ising and
walking the length of the splendid apartment and again returning,
"because I do not have my allotted daily task to perform; because I do
not go forth, like the lawyer, with a green bag under my arm; like the
minister, with a sermon in my pocket; or the doctor, with powders and
pills. If necessity imposed such tasks on me, I suppose I should perform
them with as good a grace as the rest; but surely it would ill become me
to enter the lists with my needier brethren, and take the bread from
their desiring lips. Every profession is crowded. Even woman is pressing
into the throng, and claiming precedence of man, in the great struggle
of life. It seems to me, that it is the duty of those on whom fortune
has lavished her gifts, to step aside and give room to others, who are
less liberally endowed. We _may_ live in luxury; but by so doing, our
wealth is scattered among the multitude, the useful arts are encouraged,
and much is done for the establishment of that golden mean, which reason
and philosophy have so long labored to secure."

As he thus spoke calmly, yet energetically, moving back and forth under
the arches of glittering azure, his pale, transparent complexion lighted
up glowingly. My eyes followed him with exulting affection. I wondered
at the presumption of which I had been guilty. He had been doing good in
secret, while I imagined him forgetful of the sacred legacy, left by
Christ to the rich. I had wronged him in thought, and I told him so.

"You asked me of what I was thinking," I said, "and you draw my thoughts
from me as by magic. I have not told you all. _I_ do not sigh for other
society; but I fear you will become weary of mine."

"Do we ever weary of moonlight, or the sweet, fresh air of heaven? No,
Gabriella; remain just as you are, ingenuous, confiding, and true, and I
desire no other companionship. You so entirely fill my heart, there is
no room for more. You never have had, never will have a rival. You have
a power over me, such as woman seldom, exercises over man. Love, with
most men, is the pastime and gladdener of life; with me it is life
itself. A fearful responsibility is resting on you, my own, dear bride;
but do not tremble. I do not think it is possible for you to deceive me,
for you are truth itself. I begin to think you have changed my nature,
and inspired me with trust and confidence in all mankind."

I did not make any professions, any promises, in answer to his avowal;
but if eve