Emmeline. With Some Other Pieces.

Emmeline.

Mary Brunton

CHAPTER V.

--Conscience roused sat boldly on her throne,
Watched every thought--attacked the foe alone,
And, with envenomed sting, drew forth the inward groan.
Expedients failed that brought relief before;
In vain her alms gave comfort to the poor--
Give what she would--to her the comfort came no more.

CRABBE.

"I dwell too much on the evils of my lot," said Emmeline to herself, one bright summer morning, when a thousand sights and sounds of joy breathed their influence unnoticed into her soul. "I waste in dreams, of that which never can return, the spirits and the health which should gladden De Clifford's home to him. I have been too inactive. Employment might divert my thoughts. It might beguile them from those inexhaustible themes of misery that haunt me for ever. If, wretched as I am, I can contribute to the good of others, should not this rouse me to something like energy and hope? Friendship and equality I must look for no more; but gratitude may draw some kindly feeling towards me. Those whom I benefit will surely forgive. I am surrounded by the poor, the ignorant, the destitute; and have I forgotten their wants so long? Alas! misery has changed me sadly."

Emmeline did not dare to look her last. She sat motionless and stunned. The noise of a carriage was heard. She gave one start of agony--then listened in the stillness of despair. The sound died in the distance. It was lost--and Emmeline was left ALONE.

(The last sentence is copied from the Outline.)

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This presentation of Emmeline. With Some Other Pieces., by Mary Brunton is Copyright 2003 by P.J. LaBrocca. It may not be copied, duplicated, stored or transmitted in any form without written permission. The text is in the public domain.