One evening he and Louise came round to sit with me, and after we had been out upon the portico listening to Henry's songs, Miss Nancy bade me go to the sideboard and get some cake and wine. Placing it on the table in the dining-room, I invited them, in Miss Nancy's name, to come in and partake of it. After proposing the health of my kind Mistress, to which we all drank, Biddy joining in, Louise pledged a glass to the speedy ransom of Henry. Just then Miss Nancy entered, saying: "My good Henry, when you buy yourself, and find a home in the North, write us word where you have established yourself, and I will immediately make out Ann's free papers, and remove thither; but I cannot think of losing my good nurse. So, for her's, your's and my own convenience, I will take up my residence wherever you may settle. Stop now, Ann, no thanks; I know all about your gratitude, for I was a pleased, though unintentional listener to a conversation between yourself and Henry, in which I found out how deep is your attachment to me." Hers, then, was the sigh which had so alarmed me! It was all explained. I had no words to express my overflowing heart. My whole soul seemed melted. Henry's eyes were filled with grateful tears. He sank upon his knees and kissed the hem of Miss Nancy's dress. "No, no, my brave-hearted man, do not kneel to me. I am but the humble instrument under Heaven; and, oh, how often have I prayed for such an opportunity as this to do good, and dispense happiness." And so saying she glided out of the room. "Well," exclaimed Biddy, "she is more than a saint, she is an angel," and she wiped the tears from her honest eyes. "I have known her for some time," said Louise, "and never saw her do, or heard of her doing a wrong action. She is very different from her brother. Does he come here often, Ann?" "Not often; about once a fortnight." "He is too much taken up with business; hasn't a thought outside of his counting-room. He doesn't share in any of her philanthropic ideas." "She hasn't her equal on earth," added Henry. "Mr. Moodwell is a good man, though not good enough to be _her_ brother." Thus passed away the evening, until the near approach of ten o'clock warned them to leave. I was too happy for sleep. Many a wakeful night had I passed from unhappiness, but now I was sleepless from joy. * * * * * * * The next morning, after Miss Nancy had breakfasted, I asked her what I should read to her. "Nothing this morning, Ann. I had rather you would talk with me. Let us arrange for the future; but first tell me how much money does Henry lack to buy himself?" "About one hundred dollars." "I think I can help him to make that up." "You have already done enough, dear Miss Nancy. We could not ask more of you." "No, but I am anxious to do all I can for you, my good girl. You are losing the greenest part of your lives. I feel that it is wrong for you to remain thus."