I know not what strange impulse has induced me to tell you all this.

I did it half unconsciously, hoping for relief by revealing that which has pressed so heavily on my heart.

Mary, never speak to me of it again; and, above all, do not mention his name.

It has passed my lips for the last time, and all shall be locked again within my own heart.

We will open the school to-morrow; and may God help me, Mary, pray, oh, pray for me! I had no mother to teach me, and prayer is a stranger to my lips." She walked hurriedly to the house, and shut herself within her own apartment..