"I suppose," said her friend, "that, to begin with the
smallest thing, she has always been watchfully careful to
provide every thing that would be useful or necessary for you;
— she never forgot your wants, or was careless about them?"

"No indeed, Sir."

"And perhaps you recollect that she never minded trouble, or
expense, or pain, where your good was concerned; — she would
sacrifice her own pleasure at any time for yours?"

Ellen's eyes gave a quick and strong answer to this, but she
said nothing.

"And in all your griefs and pleasures you were sure of finding
her ready and willing to feel with you, and for you, and to
help you if she could? And in all the times you have seen her
tried, no fatigue ever wore out her patience, nor any
naughtiness of yours ever lessened her love; she could not be
weary of waiting upon you when you were sick, nor of bearing
with you when you forgot your duty — more ready always to
receive you than you to return. Isn't it so?"

"Oh yes, Sir."

"And you can recollect a great many words and looks of
kindness and love — many and many endeavours to teach you and
lead you in the right way — all showing the strongest desire
for your happiness in this world, and in the next?"