begged for what she called her tune. This was a lively air, to which she had adapted a sort of dance, that was very droll and amusing. Sometimes her doll was made to figure away on the occasion; and, at others, Mr. Bloomfield would be her partner: then, Rhoda's joy knew no bounds, and the ancient room resounded with merriment. Even the wood on the glowing hearth seemed to crackle and blaze more cheerily than ever, as though it were a part of the orchestra; while Mrs. Bloomfield and Lucy, who looked round from her instrument every now and then, were laughing in good earnest at the very original attitudes of the dancers.

Out of breath at last, the little girl was obliged to stop, and soon after the

merry party seated themselves at the tea-table, and partook of the social meal.

After tea Mr. Bloomfield retired to his library, and the ladies produced their work.

They were engaged in cutting out clothing for some poor people, who from sickness, or extreme age, were unable to work; and they charitably employed others, who were not so afflicted, to make it up.

Rhoda was very busy handing pins, and holding the cloth, whenever her mamma required such assistance; and occasionally amused herself by drawing or writing upon a slate: and so the evening glided pleasantly away until it was time for the little girl to retire to rest.

30

CHAPTER III.

THE TRIAL.

THE next morning, as soon as Rhoda was dressed, she repaired to her beloved mother's room. Mrs. Bloomfield liked to have her child with her at that early hour, when they generally arranged their plans for the day. It was agreed that as soon as Rhoda's lessons were repeated, she should accompany her mamma and cousin to Dame Hollis's cottage, and that she should take the shawl herself to the poor old woman.

Accordingly, about noon, they were prepared to go, but just as they were

leaving the house, a carriage drove up to the door.

"How very tiresome!" cried Rhoda. "Now we shall not be able to go out. How vexed I am!"

"Remember, dear," whispered Lucy, "this is the time for practising charity, which, you know is not easily provoked.""

"And 'doth not behave itself unseemly,' and receives all visitors with kindness," returned Rhoda, in a corresponding low voice; smiling at the same time good-humouredly. "You shall see cousin Lucy, how patient and polite I will be, though it is very annoying to be obliged to remain at home."

Lucy gave her an approving look, and soon the servant announced Mrs. Merton,

who was accompanied by three of her children, a little girl and two boys.

Unfortunately, these children were so much indulged, that they became very selfish, and made every one uncomfortable who was with them. Rhoda always dreaded their coming, for they invariably destroyed some of her playthings, and fatigued her by their frequent disputes. However, Mrs. Merton had brought them to spend the day at the Manor-house; therefore, away they all mounted to the nursery; poor Rhoda sighing as she went, but striving to be good-natured.

As soon as their hats and cloaks were taken off, the young gentlemen began to search, in no very careful manner, the closet where Rhoda's toys were kept.