“I always thought you the most lovable child I ever saw; but I never admired you as I have to-night, my noble, my beautiful daughter, who would grace the highest family in England.” With this Mrs. Dodd began to choke, and kissed Julia eagerly with the tears in her eyes, and drew her with tender, eloquent defiance to her bosom. “My own mamma,” said Julia softly, “what has happened?” “My darling,” said Mrs. Dodd, trembling a little, “have you pride? have you spirit?” “I think I have.” “I hope so: for you will need them both. Read that!” And she held out Mr. Hardie's letter, but turned her own head away, not to see her girl's face under the insult. CHAPTER VI JULIA took Mr. Hardie's note and read it:-- “MADAM,--I have received a very juvenile letter from my son, by which I learn he has formed a sudden attachment to your daughter. He tells me, however, at the same time, that you await my concurrence before giving your consent. I appreciate your delicacy; and it is with considerable regret I now write to inform you this match is out of the question. I have thought it due to you to communicate this to yourself and without delay, and feel sure that you will, under the circumstances, discountenance my son's further visits at your house--I am, Madam, with sincere respect, your faithful servant, “RICHARD HARDIE.” Julia read this letter, and re-read it in silence. It was an anxious moment to the mother. “Shall our pride be less than this _parvenu's?_” she faltered. “Tell me yourself, what ought we to do?” “What we ought to do is, never to let the name of Hardie be mentioned again in this house.” This reply was very comforting to Mrs. Dodd. “Shall I write to him, or do you feel strong enough?” “I feel that, if I do, I may affront him. He had no right to pretend that his father would consent. You write, and then we shall not lose our dignity though we are insulted.” “I feel so weary, mamma.” Life seems ended. “I could have loved him well. And now show me how to tear him out of my heart; or what will become of me?” While Mrs. Dodd wrote to Alfred Hardie, Julia sank down and laid her head on her mother's knees. The note was shown her; she approved it languidly. A long and sad conversation followed; and, after kissing her mother and clinging to her, she went to bed chilly and listless, but did not shed a single tear. Her young heart was benumbed by the unexpected blow.