dreadful fact that his
motherless little girl was blind--a discovery which had nearly unsettled
his reason--he had felt that the devotion of himself and all that he
possessed could not make up to her for the loss of her sight, and he had
spared nothing that would contribute to her comfort or enjoyment. He had
literally showered luxuries and expensive gifts upon her from the very
first, and once, when a friend had chided him for his lavishness and
extravagance, he had replied that he "should regard a fortune as well
spent if it would give her pleasure."

This, of course, was mistaken kindness, though prompted by tenderest
love, for pleasure and unlimited gratification palled upon her after a
while, and this course of indulgence only developed a selfish spirit and
an unusually strong will, which she had inherited from both parents.

If she was crossed ever so lightly, a spirit of antagonism and obstinacy
was instantly aroused, which it sometimes took days to overcome, and was
often made worse by servile coaxing and bribing on the part of those who
had the care of her, this being considered the easiest way to get along
with her.

Violet had a trial of this nature not very many days after she assumed
her duties as companion, and governess, and how she met it will be
developed.

Miss Bertha always took her breakfast in her private sitting-room,
because, as she retired early, she awoke earlier in the morning than the
other members of the family, and it was thought best that she should not
wait to eat with them.

When Violet learned this, she at once said that she would take her
breakfast with her charge, if it would be agreeable to her.

Bertha thought this was very kind, and a delightful arrangement, and for
a few days everything moved along harmoniously.

But one morning there came a storm to dispel this unusual calm.

Bertha had given orders for something that she particularly wanted for
breakfast, but through some misunderstanding or oversight, it was not
provided, although the table was very nicely laid with broiled chicken,
hot rolls, Lyonnaise potatoes, and an omelet, the latter usually being a
favorite with the young lady.

"Where are my oysters?" Miss Bertha demanded, with a frown, after the
servant had named over the various viands upon the table, and she
discovered that her order had been ignored.

"The man did not bring them, Miss Bertha," the girl answered.

"But I want some broiled oysters," persis