Chapter I.

Affecting Scenes.

When it is the good pleasure of Him,
“whose way is in the sanctuary,” to instruct Vol. II. B B1v 2
His weak and ignorant children, the simplest
and most ordinary means, are overruled to
fulfil the destined end: and such was the experience
of Emma, under the natural embarrassment
which Catherine’s late conversation
and re-conversion, were so well adapted to
produce. De Lissau expressed a wish that
Emma would devote a portion of the leisure
she now enjoyed, to the perusal of such books
as would improve her mind, and add some
useful information to her very limited stock
of knowledge. An abridgment of geography,
natural history, and the history of England,
were among the volumes he presented
to her for this purpose. The account of her
native country, first attracted her attention,
and she soon became deeply interested in the
contents of a volume, that gave her the first
intelligence she had ever received, (with the
exception of Catherine’s information,) that
there were divisions among christians. From
the details of English history, though brief,
she at once perceived, that the faith professed
by Mrs. Russel, and which was also the
predominant one in happy England, differed
widely from that to which Catherine had so B2r 3
hastily joined herself. Still, however, Emma
felt great need of further instruction, though
exceedingly thankful for the little knowledge
thus unexpectedly gained, on a subject so
important. She now read the scriptures
with increasing diligence, and the Lord, who
is ever the gracious instructor of his weak
and ignorant children, opened her heart to
receive more enlarged views of truth, than
she had ever before enjoyed, and imparted
strength to her, so that although she could not
combat the arguments of Catherine, in favor
of the Roman Catholic religion, whenever
they met, she was graciously preserved from
yielding, to the insidious and seductive power
displayed in them.

Catherine was not daunted at the obstinacy
of Emma, as she called it. On the
contrary, her zeal seemed to gather strength,
from the difficulty she met with. The merit
attached to success, and the encouragement
she received to persevere, from her spiritual
guide and the young friend, who had first
drawn away her mutable heart, from the pure
doctrine taught her by Miss Horvey, powerfully
stimulated her endeavors, to convert B2 B2v 4
Emma from her present heretical opinions,
to what she at present, believed to be the
true faith.

The departure of Leopold for Vienna at
this period, much affected Emma. He had
been to her a most affectionate friend, and
his absence was severely felt, by one whose
domestic enjoyments, at that time, lay in a
compass so narrow, that the least diminution
was an important event.

Catherine was not without her share
of trouble at this time. Her friend Agnes had
quitted her, to enter a convent in Ireland,
and for a time, she was inconsolable at the
separation, though they had settled a correspondence
through the medium of Catherine’s
confessor.

At Catherine’s request, Agnes left with
her a letter addressed to Emma, it was a long
one, and written in a style the most persuasive
and affecting. After adducing every
argument, that could at once alarm, and win
a mind, anxious to devote its best energies
to the cause of truth, Agnes requested Emma,
not to reject the Roman Catholic faith,
unexamined, and she should have no doubt of her ultimately embracing, what she assured B3r 5
her, was the only way of salvation, if
Emma would but listen to Catherine’s spiritual
guide, read the books he would give her,
and witness that holy and efficacious sacrifice,
— the Mass. The letter concluded by
earnestly commending her to the Blessed
Virgin.

Emma received this latter, at a time when
her heart was more than usually softened by
the loss of Leopold, and though her judgment
remained unconvinced by its assertions,
her natural feelings were affected, by the
tended solicitude manifested for her best interest,
by one who was personally unknown
to her. Catherine, who anxiously watched
her countenance, as she perused the address
of Agnes, perceived the effect it produced,
and so well seconded the writer’s views that
Emma, leaning to her own weak understanding,
against the express warning of the
holy volume she professed to make her guide,
promised to see father Law, whenever she
should have an opportunity, and also to accompany
Catherine to chapel, should she be
able to obtain the power of leaving home,
thought the latter was extremely improbable.

Catherine was in an extacy of joy, at a
concession so unlooked for, and she hastened
to communicate her success, to her confessor
and Agnes Hamilton, both of whom
warmly applauded her zeal. The reply of
Agnes contained a description of a conventual
live, so alluring, that Catherine’s light
mind was captivated by it, and in the fervor
of the moment, she vowed to join her friend,
and become a nun, as soon as she should be
her own mistress.

Emma witnessed the feelings and resolutions
of Catherine, with an uneasy mind. The
more she saw of the nature of her friend’s
devotion, the less her heart approved of it.
Its endless round of ceremonies, equalled
those of the Jews, and some of them appeared
to her quite as unmeaning, and many
of them were astonishingly alike. But Catherine’s
beads and crucifix, and the adoration
she paid the latter, were quite revolting
to the feelings of Emma, and she determined
to declare at the first opportunity, her disapprobation
of what she considered gross idolatry.

Catherine heard her objections very calmly, B4r 7
but did not appear to attach any importance
to them.

“When you have conversed a few times
with my confessor,” said she, “and have
witnessed our delightful and splendid worship,
so worthy of the true God, I will answer
your silly scruples, which are merely
owing to your ignorance of what is right.”

“But,” replied Emma, “I do not read of
these things in my bible, though I have
sought for them, and the command of God,
against worshipping graven images is plain.
Ignorant as I certainly am, I am at least
sure of that.”

“You really weary my patience Emma,”
answered Catherine, in no very gentle tone,
“like a parrot, you can only repeat the
bible.” Your stock of knowledge is gleaned
from it, and what does all you know amount
to? Besides your bible is only an interpolated
translation, made by protestant heretics
to suit their own purposes, and it is not
sanctioned by the Holy Catholic Church.”

“If that be so,” returned Emma, “let me
have your bible, and allow me to compare
them.”

“I have not a bible in my possession at
present,” said Catherine, “neither is it necessary
for me, my spiritual director appoints
me the books I require, to assist my devotions;
when you see him, he will convince
you of what I have said, and satisfactorily
answer all your objections.”

“I have given my word to see him, when
opportunity serves,” replied Emma gravely,
“and I will keep it, but I acted rashly in
doing so, and have not felt easy since I was
so precipitate.”

Catherine smiled contemptuously at this
last declaration, which she said was childish
and inconsistent, and the interview concluded,
very little to the satisfaction of either
party.

Emma spoke the genuine feelings of her
heart, when she assured Catherine, of her
regret for the unadvised promise she had
given, to see and converse with the Roman
Catholic priest. As before observed, the
more she reflected, the less she approved of
a religion, which, as far as it had been developed
to her, seemed only a more refined
species of Judaism, except that it recognised B5r 9
the Saviour. She had not as yet witnessed
the pageant of the Mass, but she had repeatedly
heard Catherine, pray to the Virgin, and
address her as the “Queen of Heaven,” and
Emma was too conversant with the bible, not
to draw a parallel in her own mind, between
this practice, and that of the idolatrous Jews
in the days of the Prophet Jeremiah, (vide
Jeremiah xlic. 17, 18, 19.) In aftertimes,
when Emma was so situated, as to mix freely
for a period among Roman Catholics, she was
enabled to distinguish, and trace to their Jewish
origin, many of their traditions, legends,
and ceremonies, more clearly, and felt truly
thankful to the God of all grace, who so
wonderfully withheld her steps, and preserved
her from errors, then so gross and palpable
to her matured understanding.

A few days after her debate with Catherine,
Emma’s attention was withdrawn for a
time, from that subject, by a series of events,
so affecting, as to wring with anguish every
fibre of her heart. Tidings had reached the
family, that Eleazar De Lissau was on his
death-bed, and the sad event aroused Anna
to a display of all the native energy of her B5v 10
character. Accompanied by her husband she
hastened to the house, where her presence
had been so long interdicted, determined to
see, and if possible obtain, the forgiveness of
her venerable Parent. Alas! her unadvised
intrusion, accelerated the affecting catastrophe,
without gaining for her, the point
her mind was so fixed on, and she returned
home having her heart incurably wounded!

Language would fail to depict the agonised
feelings of Emma, when she heard the report
of her Grandfather’s approaching dissolution,
and beheld her parents depart for his dwelling.
Careless of consequences, or rather not
thinking of them, in the anguish of the moment,
the desire of her soul was, to hasten to
the beloved guardian of her infant years, ere
he descended to the tomb, which had already
closed over beings, so dear to her, added to
which a vague hope floated on her mind, that
it might be possible to speak to him of Jesus.
Irresistibly impelled, by feelings thus
highly excited, Emma had already gained the
street, which the cruel Rabbi Colmar, who
had observed the extraordinary agitation of
her manner, arrested her footsteps, and B6r 11
forced her back to her chamber, threatening
her with the vengeance of her mother. Emma,
however, heeded him not, and soon after
this act of tyranny on his part, a messenger,
previously despatched by him, returned with
the account that Eleazar was no more! The
arrival of De Lissau and his wife confirmed
the truth of the statement, but its effect was
lost, amid the calamity, that almost immediately
succeeded it, for within a very few
hours after her return, Anna, lying under
the influence of apoplexy, and surrounded by
her distracted husband and wailing children,
though entirely insensible of their presence,
presented a spectacle so heart rending that
all beside her, was forgotten in that time of
overwhelming sorrow,.

Emma mingled among the mourning household,
that had gathered about her mother’s
bed, in momentary expectation of witnessing
her dissolution, and assuredly no person present
felt more deeply affected, though her
eyes were tearless, and her features wore an
air of stern and fixed composure, insomuch,
that even in this scene of woe, remarks were
made on her apparent want of feeling. But B6v 12
it was not so, her seeming calmness was the
result of the mingled desolation, and despair,
of her overcharged heart, unable to relieve
its anguish, by those violent expressions of
grief, which at once describe, and assuage,
the sorrow from which they originate.

Hour after hour heavily revolved, and Anna
still lingered in the confines of eternity,
when suddenly a ray of light from above,
seemed to pierce the gloom that had till them
enwrapped the heart of Emma, and she withdrew
silently from the chamber of affliction,
to her own apartment. There, in broken
accents indeed, but with fervent sincerity,
and nothing doubting, she besought her heavenly
Father to spare the life of Anna, in the
name, and for the sake of the Lord Jesus
Christ. And this simple prayer, indited no
doubt by the eternal spirit and preferred in
faith, and in the worthy name of the great
Redeemer, was heard and answered, for when
Emma with an heart, (oh how greatly lightened!)
returned to her Mother’s room, she was
restored, though it was soon discovered
that her sight and reason were lost, in the
shock, that had so unexpectedly seized her.

Deep self-abasement filled Emma’s bosom,
on this occasion, and she was greatly humbled,
as she recollected the sinful despondency
she had manifested, under this afflictive
dispensation; while the mingled goodness
and severity of her heavenly Father, caused
her to bow in silent submission to His holy
will, who had seen fit to restore the life
she had prayed for, though the mind of the
sufferer was extinguished, and her eyes were
closed for ever on all below. Lessons like
these, though not pleasing to the flesh, were,
under the divine blessing, most salutary to
the spiritual improvement of one, who acquired
knowledge very slowly, and was at the
best but a dull scholar in the school of Christ,
being often hindered, by the quick impulses
and carnal impediments, of a too acute sensibility.

Anna’s abberration of reason, displayed
itself, at first, in a form of appalling violence,
but after a few weeks, her fearful ravings
happily subsided into a perfect calm, and De
Lissau was enabled to dismiss the attendants
whose services had hitherto been indispensable.
He now determined to leave Anna, Vol. II. C C1v 14
wholly to the care of Leah Moss and one of
his daughters, while the other, assisted by
Rabbi Colmar, presided over his household.

In pursuance with this plan, De Lissau
summoned his daughters to his study, and
after detailing his designs, requested them to
chuse their respective situations in his family.

“Only remember my dear girls,” added
he, “that whichever is stationed in the apartment
of her mother, must resign any wish to
mix in society, and devote the whole of her
time to this affecting duty. Chuse not therefore
precipitately, for to be the constant
companion, of one laboring under so afflictive
a calamity, requires no ordinary degree of self
denial, patience, and tender sympathy, with
the dear dufferer.”

Sophia was the first to reply, and with an
affecting eagerness, she claimed the privilege
of attending her beloved mother, and besought
her father and sister, not to deny her
fervent supplication, to be allowed to alleviate
by all the means in her power, the sorrows
of a parent so inexpressibly dear to her.

“Beloved Sophia,” said her sister, as she
clasped the sweet pleader to her heart, “ever C2r 15
duteous and amiable, how hard it is to resist
you! But I must for once assert an elder
sister’s claim. Remember my beloved one,
how unfit I am to preside over the household
of our father, in conjunction with Rabbi Colmar.
Neither do I believe he would condescend
to act with me, while, with the sentiments
I profess, such a situation would be a
daily martyrdom to my heart. Nor am I at
all fitted to mix with the world, my weary
spirit sighs for repose; in the stillness of my
mother’s chamber I shall find it, while my
Sophia will worthily fill a more extensive
sphere of action. Suffer me, therefore, to
prevail my dear father, and amiable sister.
I know that of myself, I am indeed incapable
of fulfilling the important duty I covet, but
my help is in God, and I can take no denial,
unless you doubt my tenderness to the revered
object of our present solicitude.”

The last clause of Emma’s address, was
conclusive with her relatives. They hastened
to assure her of their perfect reliance on
her kindness to Anna, and this important
point settled, De Lissau tenderly folded his
children to an heart truly paternal, as he C2 C2v 16
solemnly bestowed on each, a fervent benediction.

Emma now took her appointed place in
the chamber of her unconscious mother, with
a bosom filled with sympathy towards her,
while Sophia, at the head of her father’s
household, regulated its concerns with equal
mildness, devotion, and exemplary attention,
to all the lessons she had received from a
mother, she had ever all but idolized, and De
Lissau, and the Rabbi, devoted every leisure
moment to the interesting invalid, though she
never appeared to be aware of their presence.

Chapter II.

The Sandy Foundation.

From the moment that Emma became the
companion and guardian of her mother, De
Lissau generously left the regulation of her
time, entirely at her own disposal, and placed
in the apartment a small book-case, the key of
which he delivered to her, desiring her to fill
it with books from his study, of her own C3 C3v 18
choice. She, however, referred to him, as
the best judge of what description of reading
would best improve her mind, and assist to
repair her want of education, De Lissau
therefore selected her little library. Abridgements
of history and geography, Milton,
Young’s Night Thoughts, —Thomson,—and
Cowper, were the volumes ranged in her depository.
But these were not all, De Lissau
led her into his study, and taking from a
small cabinet, several volumes, placed them
in her hands.

“Emma,” said he, in accents peculiarly
serious, “I have possessed these volumes
from the time I attained my twentieth year,
but no eye save my own has ever rested on
them. They contain important illustrations
of the tenets you so solemnly assured me,
when lying on what I believed to be your
death bed, was a sufficient support at that
trying period. Take them, from this time
they are yours, only remember to guard them
as I have done, nor let them fall into the
hands of Sophia, or let any other individual of
my family.”

The manner of De Lissau affected Emma, C4r 19
even more than his words, an indefinable expression
of mingled grief and pity, had superseded
the usual benign cast of his features;
his voice was low and tremulous, while he
spoke, and his action was hurried, and his
hands unsteady, as he put the books into hers.
Emotion so extraordinary, while it surprised,
could [not but excite a corresponding sympathy,
in the bosom of Emma, but filial respect
prevented intrusive enquiry or comment,
and at a sign from De Lissau,, expressive
of his desire to be alone, she silently
withdrew, with the volumes so affectingly
presented to her.

Emma’s new acquisition consisted of Hervey’s
Meditations, — his Theron and Aspasio,
—Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress, and his
Come and welcome to Jesus Christ,—circumscribed
as had hitherto been her means of
instruction, these volumes opened before her
an inexhaustible field of reflection; always
cautious and fearful however, lest she might
wander from the narrow way, (and surely this
salutary caution, was the teaching of the
Eternal Spirit,) she constantly compared
what she read, with the infallible record of
truth, and it pleased the Lord greatly to bless C4v 20
these simple means to her, so that she gained
much useful knowledge respecting the doctrines
of Christianity, and was comforted,
strengthened, and confirmed, on some points
which though she doubted not in effect, she
had heretofore, either not known, or understood
very imperfectly.

Delightful as were these studies to Emma,
she was kept from neglecting her other avocations.
The family linen, and all its needlework,
was still her voluntary employ. Seated
on a low stool, at the feet of her mother,
she pursued it quietly, while her mind was
led out in meditation on spiritual subjects,
and she would sometimes forget where she
was, until an involuntary ejaculation, pronounced
aloud in the abstraction of the moment,
and repeated in the pathetic tones of
the unconscious invalid, would harrow up her
feelings and recal her mind to the touching
realities of her isolated situation.

Rabbi Colmar continued to visit the chamber
of his patroness, at every possible opportunity,
but his presence, was no longer the
harbinger of persecution and sorrow to Emma,
who could not but feel an emotion of C5r 21
pity, as she contemplated the altered appearance,
of this once proud Pharisee. The repulsive
sternness of his lofty character was no
more, a deep melancholy seemed now wholly to
possess him, his fragile form grew daily more
attenuated, the proud consciousness of his
own righteousness, appeared to have quite
forsaken him, and he was evidently a prey to
wretchedness the most agonising, bearing in
his bosom an incurable wound, and though
his self-inflicted fasts, were more rigorous
than ever, it was easy to perceive they yielded
no relief to his tortured spirit.

Emma more than once felt a desire to
speak to this unhappy being, of Jesus, as the
refuge for weary burdened sinners, but time
passed on, and her lips remained sealed on
the momentous subject. Frequently, when
the Rabbi sat in the chamber, hour after
hour, gazing intently on her mother, in an
attitude so fixed, that he rather resembled a
sculptured image, than a living being, she
would essay to address him, but in vain. At
such times, an inexpressible weight seemed
to lay on her heart, and chain her faculties,
so that she felt almost as inanimate as the C5v 22
miserable Rabbi, and his departure alone,
had power to free her from an oppression,
that, for the time, threatened to overwhelm
the very springs of life.

Some time passed in this manner, when
Emma’s thoughts were in a measure drawn
from the contemplation of Rabbi Colmar, by
a new change in her friend Catherine, who
now had free access to her, though she did
not avail herself of it, so often as Emma had
expected. Catherine had of late adopted a
very showy style of dress, and wore an unusual
quantity of trinkets, after the manner
of the Jewish females of that day. Nor was
the alteration merely of a personal nature,
she had ceased to speak on, or allude to religious
subjects, and wore an air of abstraction
and weariness, when Emma did so, nor
were her beads and crucifix now displayed to
her friend, as she had hitherto so ostentatiously
delighted in doing, but she constantly
spoke of the fashions, balls and the theatre!
Surprised, grieved, and disgusted, Emma,
after waiting to see if this new taste had
really superseded all her past vivid impressions,
asked her seriously, what had become C6r 23
of Agnes’s lessons, and where her confessor
was. Catherine coloured violently at the
question, but without noticing it at the moment,
said in a very caressing tone.

“Dear Emma, before I open my mind to
you, as I soon intend doing, will you promise
me, solemnly, never to disclose to any
living being, the communications I have so
freely made to you in confidence, on the subject
of religion?”

“Confidential communications are of
course sacred,” replied Emma.

“Oh no doubt,” answered Catherine, “nor
do I in the least distrust you; nevertheless,
it will greatly relieve my mind, if you will
make the promise I desire.”

“Be it so then,” said Emma, “receive my
solemn promise, never to disclose what you
have intrusted to me, unless a period shall
arrive, when the disclosure will be of no prejudice
to you. Suffer me, however, to claim
your attention, while I remind you, that
though I have been, and am, eager to oblige
you, and, (to use your own words,) ‘relieve
your mind,’ your mysterious and inconsistent
conduct has painfully burdened mine. C6v 24
Remember the nature of the bond of union
between us. Our friendship commenced in
the holy name of Jesus of Nazarath, and you
know dear Catherine, how freely my heart,
and its best affection expanded towards you,
for His adorable name’s sake. After a time,
a change took place in your religious views,
I could not adopt your new opinions, and I
grieved to know, that the word of God, was
superseded, by what appeared to me, little
better than idolatry. But I still hoped for
you, because you still professed to love Jesus.
But what am I to think now Catherine? your
appearance, your conversation, —all you do
and say, is so opposed to the past, that I entreat
an explanation, for His sake, in whose
name our hearts were first knit together.”

Emma might have continued to speak
without interruption, for Catherine was wholly
unable to reply. A powerful emotion shook
her frame convulsively, she was alternately
pale and red, and the words she sought to
articulate, died on her lips. Surprised and
affected, by and agitation so inexplicable,
Emma addressed her in accents of soothing
tenderness, and besought her to be composed. D1r 25
This method had a happy effect, Catherine
wept bitterly, and her tears were salutary.
As soon as she became a little composed, she
arose to depart, and Emma enquired whether
she might hope to see her on the morrow.
Catherine blushed deeply as she answered in
the negative., and added in a sobbing voice:
“It is too late to recede;—To-morrow an
event will occur, that will cause you to renounce
and despise me!”

She then hastily withdrew, leaving her
friend in a state of uneasy perplexity. This
however, was wholly owing to the secluded
life she led, and the little interest she took,
in what was passing around her; the next
day explained the mystery. Sophia brought
her sister some ornaments she wished to have
arranged, for a party she was going to in the
evening. Emma frequently rendered her
assistance on these occasions, though she seldom
made any enquiry, where her sister was
invited. But Sophia mentioned, without her
asking, that she was going to Mrs. Levy’s
house, by her especial request, to witness the
signing of a marriage contract, between Catherine
and a wealthy young Jew,—“But I Vol. II. D D1v 26
suppose,” added she, “Catherine has in formed
you of this long since.”

Emma was excessively shocked at this intelligence,
which but too plainly accounted
for Catherine’s emotion, and parting address,
but she concealed her feelings from Sophia,
and with assumed calmness, asked the name
of Catherine’s lover.

“It is Josiah Decosta, the youth Rabbi
Colmar commends so greatly, for his peculiar
piety, and devotedness to the Jewish faith,”
replied Sophia.

Emma enquired no farther, and the subject
dropped, but she was deeply afflicted by
the information. After the apparent devotion
of Catherine to the cause of Christ, nay,
after having been baptized in His name, to
unite herself voluntarily with a bigoted Jew!
And that it was a voluntary act on her part
was indisputable, for Mrs. Levy was the most
indulgent of mothers, and very unlikely to
have exerted any undue authority, over her
daughter, who generally acted as she pleased.

After thinking over the painful subject, in
every possible way, Emma resolved to make
an effort, to prevent Catherine from such a D2r 27
dereliction from the faith she had so fervently
professed. She could not write in the usual
way, but in this pressing emergency, a happy
expedient suggested itself to her mind. She
had frequently copied sentences from the
books she read, in the character in which they
were printed, and the writing was legible and
easily decyphered. In this character, therefore,
she addressed a letter to Catherine,
containing every argument against her present
conduct, religion could suggest, or the
written word furnish her with. The style of
her address was tender and persuasive, and
she forwarded it immediately to Catherine.
Her labor of love was ineffectual, the messenger
sent with it, brought the following
reply.

“Catherie Levy thanks Emma De Lissau
for her well meant epistle, but her mind is
decided on the subject, and remonstrance is
unavailing. She declines therefore, any farther
correspondence respecting it, though she
shall ever feel an affectionate interest, in all
that relates to her friend.”

Emma’s tears bathed this reply, so very
different from what she had anticipated, but D2 D2v 28
she had done all in her limited power, and
had no other alternative, than to leave the
case with Himm, whose holy cause she humbly
sought to advocate.

A few days after the above event, Rabbi
Colmar, unable any longer to endure the
anguish that devoured him, died by his own
hand. A letter on his table, bore witness to
the utter insufficiency, of the religion he had
so rigorously observed, to sustain the soul in
the day of calamity.

De Lissau, and his household were extremely
afflicted by this unexpected catastrophe,
nor was Emma less so, and she wept
bitterly as she accompanied her father, at his
request, to the chamber of the departed. He
reclined on his bed dressed, and had on his
Phylacteries. From the appearance of his
features, he had passed into the invisible
world without a struggle.

What a weight of mingled concern and
horror, agitated the bosom of Emma, as she
contemplated the inanimate form of one, who
had so long and inveterately persecuted her,
and now lay before her a corpse, reduced to
that state by his own hands! She turned from D3r 29
the appalling spectacle completely overpowered,
and hastily retreated to her own
apartment, where, in solemn communion with
God, she sought and found, refuge, from the
oppression such an event could not but inspire.

De Lissau soon joined his daughter, and
besought her earnestly, to impart to him, her
view of the lamentable event. She could not
enter on the subject, by way of conversation,
but pointed out to her father in reply, the
striking parable, delivered by the Lord Jesus,
and recorded in St Matthew, vii. 24, 25, 26,
27, 28, 29.

De Lissau read it attentively, and though
he returned the book to Emma, in silence,
and made no comment, he was evidently affected
by it.

The Rabbi was interred at midnight, without
any outward mark of respect by the Jews,
but De Lissau was present at the funeral,
and on his return kindled a memorial lamp
for him; as, whatever his bigoted and narrow
conduct was, toward those whose creed differed
from his, he had faithfully served the
De Lissau family. Every individual of it, D3 D3v 30
wore mourning for him, as if he had been a
near relative, nor did Emma decline shewing
this outward mark of respect, to the memory
of a man, who, though he had been to her a
cruel persecutor, she could not but admit,
was actuated by a sincere, though mistaken,
persuasion that he thereby fulfilled his duty,
as a devout professor of Judaism.

Chapter III.

Mutability of earthly arrangements.

The demise of Rabbi Colmar occurred but
a very short period, before the solemn festival
of the new year; and ten days after, on
the evening of the day of atonement, Mrs. D4v 32
Levy expired suddenly. She was inexpressibly
shocked at the manner of the Rabbi’s
death, and evidently drooped from that melancholy
period. She was, however, able to
attend as usual, in the gallery of the synagogue,
the whole of the day, so important to
the Jews, who rest undoubtingly in the belief,
of the annual remission of their sins, if
they duly observe its severe requirements. Open note a001-rotaIn the mosaic commandment, respecting
the day of atonement, Leviticus xxiii. 27, 28, 29,
30, 31, 32, the Israelites are expressly commanded
to afflict their souls. The Rabbins have determined
this, to consist, in keeping a strict
fast, that is to say, not a mere abstinence from
flesh, but a fast from all food, not excepting any.
They however exempt from its observance, children
under 12 years of age,—sick persons whose
lives would be endangered by it,—and women
in child-bed,—who have not passed the third
day of their confinement.
On her return home, she complained of exhaustion
and fatigue: but this was attributed
to her long abstinence, and Catherine hastened
to serve the sumptuous meal, always provided
on these occasions. Previous to partaking
of it, her son-in-law elect, who was
present, recited a short prayer, and at its
close, she fell down and expired instantly!
According to custom, she was interred on the
following day, and as her will nominated De
Lissau, guardian of her daughter, Catherine
was removed to house, previous to observing
the seven days of mourning for her parent.
In accordance with her creed, the departed
left an annual sum, for prayers to be said
for her soul and the kaudish recited
on her anniversary. She also left a large D5r 33
sum to the synagogue of which she had been
a member, that her name might be inserted
in the list of those, of whom solemn and especial
mention, is annually made, during the
recitation of “the memorial for the dead,”Open note a002-rotaThis prayer, which is held in great veneration
by the Jews, is to be found in the volumes
of prayers, used by them at the festivals of the
new year, &c. &c. The prayer for the souls of
Martyrs is as follows. “O may the most merciful Father, who dwelleth
on high, in his mighty mercy, visit the pious,
upright, and perfect, in every holy congregation,
who willingly offered their souls for the sanctification
of his holy name; they who were lovely Y6v 148252
and amiable in their life-time and were not separated
(from their faith) at their death; they were
swifter than eagles, and stronger than lions, to
perform the will of their creator and the desire
of their maker. May God remember them for
good, among the rest of the righteous of the
world. May he, in our days, and in our sight,
avenge the blood of his servant, that hath been
shed; as it is written in the law of Moses, the
man of God cause his people to rejoice, O ye
nations for he will avenge the blood of her servants,
and will render vengeance to his adversaries,
and he will be reconciled to his land and
to his people; and by the hands of thy servants
the prophets, it is written, saying, I will avenge
the blood which I have not avenged; I the eternal,
who dwelleth in Zion. And in the holy
writings it is said, wherefore should the Heathen
say, ‘Where is their God?’ Make known among
the heathen, in our sight, that thou avengest the
blood of thy servants, that hath been shed.
And it is said, the avenger of blood will remember
them, and not forget the cry of the humble.
And it is said, he will judge the nations, he will
fill their place with dead bodies, he woundeth
the chief (the name of a country) he shall drink
of the brook in the way, because he proudly
exalted himself.”
only at high festivals, and on the day of
atonement. At these periods, it is chaunted
by the reader, (the congregation maintaining
a profound silence,) in a very impressive manner,
accompanied by the two singers, treble,
and bass, who are considered to be indispensable
appendages to the reader, and are always
placed next him, on the Olmemmor or
reading desk, which stands in the centre of
the synagogue. The Jews are so very particular
in their choice of these singers, that they
are mostly engaged from the Continent, at
large salaries.

Emma, as a matter of course, paid Catherine
a short visit of condolence, in the chamber,
where seated on the ground, or rather a
low hassock, she observed the customary
mourning for her mother. No conversation
however, passed between them, for Catherine
was, as is usual at these times, constantly D5v 34
surrounded by her Jewish friends
such attentions being avowedly meritorious,
and entitling the performer, to the earnest of
his good deeds in this world, the full wages
being reserved for him, in the world to
come! Open note a003-rotaThat this is the case the following extract
from the Jewish manual of daily prayers will
fully show. Z1r 253 “These are the transactions whereof man enjoys
the fruits in this world, but the principal
remaineth to a future one: and these are they,
viz. Honoring father and mother—acts of beneficence
—an early attendance morning and evening
where the law is studied,—entertaining strangers
—nursing the sick—promoting the ties of matrimony
—attending the dead to the grave—praying
devoutly—making peace between a man and his
fellow creature,—but studying the law is superior
to all.”

The prayer recited at the house of a mourner,
is so fully expressive of the Jewish creed,
respecting the state of both body and soul,
after death, and the liability of the body to
suffer pain and torment in the grave, that it
is here inserted, as extracted from their own
book of daily prayers, and certainly is, an interesting
and curious document.

“A prayer said at the house of a mourner.”

“We beseech thee O Lord most merciful
king, in whose hand is the soul of every living
thing, and the breath of all flesh; let it
be willed before thy presence, that the lecture
and our prayer be in behalf of the soul of
*** and be bountiful unto her according
to thy great mercy, O unfold for her the
gate of mercy, compassion, and the garden
of Eden; and receive her with love and
favour. Send unto her thy holy angels to
direct and to place her beneath the tree of D6r 35
life, near the souls of the righteous, virtuous,
and pious saints, there to enjoy the brightness
of thy glory; and satiate her with thy
benevolence, which is laid up for the just.
O grant that the corpse may rest in repose,
and be established in gladness, joy and peace,
as it is written ‘he shall enter into peace,
they shall rest in their beds, each one walking
in his uprightness,’ and it is written ‘let
the saints be joyful in glory, let them sing
aloud upon their beds,’ and it is written
‘when thou liest down thou shalt not be afraid
yea, thou shalt lie down and they sleep shall
be sweet.’ O keep her from the torment
of worms and vermin in her grave; pardon
and forgive all her iniquities, for there is
not a just person upon earth, that doeth good
and sinneth not. Remember her and according
to the meritoriousness of her soul so let
the ashes of her bones be in the grave, and
through the multitude of thy benevolence
conduct her to the place which is laid up for
the just; as it is written ‘O how great is thy
goodness which thou has laid up for them
that fear thee,’ And it is written ‘he keepeth
all his bones, not one of them is broken.’ D6v 36
Let her dwell in safety, and be quiet from fear
of evil not to behold the presence of hell but
let her soul be bound in the bundle of eternal
life and quicken her at the resurrection of
the dead, among the number of thy people
Israel, Amen.”

The situation of Rabbi Colmar, in the family
of De Lissau, was given to an amiable
and learned Prussian Jew, Rabbi Joseph
Wertheim; though sincerely devout, he did
not consider bigotry a necessary appendage
to his religious profession, and his devotion
was fervent, without gloom or austerity. Neither
were christians so obnoxious to him, as
they had ever been to his predecessor, though
Wertheim had received a deep injury, from
a community calling themselves, by that hallowed,
but alas—too frequently prostituted
name! He did not however, judge and excommunicate
all, for the act of a few and
when poverty sought relief at his hands, he
enquired not the religion of the applicant.
De Lissau therefore highly esteemed him, as
his practice in this respect was so congenial
with his own. There was also, another uniting
link between them, for, from his first introduction E1r 37
into the family, his behaviour to
Emma, was equally respectful and attentive;
and he appeared unaffectedly eager to oblige
her, by imparting useful information, during
his evening visits, to the chamber of her mother.

When Catherine’s period of seclusion for
her late mother was over, and she was at
liberty, to associate with the family of her
guardian, he assigned for her exclusive use,
two apartments in his house, and she experienced
from him, the same paternal kindness
he evinced towards his own children; she was
in addition allowed to regulate and dispose
of her time, at her own pleasure, Emma
had, therefore, many opportunities of conversing
with her, especially when Catherine
visited the invalid’s apartment. At
first, indeed, she avoided this, as much as
possible, but when she, perceived that Emma,
neither looked nor spoke reproachfully,
and that she appeared as affectionate, as in
times past, she no longer shunned the intercourse,
her friends so earnestly sought. Emma
rejoiced at this change in Catherine; she
viewed her with tenderness and compassion, Vol. II. E E1v 38
which was heightened by her orphan state,
and mourning habit. Besides, she hoped
that it might not yet be too late to win her
back, from her present error, and felt convinced
that affectionate remonstrances would
be more likely to succeed, than harsh or ill-
timed reproof. In the course of their conversations
Emma gathered from Catherine’s
statements, that she was still inclined towards
Christianity in her heart, though she carefully
concealed her thoughts from her betrothed
lover, who was peculiarly rigid, and,
from his heart, cordially hated the very name
of a Nazarene.

Emma could not comprehend how Catherine,
who had actually been baptized in the
name of Jesus, could so lightly renounce
Him, and she cautiously, and tenderly, but
faithfully warned her, to beware lest she should
finally perish, amidst the dark mountains,
where she was wandering; but the poor infatuated
girl, though she admitted with tears,
her fearful apostacy, yet declared she could
not endure the idea, of separation from the
present object of her idolatry, and Emma
ceased to admonish, though she could not
cease to pray for her.

De Lissau had long been the guardian of
a youth, whose peculiar situation, at this time,
deeply interested Emma, and he, with Catherine,
shared her anxious thoughts, but as his
case is amply detailed in Sophia De Lisau,
a work to which these volumes are a
sequel, it would be useless repetition to make
any further mention of it here.

Catherine, as soon as she laid aside her
mourning, was busily engaged in preparing
for her approaching nuptials, which her
guardian sanctioned without hesitation, as
the marriage contract had been signed under
the auspices of her mother. Emma, however,
witnessed these preparations with deep
regret;—but Catherine persisted, in spite of
her earnest entreaties. The Roman Catholic
priest had left England, on an important
mission, and his successor had but little influence
over the mind of Catherine; and she
had long since ceased to correspond with her
friend Agnes, whose last letters she had purposely
left unanswered. An awful dispensation
of providence, however, interposed between
the unhappy girl, and the frail being,
she had preferred before ties the most sacred, E2 E2v 40
and vows the most solemn, just as she was
about to complete a union, from which she
anticipated perfect felicity, and for which she
had sacrificed so much. The guests were
bidden; the ceremony arranged; Catherine’s
beautiful hair was cut off according to custom,
when, on the very bridal morning, Decosta
was found dead in his bed, by the servant
who went to call him!

The effect of this unexpected catastrophe
on the mind of Catherine, was terrible. She
sunk under it, and was, for several days, in a
state of raving insanity; though at length,
by divine appointment, her youth and an excellent
constitution, enabled her to recover
the shock. She remained, however, many
weeks, in a low nervous state, during which
the tenderest attention was paid to her, by
the De Lissau family, every individual
which, truly sympathised with the subject of
a calamity so affecting.

This event filled the mind of Emma with
solemn awe; Catherine became more dear,
and interesting than ever to her, and she
ardently prayed that the trial might be sanctified
to the eternal welfare of her friend. E3r 41
She did not, however, venture at the present
juncture, to address her privately, but thought
it would be best to wait, until the wound was
closed, ere she attempted to offer the balm
contained in the precious name of Jesus.
Meantime she sincerely rejoiced, that Catherine
to an avowed enemy of
the Lord of life, though she never visited
the sufferer, without shedding tears of commiseration,
for the pitiable state she was
reduced to, in the very flower of her youth
and beauty.

Leopold made a short visit to his friends
at this time, and it was a pleasant relief to
Emma. Her mind, however, was not long
at ease; Sophia was about to become the wife
of a man, every way unworthy of her, and
she loved her sister too well, not to be deeply
affected by the evil consequences, she anticipated
would result from an union so inauspicious.
De Lissau and Wertheim, were
of the same opinion, but as Leoni, was, in
appearance, a devout Jew, the charming Sophia,
saw not his many unamiable qualities,
and became decidedly attached to him.
They were, therefore, contracted to each E3 E3v 42
other, in the presence of a large assembly
invited to witness the solemn ceremony.
Emma was not present. Her heart recoiled
intuitively from Leoni, who on his part,
detested her. Merriment and feasting, followed
the signing of the contract, but Emma,
shut up in her mother’s apartment, spent the
evening in unavailing regret. Catherine
shared her solitude. Though much recovered
she could not join in a scene of this description.
After the ceremony, Wertheim
joined them; he was unusually thoughtful and
pensive, and when Emma enquired if he was
well, evaded the question, by requesting to
be allowed, an opportunity of conversing
with her, on a religious subject, at a future
opportunity. Emma was surprised at this
unexpected request, and more so at the
earnestness of his manner, but she assented,
very readily, and bid him chuse his own
time, for the discussion of a subject ever
deeply interesting to her. Wertheim was
highly gratified by her reply, and after
suitably acknowledging, his sense of her
obliging acquiescence with his wish, changed
the discourse to indifferent matters, and endeavoured, E4r 43
by every means in his power,
to dispel the sadness, that clouded the
brow of Emma, and hung yet more
heavily on her heart.

Chapter IV.

The learned Rabbi, and the illiterate
Christian.

The desire of Wertheim, to converse with
Emma, on the topic of religion, had its origin,
partly, in a secret hope, that he might E5r 45
succeed in alluring her back to the Jewish
faith, to which, he, in common with his nation,
exclusively restricted the possibility of
salvation. He was well aware that Emma
was ignorant and inexperienced, and so completely
illiterate, that she could not cope
with him, in argument, he, therefore, confidently
anticipated, gaining a final triumph,
over what he considered to be, untenable
tenets. He knew not the simplicity of the
gospel, nor its power in enlightening the
mind of the meanest of its professors, who in
the things pertaining to God, are wiser than
the wisest disputer of this world, their teacher
being the Omnipotent Spirit, and Christ
their wisdom.

Wertheim had closely studied the disposition
of Emma, for some time past, with a
view to his intended attempt on her religious
views, and he soon perceived she was peculiarly
accessible to kindness, and easily affected
by it, he therefore resolved to address
her, with the most winning persuasion he was
master of. The amiability of his disposition
rendered this easy to him, besides which, his
heart was softened by feelings, he hardly E5v 46
ventured to acknowledge, even to himself,
though they added fresh vigour to the zeal
he felt on behalf of Emma.

When Wertheim communicated his hopes
and intentions to De Lissau, the latter smiled
to hear his sanguine anticipations.

“I admire your zeal, and give you full
credit for your motives, dear Wertheim,”
said he, “but you know it is written, ‘Let not
him that girdeth on his harness, boast himself
as he that putteth it off.’ You have the advantage
of learning, and Emma is very deficient
in that respect, but, perhaps, you will
discover, that she adopts the Parthian mode
of warfare.”

“Forgive the question, my honored patron,
but have I your good wishes for my success?”
enquired Wertheim anxiously.

“There is perhaps more zeal than prudence
in your enquiry,” replied De Lissau,
gravely, “but though not disposed to reply
to it, I freely excuse you.”

The observations of De Lissau on Wertheim’s
assurance of success, a little abated
his self-confidence, though it stimulated him
to proceed. But ere he sought Emma, he devoted E6r 47
a day to fasting and prayer, on her behalf,
trusting to the powerful efficacy, of this
free-will offering, and that it would, as such,
be prevalent with God.

That the Jews really consider voluntary
fasts, on private occasions, in the light above
stated, may be seen by the following extract,
from their daily prayers.

“If an individual intends a fast he says the
following in the afternoon of the preceding
day.”

“Sovereign of the universe, behold I am
now in thy presence with the free-will offer
of a fast on the morrow. May it be acceptable
in thy presence, O Lord my God, to receive
me with love and favor, and suffer my
prayer to come into thy presence, and answer
my supplication in thine abundant mercy, for
thou hearest the prayer of every mouth.”

Emma, on her part, quietly awaited the
conference to which the Rabbi had invited
her; she knew that he was skillful in argument,
and deeply imbued with Rabbinical
learning, for she had, sometimes, heard him
engaged in warm debates, with a ward of
her father’s, who, she believed, to be a sincere E6v 48
Christian. But at those times, the contest
had appeared to her, like that of Goliath of Garth, and the stripling David, who had refused
royal armor, because he had not essayed
it, yet conquered by the most simple
means’; because he met not the mighty giant
in his own puny strength, but in that of Omnipotence!
“and such” thought Emma,
“must ever be the result, when human
wisdom is set in battle-array against that
which is treasured up in Christ, and imparted
to his little ones as they need it.”

At the first interview Wertheim had with
Emma, on the important subject of religion,
she permitted him to speak as long as he
pleased, without interruption, and listened
with profound attention, to the various and
subtle arguments he adduced in favor of Judaism,
and against Christianity, in language
the most eloquent, persuasive, and ensnaring.
She observed, however, though she made no
comment on it at the time, to the learned
Rabbi, that his most powerful quotations, in
support of the cause he advocated, were
drawn from the Talmud, and writings of the
Rabbinical Commentators, rather than the F1r 49
scriptures, which he seldom referred to, and
when he did cite holy writ, he gave interpretations
of its meaning, quite strained, and
wrested from the obvious sense of the text;—
as she formerly heard the Rabbins do,
at her grandfather’s nightly assemblies.

The doctrine of merits, was warmly insisted
on by Wertheim, in the course of his
address; and he dwelt long and earnestly,
on the perpetuity of the law, which he declared
the Nazarene heresy denied, proving,
clearly, by that unfounded assertion, that he
was entirely unacquainted with the tenets,
he so unhesitatingly condemned.

On the mission of Jesus, he proceeded to
comment in the same unqualified and condemnatory
strain, and having, at length, exhausted
his store of invectives on that subject,
he concluded, as others of his nation
had done before him, by assuring Emma, in
very decisive language, (for, carried away by
the warmth of the moment, he had forgotten
the conciliatory style, at first adopted,) that
Israel were a people elected by Jehovah, to live
before him for ever; nor where they, though
in captivity for their sins, divorced from that Vol. II. F F1v 50
love, which had chosen them from all the
nations of the earth, and out of that communion,
there was no salvation.

As Emma made no immediate reply, Wertheim
supposed she was overpowered by his
arguments, and had no answer to offer. But
she was merely silent for a few minutes,
while a secret petition to the Holy one of
Israel, for assistance to avow and defend His
cause, ascended from her inmost heart.

“You are silent, you do not reply,” at
length, observed Wertheim, “may I hope
what I have advanced has had the happy effect,
of inducing my young friend, to consider
the vast difference, subsisting between
that holy faith which has the Almighty for its
author, and the lawless principles of the unholy
Nazarenes?”

“Wertheim!” said Emma, “Tell me,
candidly, did you ever read the new testament?”

Wertheim endeavored to evade this simple
question, but Emma would not allow him
to do so, and he at last reluctantly replied in
the negative.

“And yet you have not hesitated to condemn, F2r 51
what you have not duly examined!”
observed Emma, “but such are the conclusions
of prejudice.”

The Rabbi, somewhat abashed, hastily interrupted
Emma, but she said, with a smiling
air.

“You ought in fairness to allow me to
speak in my turn, since I heard you with attention,
even though you made use of many
very offensive expressions and allusions,”

“I know what you mean,” exclaimed Wertheim hastily, completely thrown off his
guard, by the provoking coolness of his antagonist,
“I did say, and I repeat it, that
the pretended immaculate birth, of the Nazarene
imposter, is founded on a prophecy,
which had its fulfilment in the life-time of the
very prophet who predicted it. I have not
indeed read the record of him which you allude
to, but I know the use Nazarenes make
of the memorable verse contained in Isaiah,
vii. 14. But it was a sign given to King
Ahaz, under circumstances of existing distress,
as a sure proof of approaching deliverance.
The promise of a child to be born
centuries after, could have afforded no relief F2 F2v 52
to the mind of Ahaz. In the first verses of
the next chapter, you have the birth of the
promised child recorded, and in the 18th verse
of the same chapter, the prophet says, ‘“Behold
I and the children, whom the Lord hath
given me, are for signs and wonders in Israel,
from the Lord of Hosts which dwelleth
in Mount Zion.”’” The Rabbi then, with a
look of triumph, awaited Emma’s reply.

“Rabbi Wertheim” said Emma, “be not
so violent, your mode of discussion appears
to me but little calculated to advance your
cause. As the the explanation you have just
given, of a most important portion of scripture,
allow me to say, it has no weight with
me. I have no objection to receive your
testimony, in secular matters, but in spiritual
things, I cannot accept human expositions
of holy writ. The scriptures are best interpreted
by comparing one part with another;
nor are the children of the most High, left to
their own judgment, which at the best, is
both fallible and mutable. The gift of the
Eternal Spirit, as their teacher and guide,
followed immediately upon the ascension of
Son of God, and bore witness to the
truth of His mission.”

Wertheim, who had shown many signs of
impatience, while Emma was speaking, here
exclaimed with vehemence.

“You cannot, at all events, either explain
or defend, the monstrous and absurd doctrine
of the Trinity, so contrary to the express
declaration of Jehovah, whose indivisible
unity the faithful nation are so strenuous in
upholding in life and death?”

“I am called on to believe in the adorable
Trinity,” replied Emma, calmly, “but not to
explain it, for it is written. Who by searching
can find out God?” Yet, Wertheim, I must
say, you gave an admirable definition of the
Trinity in Unity, during this very discussion,
when you described the great Jehovah, to be
conceived of, under the compound idea of
light, fire, and air.”

“I did say so,” answered Wertheim, “and
have no wish to retract an assertion quoted
from wise and holy Rabbins, but I defy you
to prove from this description, the abominable
tenet you so boldly maintain, against the
very written word you pretend so implicitly
to believe.”

“Ah Wertheim!” returned Emma, “how
powerful and wilful is prepossession, I am F3 F3v 54
not inclined to accept your challenge of defiance,
for I am weak, ignorant, and unable
to defend the cause which, nevertheless, I
fervently love; but I will just observe, light,
is in my opinion, truly descriptive of Jehovah
the father who is emphatically styled ‘light’
1 John, i. 5. Fire, is as truly set forth by
the Lord Jesus, who is called the ‘Sun of
Righteousness.’ Malachi, iv. 2. And the
Eternal Spirit descended on the Apostles,
‘as a mighty rushing wind’ on the day of Pentecost.
Acts, ii. 2. So that your own allegory,
is a striking illustration, of the very
doctrine you so violently oppose.”

Wertheim lost his temper so completely at
this reply, that Emma said mildly, but firmly.

“You forget yourself Rabbi, and had
better retire for the present. Think not
however, I would decline the topic you first
brought forward, if you wish to resume it at
a future opportunity, but remember I expect
you to evince moderation, candour and prudence,
and not trespass so greatly, on my indulgence
as you have done this day, lest I also
lose my temper.” Wertheim was about to offer
an apology, but the embrace of De Lissau
ended, for that time, the important discussion.

Chapter V.

The Subject Continued and Concluded.

Emma was not very solicitous to confer
again with Wertheim, on a topic they were
not likely to agree about, because of the vehemence
he had been betrayed into; but he F4v 56
apologised with so much humility, and made
such fair promises of future moderation, that
she consented to allow of his resuming the
interesting subject, whenever opportunity
should serve. But she reminded him, at the
same time, not to expect from her, either
connected statements, or elaborate arguments,
such as he had used.

“I am merely able to converse, in a plain
and desultory manner,” added she, “therefore
expect not more from me. But, I have
no objection to give a direct reply, to a
direct question, relative to the faith I profess,
provided I am enabled to do so.”

Wertheim made a suitable reply, but he
appeared sad, and abstracted. He had almost
lost the hope of success, he had at first
so confidently entertained, for though he attached
no importance, to anything Emma
had said, or might adduce, he perceived
clearly, that her religious opinions, were not,
as he had supposed, superficial, and easily
overthrown; but that they appeared to
emanate, from an inwrought principle, which
though he deplored he could neither define,
nor destroy.

The approaching nuptials of Sophia, for
which preparations were now making, though
the day of celebration was still at some distance,
filled the heart of Emma with tender
regret. The character of Leoni, daily developed
itself more clearly to all around him,
except the amiable individual, most interested;
and Wertheim often expressed the
disgust he felt at Leoni’s peculiar bigotry,
while De Lissau secretly regretted the near
relationship that would so soon subsist between
them, though he did not chuse to oppose
the choice of his daughter.

A few days after their last conversation,
Wertheim, finding Emma alone and disengaged,
again introduced the subject so near
his heart. He began by repeating some observations
respecting the law, its holy origin
and the obligatory perpetuity of its nature. Open note a004-rotaThe Jewish ideas, respecting the perpetuity
of the law, are plainly and unequivocally declared,
in the creed, which forms a part of their
daily prayers. And, though the ceremonial law,
is at present suspended, they are not without an
expedient, for the sacrificial offering for sin, as
may be seen by the following extract from the
same prayer book, referred to in all preceding
notes. “In the afternoon service of a free will fast,
say the following.—” “Sovereign of the universe it is clearly known
unto thee, that whilst the holy temple was established,
if a man sinned he brought an offering,
of which they only offered the fat and blood,
yet didst thou in thine abundant mercy, grant
him pardon; because of our iniquities, the holy
temple is destroyed and we have neither sanctuary
nor priest to atone for us. O may it therefore
be acceptable in thy presence, that the Vol. II Z Z1v 254
diminution of my fat and blood, which hath
been diminished this day, may be accounted as
fat offered and placed on the altar, and thus be
accepted of me.” “Guardian of Israel, preserve the remnant of
Israel, and suffer not Israel to be destroyed, who
say, hear O Israel.” “Guardian of a singular nation; preserve the
remnant of a singular people, and suffer not a
singular nation to be destroyed, who acknowledge
the unity of thy name, saying, ‘the Lord is
our God, the Lord is an Unity’.”

“My nation speak much of the law,” replied
Emma, “and consider themselves perfectly
capable of fulfilling its requirements.
They make a point of studying it daily, or
rather (observing the letter while they neglect
the spirit of a self-imposed duty.) They
have inserted a logical argument respecting F5v 58
it in their daily prayers, Open note a005-rotaThe following logical argument, is inserted
in the first part of the daily prayers and is always
accurately repeatedly, as a compliance
with the injunction of studying the law, which,
in reality, cannot be done by females, ignorant
persons, or those engaged in labor, in any other
way. There is also a Rabbinical argument, in
the service for the eve of the sabbath, which presents
a curious specimen of traditional expositions
of the ceremonial law; both are inserted,
as follows. At Daily Service. “Rabbi Ishmael says, that the law is to be expounded
by thirteen rules,—1st light and heavy,
or an inference from minor to major, and the reverse
from major to minor.—2nd. A decision
deduced from an agreement or equality of texts
3rd. From the principal constitution contained
in one verse, and from the principal constitution Z2r 255
deduced from two verses. 4th. From comparing
a general description, with its specified particular.
5th. From a particular text followed by a
general one. 6th. Precepts treated of first in
general and then in particular and again in general,
thou must not adjudge, but according to
that which is similar to the particular. 7th.
From a general description that requires a particular
or specific text to explain and from a
particular text that requires a general one. 8th
Every thing that is comprehended under a general
description and is afterwards particularly
exemplified therefrom, in order to teach us
something concerning it, the exemption is not
given for its sake alone, but to teach the same
of the whole general form. 9th. And every
thing that is included in a general description
and is afterwards excepted to prove an argument
similar to its subject, in that case it alleviates
but does not aggravate. 10th. And every
thing that is included in a general description,
and is afterwards excepted to prove an argument
not similar to its subject, in such case, it serves
to alleviate and aggravate. 11th. And every
thing that is included in a general description,
and is afterwards excepted, to determine a new
matter, cannot be restored to the general term,
unless it be by being expressly mentioned in the
text. 12th. And a thing that is deduced from
the subject itself, and a thing deduced from the
end of the text. 13. And thus when two texts
contradict each other we cannot determine the Z2 Z2v 256
sense until a third text is produced with reconciles
them.” “Let it be acceptable before thee O Lord our
God, and the God of our ancestors, that the
holy temple may speedily be rebuilt in our days;
and let our portion be thy law, and there we will
serve thee in reverence, as in days of old, and
former years; and may the offering of Jerusalem
and Judah, be pleasant unto the Lord, as in
days of old and in former years.” In Sabbath Eve Service. “With what species of wick may the lamps be
lighted on the sabbath, and with which they
may not be lighted. They may not be lighted
with the moss, which grows on cedars, nor with
undressed flax, nor with pieces of silk, nor with a
wick made of ozier, nor with thread of the wilderness,
nor with the scurf which gathers on the surface
of the water; they may not be lighted with
pitch, nor with wax, nor with oil made from the
gourd, nor with oil set apart to be burnt, nor
with fat from the tails of animals, nor with tallow.
Nahom the Mede says, they may be lighted
with boiled tallow, but the sages say, whether it
be boiled, or not boiled they may not be lighted
therewith. On the festivals also they may not
be lighted with oil, set apart to be burnt. Rabbi
Ishmael saith, they may not be lighted with the
dregs of pitch; because of the honor due to the
sabbath. But the sages allow of all oils, with the
oil of nuts, with the oil of radishes, with oil of fish, Z3r 257
with oil of gourds, with the dregs of pitch, and
with a certain white pitch. Rabbi Jorphon
saith, they must not be lighted but with oil of
olives only. Nothing which grows on a stalk is
proper to light with, but flax, neither is any thing
which grows on a stalk, liable to the pollution of
a tent, but flax. A slip of cloth which hath been
folded (for a wick) and not singed, Rabbit Eleazar
saith, it is liable to pollution, and must
therefore not be used to light. But Rabbit Ekeevah
saith it is not liable to pollution, and may be
used to light with. A person may not bore an egg
shell and fill it with oil and place it over the lamp
that it may drop therein, and although it be of
earthenware, it is not permitted, but Rabbi
Jehudah allows it. However if the Potter had
originally formed it, then it is allowable, because,
it is then but one vessel; a person may not fill a
dish with oil, and place it beside the lamp, and
put the end of the wick into it, so that it may attract
the oil, Rabbi Jehudah permits it. He
who extinguisheth the lamp, because he is afraid
of gentiles, of robbers or out of melancholy, or
an account of a sick person, that may fall
asleep, itis not guilty; but if his intention is to save
his lamp, oil, or wick, he is guilty. Rabbi Josea
allows it in either case expect the wick, because
he thereby forms a coal.” “A man is obliged to enquire, and remind his
household three things, on the eve of the sabbath
near the dusk of the evening, concerning these
three things. Have ye separated the tithe? Have Z3 Z3v 258
ye made the mixture? lit the lamp? If it is
doubtful whether it be dark or not they may not
tithe that which they are certain is not tithed,
neither may they dip the vessels nor light the
lamps, but they may tithe that which is dubitable,
make the mixture, and cover the pots of victuals
to retain their heat.” which of course
ensures its daily repetition. And thus they
may be said to study the law every day! but
to what end is this heartless performance?”

“The Ethics of the Fathers, a work so
venerated by the Jews, and so often quoted
by you, Wertheim, among other anomalies, recommends
that the study of the law, and the
commerce of the world be blended, and attributes
to their conjunction the annihilation
of sin.” Open note a006-rotaIf words are expressive of meaning, the
following quotation, from the Ethics of the fathers,
(a small work much esteemed by the Jews,
which is translated into English and place at the
end of the prayer book) is sufficiently plain.
Though perhaps the real meaning of Rabbi Gamliel
may appear dubious to a Christian reader. “Rabbi Gamliel the son of Rabbi Judah
Hanosee, said that the study of the law, and the
commerce of the world, are commendable together;
as the conjunction of these too annihilates
sin, and all study of the law that is not supported
by business will become of none effect
and will be the cause of sin: and whoever is engaged
in the service of the congregation ought to
act for God’s sake, then will the merit of their
ancestors support them, and their charitable
deeds exist to eternity and I shall account ye
deserving of a great recompense as if ye had
actually done it.”

“You do not comprehend the deep sayings
of the fathers,” observed Wertheim, “to
understand them, requires profound wisdom.
And the law, lightly as you speak of it, is of
vast moment, but I do not expect a female
fully to appreciate it.”

“I have not spoken lightly of the law,”
answered Emma, “but of the manner in
which it is interpreted, by the Jewish nation.
The law is spiritual, Wertheim, and spiritual
minds alone, can apprehend its purity and
perfection. You speak of fulfilling its holy
requirements, but I believe, and am assured,
the preceptive, and ceremonial law, was
never perfectly obeyed, but by Jesus of Nazareth, F64r 59
of whom the splendid worship of our
nation was but a type. Nor can our daily
minute attention, to carnal observances of
meats, &c. open, as is pretended, the gates of
heaven to us, as a reward.”

“Since such is your determined decision, Emma,” replied Wertheim sorrowfully, “it is
useless to pursue that part of the subject.
But I pray that you may see your error, ere
it be too late! ere the angel of death closes
for ever the gate of repentance, and your lot
is finally separated from that of the holy
people.”

“You mean kindly towards me, I make no
doubt,” returned Emma, “but you speak of
prayer, let me tell you, my ideas of prayer
by no means coincide with yours. I do not
think reciting a long formula of written
prayers, thrice a day, constitutes that delightful
act; for delightful it is, though solemn, to
address the most High God, and draw nigh
unto Him with filial confidence, believing
that He hears, approves, and will grant
our petitions. No! Wertheim, a formula
however excellent, is reciting prayers, but
cannot be called praying, The latter act is F6v 60
a petition, breathed from the heart, under a
feeling sense of need. Prayer is an act
wholly spiritual, and can only be offered by
a spiritual mind, for ‘God is a spirit, and
must be worshipped in spirit and truth.’
Nor is this all. That prayer only can be
accepted, which is according to the will of
God, it must be dictated by the Spirit, and
offered in the alone name of the great Redeemer.
All beside are words, however
pious, earnest, or sincere, but that alone can
be called prayer, which has God for its Author,
—His word for its warrant,—and Christ
for its object and subject.”

“What a strange mixture of fanaticism,
and enthusiastic notions are yours!” exclaimed
Wertheim. “How much have they
to answer for, who have thus perverted you!”

“You answer as I expect,” said Emma, “these things are hid from the wise, and
revealed to babes, for so it has pleased omnipotence
to will. Believe me, however, dear
Wertheim, I cease not to repeat daily, the
request of David, the sweet singer of Israel,
for my deluded notion. Psalm, xiv. 7. For
I earnestly desire their salvation.”

Wertheim made no immediate reply; he
appeared to be much shocked at the tenacity
with which Emma, seemed inclined to adhere
to her own judgment, and after much more
conversation, in which he gained no ground,
and more than once forgot himself, and his
promise to be calm and moderate, he retired
from the hopeless contest, without evincing
any desire to renew it, and to De Lissau’s
enquiries, he returned a hasty reply, indicative
of despondency, then changed the subject,
and reverted to it no more.

The day that was to cosign the lovely
Sophia, to a husband so unworthy of her, at
length arrived. It was celebrated with splendor,
and Emma was obliged to appear, as
the representative of her afflicted mother.
As soon, however, as the ceremony was performed,
she retired from the gay scene to
Anna’s chamber, there as usual to mourn,
while her family and nation were rejoicing.
Nor had she now, the tender consolations of
an affectionate brother, to assuage her sorrows.
Leopold had returned from the continent
in time to be present at his sister’s
nuptials, but he was fearfully altered. He Vol. II. G G1v 62
had exchanged the superstitious observances
of Judaism, for the hateful tenets of Voltaire,
Paine, and other heartless sceptics, and contemptuous
remarks, and unfeeling sarcasms,
now took place of that delightful intercourse,
Emma had once enjoyed, with this alienated
brother. She felt this more deeply, as he
remained in London, on account of the political
events, that then agitated Europe.

Catherine had almost recovered her usual
spirits, before the return of Leopold, and the
particular attention he paid to her, completed
their restoration. The elegant address, and
handsome person of Leopold, were at that
time, well calculated to inspire a favorable
impression, particularly when aided by the
seductive tenderness of manner, he displayed
towards Catherine, whose light and mutable
affection, he won but too easily, and Leopold
De Lissau, quickly obliterated from her unstable
mind, every lingering reminiscence of
the departed Dacosta.

The marriage of Sophia, was followed by
her public appearance at synagogue, arrayed
in her bridal habit, and accompanied by a
large train of friends. After which, several G2r 63
entertainments were given on the occasion.
Emma, of course remained stationary in her
mother’s apartment, but Catherine was conspicuous
among the gay assemblage, and Leopold
was her constant attendant. She was
daily more and more attracted by his flattering
and avowed homage, and in a weak moment
of gratified vanity, confided to him, the
past occurrences of her religious changes!
He easily penetrated the character of Catherine,
and made his advantage, of a versatility
he inwardly despised, by placing in her
hands, books of a sceptical tendency, the
baneful contents of which, he seconded with
all the powers of his superior mind. Alas,
the poison was but too successful! and Catherine
after all she had known and professed,
passed from the errors of Popery to the
demoralizing principles of avowed Deism!
Emma mourned over the sad dereliction, in
hopeless regret, but she had long ceased,
either to warn or remonstrate with her, and
her intercourse with Leopold and Catherine,
was now confined to a mere exchange of
external civilities.

Thus circumstanced, Emma’s chief enjoyments,G2 G2v 64
were drawn from her library, and the
facility she had almost imperceptibly acquired,
of journalising her thoughts and observations,
in a paper book she had procured for
that purpose, though she still used letter-press
characters. This method of employing her
leisure moments, at once improved and relieved
her mind, by withdrawing it, in a
measure, from passing scenes, that too
much affected her. In her apartment was
the perpetual and touching spectacle, of a
blind and insane parent.—In the family, was
a brother who once tenderly loved, and was
still dear to her, estranged not only from her,
but from all that was estimable, in a moral
point of view.—The friend of whom, she had
once hoped better things, and with whom,
she had so often conversed, of the holy Redeemer,
had not only deeply revolted from
Him, but had actually suffered Leopold, the
Deist to plunge her in the dark and polluted
flood of infidelity.—Asaph, by his undutiful
conduct, afflicted the excellent De Lissau,
and his amiable tutor, and cast a gloom over
the family circle—Added to these causes of
disquietude, Emma felt a secret conviction, G3r 65
that her beloved sister was not happy. She
endeavored to appear so indeed, when they
met, but the eye of affection is quick and
penetrating, and every fresh interview, confirmed
the uneasy anticipations of Emma,
though she imparted not her thoughts, on the
painful subject to any one.

The feelings of Emma were deeply interested
at this time, by a peculiar change that
took place in one of the inferior domestics.
She was hitherto, a mere nominal Christian,
and had lived in the family more than ten
years. Susan Lynch was a thorough good
servant, but was not only entirely destitute of
the very form of religion, but more prophane
and virulent against truth, than even her
Jewish associates, whom she far outstripped,
in expressions of ridicule, respecting the
Lord of life, insomuch that even they, frequently
reproved her!

It was so ordered, in the dispensation of
providence, that a person residing in the
next house, an attendant on the ministry, of
that distinguished servant of God, William
Romaine, opened a prayer meeting on Sunday
evenings, after divine worship. A circumstanceG3 G3v 66
so unusual in that neighbourhood
at the period alluded to, attracted considerable
attention. Nor was the little assembly,
at first without annoyance. But the divine
power was manifested in so extraordinary a
degree, among many of the most violent opposers,
that they became its most devoted
supporters. Among others, Susan Lunch, as
soon as she heard of it, was most conspicuous
for her decided hostility, to the “Canting
crew,” as she denominated them, and went
one evening purposely to disturb their proceedings.
Never, perhaps, was the power
of discriminating grace more brightly, and
wonderfully displayed, than in the case of
this hardened sinner. She entered with a
satanic grin on her features. An aged and
spiritual Christian, was engaged in fervent
devotion. The venerable countenance, and
the silver locks of the speaker, and the silent
attention of the auditory, made her pause,
and stand in suspense. The prayer of faith
now offered, entered her heart as a two
edged sword. She retired to a corner of the
room, and remained there till the meeting
closed. She then returned home with a G4r 67
barbed arrow in her heart, and in a state of
mind not easy to describe. Conviction had
seized her in all its horrors, and her anguish
of soul was unspeakable. This striking alteration
was of course noticed and ridiculed
by her fellow servants, but she heeded not
their taunts. Her heart was in bitterness,
and she found no alleviation in any of her
former enjoyments. Every Sunday evening
she now seen in a corner of the meeting,
among the praying assembly. Her constant
appearance there, eager attention to the
prayers offered, and visible anguish of spirit,
at length, excited notice among the people.
They spoke to her affectionately, and soon
drew from her an artless detail of what had
passed. The explanation created an universal
sentiment of Christian sympathy. Experienced
believers instructed and encouraged
her, and the Eternal Spirit made their “labor
of love,” completely effectual. From this
time Susan Lynch, became, through grace,
one of the meekest Christians, that ever followed
the lowly Jesus.

She was, however, now an object of contempt
and dislike, among her old associates, G4v 68
who termed her “a hypocrite and fool.”
Persecution and insult was now her daily
portion. But she remembered her own former
conduct, and was patient. At length,
her case came to the knowledge of Emma.
She sent for Susan and heard the dealings of
the Lord with her, from her own mouth.
The simple but affecting statement, could not
but interest her, and she obtained De Lisau’s
permission to exchange Susan’s present
situation, for one about the person of her
mother. This new regulation was beneficial
to both of them, in a religious point of view.
They read and prayed together, daily, but,
while Christian affection united their hearts
in gospel bonds, Susan did not forget the
outward difference of their respective stations,
and was, in accordance with the apostolic
direction, submissive and humble to her
mistress, as serving her in the Lord.

Chapter VI.

Complete Emancipation.

The quiet retirement, so congenial to the
taste, and peculiar situation of Emma, which
at present, she enjoyed, drew to its close very
unexpectedly.

Her mother, after partially recovering her
consciousness, and raising the hopes of her
family, as to a more perfect restoration, expired
on her birth-day, from a second attack
of apoplexy. Perhaps Emma, though she
did not express her feelings to those around
her, experienced a keener pang, at this
mournful event, than any of the family, De
Lissau excepted. For the night before her
departure, Anna, during a lucid interval, had
most unexpectedly, owned and blessed her,
in terms the most pathetic and affecting!
Alas, Emma only recovered her mother, to
behold the grave close over her, ere she had
time to rejoice in an event, her most sanguine
anticipations, had never ventured to hope as
probable!

With the funeral preparations, Emma had
not anything to do. The ladies, who performed
the last offices for the departed,
would have considered her presence among
them an insult, and she remained in the
chamber, (so long her abode) accompanied
only by Susan, to whom she could unreservedly
express some of the anguish that oppressed
her.

While Emma thus mourned in secret, the
Jewish females completed their melancholy
duties, and the husband and children of the
departed were summoned to rend their garments
over her remains, in the presence of
the household, and large retinue that attended
in honor of the deceased. Wertheim alone
was absent; descended from the lineage of
the priests, he could not remain in the same
house with a corpse, or attend a funeral.
This peculiar inhibition is founded on the
command contained in Leviticus, xxi. 1, 2,
3, 4.

Before the funeral procession moved from
the house, De Lissau, dismissing all but his
children from the apartment, approached
the shell where the beloved wife of his bosom
was deposited. He stood silent a few minutes,
contemplating the touching spectacle,
while his children wept, with the passionate
susceptibility of young hearts, and even Leopold,
the Deist, displayed on this occasion,
the most poignant sorrow. At length, De
Lissau turned to them, and fondly embracing
and blessing each in turn, thus addressed
them:—

“My beloved children, I would not check
this just tribute to your departed mother, but
remember ‘It is the Lord.’ ‘The Lord
gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed
be the name of the Lord.’ From this time,
I devote myself to my children. Anna De
Lissau (peace to her memory!) was the wife
of my choice. I will never have another.”

He then placed on his finger, the wedding
ring he had previously drawn from the hand
of his lamented wife, and declared it should
ever be worn by him, as a memorial of the
promise, he had that day so solemnly pledged
to his children. He then joined his waiting
friends, to attend with them, the last affecting
duty.

On the return of De Lissau, he drew Emma
aside, to enquire whether she felt any
repugnance to observe the customary rites,
in honor of her departed mother. She replied,
unhesitatingly, in the negative.

“Ever command me, dearest, and best of
fathers,” said she, eagerly, “and rely on my
implicit obedience, in all that tends not to
compromise my superior duties. Filial reverence,
is among the precepts of the gospel” H1r 73
so that it be “in the Lord,” and obedience to
you, oh my father, is a sweet privilege.

De Lissau was gratified at the reply of his
daughter, and addressed words of the tenderest
consolation to her, as he led her to the
chamber of mourning, where the rest of his
children were already seated on their low
hassocks. Sophia had kindled the memorial
lamp, and veiled the mirrors, and the first
meal, consisting simply of eggs and salt, was
placed before them; more, however, as a
matter of form, than otherwise. The eggs
being a symbol of eternity, and salt always
used on all religious occasions, in accordance,
with the command in Leviticus ii. 13.

When the seven days of sitting on the
ground were over, the daughters of De Lissau
had no farther share in the observances
that remained. The sons of the departed,
attended the synagogue every morning to recite
the prayer, termed Orphan Kaudish,
in memory of their late mother. This observance
is wholly traditional. The written
word, in its purity, is not the guide of Jews,
in their ceremonial rites; they are strictly
governed by the traditional expositions of Vol. II. H H1v 74
the Fathers, which they mistakenly term,
“Oral law,” and greatly prefer to the written
one. The time, however, is approaching
when the Preserved of Israel, the “remnant
according to the election of grace,”
shall be enlightened by the Holy Spirit, to
discern things that differ, and beholding and
embracing Him they have pierced, be saved
in him, with an everlasting salvation! The
zeal of the Lord of Hosts shall accomplish
this, when He comes, to destroy all that is
opposed to Him, by the brightness of His
presence. Christian reader! how inexpressibly
delightful, is the anticipation of the
glorious advent of our adorable Redeemer!

Sophia returned to her husband’s house,
after the first month of mourning, and De
Lissau requested Emma attend him, in the
small apartment, exclusively his own, early
in the ensuing morning, that he might impart
to her, his wishes as to her future situation.

Emma could not but be affected, by the
anticipations this request naturally suggested,
but she felt assured, neither persecution, nor
unkindness would prevail in the communications
she expected from the liberal minded H2r 75
De Lissau, and, committing herself to God,
she awaited the interview, with expectations
among which hope was predominant.

On first entering her father’s presence,
next morning, at the time appointed, Emma
felt considerable emotion. It was the spot
where they had first met, after she had been
torn from her early home, and it was there
also, she had avowed herself to be a christian.

De Lissau perceived, and appeared to understand,
and respect her feelings, for he
was himself agitated, and leading her to a
seat, resumed his own without speaking.
This expressive silence lasted some minutes,
during which Emma had sufficiently recovered
to attend to her father’s address, “Dearest of
all my children,” said this indulgent Parent,
“the period has at length arrived, when I
can act by you, according to the dictates of
my heart and conscience. You have suffered
much, my Emma. Sorrow has prematurely
blighted the opening blossoms of your youthful
prospects. Those days of tears, and
painful inflictions are over, and dutiful affection
will consign them to oblivion. Henceforth
you are free to worship God, according H2 H2v 76
as you think best. And in placing you at
the head of my family, I impose no conditions.
You will be present, or absent, during
our religious observances, at your own choice.
Leah Moss will continue to preside
over the household, in conjunction with our good
and amiable Rabbi; and you my daughter,
will experience from them, the respect which
is your due; while I, in the contemplation
of the happiness, and unity of my family,
shall derive all the consolation I expect to
receive, on this side of eternity.”

Emma’s feelings of gratitude at this address
were too great for expression; kneeling at
the feet of her father, tears were her only
reply. De Lissau, himself, being much
affected needed no other.

After Emma was somewhat composed, he
presented to her a very elegant large bible.
It contained the old and new testament.

“You have already received two copies of
this holy volume, from Mrs. Russel, and my
esteemed Sydney,” observed De Lissau,
“but I am certain, this gift from your affectionate
father, is not unwelcome.”

Emma made a suitable reply to her father, H3r 77
and was immediately presented to the household,
as their future mistress, an apartment in
addition to her chamber, fitted up for her exclusive
use, when she chose to retire from
the family, and her favorite Susan, appointed
to attend Catherine and Emma, as their
personal servant.

These changes overpowered and filled the
mind of Emma, with astonishment at the
goodness of the Lord, whom she was now at
full liberty to worship, in spirit and truth, in
the way of his own appointment. She sought
Catherine, whose apartments were next her
own, and in the fulness of her heart, imparted
the kindness of De Lissau to her. She was
not without a latent hope, that Catherine
would be affected by her statement. Alas!
Catherine had fallen fearfully, and, as after
events fully proved, fallen to rise no more!

On the first christian sabbath, after the
above conversation with De Lissau, Emma
attended divine worship in the parish church.
Susan accompanied her, and they occupied a
remote seat in the gallery. Oh what emotions
agitated the heart of Emma! all around
her, was hallowed in her excited imagination.

To her, at that time, the place appeared to
be, note merely the house of God, but the very
gate of heaven! novice, as she then was, she
mistook the raised feelings of nature—the
effect of a sudden transition, from Jewish
constraint to an outward form of Christian
liberty, for spiritual enjoyment. She became
a regular attendant at church, and though
she still retained her usual objection to a
“form of prayer,” felt that she could conscientiously
join in that she now heard used in
the church.

These days of comparative liberty, were
not so conducive to the spiritual advantage
of Emma as she had confidently anticipated.

The addresses she heard from the pulpit,
were dry and uninstructive, and when her
excited feelings were more calm, she felt a
void, which the fervor and sincerity of her
devotions when at church, failed to fill up.
This feeling affected her the more, as she
could not define its real source, and imagined
the fault to rest with herself. However, the
Lord did not forsake the work of his hands,
and reading the word in her retirement,
with prayer and meditation, were still her
chief means of spiritual instruction.

Rabbi Werthem viewed these things with
an aching heart, and now and then, would
remonstrate with Emma. She bore his interference,
from respect to its motive, and
always gave him a patient hearing, though
sometimes a quick reply. De Lissau was
frequently an auditor, of their little debates,
and always appeared to listen to them with
interest, but if ever either party offered to
refer to him, he invariably declined giving an
opinion on either side.

Emma had enjoyed her present liberty, but
a short space of time, when she was, unexpectedly
called on to attend the sick-bed of
Sophia. A fractured limb, confined her there
some months, during which, Emma never
quitted her, day or night. Leoni’s brutal
treatment, had occasioned the sufferings of
his amiable wife, but she bore it, with exemplary
patience, and was tenderly anxious to
conceal from her father, the unworthiness of
his son-in-law. Neither was she more explicit
to her sister, but Emma was in full
possession of the truth, though she concealed
her knowledge, that she might not agitate
the interesting sufferer. De Lissau and H4v 80
Werhtheim spent most of their evenings in
the chamber of the invalid, whose meek disposition
and sweetness of temper, was favorable
to her, as a means, under the divine
blessing, of expediting her recovery, and at
the end of four months, Emma left her, not
without a faint hope, that the worthless Leoni,
warned by the past, would in future
behave towards his unoffending wife with common
humanity. She returned home, however,
to her father’s house, with an uneasy
mind. An indefinable anticipation of evil,
hung on her spirits, and she endeavoured in
vain to shake it off. There were moments,
nevertheless, when she was enabled to plead
the sorrows of her heart, before the Lord,
and at such times, was favored to taste that
peace, “which passes all understanding.”

Chapter VII.

The Interesting Guest.

On Emma’s return, she was introduced to
a friend and countryman of De Lissau’s, who H5v 82
was come, at his particular invitation, to
spend a short time beneath his hospitable
roof, ere he returned to his native Poland.
Rabbi Selig was a man of learning, deeply
versed in Cabalistic mysteries, and devoted
to the Jewish faith. But he was polished,
affable, and as liberal minded as a devout
Jew, could be, whose creed is an exclusive
one. His venerable appearance, for he had
numbered seventy-four years, gave weight to
all he said, and the silver locks that shaded
his brow, recalled to Emma’s mind Eleazar
De Lissau, of whom Rabbi Selig, who had
known and corresponded with him, spoke
with respectful affection.

Emma made a favourable impression on
her father’s guest, who instead of viewing
her with that reprobation, she had been accustomed
to experience, from the friends of
her late mother, felt a peculiar interest in
her, which he assured Wertheim he could
neither explain nor resist, and with which
was mingled a commiseration the most tender.
His manner of addressing her was that of an
affectionate father, and he delighted to induce
her to impart freely to him her religious H6r 83
views. At such times, he would, (unlike
Wertheim) listen to her, with deep attention,
and in his answers, though he conscientiously
maintained the opinions he believed
to be true and infallible, he never forgot
the courtesy due to her sex, and station.
Nor was this all. He frequently allowed
weight, to many of her observations, and,
though consistent in his opposition to gospel
truth, was very far from condemning her
opinions, indiscriminately, and in the sweeping
manner Wertheim was accustomed to do.
Emma, therefore, enjoyed his society and
felt a sentiment of regret as the time of his
departure drew near. The evening immediately
preceding it, was devoted to conversation
highly interesting. Rabbi Selig, detailed
many hardships endured by the Jews,
on the continent, particularly in Roman Catholic
districts. In some places, Jews were
not allowed to reside. In others, they might
only trade, during the day, but dare not sleep
within the gates: subjected to a degrading
tax, and heavy imposts; despised, rejected, and
oppressed, even in parts where the light of
the reformation had spread its beneficial H6v 84
influence, though the Jew was excluded from
receiving the practical effect, of that divine
principle, inculcated by Paul, in so emphatic
a manner. 1 Corinthians, xiii.

“No wonder then” added Rabbi Selig,
“that in addition to the already invincible
barrier, which Judaism opposes to Christianity,
oppression and injustice, have raised
another formidable fence.—Nazarenes adopt
our scriptures,—trace the pedigree of their
God to the House of David,—use the divine
songs of the inspired Prince, in their worship,
—and declare, that their religion is
founded on our’s,—nay, is the very fulfilment
of all the types of our august worship, yet
deride, hate, and oppress us! What can the
most liberal minded among us think of a
religion producing such fruits?”

Emma, to whom the Rabbi had more particularly
addressed the latter part of his discourse,
was about to reply, but was prevented
by the eagerness of Wertheim, to add his
approving testimony to that of Rabbi Selig,
in confirmation of the oppressed state of the
Jews, of that da[Gap in transcription—1-2 lettersflawed-reproduction] in every country but England,
which he asserted, owed its national I1r 85
prosperity, to its generous toleration, of that
persecuted people. He then related an injury,
he had received from a religious community,
near whom he then resided, and his
auditors, including Emma, heard the tale
with sympathy for the narrator, and indignation
against those who had oppressed him,
under the cloak of zeal for the cause of
Christ.

“My father, (may his soul rest in peace!)
died in the city of Berlin,” said Wertheim
“myself and a twin brother, and sister,
then very young, constituted the whole
family of my surviving parent. Deeply affected
by the loss of her husband, she quitted
Prussia, and returned to Posen, of which she
was a native. Her father had been presiding
Rabbi there, and her only brother then filled
his father’s high situation, and was in great
repute among his nation. Under his tuition,
I acquired the little knowledge I possess,
and his daughter, in process of time, became
my wife. My mother and the beloved twins
continued to reside with us. The Most High
had withheld from us, the blessing of children,
and my wife considered Josiah, and Vol. II. I I1v 86
Ella, as her own. Every day witnessed the
increase of her attachment, to the promising
children, and never was home more happy
than mine. The demise of my honored father-
in-law, (peace to his holy memory!) was the
only grief we had experienced, and I felt an
inward sensation of indefinable dread, as I
contemplated the perfect felicity we enjoyed;
for I well knew such was not the common
lot of mortality. Alas! I had but too soon,
a practical proof of the transient nature of all
earthly happiness. But the lesson was a terrible
one!—The very recapitulation of it unnerves
me.”—Wertheim here paused a few
minutes, to recover himself, then proceeded,
though in accents faltering from agitation,—
“near our residence on the skirts of a wood,
was a Roman Catholic convent. Josiah and
Ella, used to wander together near its precincts.
They were a lovely pair, artless,
happy and engaging, and had just attained
their fourteenth year. The freshness of youth
and health, gave a delicate glow to their
sweet features, and their dispositions were
all I could wish. The wily Nazarenes
noticed my blooming treasures, won upon
them by little attentions which gave us I2r 87
no uneasiness, and finally succeeded, in
inveigling them away. The nature of their
destiny, from that time, is unknown to me.
In the distraction of the moment, I applied
to the magistracy, and was not only heard
with compassion, but received an immediate
order for their restoration. Alas! it was too
late. The false fathers had baptized my
beloved babes, (for such they were in understanding,)
and as they were now received into
the bosom of the church, their Jewish relatives
had no longer any claim on them! I
carried my wrongs to the foot of the throne,
but could find no redress where ecclesiastical
power predominated, and returned to my sad
home, with an heart, Oh how desolate! But
my cup was not yet full. The beloved wife
of my bosom, my Miriam, drooped from the
moment of our affecting deprivation, and
very soon I saw this victim of Nazarene
cruelty, and oppression, deposited by the side
of her departed father. I will only add that
my honored mother, sunk under the accumulated
trial, and declared, with her dying
breath, that the abduction of her children,
and the loss of Miriam, had brought her grey I2 I2v 88
hairs, in sorrow to the grave. I spared
neither money, entreaties, nor even stratagems,
to learn the destination of Josiah, and
Ella, but in vain. I travelled to dissipate
the anguish in my heart, and have gratefully
to add, that in the house of my respected,
and esteemed friend and patron, I have experienced
all the alleviation and kindness, I
could expect or desire.”

Rabbi Selig, in order to change the conversation,
and withdraw the mind of Wertheim,
from the pathetic statement, of his
domestic calamities, again conversed with
Emma, on topics connected with Christianity.
Among other observations, on the interesting
subjects, he objected to the idea of
calling the crucified Nazarene, by the august
name of the Messiah, and argued the
point at great length.

Emma heard him, quietly, she knew that
an answer might easily be given to the learned
Rabbi, deduced from his own belief.

“Well Emma,” said Werhteim, “can you
possibly answer the objection of the worthy
Rabbi?”

“More easily than you appear to suppose,”
replied Emma

“Oblige me then with your views on the
subject, my young friend,” said Rabbi Selig,
in a very friendly manner.

“Permit me then to observe, dear Rabbi,”
answered Emma, “that in your observations
on Jesus, you appear to forget your own belief
respecting the Messiah. You anticipate
a suffering, and a reigning Messiah, but, by
a perversion of reason (I am unable to comprehend)
you divide the humiliation, and
glory-state of your Messiah, not into two distinct
periods of time, for that I could understand
and agree to, but you actually, to meet
a difficulty of your own creating, (for in
reality there is none) hold the doctrine of two
Messiahs! The first, of the tribe of Joseph,
you aver will be cut off for his people in
order to make way, for the reigning Messiah,
of the tribe of Judah, who shall finally redeem
Israel. Ah Rabbi! How dense a veil
has the adversary of souls, been permitted to
cast on the hearts of my brethren! Omnipotence
alone, can pierce its folds, and illuminate
the gross darkness it occasions, or you
would admire the great antitype of Aaron
the High Priest, by divine appointment. I3 I3v 90
Remember the holy temple-service of the
day of atonement. When the high priest
carried the propitiatory blood, within the
veil,—How was he clad? not in the golden
garments of triumph, my brethren. No! he
was clothed in the garb of humiliation, a
simple linen garment and mitre. Nor did
he resume his splendid robes, sparkling breastplate,
and golden tiara, until the atonement
had been accepted. And such is the crucified
Jesus, whom ye reject because ye know
him not! He, in his incarnate state, trod the
valley of humiliation, and the Jews, who had
corrupted the simplicity of divine truth, recognised
him not! He has entered within the
veil with His own blood, at once combining
in His own glorious person, the priest, the
victim, and the altar. Thus fulfilling and
abolishing the dispensation, that but shadowed
him forth, and He will appear again, in ineffable
glory, to restore the fallen tabernacle
of David, and be glorified in his saints, the
Lord in his mercy grant, the dear friends
present, may be among the happy number!”

Thus far, an energy unusual to Emma, but
which she could not resist, had carried her. I4r 91
Her father and his friends, were evidently
surprised, but no reply was made by any one
of them. Rabbi Selig appeared absorbed in
meditation, Wertheim became gloomy and
abstracted, and De Lissau was more than
usually thoughtful. Early next morning
Rabbi Selig departed, after taking an affectionate
leave of the assembled household,
and bestowing, unsolicited, on Emma a solemn
and paternal blessing to the great surprise
of all present.

Chapter VIII.

Ah Sophia,—Vale!

A few days after the departure of Rabbi
Selig, Asaph absconded from his family, in
order to unite himself with a woman, every
way unworthy of a relationship to his excellent
father, who felt keenly the undutiful
conduct of his son, and his tutor shared in
the painful feeling. The latter did not remain I5r 93
with De Lissau long after this event.
He quitted the family, however, bearing with
him, the regret and esteem of every individual
in it, and his loss was long and severely
felt by them. Ere his departure, he entered
the apartment of Emma, to bid her farewell,
which he did with evident emotion.

“I cannot,” said he, in a dejected tone,
“bestow on you, much as I value you, dearest
Emma, an unqualified benediction, as did
Rabbi Selig, but as the Holy one loves the
stranger, in bestowing on him temporal blessings,
I feel justified in beseeching for you,
all the good that you can receive, in your
present state of alienation from the holy
people.”

Emma was affected. She drew from her
finger an emerald ring, encircled with valuable
pearls, and presented it to the Rabbi.

“Accept this pledge of my friendship,
dear Wertheim,” said she, affectionately,
“it is a symbolic one I own. The emerald
in its centre, is expressive of hope. I will
entertain hope that the veil of unbelief, may
yet be withdrawn from your heart. The cluster
of pearls that surround it, may serve to I5v 94
remind you of the precious promises, recorded
in the word of life, respecting Him, who is,
(and oh that you may be enabled to believe
it!) the pearl of inestimable price.”

Wertheim received the gift of Emma, with
indescribable emotion. He tried, however,
to smile at her fanciful description of it, but
it was an useless effort. He could not utter
the farewell, he came purposely to say, but
pressing his hand on his heart, with a look
that spoke volumes, quitted her precipitately.

The increasing cruelty of Leoni to his exemplary
wife, now occupied the mind of Emma,
and greatly affected her. Sophia herself,
much as she wished it, could no longer either
conceal or palliate the barbarous conduct of
her husband, when questioned by her beloved
sister, though from the motives of delicacy, she
did not reveal the whole of it. Emma lost no
time, in acquainting De Lissau, with the
touching particulars of Sophia’s case. The
intelligence was agony. But the decisive
steps he took in consequence, after witnessing
the utter worthlessness of Leoni, brought
the affair to a speedy termination, and a very
few hours after Emma’s conference with her I6r 95
father, Sophia was freed from the tyranny of
Leoni, and an inmate in the house of her
father.

The state of Sophia’s health, (added to her
present interesting situation) required change
of air and scene, and at the suggestion of
her medical attendants Sophia was conveyed
to the Hot Wells near Bristol. Emma had
the charge of her sister, while Leah continued
to superintend the family as usual. De Lissau
wished Catherine to accompany the sisters,
but she preferred remaining in town.
She had attained her majority, and received
her fortune, but continued at her own
request, to reside with De Lissau. Her motive
was, to remain near Leopold, to whom
she was at present, but too warmly attached.
He had become a complete libertine, but he
continued his insidious attentions, to the infatuated
Catherine, and persevered with
guileful cruelty, in furnishing her with books,
but too well calculated to complete the overthrow,
of any lingering feeling, inimical to
his base designs.

The sisters remained some months at Clifton,
where they had fixed their abode, to be I6v 96
close to the salubrious spring. Sophia experienced
all the fluctuations incident to that
flattering malady, consumption: her patient
sweetness created a deep interest for her, in
all who approached her. Emma’s heart had
often before been wrung with anguish, but
her feelings, as she contemplated the beautiful
form, daily decaying, and, as it were,
melting away, before her eyes, became harrowed
up, with exquisite agony! Oh it was
indeed a time of trial, such as in her bitterest
moments, she had never yet experienced!
Omnipotence alone could preserve her mind;
and bear it up under the dispensation. Sophia
was dearer, far dearer to her, than her
own existence, but it was not the mere deprivation
of her, that thus affected Emma,
though that prospect was sufficiently distressing.
No! it was the fearful anticipation of
the departure of her immortal spirit, to stand
before the awful tribunal of divine justice,
without an interest in the atoning blood of
Jesus!

Happily for Emma, whose aching heart
needed some powerful counteracting influence,
to draw her in some measure from K1r 97
brooding over anguish so hopeless, she became
acquainted with a young female, who
occupied apartments in the same house, and
came there accompanied by her nurse, to use
the spring, after her recovery from a fever.
She was a young Jewess, most respectably
connected, and her parents were known to
the De Lissau family, though not intimately
so. Hannah Myers was about eighteen,
plain in her person, and reserved in her
manners, which to strangers were repulsive,
and even disagreeable, but beneath this unattractive
exterior, beat one of the kindest
and tenderest hearts, that ever animated a
female bosom. She also possessed a very
superior mind, but its brilliant powers were
only discernible to the very few whom she
loved. Her parents had carefully cultivated
her talents, but never could prevail on her,
either to mix in company, or display her accomplishments,
before any but themselves.
As they had several other children, all females,
and Hannah was the youngest, she
was permitted to remain in the seclusion, she
loved, and was, if thought of at all, by her
gay sisters, only an object of wonder and ridiculeVol. II. K K1v 98
to them; nor would any of them quit
home, to mope, as they termed it, with the
invalid at Clifton. The duties of a large
family prevented her mother from attending
her, and was the cause of Hannah being so
slightly accompanied.

Emma felt peculiarly interested for this
young girl, very soon after they became acquainted;
for Hannah, who took an unaccountable
fancy to Emma, at their first interview,
laid aside her characteristic reserve,
and appeared to her such as she really was.
Insensibly they became intimate, and in a
moment of confidential intercourse, Emma
had the happiest of learning, that Hannah
was a secret believer in Jesus! Reading the
new testament, added to the instruction of a
Christian servant, had been the means appointed,
to bring this lamb, to the fold of the
good shepherd. She was evidently taught
by the Spirit of the living God, and Emma
felt an union of soul, towards her, that she
had never experienced for Catherine in her
tenderest friendship for her.

Hannah, though a sincere convert, was a
most timid one. She had neither the fearless K2r 99
spirit, in matters of religion, nor the decided
power of avowing her opinion, that had been
so graciously vouchsafed to Emma. She was
in agonies of terror, at the bare idea, of
openly opposing the prejudices of her parents
and nation; and therefore, most carefully,
concealed that faith, to which she was, nevertheless,
most sincerely attached.

Emma made great allowances for her
friend, because of her sincerity, and felt an
inward persuasion, that if it were the divine
will, that she should be brought out from her
kindred and nation, to avow openly “the
truth as it is in Jesus,” she would receive
strength, to give up all earthly possessions,
whether friends, wealth, or even her good
name among the Jews, to evince her affiance
on Him, who had given Himself for her.

Hannah and Emma had many interesting
conversations, on high and holy topics, and
every day drew the uniting cord, of gospel
love, more firmly around their young hearts.
They settled on a correspondence, when
separated, and Emma secretly resolved to
use all the weapons supplied by the spiritual
armory, to cut down the timid fears that K2 K2v 100
weighed, so powerfully, in the mind of her
friend, leaving it with the Lord to prosper
her undertaking.

The interesting crisis of Sophia’s situation,
now approached, and at her express desire,
De Lissau came to convey her home, as she
wished her confinement to take place there.
Hannah wept much, as she received the
parting embrace of her beloved Emma, but
was a little consoled by her promise to write
frequently.

The invalid bore her journey with tolerable
composure, and greatly rejoiced, when she
was, once more, beneath her father’s roof.
Susan Lynch, who had been absent, on a
visit to her aged parents, during Emma’s
sojourn at Clifton, was in readiness to receive
them, and was placed, immediately, with Sophia,
who greatly commended her tender attention
to her, and spoke of it one day, to
Emma, as a matter of wonder, contrasted
with what she had once been.

“There is a strange altercation in Susan,”
said Sophia, “You know my dear sister, she
was, though a good servant, a very disagreeable
one. Our late dear mother always observed K3r 101
it, but you cannot imagine the change,
how mild and gentle the girl has become.”
“Susan has become a sincere Christian”
eagerly replied Emma, “and such is ever
the holy and sanctifying effect, of the religion
of Christ.”

“Dearest Emma,” answered Sophia, tenderly,
“How powerfully has that religion affected
you! the most simple occurrences, if
of a beneficial tendency, are ever attributed
by you to that cause.”

“And what but a divine power,” said Emma,
“could have changed this tiger, into a
meek dove?”

“Let us change the subject,” replied Sophia,
“it is the only one on which we can
differ.”

Emma sighed deeply, but said no more.

And now an overwhelming time of sorrow,
swiftly approached. After protracted agonies,
Sophia gave birth to a still-born babe,
and only surviving the event about a day,
expired, in the presence of De Lissau, and in
the arms of her sister!

To dwell on this scene, or the funeral rites,
is impossible; —many other persons consider the K3 K3v 102
narrative of Sophia, an ingenious fiction.
The writer of these pages, feels, even at this
moment, that it is an affecting reality. Years
have passed by, since Sophia was consigned
to an early grave, but the wound, inflicted
by her loss, on the heart of her sister, is not
yet fully healed. Severe trials have, in succession,
passed over the head of Emma, since
the lamented catastrophe, but, with the exception
of one event, no trial has had the bitterness
of that, and she can pursue the subject
no longer.

Chapter IX.

Anecdotes connected with the Embassy
of Lord Whitworth, to France, during
the Consulate of Napoleon Buonaparte.

The state of Emma’s mind, after the demise
of her sister, greatly alarmed her anxious and
indulgent father. Medical advice was immediately
resorted to. But, what avails human
skill, when the malady is a mental one?
Change of air and scene, were, however, suggested
as desirable in Emma’s case, and the
suggestion was adopted by De Lissau. The
short peace of Amiens, had just been signed,
and he determined to proceed, in the first instance,
to Paris, where he had several
friends. Leah Moss was left in charge of
domestic affairs, and Leopold and Catherine, K4v 104
were of the party. The situation of Emma,
and the retirement of De Lissau adopted in order
to give all his attention to his daughter,
prevented him from mixing much in public,
during the early part of their residence at
Paris, and when they did emerge, from their
secluded residence, in the fauxbourg St. Antoine,
to the more polite end of the town,
they had of course no means of knowing any
peculiar anecdotes connected with the singular
man, then at the head of the nation. But
a Lady connected with the court, and in the
suite of the English Ambassador, having addressed
to the author of Emma De Lissau
the following interesting and authentic document,
which details particulars, that could
only be known to herself, and her immediate
circle, it is here inserted by permission of the
Lady alluded to.

Chapter X.

A Visit to Paris.

De Lissau passed over to France, from
Southampton, where he engaged a packet to
Havre De Grace, as he wished to visit some
friends residing there, and at Rouen, on his N6r 143
way to Paris. He took up his residence at
an Hotel, during his short stay at Havre.
Thomas Paine was a resident in the same
house, he was about to take his departure for
America. Leopold, in the first instance,
sought the company of this celebrated, or
rather, notorious infidel, eagerly, but the
slovenly and disgusting habits of Paine, were
extremely repulsive, to the refined and elegant
Leopold, who left much surprise at the
frivolous conversation, and puerile pursuits of
a man, whom he had, in idea, invested with
every attribute, personal and mental, that
could ennoble human nature! Catherine was
even more disappointed than Leopold, and
felt for the philosopher, a dislike and contempt,
which she did not chuse to conceal.

Emma was pleased to observe the effect
produced by Paine, on his disciples, and secretly
hoped it would weaken the baneful influence
of his pernicious writings, on their
minds, but the weeds of scepticism, had taken
too deep root there, to be displaced by
external impressions, however powerful.

The party proceeded, by water, from Havre
to Rouen. De Lissau remained there some N6v 144
days, during which, his young companions,
viewed the celebrated bridge of boats &c. &c.
and the Coté de St. Paul, where, a cruel act,
of mingled policy and bigotry, immolated the
maid of Orleans. From the capital of Normandy,
De Lissau passed on to Paris, by a
circuitous route, sometimes travelling by
land, at other, following the windings of the
Seine, which, in some parts, was very beautiful.
On their first arrival in the then gay
capital of France, De Lissau chose a secluded
situation, as before stated. It was, however,
an interesting one, to such minds as
loved to trace times long past; to Emma its
privacy was a powerful recommendation.
De Lissau’s apartments, consisted of the left
wing of the Hotel De Sully, situated in the
Rue St. Antoine, in the fauxbourg of the
same name. It had once been the residence
of that celebrated minister of Henry the IV.
of France, who is designated in history, by
the striking and peculiar title, of “the virtuous
Sully.” Adjoining to, and communicating
with the Hotel De Sully, were the ruins
of Henri Quatre’s palace, and once magnificient
gardens. The apartment occupied O1r 145
by Emma, (which had a communication with
the palace gardens, exclusive of its common
entrance) was a noble one. Its walls and
ceiling were covered with large paintings,
illustrative of the siege of Troy, and were in
a state of high preservation. Tradition asserted
it to have been the Duke’s council
chamber, and that the Royal Henry’s secret
councils were held there, to give facility to
which, the above named communication had
been formed. Next this apartment, was a
small cabinet, in which was preserved the
antique iron bedstead of De Sully, its hangings
were tapestry, of gold and silk materials.
Here Emma reposed. And, during the day,
while Leopold and Catherine were viewing
the numerous curiosities, of which the French
Army had despoiled the neighbouring states,
and deposited them at Paris, or were wandering
in the Thulleries gardens, Emma would carry
her bible to the adjoining ruins, and pass her
time in reading its sacred pages, and imploring
og her Heavenly Father strength to bear,
and patience to submit to, the late affecting
dispensation, nor was this humble application
made in vain, to Him who does not willingly Vol. II. O O1v 146
afflict the children of men; and De Lissau
beheld with grateful joy, that his beloved
daughter again appeared composed and tranquil.
He then quitted the Hotel De Sully,
and engaged apartments in Rue Vivienne,
where he remained during his stay at Paris.

A coolness now subsisted between Catherine
and Leopold, which soon increased to a
serious altercation between them. De Lissau
interposed, and Emma aided his endeavours
to restore peace, but in vain, and after
much taunting language, and very improper
behaviour on both sides, Leopold left Catherine,
declaring he would never enter his father’s
apartments, while she was an inmate
of them.

Catherine felt no regret at Leopold’s abrupt
departure, she had ceased to entertain
towards him, any sentiments but those of
dislike. A young American, about to return
to his native country, had superseded Leopold,
in her affections, and she quitted De
Lissau, about a month after her quarrel with
his son, with the avowed intention of accompanying
her new admirer, though not in the
sacred character of a wife! De Lissau, O2r 147
greatly pained at the flagrant impropriety of
this unhappy girl’s conduct, (who he feared,
had been first corrupted by the insidious lessons
of Leopold,) warmly and tenderly remonstrated
with her. She heard him with
respectful attention, and thanked him, for
the purity and generosity of his motives, but
persisted in her previous resolution, to accept
the protection of Arthur Willis. Nor could
De Lissau prevent her disposing of her person
and property at her own pleasure. She
took leave of him, however, with sincere expressions
of gratitude, for his care of her,
since the death of her mother, and then
sought Emma to bid her farewell. She could
not express her adieux without an emotion in
which Emma shared, but when Catherine
would have presented to her, a diamond
broach, as a parting token of friendship, she
drew back, and at once declined accepting it.

“No Catherine,” said she mournfully,
“you have long withdrawn your affection from
me, (would that it had been from me only!)
Your heart, while I supposed it to be knit to
mine, in christian love, was in my eyes, a
precious gem. How I prized it you know. O2 O2v 148
Those happy days have passed away, as a
pleasant dream. How many tears have I
shed for you Catherine! Even at this moment,
my heart yearns over you with inexpressible
sorrow. Oh that it was yet given
you, to repent and be healed! Diamonds are
perishable baubles, but a contrite heart, is a
jewel of price, in the estimation of the
Almighty.”

Emma’s address had a powerful, though
momentary, effect on Catherine, who was
greatly affected, and yielding to its influence,
fell on the neck of Emma in an agony of
tears, but the excitement soon subsided, and
she hastened away, endeavouring to smile,
and terming Emma an enchantress, whose
magic influence would surely weave a spell
about her, were she to remain longer in her
presence. A few lines announced her embarkation,
in the following week, and she
added her intention of writing on her arrival
in America. Alas! she was not suffered to
reach its shores. Exactly two months from
the date of her letter, De Lissau received the
sad intelligence that the vessel she sailed in,
was lost, and every one on board perished!

As the object of De Lissau was to amuse
and improve the mind of Emma, he did not
remain entirely in Paris, but accompanied her
in a tour, through France and some parts of
Italy, and Leopold was of the party. On
their return to Paris, letters awaited De Lissau,
which rendered his immediate return to
England necessary, and he confided his daughter
to Leopold, that they might return more
leisurely, as soon as he should have adjusted
the business, that so urgently required his
presence.

At her brother’s request, who seemed desirous
of obliging his father, by his attention
to Emma, she visited with him, the different
Museums, and viewed the works of art, with
which Paris then abounded; but her heart
was not interested by what she saw, and at
length, in compliance with her repeated solicitation
he allowed her to enjoy, unmolested,
the quiet retirement of her apartment, except
when he walked with her, on the Boulevards,
for the benefit of her health.

After De Lissau’s departure, Leopold
wholly ceased to mix with his nation, which
he had done, hitherto, at the request of his O3 150 O3v
father. Emma, never had appeared among
them, conscious that she must be, an object
of dislike, although politeness might veil the
fact. The retirement she loved was, therefore,
unbroken, and she enjoyed it in peace,
though in the midst of gaiety, and residing in
Paris.

Emma had written regularly to Hannah,
and about this time, received a letter from her
that greatly interested her feelings, for one,
to whom she felt a growing attachment.
Hannah was in a very trying situation at this
period. Her parents were very urgent with
her, to accept the proposal of a young Jew
of irreproachable character, who sought her
hand in marriage. She had rejected it from
the first, but her parents would not listen to
her objection, and she endured a daily round
of persecution, and reproach, from every individual
of her family. Added to which, she
secretly loved the youth, between whom and
herself, religion placed an insurmountable
barrier, for she was enabled to hold fast her
faith, though she had not the courage to avow it
openly. Her letter, after detailing the above
particulars, thus concluded. “I have faithfully O4r 151
described to you, my present circumstances,
my beloved, and I may say, only
friend. Yet I dare not ask your advice. I
cannot, cannot, avow myself a convert to
Christianity. My father now rages. My
mother daily reproves me with severity. My
sisters taint and insult me—and all this
merely because I steadily refuse David Solomon,
with whom I should rejoice to unite my
destiny, were our faith the same. How then,
could I bear their united indignation, were I
to confess the truth? I know what you
would reply, Emma. Your last letter is now
before me. I own the cogency of your arguments,
I weep over, and lament my own sinful
timidity and distrust, but I cannot proceed
onward. Be assured, however, I will never
desert the faith, I daily cherish more earnestly,
though I cowardly conceal my adherence
to it. I assert my perseverance boldly, because
it is written, that none shall pluck his
sheep, out of his hand, and I believe it. But
Emma, it is not in my power to open my
heart, except to you, and the dear servant,
who was an instrument of good to me. She
freely blames me, and terms my diffidence, O4v 152
‘unbelief’. ‘Own your Lord boldly,’ said
she, but yesterday. ‘And leave the consequences
with Him.’—I feel she is right, but
I shrink back in terror at the bare idea.
You Emma, you will echo her advice. Write
to me, however, desert me not, though I am
unworthy of your esteem. Above all pray
for me. Alas! I am in a great strait. I
have not indeed denied the Lord of life, but
I have only sought him, like Nicodemus, by
night, and in secret. Emma De Lissau,
write speedily, and notwithstanding all I have
said, tell me what I shall do, only remember
I dare not avow my faith.”

The conflicting and contradictory feelings
of Hannah, did not surprise though they
grieved her friend. Her answer was a long
and persuasive one, but she was aware, divine
influence alone, could give life to her words,
and make them successful and most fervently
did she plead for Hannah, at the mercy
seat, though in this instance, as in others,
where her petitions, though sincere, were not
in accordance with the divine will, she had
not the boon she desired.

De Lissau having completed the affair, O5r 153
that had so hastily recalled him, wrote to
his children, to return in a month. To Leopold
he wrote apart, expressing his opinion,
that the peace would not be of long duration.
But as there did not appear to be any grounds
for such an idea, Leopold rejected it, and replied
to his father accordingly. Very shortly
afterwards, however, the English Ambassador
ceased to appear at court; uneasy anticipations,
filled the minds of the more prudent
and thinking part of the community. The
hasty departure of Lord Whitworth, and the
detention of the English, followed in succession,
and Leopold, had only time to entrust
Emma, to the care of a German friend, who
engaged to convey her in safety, to Havre,
whence he knew his father’s friends, would be
able to expedite her departure for England,
before he shared the fate of his countrymen.
He was, however, in a better situation than
most of them, for the influence of General
Junot, with whom he was intimate, procured
for him permission to remain at Paris, on his
parole, and this indulgence, was afterwards
greatly extended. Leopold might, even at
this period, have escaped to England, but a O5v 154
pursuit, in which he had then newly engaged,
and that involved in its consequences, the
peace and reputation, of an amiable female,
who was the pride and ornament of an ancient
family, made him desirous of remaining
in France, though his motives and designs,
were carefully concealed from his unsuspecting
father, and family.

Chapter XI.

Journeying Mercies.

Frederick Müller, the friend of Leopold,
and of similar sentiments, with him, respecting
religion, was proceeding to Havre, with the
avowed intention of embarking for America. O6v 156
He therefore, readily, undertook the care of
Emma to the former place, and inserted her
name in his passport as his relative. When
the hour of departure approached, Leopold
appeared to be more than usually thoughtful,
and his manner towards Emma, displayed
somewhat of those affectionate feelings, that
had distinguished his early youth. To avoid
particular notice, Müller had taken places in
the Diligence, from Paris to Havre, and Leopold
wrote to apprize De Lissau, that he
might expect Emma soon, but entered into
no particulars, respecting the mode or time of
her journey, and it was a wise precaution,
for the letter never reached its destination.

Affected by the unusual tenderness of Leopold,
Emma could not bid him farewell, without
tears, though he had assured her that he
should soon follow her to England; nor was
he without a corresponding emotion, on his
part; again, and again, he returned to repeat
his adieu, and as frequently, recommended her
to the especial care of his friend. This was the
last time Emma was addressed in the voice of
fraternal affection, by her brother; years
elapsed, ere they beheld each other again, P1r 157
and when they did meet, every spark, not
only of brotherly love, but even of common
feeling, was extinguished in Leopold’s heart
for ever!

Emma’s journey to Havre was rendered
very disagreeable. Müller took pleasure in
expressing, freely, his contempt for all revelation,
and more particularly the Christian dispensation.
There were but two additional
passengers in the Diligence, and both of them
were free-thinkers, as they termed themselves.
The conversation, therefore, was highly disgusting
to Emma, and the more so, as her
companions frequently addressed themselves
to her, and endeavoured to elicit her opinion.
She remained, however, inflexibly silent, and
rejoiced when they arrived at the small straggling
town in which they were to remain until
day-break, next morning. By the recommendation
of the conductor of the Diligence,
the party took up their abode, for the night,
at a lone but respectable house, in the skirts
of the town. It was kept by a widow, whose
cheerful open countenance, prepossessed
Emma in her favor, and she felt more at ease,
than she had done, since her departure from Vol. II. P P1v 158
Paris. As it was a fine evening, Müller requested
Emma, to walk with him in the
large garden attached to the house, while
supper was preparing, and she complied
though reluctantly. Her hesitation, however,
merely arose from the disgust she felt at his
previous conversation. She could not have
imagined his motive, for requesting her company.
After walking some time, and conversing
on indifferent subjects, Müller led
his companion, to a moss-covered seat, within
view of the house, and placing himself
next to her, requested her attention to a communication
he felt desirous of making. The
indignation of Emma, was only equalled by
her astonishment, as she listened to him, and
recollected, that he was the avowed friend of
her brother. The communication, or rather
proposals, of Müller, contained an avowal of
affection, and an earnest solicitation to Emma,
to accompany him to America! He
added that his love for her, was not a sudden
feeling, and that his journey to Havre, and intended
voyage to America, was adopted
wholly on her account, and in the hope that
he should prevail on her to remain with him.

Emma did not interrupt her perfidious escort;
surprise in the first instance prevented
her from speaking. She wished also to learn
the extent of his plans, and when she did reply,
her answer was concise, severe, and decisive.
Whatever were her secret feelings,
to him, she betrayed them not, but calmly
told him, she should proceed no farther in
his company after the shameless avowal he
had dared to make, and desired her luggage
might be left where she then was.

Müller was astonished in his turn. Emma
had always appeared to him, a mere girl, inexperienced
and timid. He had not indeed
expected to succeed with her at once, but
made little doubt of ultimately prevailing on
her, to listen to his proposals. Her firm and
decided manner extremely disconcerted him
and he sought to argue with her, but she refused
to hear him.

“Your name is in my passport”, said he,
“you must either proceed to Havre with me,
or return and risk the consequences.”

Emma made no reply.

“I can and will compel you to proceed,”
added he, greatly exasperated by her contemptuousP2 P2v 160
silence. “In my passport your
name is inserted as my wife and your brother
is aware of it.”

“Impossible!” exclaimed Emma hastily.
She was, however, much alarmed at such an
assertion, as whether true or false, it proved
the vileness of the character, she had been
intrusted to. In despite of his endeavours
to detain her, she broke from him, and hastened
to her apartment immediately. When
there, and a violent gush of tears, had
relieved her oppressed heart, she besought
the Lord to appear for her, and direct her, in
this moment of exigency, and arose from her
knees, with a mind calm and refreshed. She
then requested to speak with the mistress of
the house, and in a few minutes, Madame
Dupont entered the apartment, and requested
to know her commands.

Emma at once explained her situation,
and in the most earnest manner, besought
Madame Dupont’s protection and advice.
She was an amiable woman, and having a
daughter of her own, to whom she was fondly
attached, felt a tender sympathy for Emma,
whose simple statement touched her heart. P3r 161
Her own Victoire, might, at some future
period, need protection, and she at once determined
to rescue Emma from the hands of
Müller. This she immediately assured her
of, with the characteristic vivacity of her
nation. Emma, acknowledged the kindness
of Madame Dupont in the warmest terms,
and her new friend hastened away, to accomplish
the business she had taken in hand,
according to a plan she had hastily formed in
her mind. How fervent were Emma’s feelings
of gratitude, as she poured out her heart,
before God, on this memorable evening! for
she saw His gracious hand, influencing this
stranger, to assist her, and this assurance
stilled every fear, and imparted to her bosom
a peaceful tranquillity notwithstanding the
peculiarity of her present situation.

In half an hour, Madame Dupont returned
with a smiling countenance.

“I have succeeded beyond my hopes,”
said she, in a joyful tone. “Supper is just
ready, you must join your party to partake of
it, behave as if nothing unusual had occurred,
and retire, as soon as you can, under the plea
of fatigue;—leave the rest to me, and be P3 P3v 162
perfectly easy, only remember to take your
supper, for you will have to travel all night.”
So saying, she quitted the room to attend
the travellers.

Emma did not hesitate to follow the advice
of her friend, and descended to the parlor,
where her travelling companions were already
assembled. Müller seemed surprised to see
her enter, with so composed an air, and whispered
the pleasure it gave him, as he conducted
her to the supper table. She received
his attentions coldly, and retired as
soon as the meal was concluded.

When the party had retired to their respective
apartments, Madame Dupont hastened
to Emma, who had at her desire kept
on her habit and hat, in readiness to depart.
She took her hand in silence, conducted her
quietly along the gallery, down the stairs,
and through the garden, till they arrived at a
small gate, which she unlocked, and when
they had passed through, again carefully
fastened it. A boy with a lantern was
there, waiting for them. Madame Dupont
bade him precede them, and now informed
Emma of her plans, as they walked on. The P4r 163
conductor of the diligence was her brother-
in-law, she had consulted him as to the best
method of serving Emma, and he, who had a
previous knowledge of Müller, whom he at
once declared to be a worthless character,
immediately agreed to second her views.
They both thought it best, to avoid any altercation
with the libertine friend of Leopold,
and, therefore, provided a chaise, to take
Emma to Havre, by another and mor circuitous
route, than that pursued by the diligence.
Madame Dupont engaged a man
she could rely on, as driver, and gave Emma
a letter to a friend of her’s, with whom she
was to stop the following night. Her luggage
was to follow by the diligence.

Emma could not part with the amiable
Frenchwoman unmoved. She would not offer
her a pecuniary recompense, because she
felt, that money, could not adequately reward
such services as her’s, but she earnestly besought
her acceptance of a gold chain she
wore about her neck. Madame Dupont at
first declined accepting so valuable a gift,
but Emma would take no denial.

“Well then,” said she, “let it be an exchange. P4v 164”
She then drew from her bosom a
small dove, with expanding wings, composed
of fine paste, set in silver, and presented it
to Emma. “It is a precious relique, for it
has been blessed by our Holy Father the
Pope, and the wearer of this Saint Esprit,
need not fear perils, either by land or water.
It is an infallible preservative and you will
find it so.”

Emma could not reject a gift so kindly
offered, though she sighed for the bigotry of
the kind-hearted giver, and they parted with
tears. The driver was provided with a
paper, drawn up and signed by the conductor,
which he was to shew, wherever a passport
was demanded. But no such demand was
made during the journey. They travelled
through that night, and the next day, merely
stopping to change horses, and procure refreshment.
Late in the evening, they reached
Madame Dupont’s friend, who after reading
her letter, paid Emma every attention, which
her extreme fatigue rendered necessary.
Early the next morning, Emma resumed her
journey, and at the close of day, reached the
house of her father’s friend in safety. On P5r 165
dismissing the chaise, she requested the
driver to call on her, before he returned to
Madame Dupont.

The friend of De Lissau, was a very opulent
Jew, and an influential man at Havre.
He and his wife, and aged couple, received
Emma very hospitably, and promised to procure
means for her departure, let political
events terminate as they might.

Monsieur and Madame De Silva, were not
bigoted Jews, though they conformed to
their religion, and paid a Rabbi liberally, to
kill their food, and superintend the household.
Emma, therefore, met polite and even
kind treatment from them, neither did they
in any way interfere with, or remark on her
peculiar tenets. They were, however, indignant
at the conduct of her brother, in so
lightly intrusting her to the care of one so
unworthy as Müller, whom they enquired
after, and found had arrived at Havre,
though he left it again almost immediately.
Emma received her luggage in safety, by the
worthy relative of Madame Dupont, and
made some purchases, which with a grateful
letter, she sent to her, when her servant returned P5v 166
with the chaise. Contrary winds
detained Emma some days in the house of
De Silva, and at length, Napoleon’s orders
for the detention of the English were issued.
But De Silva, possessed the means of eluding
them, in her favor, and succeeded in conveying
her on board a small packet, with was
destined for Southampton. This little vessel
was not intended to accommodate passengers,
and therefore, was without even the
customary conveniences. But the exigence
of the moment, rendered personal comfort a
minor consideration with Emma. The only
bed in the packet, which was the Captain’s,
was appropriated to her use, and she was
consigned by De Silva, to the care of a gentleman,
whom, with his two servants, and
equipage, he had succeeded in getting on
board the vessel, with the connivance of
those in power. As soon as possible after
that gentleman arrived, the Captain put out
to sea.

The fellow-passenger of Emma, was an
officer in the Army, his age nearly seventy,
and his countenance venerable, benign, and
prepossessing. But the dignity of his manner, P6r 167
heightened as it was by a precision in
moving and speaking, probably the effect of
long military habit, precluded any wish in
Emma to enter into conversation with him,
and she sat in his carriage, which was lashed
on the deck, watching the course of the vessel,
as it glided lightly and rapidly over the
waves, now glowing with the splendid hues,
reflected by the setting sun, until she became
completely absorbed in mental reverie. The
mood, rising in cloudless majesty, succeeded,
and Emma, still remained on deck, contemplating
the beautiful scene, which, like those
of life, was but transient. The face of the
regent of night, became suddenly obscured,
the wind arose, and swept around the vessel
in hollow gusts; soon, the rain fell in torrents,
to which succeeded vivid lightning,
and peals of thunder, such as Emma had
never before witnessed. At the commencement
of the storm, the Captain conveyed
Emma to the cabin, and fastened her in it,
but her fellow-passengers, Colonel Douglas
and his servants, remained on deck, and she
was left alone, during this terrible night, the
horrors of which were greatly aggravated by
the confusion over her head.

And now it was, that Emma, bereft of all
human consolation, and expecting death
every moment, powerfully experienced the
reality of religion, and its divine efficacy in
the hour of peril. Fervently commending
herself to Him, in whose hands are the issues
of life and death, she reclined on her
couch, and awaited the result, with a mind
so composed, that she could hardly believe it
was possible to enjoy such peaceful serenity
alone, on a tempestuous sea, and involved in
darkness, except when the lightning, flashed
its fearful brilliancy around her. A lamp
had been left in her cabin, but the sea-spray
that continually rushed into it, and sometimes
flew over Emma, had extinguished it.

Morning at length dawned on the almost
exhausted crew, but though the storm had
abated, it arose gloomy and hazy, and the
vessel had suffered so severely, that her
reaching any port, was hopeless. In this situation,
two boats belonging to her were prepared.
One of them, was destined for the
passengers, the Captain, and two sailors, the
smallest was appropriated to the crew. Luggage
of any kind was not thought of, a few Q1r 169
biscuits, and a case of spirits, were all the
Captain would allow. The crew quitted the
vessel first, and after encountering severe
hardships, were rescued from their perilous
situation by a British man of war, and conveyed
in safety to Portsmouth.

When the Captain and his party, were
about to enter the ship’s boat, Colonel Douglas,
for the first time, recollected Emma.
In the confusion of the storm, she had been
totally forgotten, by all parties, but they now
hastened to release her. Colonel Douglas
was greatly surprised to find her, in a sound
repose on her little bed, wholly unconscious
of her present dangerous situation! He had
not time, however, to ask any questions, or
make any comment, but hastily arousing her,
conveyed her to the deck, from whence she
was instantly lowered into the frail bark, now
their only resource. And they were at some
distance from the packet, ere she fully comprehended
her past danger, or present insecurity,
for the waves continually washed over
them, and momentarily threatened to engulph
their shallow boat. That God, however,
who had hitherto so graciously watched Vol. II. Q Q1v 170
over his little one of his fold, still preserved
and sustained her, and after nine hours, of
excessive fatigue and anxiety, the worn mariners
gained Southampton river.

Colonel Douglas had observed the quiet,
and even tranquil demeanor of Emma, during
their long and perilous passage from the
packet, under circumstances of such a nature
as would have excused female expressions of
terror, and became interested for her, in
spite of himself. Understanding that she
was a Jewess, he has avoided any intercourse
with her, nor could he account for a
serenity of mind, so apparent, when he reflected
on the fallacy of her religious views,
as one of a race so avowedly inimical, to the
Glorious Redeemer. Actuated by Christian
feeling, and also being desirous of conversing
with this supposed Isrealite, he had her conveyed
by his servants, to the inn at which he
put up, and gave particular orders, for every
necessary attention to be paid her.

This samaritan conduct, on the part of the
Colonel, was indeed needful to Emma, at the
present period. The waves breaking over
her, for so many successive hours, had completely Q2r 171
drenched her garments, and so stiffened
her limbs, that she was incapable of
moving them. Two days of careful attention,
had however, so far revived and restored
her, that on the third morning she accepted
the Colonel’s invitation to breakfast with
him.

Emma has written De Lissau early that
morning, detailing the mercies she had been
the subject of, during her journey and voyage,
and requesting her father, would himself
come, if possible, to conduct her home. She
had of course lost her trunks, but had her
purse about her, and her watch, to which she
had fastened the present of Madame Dupont,
whose assertions respecting its talismanic
virtues she recollected, when it again met her
view. A greater treasure than either her
well-stocked purse or watch, and its valuable
appendages, has been preserved from the
wreck, by Emma. It was the little book,
presented by Mrs. Russel. When about to
leave Havre, this precious volume had again
been placed in a silken receptacle, and deposited
within the folds of her habit. The salt
water had injured it but little, and Emma’s Q2 Q2v 172
heart, swelled with gratitude towards God,
as she perused it, and returned thanks for
her preservation.

Colonel Douglas received Emma with
great politeness, but he could not wholly lay
aside a certain reserve, inspired by his intuitive
dislike of her nation, yet the Colonel
was a sincere Christian, and an amiable man.
But many (otherwise excellent) Christians
have felt the same antipathy. At the present
day, however, this feeling has greatly
subsided, and numbers of professing Christians,
are devoting their time, talents, and
money, in a way supposed by them, to be
most calculated to advance the best interests,
of their Jewish brethren. Still however,
great prejudices exist against them, and
many hardly dare venture to repose full affiance,
on the sincerity of a converted Jew.
Yet why not? A Gentile and Jew, in their
natural state, are one. And the work of regeneration,
when it takes place, is as complete
in the one as the other. Deceptive
characters may be adduced, as a reason of
distrust. Alas! there have been, and ever
will be such. But there are no tares among
Gentile professors?

Ah Christian reader! long prosperity has
caused many of the ransomed, among the
Gentiles, almost to forget, that they are branches
grafted in the native olive. A frequent
perusal of the 11th of Paul to the Romans, in
the sweet spirit inculcated by the inspired
apostle, in his 1st Epistle to the Corinthians,
xiii, will set the subject in its proper light,
and be equally useful (under the divine blessing,)
to the true household of faith, whether
Gentile, or of the ancient house of Israel.

After the breakfast was removed, and the
servants withdrawn, the Colonel tendered his
services to Emma, asking whether she required
a pecuniary supply, or wished to be
conveyed to her friends. This he did with
delicate benevolence. Emma felt the favor,
enhanced as it was by his graceful manner,
and hastened to assure him of her gratitude.
She at the same time mentioned having written
to her father, whose arrival she intended
to await, and that her purse had not been
lost with her baggage. The Colonel then
adverted to the storm, and informed her that
they had escaped very providentially, for it
had since been ascertained, that the vessel Q3 Q3v 174
sunk, soon after they had quitted her. An expression
of thankfulness escaped Emma, at
this fresh instance of the goodness of God,
and the venerable Colonel requested to know
how it was, that she had manifested so much
fortitude, during the storm, and in the boat,
besides that she was actually asleep when he
came to take her from the packet, and added
with a penetrating look, it displayed the possession
of unusual courage, in a female so
young.

“Ah Sir!” replied Emma, “I have in
myself neither fortitude nor courage, I am,
in truth, a timid and inexperienced creature,
and never before travelled unaccompanied,
but the composure you allude to, was needful
under my then situation, and the Omnipotent
has promised his children ‘strength as their
day.’ Nor has He ever forsaken those, who
are enabled to put their trust in Him. To
my Heavenly Father, therefore, I owe the
power of enduring, quietly, the perils we
have been so graciously preserved through.
Let his Holy name have all the praise!”

The Colonel was surprised at this simple
reply.

“I thought I was speaking to a Jewess”
said he hastily.

Emma smiled at his warmth.

“Are you then surprised Sir,” answered
she, “that one you believe to be a Jewess,
should speak in language suitable to so striking
a deliverance? You appear to have conceived
a mistaken idea of my nation. They
are not devoid of religious feelings, and many
of them, are sincerely and unaffectedly devout.
Though I will own, their devotion and religion
is wholly devoid of that which can alone
make it acceptable to the Most High. I see
your surprise, Sir, but I will hasten to relieve
it, by informing you, that though I am a Jewess,
through divine grace, I have been enabled
to receive the truth, as it has pleased
Jehovah to reveal it to me, in His adorable
Son.”

Emma was not in general, communicative
to strangers, but the venerable Colonel had
from the first reminded her of her Grandfather,
and at this time, she felt her heart peculiarly
interested, for one, who had been an
instrument in the hand of the Lord, of preserving
her life, since, but for his timely recollection, Q4v 176
she had assuredly been left in the
vessel to perish.

The worthy Colonel, affected by the reply
of Emma, entered into farther conversation
with her, and gave glory to God for what he
had done on her behalf. He had intended
proceeding to London that evening, but now
changed his plan, and awaited the arrival of
De Lissau. The interview between this indulgent
parent, and his daughter, was truly
affecting, nor did the Colonel witness it unmoved,
and after passing a day with them at
Southampton, which appeared an extremely
short one, he sent his servants forward, and
accompanied De Lissau to town, where he
was easily prevailed on, to remain a few days
under his hospitable roof. On his return to
Scotland, the Colonel sent Emma, a present
of some Scottish delicacies, and as set of
trinkets for her watch, composed of the beautiful
pebbles, peculiar to that country, to
which he added a very kind letter, wishing
her all spiritual good, and declared that
her father had done much by his conduct,
towards dispelling the antipathy, he had ever
felt for the very name of a Jew, until his intercourse
with the De Lissau family.

Chapter XII.

Painful Communications.

Soon after De Lissau’s return to England,
he assembled at his house a select circle of Q5v 178
friends to celebrate the event. At the request
of Emma, the family of her friend
Hannah were included. She could not however,
on this occasion, enter into any particular
conversation with her; but a few days after,
Hannah called on her and communicated
the particulars of her present uncomfortable
situation. Her suitor, wearied by
her perseverance in refusing hum, had transferred
his attentions to her eldest sister, who
had shewn so little delicacy, as to accept him
without hesitation, as her future spouse, and
they were actually contracted to each other.
So that Hannah had the pain, of being compelled
to live, in daily intercourse with an
object, her superior duties alone, could have
induced her to reject. Added to this, her
father treated her with increased harshness,
and withheld from her the allowance of pocket
money, she had enjoyed in common with
her sisters. This she felt the more, as she
had been accustomed, to expend the greater
part of it, in purchasing materials which she
made into clothing for the poor. Many of
these articles found their way into indigent
christian families, through the agency of her Q6r 179
servant. Her mother was even more severe
and unkind, than her father, and her sisters
had never been otherwise. But the distrust
and timidity of her own heart, was her deepest
affliction, for though she was enabled to
hold fast the doctrine of final perseverance,
because the word of the Lord, declared it,
she walked in sorrow of spirit, and bitterly
felt, that the fear of man is sure to bring a
snare. This she acknowledged, with tears,
to Emma, while detailing her domestic trials,
yet in the same breath declared, she more
than ever dreaded any disclosure of her sentiments
to her incensed parents.

Emma replied, faithfully, to her young
friend, whose case filled her heart with tender
sympathy. The pecuniary part of her
trials, she could easily have removed, but
Hannah steadily refused it.

“No, my dear Emma,” said she, firmly,
“I will not perform acts of kindness at your
expence, and receive for them the thanks
due to you alone. I deserve every deprivation
I meet with, and it is fit I should sit in
darkness and sorrow, while you walk in the
light of the Lord, since I dare not avow my Q6v 180
true sentiments, and in truth cannot, from
my heart, pray for strength to do so, though
strange to say, I yet earnestly wish I had the
power!”

No reply could be made to this avowal of
feelings so painfully contradictory, and the
friends separated for that time. When they
met in public, which was but seldom, they
merely exchanged common salutations, but
they continued to correspond, very frequently,
and Emma’s letters were addressed under
cover, to Hannah’s servant, to avoid suspicion.
Hannah also, sometimes, visited Emma,
in private, but it was seldom and by
stealth, for her mother had said to her in a
very marked manner.

“You appear to me, to show great attention
to Emma de Lissau. Be careful
how you proceed. If I thought it possible,
for you to imbibe her principles, I should
think it no sin, to strangle you with my own
hands!”

Hannah quivered with terror at this declaration,
though a little reflection might
have convinced her, that in happy England,
such threats could not be carried into execution R1r 181
with impunity, and to the same effect
were Emma’s observations when informed of
it; but the adversary of souls, ever on the
watch, to suit temptation to inclination, was
permitted to work on the native timidity of
her mind, and terrify this silly sheep, hoping
to drive her from the fold of Christ.

At the request of her father, Emma, sometimes,
(though always with regret,) emerged
from retirement, to mix with him in society;
while he, in return, delicately forbore to request
from her, anything incompatible with
her opinions as a Christian. The harmony
between them was truly admirable. Never
was there a father more worthy of the highest
filial reverence, and love, —never was a
daughter more generously and indulgently
treated. Alas! these days of affectionate intercourse,
were transient, as sweet. Jehovah,
is a jealous God. He will have no rivals,
in the hearts He has chosen for himself.

The few friends admitted to the social circle
of De Lissau, did not venture to behave,
towards Emma, with disrespect, whatever
were their private sentiments of her; for De
Lissau ranked high among his nation, and it Vol. II. R R1v 182
was well known, that he would resent, the
least slight offered to his daughter, now the
only female representative, of his branch, of a
family so eminent among them. Nor did Emma
conceive it necessary, to intrude her religious
sentiments, on any person unasked. In society,
she spoke but little, and that on general
subjects. If Judaism was the topic, she remained
silent. And, though it was seldom
the case, if Christianity was attacked, in her
presence, she either manifested her feelings,
by withdrawing herself, instantly, ir if that
was impracticable, replied, briefly and mildly
to the disputants.

De Lissau forwarded to Madame Dupont,
soon after he arrived in England, a solid token
of his obligations to her for her maternal conduct
towards his daughter; though Buonaparte’s
measures, made it no easy matter to
carry on any intercourse with his subjects,
De Silva was the medium, by which De Lisau
effected his wishes, and also communicated,
safely, though not frequently, with
Leopold. The latter, in his letters, appeared
to be quite at his ease in France. The friendship
of General Junot was of peculiar advantage R2r 183
to him; he was a mere nominal prisoner
of war, and his letters detailed many
excursions, which he was allowed to make.
In fact, England, was the only forbidden
spot, and England, for the present had no
charm for him, particularly as De Lissau liberally
supplied his pecuniary wants, through
his agent, De Silva. Little did this indulgent
father surmise the uses to which his generous
advances were applied!

About three months after Emma’s return
to her home, she received a letter, the contents
of which much affected her. Happily
De Lissau was absent when it arrived, and she
was, therefore, enabled to keep its contents
to herself. This letter bore the post-mark
of Vienna, and was from Frederick Müller.
Its contents were equally extraordinary and
interesting. Müller gave a rapid but suc­ cint account of himself, from his first acquaintance
with Emma’s brother, and it appeared
that he was one of those, instrumental
in the perversion of Leopold’s mind.

They had corresponded while separated,
and Müller solemnly averred, that Leopold
not only knew of, and encouraged his attachmentR2 R2v 184
to his sister, but also of his inserting
her name in the passport, as his wife, and
his intentions respecting her. He added,
however, that he did not, in reality, design
to proceed to America, though he allowed
Leopold to think so, and in consequence,
was obliged, in the first instance, to convey
Emma to Havre. His plan was, to proceed
to a house he possessed in the suburbs of his
native place, Vienna. He then stated some
subsequent events, and his motive for the present
communication. After Emma had so
unexpectedly escaped the intended snare,
and finding she was too well protected at Havre,
to allow for any attempt to recover her,
he repaired to Vienna, intending, after he
had arranged his affairs, in that city, for a
long absence, to visit England. Providence,
however, defeated his plans. A violent fever
stretched him on the bed of languishing
many weeks, and his life hung in doubt. At
this crisis, his sceptical vauntings failed to
sustain him, and his bodily anguish was far
surpassed, by the terrible agony of his
awakened mind. His own animated description,
of his mental sufferings at that memorable R3r 185
period, were indeed heart-affecting;
never had Emma read or heard of so appalling
a delineation! While Müller lay in this
situation, his only relative, a widowed sister,
heard of it; hitherto they had been estranged,
because of his sceptical opinions and libertine
pursuits; for Madame Altzen, was a
rigid Roman Catholic. But now she hastened
to attend him, and introduced her confessor
to his apartment, when she witnessed the tortures
of his mind. They succeeded beyond
their hopes. The convictions of Müller
were those of conscience, and produced a natural
repentance. The consolations of their
creed, therefore, met his case and suited it.
No wonder, that when he recovered, the seductive
splendor of the Roman Catholic worship,
and the construction of its doctrines, so
well adapted to the carnal mind of man in
his natural state, should supersede the cold
and hateful tenets of infidelity, particularly
as he had so lately proved their utter inefficacy,
in the hour of trial. He had now, like
all young converts, (and perhaps none are more
ardent, than those who have merely embraced
religion, from a natural conviction, and, therefore,R3 R3v 186
are not subject to the fiery trial to which
genuine faith is sooner or later exposed,) become
very zealous and devout, and among
other acts of penance and duty, had made
this confession to Emma. His letter concluded
by earnestly, and no doubt sincerely,
imploring her forgiveness, which, as he felt
unworthy of receiving a written reply, he requested
might be communicated verbally to
a reverend Ecclesiastic of the Romish
Church, who could see her shortly, for that
purpose.

Emma could not refuse to believe Müller’s
statement, though to do so, cost her inexpressible
pain. The conduct imputed to
Leopold, was indeed of the most afflicting
nature. Emma considered it her duty to
conceal Müller’s letter from De Lissau, but
after mature deliberation, she resolved to forward
it to her brother, particularly as Leopold
and Müller were not likely to meet.
She did so, therefore, by the first opportunity;
but Leopold never took any notice of
its reception, in his subsequent letters. This,
however, did not surprise Emma, for Leopold
always wrote to De Lissau, but had never R4r 187
addressed a single line to, or even mentioned
her name, since they last parted! and De
Lissau had more than once mentioned this
circumstance with surprise.

When Emma was permitted to enjoy the
seclusion of her own apartments, an interesting
employ engaged her attention, and was a
source of great pleasure to her. She had
obtained the consent of De Lissau, to receive
and educate an interesting little girl, of eight
years old. Her mother was dead, and had
left the child without any other relative than
an aged Grandmother, who was dependant on
the parish for support. Her father was a
soldier, of whom no tidings had arrived for
some time past, though his name was not on
the list of slain, or prisoners of war. This
uncertainty was supposed to accelerate the
death of his wife, then in the last stage of a
consumption. Emma had often visited the
patient sufferer, and Mrs. Spencer had
earnestly commended to her the young Harriet,
when she should be no more. Emma
pledged her word, to be a mother to the
interesting girl, and the assurance soothed
the death-bed of the poor woman. Emma R4v 188
was with her when she died, and saw, at that
trying hour, the power of true faith in Christ,
and the divine support, which He never fails
to give His tried ones, at the moment heart
and flesh utterly fail. None but Chris, can
bear up the spirit in view of eternity. Though
a very weak and timid Christian, full of
doubts and fears, and naturally of a sorrowful
spirit, dearding the cold floods of Jordan,
though she had not any fears beyond it, when
the messenger actually arrived, all her doubts
and terrors fled for ever, and she departed
peculiarly triumphant and happy, exclaiming,
as long as utterance was lent her, “none
but Christ! let His name alone be exalted!”
and when she could speak no longer, a divine
joy beamed in her eyes and animated her dying
features until they set in death.

The motherless Harriet, adopted under
such circumstances, had powerful claims on
the heart of Emma, and De Lissau shared
her sentiments, for the child thus cast on
their care. Harriet was a lovely child, but
early alarmed her protectress, by the delicacy
of her constitution, and the transparency of
her complexion, which seemed to threaten an R5r 189
approach of the complaint from which her
mother had suffered so much. Every human
precaution, medical skill could devise, was
adopted, and the peculiar sweetness of Harriet’s
disposition, was considered a favorable
circumstance, meantime, she almost idolized
her new mother, as she always called Emma,
and eagerly imbibed the daily instructions
she gave to her. In the innocent caresses of
this endearing child, Emma experienced a
pleasure, she had long been a stranger to,
while the amiable De Lissau, rejoiced to see
her mind more uniformly tranquil, than it
had been since the affecting demise of Sophia [Gap in transcription—library stampomitted] R5v

Chapter XIII.

Traits of Jewish Character.

Charitable societies abound among the
Jews, and even in England, where so many
edifices have been reared, by the hand of benevolence,
the Jewish nation, are conspicuous R6r 191
for their alacrity in endeavouring to alleviate
the sorrows, entailed on the posterity of
Adam, by the transgression of their Primogenitor.
Nor, (of late years more particularly)
do this people, so zealous for good
works, refuse to contribute to Christian charitable
institutions, however otherwise bigoted
and austere their belief.

To several Jewish societies, Emma, at the
request of her father, was a subscriber; nor
did she consider herself precluded by her religion,
from contributing to the charitable associations
of her nation, excepting such as
were absolutely constructed on a principle
purely Jewish, and formed expressly to promote
some superstitious rite, originating in
the doctrine of merits; that pernicious doctrine
which had its rise in the Jewish Church,
when she lost sight of the great end of her
shadowy dispensation, and sunk into corrupt
and idolatrous worship, which is not only
persisted in, by her, to the present day, but
far exceeded by her close imitator, the still
more corrupt church of Rome. Both
churches, however, together with every other
Christ dishonoring error, it is the Christian’s R6v 192
happiness to know, shall be for ever dispelled,
at the glorious advent of the great Redeemer.

One of the societies, patronized by De
Lissau, was very interesting. It was denominated
the Bride’s Society and its object was
to unite annually, a deserving maiden to a young
Jew of industrious habits and good character.
The portion was fifty pounds, and the wedding
feast was provided by the Society. Subscribers
only were admitted to the dinner
and ball, by tickets to be obtained only by
purchase. Gentlemen of eminence, acted
as stewards on the occasion, wearing badges
of silk and silver, impressed with a motto, in
gold letters, from Jeremiah xxxiii. 11.

The year after De Lissau’s return from
the continent, he officiated at the anniversary,
as Steward, and Emma was present,
for the first and last time. The bride, selected
for that year from among several candidates,
was an interesting young woman,
eminent for filial devotion, even among a
people who are remarkable for their unbounded
veneration for the parental character.
The universal suffrage had elected
this exemplary daughter, and the disappointed S1r 193
candidates generously acknowledged
her superior claim.

Rosa Gabriel had indeed, in many instances
shone as an affectionate child, to an infirm
and wayward mother. Her father died
while she was an infant, leaving his wife and
child completely destitute. Alms of the pious,
and a small allowance from the synagogue,
were their only dependence. Inordinate
grief, for the loss of her husband, reduced
Mrs. Gabriel, to a state of nervous
debility, that unfitted her, either for active
or sedentary employ. She passed her days
in continual lamentations; repining against
the dispensations of providence, and constantly
expressed a desire to die. Her
prayer to that effect was not heard, but her
affliction, which she frequently declared had
reached its height, increased. A paralytic
attack affected her limbs, and she lost her
sight. In this pitiable situation, she became
somewhat more patient, meantime Rosa, who,
even in infancy, was remarkable for a devoted
attachment to her mother, a sweet and tractable
temper, and early habits of neatness
and industry, from the time she reached Vol. II. S S1v 194
her seventh year, began to attempt earning
her subsistence.

“My dear mother,” said Rosa one day to
a friendly neighbour, who frequently brought
them food, “shall not live on charity, as soon
as I can work to maintain her.”

Point-gauze was, at that period, much
worn in veils and trimmings, and Rosa’s
neighbour earned a comfortable subsistence,
by that employ. Touched by the laudable
wish, expressed by the child, she determined
to instruct her in her business. Rosa, stimulated
by a filial affection, paid great attention
to the lessons of her kind friend, and
soon became an expert workwoman. From
that time, the labor of the daughter was the
chief support of her mother, though she became
every day more helpless. It was an
affecting scene to enter their humble garret,
and see how attentive and tender Rosa was,
to the poor querulous invalid. Her apartment
was peculiarly near, and her mother’s
dress, always respectable. To accomplish
this, and yet get through the necessary, and
daily task of point-gauze, Rosa worked late,
and rose early. At sixteen she went to the S2r 195
meeting of the Elders, at the vestry of the
synagogue, and declined receiving any
longer the customary weekly allowance. On
being remonstrated with, and told that her
work might decline, she replied, that she had
health and strength, and had no fear of getting
work of some description. She therefore
persisted in her resolution, and from
that time never accepted any contribution for
her mother.