fection would be to me a sacred bond against even an approach to deception. Ah! Louisa, dear, I often think how happy, how very happy, must those children be who possess the confidence and love of their parents! I feel as if there were no hardships that would not be light under such circumstances—how much happier we are for loving each other! But you know as well as I do, that what I am saying would appear nonsense to mamma. She looks upon us as so much merchandise, to be disposed of to the best bidder. Marriage is with her only a certain position in society. She never thinks whether it would make us happier or better. I certainly wish that you had become attached to some one in more independent circumstances than Mr. Penrhyn; but I do believe that sincere affection will sweeten every difficulty."
"Lord Penrhyn can and ought to do something for his brother-in-law," said Louisa, "and Charles is to speak to him this very evening."
"I am glad of it," replied Isabella; "whenever any thing disagreeable has to be done, the sooner it is done the better. Difficulties are always exaggerated by dwelling upon them."
The two sisters now entered into a long and confidential conversation, most delightful to Louisa, who had a natural and girlish pleasure in dwelling upon the merits of her lover, which seemed more than confirmed by Isabella's approval. The restraint she had imposed upon the expression of her feelings was doubly painful to one of her timid and candid temper.
