inferior person to herself, and fit for no more exalted station than that which seemed to await her.
On the whole, this opinion was a source of satisfaction to Harriet Mannering, since it relieved her own mind from any anxiety about leaving her father—she felt so very sure Mary would attend on him carefully. Thus, the very virtues of the one sister were made the excuse for the selfish vanity and haughtiness of the other; until, priding herself on some beauty, and a few showy accomplishments, I believe the elder sister at last thought she was conferring almost a favour by becoming Mrs. Somerton’s guest.
Mrs. Somerton was a kind-hearted lady; and her real motive for inviting one of Mr. Mannering’s daughters to pass some time with her, was to ascertain if her disposition and acquirements were such as to fit her for a situation in the family, as an assistant, or under-governess to her children. I think her plan was a very good one, for it afforded her more opportunity of judging of Miss Mannering’s real character, than if she had been quite conscious of Mrs. Somerton’s intention; and, considering the important trust that lady was confiding to
Harriet, I think she was justified in taking any measures short of deception, to ascertain the real qualities of her heart and mind.
Certainly no deception was practised. Harriet was invited as a guest, and treated with all the consideration of one, but Mrs. Somerton, narrowly watched her conduct and her words.
It would be well if both young and old always remembered, that this life is at best but a state of probation, and that in all our actions we are but “on trial,” watched over by the All-seeing God. And often, and often, indeed, when we least suspect it, our doings are marked by our fellow men, are weighed, even in an earthly balance, and so are permitted to influence our earthly happiness. A poet has said—
“A deed can never die.”
If my young readers do not yet understand how the consequences of our actions follow us through life, and so do not perceive all the truth and meaning of that line, I would advise them, nevertheless, to remember it; some day they will understand it better.
We shall leave Harriet Mannering for awhile on her visit of pleasure and gaiety, and return to the humble dwelling of her father and sister. What with her household cares, and walking
with and reading to her father, the time flew rapidly with Mary: she met, too, with an unexpected return for her attention and devotion.