She had the misfortune--and a great one it is--to have been singularly beautiful from the cradle, and so was praised and exclaimed over and caressed as she walked through the streets.

She was sent for, far and near; borrowed to be looked at; her picture taken by photographers.

If one reflects how many foolish and inconsiderate people there are in the world, who have no scruple in making a pet and plaything of a pretty child, one will see how this one unlucky lot of being beautiful in childhood spoiled Lillie's chances of an average share of good sense and goodness.

The only hope for such a case lies in the chance of possessing judicious parents.

Lillie had not these.