man

was suffering very much, Mrs. Bloomfield dismounted; and, taking Rhoda with her, entered the house. The farmer was in easy circumstances; therefore all Mrs. Bloomfield could do, was to sympathize with him and his wife, in their affliction; for they were greatly distressed on account of their son.

Rhoda, lively as she was naturally, and particularly high as her spirits were on this eventful day, was, nevertheless, very quiet and gentle in her demeanour all the while she was at the farm-house. Sweet charity, which, as she had now learned, meant every kind and loving act and principle, influenced her young heart; and she did not fatigue the invalid, as a thoughtless child might have done, by noisy conversation and move

I

ments; but spoke in low, yet cheerful tones: neither did she seem in haste to leave, but waited patiently until her mamma thought proper to do so. Mrs. Bloomfield observed this, and was much pleased with her child.

After they had quitted the farm, they called on a lady whose children were Rhoda's playfellows; and Mrs. Bloomfield begged to be allowed to take them to the Manor-house for a few days. Their mamma consented; and Edward and Anna Burford were soon equipped, and seated with Lucy and Rhoda in the phaeton.

Away, away, they drove off again: the sun shining so brightly, and the country looking so gay and beautiful. At last the horses' heads were turned home

wards; and soon the tower of the village church became visible, and the chimneys of the ancient Manor-house appeared through the trees.

"What a pleasant drive we have had!" said Rhoda, as she descended from the carriage. "Mamma, I wish it were always your birthday : it is so comfortable.”

Mrs. Bloomfield laughed, and told Rhoda that she was glad she enjoyed herself so much; but that they must hasten to prepare for dinner, as afterwards the villagers were coming to have tea upon the lawn.

The young people repaired then to the nursery; where Betsy and Martha were waiting for them. Surely there never were three happier children than Edward, Anna, and Rhoda, that day!