The Clever Woman of the Family

CHAPTER I. IN SEARCH OF A MISSION

“Thou didst refuse the daily round Of useful, patient love, And longedst for some great emprise Thy spirit high to prove.”—C. M. N.

“Che mi sedea con l’antica Rachele.”—DANTE.

“It is very kind in the dear mother.”

“But what, Rachel? Don’t you like it? She so enjoyed choosing it for you.”

“Oh yes, it is a perfect thing in its ...