Mr. Gardner tried, by a serious look and shake of the head, to make little George understand that he did not like his remarks; but George did not see him, and went on to say that he should like to know how Isabella had managed to grow so good.

“I see your kindness, dear father,” said Isabella, “in wishing George to be silent lest he should hurt my feelings; but you need not shake your head at him, for I am quite willing that he should say what he thinks.  I have noticed how carefully you and mother have avoided speaking of my faults; but I have known by your silent kindness that you have seen and approved of my efforts to overcome them.  I have done but little; but I hope by perseverance to become more worthy to be your child.

“You say, George, that I have grown better, and wonder what has made me so.  I will tell you, my dear brother.  My mother’s counsels and prayers first directed me to the source of all strength,—­to God, and his holy word.  I had neglected her wishes, and showed disrespect to her authority; and in sorrow, but in much love, she committed me to the care of my heavenly Parent.  She led me to Jesus, who was meek and lowly in heart.  From him I have sought dayly, hourly help, and to him let all the praise be given, if I have succeeded at all in subduing my unruly temper.  My long sickness, last autumn, brought me to feel my great weakness and entire dependence upon God, and gave me time for reflection.  The patient kindness of my friends humbled me also; for I felt how little I deserved it; and I resolved anew, that if my life was spared, I would be a better child in future.  But I have much yet to do, and the constant effort that I am obliged to make, to conquer this one fault, is enough to keep me humble.”

“I don’t quite understand all that you have said, Isabella,” replied George; “but I know it is much like what father and mother have often told me, that when I don’t know exactly how to do right, I must go to God, and he will always direct me.”

“I can scarcely tell you, George, how much happier I am now than I used to be.  I wish I could tell you and every friend I have.  My disrespect to my father and mother caused me many a bitter tear, while my unkindness to my brothers and sisters made my dayly life unhappy; and after my angry disputes with my school-fellows, I was left in a troubled state of mind, vexed with myself and them.  Now, with all my strivings and failures, I have much peace; and I believe every one will have it just in proportion as he or she obeys the commandment of the Lord Jesus Christ, ‘Love one another.’”

Mr. Gardner embraced his child, and when again they knelt in evening devotion, he prayed that love to God and man might reign in the bosom of each of his family, that when they were called from this world of trial and temptation, they might all meet in those blessed regions where all is love, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

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