I could not help thinking how different all might
have been had the life of my father been spared. I do not think that I
was usually of an unhappy disposition; on the contrary, I was inclined
to be hopeful and cheerful; but I believe with the best of us, the
happiness of others more favoured than ourselves will give rise to a
feeling of sadness.
The time soon arrived when, according to the letter they had received
from Willie, they might daily expect his arrival. None of the family
were able to settle their minds upon any employment, and it was with the
greatest difficulty that I could obtain the attention of my pupils
during the time appointed for their daily lessons, and, being aware of
the cause, I could hardly blame them. Their suspense was at length ended
by the arrival of Willie. Never shall I forget the joy which was
depicted upon the countenance of little Lewis when suddenly he burst
into my room, exclaiming,
"Oh! Miss Roscom, our dear, _dear_ brother Willie has come at last!
Don't you wish you had a brother Willie too?"
Had he known the pang which his childish remark occasioned me he
certainly would never have made it. With much difficulty I kept back my
tears and tried to appear as much pleased as the child evidently wished
me to be.
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