But can we in no way prevent the growth of that intimacy of which I know you disapprove ?" "No, my dearest Arthur, it must now take its course.

Pain as it is to me, I will not rudely check my child's affections, _that_ will not bring them back to me.

She may, one day, discover her error, and will then gladly return to that love, that tenderness, of which she now thinks but lightly.

I must endeavour to wait till that day comes, with all the patience I can teach my heart to feel," she added, with a smile.
"Perhaps I am demanding more than is my due.

It is not often we find young girls willing to be contented with their mother only as a friend; they pine for novelty, for companions of their own age, whom they imagine can sympathise better in their feelings.