; we allow them to worship as they please--but denying
them a cordial fellowship with us, we restrict their improvement in all
Arts, but the one of money-making;--and they, unable to obtain
distinction except through their gold, naturally cling to that which
gives them what all men covet--Power.

At our first introduction to Grace Aguilar we were struck, as much by
the earnestness and eloquence of her conversation, as by her delicate
and lovely countenance. Her person and address were exceedingly
prepossessing; her eyes, of the deep blue that look almost black in
particular lights; and her hair dark and abundant. There was no attempt
at display; no affectation of learning; no desire to obtrude "me and my
books" upon any one, or in any way: in all things she was graceful and
well-bred. You felt at once that she was a carefully educated
gentlewoman, and if there was more warmth and cordiality of manner than
a stranger generally evinces on a first introduction, we remembered her
descent,[I] and that the tone of her studies, as well as her passionate
love of music and high musical attainments had increased her
sensibility. When we came to know her better, we were charmed and
astonished at her extensive reading; at her knowledge of foreign
literature, and actual learning--relieved by a refreshing pleasure in
juvenile amusements. Each interview increased our friendship, and the
quantity and quality of her acquirements commanded our admiration. She
had made acquaintance with the beauties of English nature during a long
residence in Devonshire; loved the country with her whole heart, and
enriched her mind by the leisure it afforded. She had collected and
arranged conchological and mineralogical specimens to a considerable
extent; loved flowers as only sensitive women can love them; and with
all this was deeply read in theology and history. Whatever she knew she
knew thoroughly; rising at six in the morning, and giving to each hour
its employment; cultivating and exercising her home affections, and
keeping open heart for many friends. All these qualities were warmed by
a fervid enthusiasm for whatever was high and holy. She spurned all envy
and uncharitableness, and rendered loving homage to whatever was great
and good. It was difficult to induce her to speak of herself or of her
own doings. After her death, it was deeply interesting to hear from the
one of all others who loved and knew her best (her mother), of the
progress of