tion that so exemplary had been their deportment, that there was not a single one unrewarded, either by a book-premium, or a certificate of merit in my best handwriting. Surely their intercourse has been one of improvement. Wherever their future course, or my own, shall lead, I must cherish the memory of the years God permitted us thus to pass together, while 'His banner over us was love.' Tears and irrepressible anguish marked our final leave-taking. They parted, and returned, prolonging the painful scene till the dimness of twilight drew over us. Their unaffected grief cut my heart in fragments. And every fragment found a voice, saying: 'Oh, most selfish! thus for your own ease and aggrandizement to trample out this Heaven-enkindled love.'"
Sweet, sweet band of sisters! Ah, how could I sever
The bright, golden chain that encircling has charm'd?
How shall I write the words, Parted forever!
On the casket our friendship so long has embalm'd?
Here, where your groups would so joyously meet me,
Gay as the birds through pure ether that soar;
Here, where your eyes with fond dialect greet me,
The step of Affection returneth no more.
Knowledge you've sought with a warm emulation,
Quicken'd to ardor, yet soften'd by love;
Wisdom invoked with profound veneration—
That wisdom whose mansion and crown are above.
