But how different from the one who had withdrawn from it years before! Suffering and discipline had left upon her their unmistakable signs.

The old beauty of countenance had departed.

The elegant style--the abounding grace of manner--the fascinating speech--all were gone.

Only those to whom she had been most familiar, recognized in the pale, serene countenance, retiring grace and gentle speech of Jessie Loring, the once brilliant Mrs.
Dexter.
And quite as different was the effect she produced upon those who came within the sphere of her chastened thoughts.

Before, all admired her; now, all who could draw close enough, found in her speech an inspiration to good deeds.