ts from here, and directly out of our way;
altogether too far for you to walk."

"Oh, no, it won't tire me; I'm quite strong now, and I would know she
was safe home."

If Emily could but have seen Gerty's grateful face that moment, she
would indeed have felt repaid for almost any amount of weariness.

CHAPTER IX.

MENTAL DARKNESS.

The blind girl did not forget little Gerty. Emily Graham never forgot
the sufferings, the wants, the necessities of others. She could not see
the world without, but there was a world of love and sympathy within
her, which manifested itself in abundant charity, both of heart and
deed. She loved God with her whole heart, and her neighbour as herself.
Her own great misfortunes and trials were borne without repining; but
the misfortunes and trials of others became her care, the alleviation of
them her greatest delight. Emily was never weary of doing good. But
never had she been so affected as now by any tale of sorrow. Children
were born into the world amid poverty and privation. She could not
account to herself for the interest she felt in the little stranger; but
the impulse to know more of her was irresistible, and sending for True,
she talked a long time with him about the child.

True was highly gratified by Miss Graham's account of the meeting in the
church, and of the interest the little girl had inspired in one for whom
he felt the greatest admiration and respect. Gerty had previously told
him how she had seen Miss Graham, and had spoken in the most glowing
terms of the dear lady who was so kind to her, and brought her home when
Mr. Cooper had forgotten her, but it had not occurred to the old man
that the fancy was mutual.

Emily asked him if he didn't intend to send her to school?

"Well, I don't know," said he; "she's a little thing, and an't much used
to being with other children. Besides, I don't exactly like to spare
her."

Emily suggested that it was time she was learning to read and write; and
that the sooner she went among other children, the easier it would be to
her.

"Very true, Miss Emily, very true," said Mr. Flint. "I dare say you're
right; and if you think she'd better go, I'll ask her, and see what she
says."

"I would," said Emily. "I think she might enjoy it, besides improving
very much; and, about her clothes, if there's any deficiency, I'll----"

"Oh, no, no, Miss Emily!" interrupted True; "there's no necessity; she's
very well on't now, thanks