Your mother gave me, on her death-bed, a brief history of her life, and it only increased your claims on my maternal care.

Do you think it possible, Gabriella, that I could be so unjust and unkind, as to visit the sins of a father on the head of an innocent and unoffending child?
No; believe me, nothing but your own conduct could ever alienate my affections or confidence." "Teach me to deserve it, dear Mrs.Linwood,--teach me how to prove my love, my gratitude, and veneration." "By confiding in me as a mother, trusting me as a friend, and seeking me as a guide and counsellor in this most dangerous season of youth and temptation, you are very dear to me, Gabriella.

Next to my own son and daughter, I love you, nor do I consider their happiness a more sacred deposit than yours." "Oh! Mrs.Linwood," I exclaimed, covering my burning face with my hands, and again bowing it on her lap--"Ask me anything,--and nothing shall be held back--I cannot--I dare not--perhaps I ought not--" "Tell me that my son loves you ?" I started and trembled; but as soon as the words passed her lips I gathered courage to meet whatever she might say.
"If it be indeed so," I answered, "should not the revelation come from him, rather than me ?" "There needs no formal declaration.

I have seen it, known it, even before yourselves were conscious of its existence--this all engrossing passion.

Before my son's return I foresaw it, with the prescience of maternal love.