knowledge as a means of future independence was wholly
thrown away. Before the close of this year I received another letter
from George, which somewhat surprised, but did not at all dishearten me.
It was, in substance, as follows:--

"'_MY own dear Sister_:--I wrote you, some months ago, from Savannah, in
Georgia told you how much I was delighted with the place and people; how
charmed with Southern frankness and hospitality. But I did not tell you
that I had there met with positively the most bewitching creature in the
world--for I was but a timid lover, and feared that, as the song says,
the course of true love never would run smooth. My charming Laura was a
considerable heiress, and, although no sordid considerations ever had a
feather's weight upon her own preferences, of course, yet her father
was naturally and very properly anxious that the guardian of so fair
a flower should be able to shield it from the biting winds of poverty.
Indeed, I had some difficulty in satisfying his wishes on this point,
and in order to do so, I will frankly own that I assumed to myself the
unencumbered possession of my father's estate, of which so large a share
belongs of right to you. I am confident that when you know my Laura you
will forgive me this merely nominal injustice. Of course, this connexion
can make no sort of difference in your rights and expectations. You will
always have a home at my house. Laura is delighted, with the idea of
such a companion, and says she would on no account dispense with that
arrangement. And whenever, you marry as girls do and will, I shall hold
myself bound to satisfy any reasonable wishes on the part of the
happy youth that wins you. Circumstances hastened my marriage somewhat
unexpectedly, or I should certainly have informed you previously, and
requested your presence at the nuptial ceremony. We have secured a
beautiful house in Brooklyn, and shall expect you to join us as soon
as your present year expires, Laura sends her kindest regards, and
I remain, as always, your sincere and affectionate brother, GEORGE
SOMERS.'

"Not long after the receipt of this letter, one of the instructresses,
in the institution where I resided requested the favour of a private
interview. She then said she knew something generally of my position
and prospects, and, as she had always felt an instinctive interest in
my fortunes, she could not see me leave the place without seeking
my confidence, and rendering me aid, if