irresistible vivacity. But with all the sportive charms of infancy, with, I may say, redundant health and activity, with beauty to dazzle all sober judgment that views her in her happy moments, she cannot impose on me, nor quiet my apprehensions for her future life; for she has passions which need the curb, and those are hourly strengthening. Already she is more despotic with her father than he is with his slaves; and my influence with her depends only on her generous nature. She cannot bear to see me ‘grieve,’ to use her language: she has been just making her dear Allen ‘_well_.’ This was the occasion: a young and sweet-tempered negro girl in the house, has been with my concurrence promoted to her nursery; she plays with her, and is docile to my instructions. This, with the singular beauty she possesses, have gained her an interest with me, and I have taught her to read, and the habits of order. Marian was busy in making a cap for her doll this morning, when summoned to romp with her little tyrant. She begged for _a moment_—it was granted; but Marian still plied her needle: a blow on her face was the rebuke her tardiness met with, and the poor girl’s tears followed it. No ways softened, ‘her dear Missee’ cuffed and kicked her, till I interposed, and, with a sorrowful tone, said, ‘I must leave you, my child, you will make me sick and sorrowful, for I cannot love you.’ The storm was allayed; and taking Marian by the hand, she left me without speaking a single word. In a short time she returned, leading the poor girl laden with toys and her finery. ‘Marian loves me now,’ said she, creeping to my knees, ‘she has kissed me—will not you? I am sorry. I will be good, if it will make you well;—do smile, only smile once.’ Such is the child that claims your forming hand: have pity on her, Madam; use your influence over her father, urge him to perform his duty; every day she remains with him will render your task of love and friendship more difficult.”