round me.
I tried to rouse myself to a consciousness of the present, and
apologized for my delay with more ease and composure than I expected.

When the treasurer received the usual funds, I was obliged to throw
myself on her leniency.

"I have disposed of my purse since I left home," said I, with a guilty
blush, "but I will double my contribution at the next meeting."

"It is no matter," was the reply. "You have already met your
responsibilities,--far more than met them,--your reputation for
benevolence is already too well established for us to doubt that your
will is equal to your power."

Whenever I went into society, I realized the distinction of being the
wife of the rich and exclusive Ernest Linwood, the mistress of the
oriental palace, as Mrs. Brahan called our dwelling-place. I always
found myself flattered and caressed, and perhaps something was owing to
personal attraction. I never presumed on the distinction awarded me;
never made myself or mine the subjects of conversation, or sought to
engross the attention of others. I had always remembered the obscurity
of my early life, the cloud upon my birth, not abjectly, but _proudly_.
I was too proud to arrogate to myself any credit for the adventitious
circumstances which had raised me above the level of others,--too proud
of the love that had given the elevation, to exalt myself as worthy of
it.

"I think you must be the happiest being in the world, Mrs. Linwood,"
said the sprightly young lady, who had taken a seat by my side, and who
had the brightest, most sparkling countenance I ever saw. "You live in
such a beautiful, _beautiful_ place, with such an elegant husband, too!
What a life of enchantment yours must be! Do you know you are the envy
of all the young ladies of the city?"

"I hope not," I answered, trying to respond in the same sportive strain;
and every one knows, that when the heart is oppressed by secret anxiety,
it is easier to be gay than cheerful. "I hope not; as I might be in
danger of being exhaled by some subtle perfume. I have heard of the art
of poisoning being brought to such perfection, that it can be
communicated by a flower or a ring."

"It must be a very fascinating study," she said, laughingly. "I intend
to take lessons, though I think throwing vitriol in the face and marring
its beauty, is the most effectual way of removing a rival."

"I thought you were discussing the wants and miseries of the sewing
sisterhood," said Mrs. B