The memory of the child's former
home and parents seemed to have faded almost entirely. If the past
ever came back to her, like a dream, with its mingled web of sunshine
and tears, she never spoke of it. Fully had she been taken into the
hearts and home of her now parents; and she rested there as one having
a right to her position.
And the pure spirit who presided over this little Paradise, where was
she? Present--observing all, and sharing in the delight her husband's
return had occasioned. The expected kiss had not long been kept from
her loving lips.
Happy household! What have its inmates to envy in those around
them? Within the circle of many squares were none so rich in all the
elements of happiness.
Soon after the evening meal was over, the children, after another
merry romp with their father, went off to bed. When Mrs. Claire
returned from the chamber, whither she had accompanied them, she held
a letter in her hand.
"I had forgotten all about this letter, Edward," said she. "It was
left here for you, this afternoon."
Claire took the letter and broke the seal, running his eye down to the
signature as he unfolded it.
"Leonard Jasper! What is this?"
His brow contracted instantly, as he commenced reading the letter. It
was brief, and in these words--
"MR.
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