"You have one relation at least, Hester," said Mr. Osborne; "is it possible, after all his attempts to become acquainted with you, that you have never given a kind thought to your cousin?" "I do not know my cousin, sir," I answered rather haughtily, "I do not wish to know him; we have nothing in common with each other, he and I." "How do you know that?" said my companion. "Hester, when you do know him, do him justice. I have seen Edgar Southcote; I know few like him, and he ill deserves unkindness, or distrust, or resentment at your hands. Now hear me, Hester. I have given you this portrait of your mother, because I loved her in my youth; and because you are as dear to me as if you were my own child; but I give it you also as a charm against the cruel injustice, the suspicion, and the pride of your race. A false conception of her motives, obstinately held and dwelt upon, killed your poor mother. Yes! I do not want to mince words. It made her wretched first, and then it killed her. Hester, beware! your husband's happiness depends as much on you as yours does on him. He is himself a noble young man, worthy the regard of any woman; and I have had a higher opinion of yourself ever since I saw that you valued him. When you leave your father's house, take this sweet counsellor with you. Remember the cause that broke her young heart, and left you without a mother in the world. Let the glance of the sweet frank eyes teach you a woman's wisdom, my dear child. Forgive what is wrong--foster what is right. Hester! I am making a long speech to you. It is the first and last preachment you will hear from an old friend." I had risen while he was speaking, and stood before him a little proud, a little indignant, waiting till he should come to an end. Then I said: "Mr. Osborne, I cannot hear you blame my father." "I am not blaming your father, Hester. I am warning you," he answered; "and I do it because you are as a child to me." I thanked him again, kissed the little miniature, and put it round my neck. But Mr. Osborne would not suffer this. "Time enough," he said, "when you go away. Do not awake too strongly your father's recollections. He is not in a fit state for that." "He is not worse!" I exclaimed eagerly. "No, Hester, he is not worse--but he is not strong, you know. Now go and put this away, and remember my words like a good child."