They were girls still, full of spirits fun, and youth; but below the light-heartedness each cherished a purpose, which seemed to ennoble her womanhood, to give her a certain power, a sustaining satisfaction, a daily stimulus, that led her on to daily effort, and in time to some success in circumstance or character, which was worth all the patience, hope, and labor of her life.
Fanny was just then in the mood to feel the beauty of this, for the sincerest emotion she had ever known was beginning to make her dissatisfied with herself, and the aimless life she led.

"Men must respect such girls as these," she thought; "yes, and love them too, for in spite of their independence, they are womanly.

I wish I had a talent to live for, if it would do as much for me as it does for them.

It is this sort of thing that is improving Polly, that makes her society interesting to Sydney, and herself so dear to every one.

Money can't buy these things for me, and I want them very much." As these thoughts were passing through her mind, Fanny was hearing all sorts of topics discussed with feminine enthusiasm and frankness.