OR,

 

higher guardianship of One who is infinitely wise
and good. If she is to pass from our care to that
of Mr. Jasper and his family, it is through His
permission, and He will bring out of it good to
all.”

“T can see that in my understanding, Kdith,”
replied her husband; “but, it is hard to feel that it
is 80.”

“Very hard, Edward. Yet, it is something—a
great deal—to have the truth to lean upon, even
though it seems to bend under our weight. Oh!
without this truth, it seems as if I would now fall
to the ground helpless. But, let us try and view
this painful subject in its brightest aspect. It is
our duty to the child to keep her, if we can, until
she passes her twelfth year.”

“Clearly,” replied the husband.

‘And you think we can do so?”

“We have two advantages—possession and a
written contract guaranteeing the possession.”

‘¢'True.’’

‘¢These on our side, I think we have little to
fear from Jasper. ‘The great trial will come after-
ward.”

To this conclusion, that is, to retain Fanny
until her twelfth year, if possible—they came,
after once more carefully reviewing the whole sub-
ject; and, resting here, they patiently awaited the
result.

With what a new interest was the child regarded
from this time! How the hearts of Claire and his
wife melted toward her on all occasions! She
seemed to grow, daily, more and more into their af-