"I have been to the Rensselaer school, to attend the
philosophical lectures. They are delivered by the cele-
brated Mr. Eaton, who has several students, young gen-
tlemen. I hope they will not lose their hearts among
twenty or thirty pretty girls. For my part, I kept my
eyes fixed as fast as might be upon the good old lecturer,
as I am of the opinion that he is the best possible safe-
guard, with his philosophy and his apparatus; for you
know philosophy and love are sworn enemies!"
Miss Davidson returned to Plattsburg during the spring vacation. Her mother, when the first rapture of reunion was over, the first joy at finding her child un- changed in the modesty and naturalness of her deport- ment, and fervor of her affections, became alarmed at the indications of disease, in the extreme fragility of her person, and the deep and fluctuating color of her cheek. Lucretia insisted, and, deceived by that ever-deceiving disease, believed she was well. She was gay and full of hope, and could hardly be persuaded to submit to her father's medical prescriptions; but the well-known crimson spot, that so often flushed her cheek, was re- garded by him with the deepest anxiety, and he shortly called counsel. During her stay at home she wrote a great deal. Like the bird, which is to pass away with the summer, she seems to have been ever on the wing, pouring forth the spontaneous melodies of her soul.
The physician called in to consult with her father was of opinion that a change of air and scene would probably restore her, and it was decided, in compliance with her own wishes, that she should return to school.
Miss Gilbert's boarding-school, at Albany, was se-
