138 TRUE RICHES; OR,

 

‘This acting on mere policy, is never, I think, the
wisest. Does it not clearly involve a distrust in
Providence, and a weak reliance on mere human
prudence? ‘There is a provision for Fanny’s sup-
port and education, and she is justly entitled to all
those natural advantages which this provision was
designed to give. Under Providence, Mr. Jasper
has been chosen her guardian; and under Provi-
dence the personal care of the child has fallen to
our lot. Thus far we have endeavoured to discharge
our duty faithfully—thus far we have done as well
by the child as if she had been our own. Now, if
it is best for her to remain with us, the same Provi-
dence will so dispose of events as to provide for her
remaining ; but if it is best for her to go into the
family of Mr. Jasper, she will go there. Let us
not, therefore, in our practical distrust of Provi-
dence, seek to hide ourselves from the observation
of a mere creature.”’

‘‘T see much in this,” said Claire, as soon as his
wife had ceased speaking. ‘ Man proposes; God
disposes. With Him are all our ways. Out of the
evil designs and selfish purposes of men, He is ever
bringing forth good.”

“Then let us not fear to trust him. As we
have been doing, let us continue to do, confidently
believing that He will overrule all for good. To
our present sight, it seems, that, unless we receive,
as heretofore, a sum of money for Fanny's support
and education, we cannot do for her what is right.
This, at least, is my view.”

‘And it is mine,”’ replied the husband.