he
reign of one of our kings, and go on to other subjects in a similar
manner. In the first instance, however, always hear your pupil read;
clear, distinct reading, with proper emphasis--I do not mean in a
theatrical style--is one test of abilities; give her some pointed
passage from history, or from any suitable book."

"I want an example," said Elizabeth.

"Now, sister, you are trifling, and will lead me to trifle in return."

"In 1199 John signed Magna Charta, the bulwark of English liberty;" or,
"the king wept when he found himself a prisoner; but the master of
Glamis said--"

"Go on, my dear Jane: the master of Glamis I will not have any thing to
say to."

"You forget," said Jane, "that we are not to finish a sentence with to,
or for, or any word so insignificant. Let a little girl read, 'remember
now thy Creator in the days of thy youth,' or something in the same
easy, impressive style. But consult my mother: she will give you the
best information upon the subject of teaching."

"Ah," said Elizabeth, "my spirits fail when I think of the task! I only
wish the first week were over."

"It will pass away like all other things. We have only to be resolute in
doing our duty, and leave the rest to Providence. Let us at all times
remember our own excellent instructress: her 'authority, when most
severe, and mustering all its force, was but the graver countenance of
love, watering at once and nourishing the plant.'"

CHAPTER II.

It will, perhaps, here be necessary to say something of Mrs. Adair; I
will not, however, enter upon her motive for opening a boarding-school.
It is a well known fact that the loss of fortune, contracted incomes, or
troubles in one shape or another, are the origin of almost all female
seminaries. I never heard but of one lady beginning a school, and
persevering to the conclusion of a protracted life, without any motive
but benefiting a friend. To her credit let me remark, that she never
regretted this, as it may justly be styled, "labour of love."

Mrs. Adair's personal appearance and manner were calculated to excite
respect and deference from pupils. The general cast of her countenance
was serious, to a degree bordering upon severity; but when she did
unbend, the cheerfulness that beamed in her features, and the benevolent
expression of her dark and pleasing eyes, invited confidence and regard
from every beholder. She had been a widow several years, and was going
to commence a