3 2 The Story of the Hamniltons.

alone, she resumed: It is both childish and
wrong to cry in this way; try to control your-
self and listen to me. Cannot you guess
why it is you have hitherto failed in your
endeavours ?"
 No, ma'am," faintly answered Clara.
 "Then I will see if I can guess for you.
I think you have been relying too much on
your own strength" (and Miss Campbell's voice
became more solemn), "forgetting that 'we
are not sufficient of ourselves to do any-
thing,' but that there is One who is at all
times not only able but willing-zviilling-
remember that, Clara-to help us when we
ask Him. Will you go to Him, my love, and
tell Him your trials and difficulties? He
only can guide and strengthen you in the
right path. Trust Him; He knows all your
feelings and desires, and you will be made,
through His grace, one of His own children.
Now, my love, you can go, but do not forget
what you have heard."
 Time went on apace, and Kate's birthday
was close at hand; conversation took no turn
but on this one engrossing subject. The sky
was watched, and the weather speculated
on to quite a teasing extent, at least so said
Clara; she also averred her intention of going