Chapter I: Preface

It is undoubtedly true, that, as a general rule, tales which are intended for the use of young persons, should contain delineations of character as formed by ordinary influences, and a picture of circumstances which are not uncommon. It is desirable, however, occasionally to represent the developement of virtues of every-day use, (and therefore of the highest value,) by peculiar influences, as well as the extraordinary beauties of character which may be made to grow out of the common experience of life; since there are always some who are remarkably placed, and, alas! very many who appear to suppose that, in common circumstances, they may be content with a common character. It is possible that, in reading books like the following, not only motherless daughters may be interested by a narrative which comes home to their feelings; but that some who have mothers may be roused to such reflection, to such comparison of their own situation and character with those of others, as may be of no little benefit to their affections. Such, at least, is the effect of the comparison in actual life, of which it is the highest ambition of this little work to be a faithful transcript.

_Norwich, 1830._

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.
Page
THE SISTERS AT HOME 1

CHAPTER II.
PREPARATION 22

CHAPTER III.
ARRIVALS 41

CHAPTER IV.
PLEASURE OR PAIN? 57

CHAPTER V.
FRIENDSHIP NOT ALWAYS BLISS 80

CHAPTER VI.
DEPARTURES 108

CHAPTER VII.
LONDON 131

CHAPTER VIII.
PROFITABLE PLEASURE 155

CHAPTER IX.
THE CONVENT 176

CHAPTER X.
SENSIBILITY WITHOUT SENSE 204

CHAPTER XI.
A NEW ABODE 217

CHAPTER XII.
SENSE WITH SENSIBILITY 252

FIVE YEARS OF YOUTH.