n; for many things
would be mentioned by her, which demanded explanation, for one so
completely unaware of their existence as myself, and that it would be
impossible to make me thoroughly acquainted with such things within any
reasonable time; the proper explanations she promised should follow.
She then proceeded.

"My father, it may be thought, had enough on his hands; but in an
obscure country town, it is not unusual for one man to unite the
occupations of several, and this was particularly the case with my
father, who, in addition to the offices I have enumerated, was the best
cattle-doctor and bone-setter within ten miles, and often earned his
bread at different kinds of farmer's work; such as thatching, hedging,
ditching, and the like. Nevertheless, he found time to read his Bible,
and bring up his only daughter religiously. This daughter was myself."

"What had become of your mother?" I asked, as I thought it strange Mrs
Reichardt should only mention one parent.

"She had died very soon after my birth," she answered, "and I was left
at first to the care of a poor woman, who nursed me; as soon, however,
as I could run about, and had exhibited some signs of intelligence, my
father began to get so partial to me, that he very reluctantly allowed
me to go out of his sight. He took great pains in teaching me what he
knew; and though the extent of his acquirements was by no means great,
it was sufficient to lay a good foundation, and establish a desire for
more comprehensive information, which I sought every available means to
obtain.

"I remember that at a very early age, I exhibited an extraordinary
curiosity for a child, constantly asking questions, not only of my
father, but of all his friends and visitors; and, as they seemed to
consider me a quick and lively child, they took pleasure in satisfying
my inquisitive spirit. In this way I gained a great deal of knowledge,
and, by observation of what passed around me, a great deal more.

"It soon became a source of pride and gratification with my father, to
ask me to read the Bible to him. This naturally led to a good many
inquiries on my part, and numerous explanations on his. In course of
time, I became familiar with all the sacred writings, and knew their
spirit and meaning much better than many persons who were more than
double my age.

"My fondness for such studies, and consequent reputation, attracted the
attention of Dr Brightwell, the clergyman of o