may carry it off; and render her either a cold friend, or an active enemy.
"To think the parcel came from a devout old lady, proves total ignorance of the world, and an entire forgetfulness of what I must have mentioned many a time—that as people grow old they become wise enough to take care of themselves, knowing that nobody else can care for them. When they give any thing, if privately, it is in purchase of attention, which is affection's proper substitute; if publicly, it is to gain popularity, the last thing any one resigns. Perhaps they may give from a more pressing motive than either—an existing necessity for 'keeping up appearances;' for seeming rich when you are poor, either in order to render your creditors patient, or your friends generous, in the hope of getting good legacies to repay them handsomely. Under any circumstances, the old are to be pitied; but I scarcely know one case in which they could be thanked. Yet, one proof of great goodness has certainly come before me this very year—a very extraordinary fact of generosity in an aged woman; and it may be the same person who has thus assisted you; but I greatly fear it came from a more questionable party. Altogether, I am disappointed, uncomfortable, distrait excessively. I desire you will come to me, Helen, the moment you are able; Mr. Penrhyn will contrive for you; it is of no use sending money when I shall be returning so soon—by the way, call and see if the Palmers are come home, and ask him
