Page:Memoir of Elizabeth Jones, A Little Indian Girl (1838).djvu/19

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ELIZABETH JONES.
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comparisons, and say, "That is like what I was reading about;" or, "That reminds me of such an one you were telling me of." She was not able to read with the first class in the Sunday-school, but she would stand up and answer questions with any of them. In mentioning this, I do not wish to depreciate the merit of many of the other children, being fully aware that circumstances gave Elizabeth advantages which they did not possess: but her rapid improvement and desire of information will show what the capacities of Indian children are; and I think prove that they only need the same privileges and blessings that English children enjoy, to make them equally clever and useful members of society.

Another fine trait in Elizabeth's character was a love of truth. I could always depend on her word. She had only to promise and I felt quite satisfied obedience would follow. O, dear children, what a lesson is this! I can truly say that to have the care of such a child was a privilege as well as a pleasure; and to part with her, a trial greater than can be realized till the affliction comes.

"O! tis a lovely thing for youth
To walk betimes in wisdom's way;
To fear a lie, to speak the truth,
That we may trust to all they say."