"
"But how can I have you go away alone to read your Bible, and think
sadly of--being so weak?" asked her mother.
"Not sadly," replied Emma; "I do not think sadly, mother, for all the
sadness is gone; and if I have not become healthy, I certainly have
become happy, very happy, since we came to Appledale. It is true that I
see a great deal to be done now, and wish sometimes that those who have
the prospect of years before them would undertake this work."
"I am glad that you mentioned this," said Mrs. Lindsay; "you have
imbibed some of Dora's strange notions, my dear, about living for
others. You may be assured, Emma, that I have not sacrificed so much
for any object save that of your health. I did not leave the society of
the refined and intelligent for the sake of benefiting the rude and
ignorant; and I would have you remember what _was_ my object. You have
nothing to do with this community only with a view to your health. If
such society amuses you, mingle with it freely, but waste no thoughts
upon the people here. They have always taken care of themselves, and
can do this still without any help from little Emma Lindsay."
This the mother said playfully, as she kissed her cheek, and added: "I
did not give you a fashionable education, my dear; but it was not
because I intended you for a missionary."
"My heavenly Father may have intended this," replied Emma; "and you
would not oppose Him, mother, for he has purchased me with a great
price.
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