She began to fear, in
her inability to account for Henry's strangeness in any other way, that
some secret sorrow weighed heavily upon him.
"I will not press you," said she, in a tone of affectionate sympathy;
"but, if you have any sorrow which oppresses you, reveal it to my
father, and take counsel against it. My father's house is your home,--at
least, we have always endeavored to make it so. Father has always
regarded you with the affection of a parent, and taught me to consider
you as a brother--"
"A brother!" interrupted Henry, feeling that the relation of brother and
sister was too cold for the warmth of his affection; but, instantly
banishing the unworthy thought, he continued,
"And so, my pretty sister, you are for the first time entering upon your
sisterly relations?"
"The first time! Have I not always given you evidence of a sister's
esteem?"
"Pardon me. I only jested," said Henry, as the playful smile left his
countenance.
"Do not jest upon serious things, Henry," replied Emily. "But, brother,
something troubles you.
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