membrance of a maxim often repeated to me by my excellent father."

"What is that maxim?" said Zeluco.

"When you are disposed to be vain of your mental acquirements, Bertram,' said he, look up to those who are more accomplished than yourself, that you may be fired with emulation. But when you feel dissatisfied with your circumstances, look down on those beneath you, that you may learn contentment.'"

66

But even of the small pittance you mention," said Zeluco, "you allowed a considerable portion to your father."

'For that I can claim no merit," said Bertram, “it is only a proof that I am not a monster. Ingratitude to a parent is the height of profligacy, including almost every kind of wickedness."

Zeluco started as if he had been stung by a serpent; the recollection of his own behavior to his mother rushed on his mind with all the bitterness of remorse.

66

"I really am grieved, signor," said Bertram, in a sympathizing tone of voice, to see you suffer so much.' "I do indeed suffer," said Zeluco, after a long and painful pause.

"I am sincerely sorry for it," resumed Bertram; "I wish I knew what would give you relief, but the medical people will be here soon they perhaps -" No, no," interrupted Zeluco, "they cannot relieve.

me."

66

"I hope, my good sir," continued Bertram, taking him by the hand, that after the next dressing your wound will become easier."

"My wound is easier," said Zeluco, with a voice of anguish, "but I have deeper wounds which their skill cannot reach."

66

Alas!" said Bertram, "some mental affliction, the loss of some dear friend, perhaps, cut off by a similar but more fatal accident than what has now befallen you. Have patience, my good sir," continued he," reflection, and the soothing hand of time-"

"I tell you," interrupted Zeluco, in the accent of despair, "that I never had a friend; that time develops