The Lady's Companion, Or, Sketches of Life, Manners, and Morals, at the Present Day

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1854 edition. Excerpt: ... "And shall we not indulge in bright hope too f" inquired Marion, softly. A gentle pressure of her hand was the only answer given. Mr. Edwardes sat silently by, gazing upon his wif and daughters; his look was one of tenderness and admiration. That twilight conversation was prolonged until the shades of night fell thickly around the inmates of Hazlewood; and that dull autumn evening, which began with such sorrowful reminiscences, was followed by a long course of tranquil happiness, such as can only be experienced by those whose love has been strengthened by trial, and whose most ardent affections are swayed by the firm yet gentle hand of duty. BY MRS. JAMES WHITTLE, LATE MISS CATHARINE TAYLOR. In the deep bay-window of the library of Oldcourt sat two girls absorbed in earnest discourse; the varying expression of their faces, as the conversation proceeded, showed that the subject which occupied them was one of strong and peculiar interest to both. They were beautiful, but their beauty differed as the hues of Spring and Autumn. The youngest was graceful as Hebe herself; her bright hazel eyes sparkled with gayety or melted into tenderness; now quick as lightning flashed from beneath their long silken lashes, and then overflowed with tears as some softer emotion touched her heart; her rich auburn hair fell in wild beauty over her snowy neck, and her form, slender as a sylph's, was replete with grace;--formed to love and to be loved, she seemed too bright and joyous a creature to face the cares and troubles of this world. The countenance of the other, on the contrary, was remarkable for its calm serenity; her fair high forehead bespoke a powerful intellect, and the pensive expression of her clear gray eyes, while it spoke of past...