VI.

JOY AND SORROW.


Many years ago, two visitors were sent from realms above, to enter the
homes of earth's inhabitants, and see how much of true happiness and real
sorrow there were in their midst. Hand in hand they walked together, till
they entered a pleasant valley nestled among green hills. At the base of
one of these stood a cottage covered with roses and honeysuckles, which
looked very inviting; and the external did not belie the interior.

The family consisted of a man and wife somewhat advanced in years,
an aged and infirm brother, and two lovely young girls, grandchildren
of the couple.

The pleasant murmur of voices floated on the air,--pleasant to the ear
as the perfume of the roses climbing over the door was to the sense of
smell. It chimed with the spell of the summer morning, and the sisters
knew that harmony was within.

"Let us enter," said Joy.

Sorrow, who was unwilling to go into any abode, lingered outside.

Within, all was as clean and orderly as one could desire: the young