I thought I could not be more miserable than I was when--when we parted, and as I have been since; but that was nothing--nothing to this.

I thought I had not indulged in hope, for I knew that it was vain, but now, now I feel I must have done so, and it is its utter, utter annihilation that bows me to the earth.

Oh, why am I so changed, I who was once so glad, so free, so full of hope and happiness, looking forward to days as bright as those that fled; and now what am I, and what is life?
a thing from which all happiness has flown, but clothed in darker shadows, from its contrast with the past." "Oh, do not say so, dearest," replied Ellen, affected almost to tears by the despairing tone in which these words were said.

"The blessing, the comfort of your parents, your brothers, of all who know you as you are, do not say your life will be without joy; its most cherished flower, its most precious gem may have passed away, but others will spring up in time, to fill that yearning void.

You, whose presence ever brings with it such enjoyment to others, oh, you too will be blessed.