To her spirit it was grateful and appropriate, for, while she would lead among them apparently the existence of a young girl bent only on enjoyment, she believed she would leave them, either a happy woman, or else facing the tragedy of a thwarted life.

Their deepest shadows might, even when her laugh was gayest, typify the despondency she would hide from all.
It was Saturday, and Mr.Muir accompanied his family.

He and his wife looked worn and weary, for at this time circumstances were bringing an excess of care to both.

Mrs.Muir was a devoted mother, and little Jack had taxed her patience and strength to the utmost.

A defensive warfare is ever the severest test of manhood, and Mr.Muir had found the past week a trying one.