270 THE LEMON-PLANT. 



that, from an almost incredible height, looked com- 

 mandingly down upon the slow deep river which 

 guarded the foot of that impregnable fortress. 

 My beloved companion had not, in becoming 

 spiritual, lost a whit of her patriotism — would 

 that none ever did so ! — and she was proud of the 

 castle, and looked on the waving honours of its 

 surrounding trees, with a depth of feeling truly 

 Irish. Indeed, under their shadow I seemed to 

 become Irish also ; for it is from that spot, and 

 from that period, I date my fervent devotion to 

 dear Ireland and her cause, — a devotion which, I 

 hope and trust, will abide in the veins of my heart 

 till they cease to throb with life. 



But there were traits in Marie's character more 

 endearing than even her nationality. She was a 

 truly consistent Christian; her views of divine 

 things were uncommonly deep and clear ; and 

 the powers of her fine mind were unreservedly 

 consecrated to His service who had so richly gifted 

 it. She was slow in asserting an opinion, because 

 she always made sure of her ground ; and rarely, 

 if ever, had she occasion to retract it. Great 

 decision of character was tempered with such 

 softness of manner, and powerful arguments were 

 so modestly put forth, that even a child might feel 

 as if on an equal footing with her, while imbibing 

 the lessons of wisdom. How tender she was in 

 this respect, a little instance may shew : I never 



