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114
DUTY AND INCLINATION.

the one his daughter contemplated must have been formerly a striking likeness of himself.

"It was so, truly," replied Doctor Lovesworth; "nearly five and twenty years have passed since I sat for that picture; it was executed by an artist of some fame, as also the other. Yes, we each of us were taken about the same period."

A deep sigh accompanied the close of his speech, called forth, as by some tender chord vibrating upon his soul, as if the resignation of the Christian had not yet finally subdued the sorrows of the man!

Continuing to view the portrait so formed to strike her fancy, Rosilia, no longer able to suppress her admiration, exclaimed, "The mother, for so I suppose her, seems the emblem of charity, the child, of innocence! combined in one, they represent the beautiful image of celestial truth and goodness!"

She turned her glowing countenance full of inquiry upon the Doctor, who was struck by a sentiment so charming, and, struggling with the deep emotion he felt, the tear which had risen to his eye was seen trickling down his cheek.

"And will not the severe excuse a sigh?
Our tears indulged indeed deserve our shame;
Ye that e'er lost an angel, pity me."