No dull, lagging hour has dragged me backward in my daily duties.

The dear children have been good and affectionate, and you, my dear master, have crowned me with loving kindness from day to day.

How shall I convince you of my gratitude, and what return can I make for your even parental care ?" I spoke earnestly, for my heart was in my words.

His unvarying gentleness and tenderness to me, (since that one fiery shower that converted for a time the Castalian fountain into a Dead Sea,) had won my sincere and deep regard.

He had seemed lately rather more reserved than usual, and I valued still more his undisguised expressions of interest and affection.
"You owe me nothing," said he, and I could not help noticing an unwonted trepidation in his manner, and on one sallow cheek a deep flush was spreading.