her rare poetical genius, that her extreme self-distrust
and dislike of notoriety induced her to decline all overtures of the kind. But there is reason tb believe that
other causes, highly creditable to her character, led to
this decision. In one case a lady of wealth, with rare
generosity, offered to give her a finished education, and
wished to treat her as an adopted daughter ; but, how
ever desirable the literary advantages, she could not
endure the thought of forming any connection that would
come between herself and the loved ones of her own
home. She chose wisely ; and her heart had its reward
in the love of her nearest kindred, and, later, in the
cherished affection of husband and children. How much
her heart was bound up in the little ones is apparent
from the two poems which will be found in the division
entitled "Love and Friendship." One is headed " Baby
asleep," and the other, " Christmas Stockings." These
were found by Mr. Wakefield, after her decease, written
carelessly in pencil, as if under sudden impulse of the
heart. Another piece was found by him enclosed in an
envelope, and reserved for his own eye, after she was
gone. It is entitled " A Fancy," and is a priceless
legacy to a bereaved husband. One verse is among the
most touching in the language ; and the thought seems to
have escaped expression hitherto, though it immediately
finds an echo in all delicately tender souls:—
Page:Over the river, and other poems.djvu/30
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24
MEMOIR.