That genial spirit is the
good master's protection; we would it were wider exercised for the
good of all. But we must return to our narrative.
The Rosebrook Villa has assumed its usual cheerfulness; but while
pestilence makes sad havoc among the inhabitants of the city, gaiety
is equally rampant. In a word, even the many funeral trains which
pass along every day begin to wear a sort of cheerfulness, in
consequence of which, it is rumoured, the aristocracy-we mean those
who have money to spend-have made up their minds not to depart for
the springs yet awhile. As for Franconia, finding she could no
longer endure M'Carstrow's dissolute habits, and having been told by
that very distinguished gentleman, but unamiable husband, that he
despised the whole tribe of her poor relations, she has retired to
private boarding, where, with the five dollars a week, he, in the
outpouring of his southern generosity, allows her, she subsists
plainly but comfortably. It is, indeed, a paltry pittance, which the
M'Carstrow family will excuse to the public with the greatness of
their name.
Harry has returned to the plantation, where the people have
smothered him in a new suit of black. Already has he preached three
sermons in it, which said sermons are declared wonderful proofs of
his biblical knowledge. Even Daddy Daniel, who expended fourteen
picayunes in a new pair of spectacles, with which to hear the new
parson more distinctly, pronounces the preaching prodigious.
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