Strife And Peace

d her were spread out all the stuffs, handkerchiefs, table- covers, etc., which Harold had told Susanna he was buying for himself; they had been, in truth, designed as presents to his sister on the occasion of her approaching marriage. She had no sooner entered the room, than, to her great surprise, the brother and sister both begged her to accept the pretty dress which Harold had, by her advice, bought for his sister. Susanna blushed and declined it, but could not resist Harold's earnestness, and took the gift with thanks; but it did not give her pleasure. Tears filled her eyes; and she felt herself poor in more than one regard. When Harold had gone out, Alette poured forth a warm eulogium upon him, concluding with these words: "Yes, one may be angry with him ten times a day before one knows him well; but this is certain, that where he wishes to be loved no one can help loving him." Susanna listened silently to Alette's words, and her heart beat with emotions sweet and painful at the same time. Breakfast was announced, and the conversation was interrupted. Alette'was about twenty years old, and had the fine form, the clear complexion, the delicate features with which Nature seems to have especially endowed her Norwegian daughters. There was something delicate and transparent in her whole appearance, and her body seemed only a light veil to the living soul. Her manners and conversation were very fascinating, and discovered fine natural powers and much culti...