Page:Memoir of Elizabeth Jones, A Little Indian Girl (1838).djvu/17

pleasure in watching how things were done. She was a child of great resolution and natural courage. For instance, in taking medicine, it was only necessary to say, "Now, dear, it is proper for you to take this;" or, Such a thing "must be done;" and there was seldom any further trouble. I never saw a child more devoid of selfish feeling; a propensity so common to most young people. When playing with others, she was ever ready to give them the best of every thing, and always seemed more happy in pleasing her little companions than in gratifying herself. Often when the poor old women came in, she would ask them if they were hungry; and then run and tell me, saying, "Shall I give them some food?" At other times she would beg for halfpence; and when asked what she wanted them for, would say, "I want to give them to an old woman," mentioning her name, "because I think she is poor." This lovely principle of generosity was carried out in her daily practice, so much so as at times to require a little check. Her heart was large, and she wanted all to share the comforts she enjoyed. She was also very kind and grateful to servants: they loved her, and were glad to do any thing for her; because she always spoke in a proper manner, and never gave them unnecessary trouble. She had a "place for every