'The way to retain anything is to let an impression of it remain upon the brain. Overstrained toil does but enfeeble the body, as overstrained application to any mental pursuit will assuredly one day create disgust. It will actually impair the powers of perception; and men who, at one time, have been the most intellectual students, find themselves overpowered by not being able to diversify their occupation. Besides,' added Latimer, 'I have found the body sicken, the brain turn dizzy, and the whole man enfeebled by too much application to one subject of thought. Hands were given us for manual labor, and our feet for bodily exercise, so that our frame may be preserved in health. Therefore, I say, diversify the occupation of your daughter's time and mind; and body and soul will be benefited.' 'Ah!' replied De Freston, 'the theory is good, but how is it to be done? It is now that I feel myself a widower, when my faithful child, rising into womanhood, requires the matronly guidance of a mother. If you could project a plan likely to be successful in its operation, you would indeed add a charm to my existence I could not easily repay.' 'I can fully imagine your anxiety; and, had I a daughter, at your time of life, and with your means at hand, I would follow the very plan I now propose.' 'What is it, cousin Latimer? What is it?' 'Simply this: I would build a tower in the liveliest spot of my domain. Every room of that tower should command an extensive view of the beautiful scenery around me, and I would dedicate each to a different occupation. Each should claim a separate hour for the work to be performed, and the higher story should possess the greatest charm; so that neither the hands nor the head of my child should be weary.' 'Well said! young philosopher. Let me hear your proposition more minutely laid down. I can imagine the utility, and see much good in your proposal. I will carry it out if you can satisfy my daughter as well as myself of the probability of its having a beneficial tendency.' 'To your daughter, then, as well as to yourself, will I unfold my scheme.' It was agreed that the young man should write down his plan, and submit it to De Freston and Ellen on the following day. This was most gallantly and ably done by young Latimer in the following poetical lines, which were presented to De Freston after the evening's meal: De Freston's Tower. Let not thy daughter's mind be fix'd On learning only, but be mix'd With arts and studies light: And let her progress be to rise, Through woman's duties to be wise. She will thy care requite. Nor let her in a cloistered cell, Like monks and friars dully dwell, Deprived of Nature's face. Let life and liberty be seen, With health and energy, to glean Whate'er has virtue's grace.