Chapter I.

Sketches of the De Lissau Family.

Among the comparatively few Jews who
have been able to preserve a correct genealogy,
the De Lissau family are eminent, for the antiquity,
rank, and purity of their descent,
which their records trace with minute accuracy,
through a splendid train of learned Vol. I.B B1v 2
and devout Rabbins, who up to the celebrated
Rabbi Haai Geon, who was the last primate
of the dispersed Israelites, and died in the
year of our Lord, 10381038. And all the princes
and primates of the captivity were lineal descendants
from the royal stock of King
David.

The De Lissau branch of this illustrious
line, had, for centuries past, been inhabitants
of Lissau, in what is now termed Prussian
Poland, and by constant intermarriages, preserved
the purity of their vaunted genealogy
and transmitted its honours unsullied to their
posterity,—even to the present day.

The grandfathers of Emma were brothers,
and possessed much wealth in money and
jewels; but, owing to the internal divisions
in Poland, which afterwards terminated in the
final subjugation and dismemberment of that
unhappy country; they quitted the spot that
had so long been the peaceful asylum of their
race, and settled in England in the early part
of the reign of his late Majesty, Geo. III.

The society and friendship of the brothers,
was eagerly sought, and earnestly courted,
by the Jews of England on their first arrival B2r 3
among them: but they shrunk from the general
laxity of religious discipline and moral
practice displayed by their English brethren,
and, retaining their native dress, domestic
habits, and austere religious observances,
moved chiefly in a select circle, composed of
the most learned Rabbins of their day, receiving
and entertaining also, with the most
generous hospitality, such eminent Jews as
occasionally visited England.

Solomon and Anna De Lissau were the
youngest son and daughter of the brothers;
by general consent they were contracted to
each other in early infancy, according to the
custom of the Polish Jews. Happily for
them, when arrived at an age to fulfil the
engagement thus prematurely made, they
were mutually and strongly attached, and
looked forward with joyful anticipation to the
solemn day, when they should meet beneath
the nuptial canopy. But when the appointed
time drew near, and Solomon De Lissau was
expediting some affairs of a family nature,
which had called him to Paris, in order to return
and claim his beloved cousin; her father,
actuated by pique, resulting from a disputeB2 B2v 4
with his brother, in which however, he
was the aggressor, and disregarding the engagement
subsisting between the youthful
pair, (a tie ever held sacred between the Jews)
took advantage of his nephew’s absence to
marry his daughter to an old and infirm, but
very wealthy Jew, a native of Hanover, and
of a mean, obscure, origin. Anna, aided by
every member of the family, attempted to resist
her father’s unjustly exerted authority—
but in vain. The sordid being who sought
her hand, gave to her father a large sum of
money, instead of receiving a portion with
her; and Anna, at seventeen, in the bloom of
her beauty, was sold to a man of eighty!
When Solomon De Lissau returned, she was
on her way to Hanover with her husband,
and his grief and indignation knew no bounds.
His father, and the nation in general, shared
his sentiments, and after a visit to his uncle,
whom he reproached in severe terms for his
capricious cruelty, an immediate breach between
the families ensued. De Lissau then
addressed a long and affecting letter to Anna,
in which he detailed the advice and opinion
of many pious and eminent Rabbins, respecting B3r 5
her case; it reached her in safety, and
its effect on her mind was decisive. Assuming
all the lofty spirit of her naturally haughty
character, she insisted on returning to London.
Her aged husband, who had just sustained
a paralytic attack, was incapable of
offering any resistance to her demand, though
he would accompany her. On her arrival in
town, she immediately laid her case before
the presiding Rabbi, demanding a divorce,
by reason of disparity of years, the compulsion
used to effect the marriage, and her previous
solemn contract to her cousin. While her
suit was pending she quitted her husband, and
retired to the house of a female relative to
await the result. This event excited great
interest among the Jews, on account of her
youth, beauty, accomplishments, and the peculiar
firmness and prudence of her conduct
in a case so trying; nor was it lessened by
the retired life she led while her cause was undecided.
Anna’s father strenuously opposed
her proceedings, and used all his powerful
influence to set them aside, but she, trusting
to the justice of her demand, according to the
mosaic law respecting divorces, as it is interpretedB3 B3v 6
by the Rabbinical writings, persevered
undaunted, though very harsh methods
were employed to intimidate her, and she was
actually confined to her bed for a week, from
the effects of personal violence, received during
an interview with her father, which she
granted at his own request, secretly hoping a
favourable result from it.

At length the chief Rabbi, after much deliberation,
pronounced the momentous decision,
and summoning the parties before him,
compelled the husband of Anna, to place in
her hands the desired divorce; it was a solemn
and imposing ceremony. The father of Solomon
De Lissau received his now emancipated
neice, with the most affecting tenderness.
His son, who, from motives of delicacy
had retired from London during the contest,
now hastened home, and in a few months
after, their nuptials were celebrated, the presiding
Rabbi giving the benediction and
ratifying the marriage contract, notwithstanding
a formal protest entered against it by the
father of the bride.

Years revolved during which the young
pair used every effort to conciliate their unjust B4r 7
relative, but he remained inflexible, and
sternly repulsed every overture, though sincerely
seconded by the females of his household.
Every returning eve of the day of
atonement, an elder of the synagogue renewed
the subject, and earnestly sought to melt
his obdurate heart by every argument religion
could offer, or the sweet ties of nature
plead, but no effort could change his resolution.
At length, while languishing on the
bed of sickness, this vindictive spirit so far
yielded to the tears of his wife, as to intimate
that he would throw the mantle of oblivion
over the past, whenever Anna should give
birth to a daughter, provided the infant was
immediately and wholly resigned to his disposal,
and the parents would solemnly engage
never to interfere with its future destiny.
Violette De Lissau hastened to communicate
to her daughter, by letter, these singular and
arbitrary terms—they were reluctantly accepted,
but a reconciliation seemed almost
hopeless. Eight years passed by, and Anna
was the mother of four sons in succession, one
of whom she repeatedly offered to place at
her father’s disposal, but he inflexibly adhered B4v 8
to the letter of the promise made when his
proud mind was softened by severe indisposition,
and she at last ceased to make any
further effort.

Two more years revolved, when the birth
of a daughter re-united the long estranged
relatives. Emma De Lissau entered on her
mortal career amidst the happiest auspices;
to her family she was the harbinger of peace
and harmony, and a few hours after her
birth, Eleazar De Lissau, in pursuance of his
engagement, visited his daughter and son-in-
law, bestowed on them the long witheld paternal
benediction, and leaving on Anna’s
toilette a liberal present, conveyed the infant
in triumph to his own residence, where the
most expensive arrangements had been hastily
made for its reception. The unconscious
stranger, though severed thus early from a
mother’s bosom, was cradled in the lap of
affluence,—cherished with tender solicitude,
and received by the venerable pair and their
household as a choice blessing! What a lesson
of mutability does this bright morning present,
when contrasted with the cloudy meridian B5r 9
and stormy afterpart of her eventful
days!

When the father of Anna had taken possession
of her child, his next step was to inform
her, that he could only allow of an
annual visit from herself and husband, to their
babe, on her birth-day, when a formal invitation
would be regularly forwarded to them,
and to this meeting the intercourse between
the families was from that period restricted.

Eleazar De Lissau was a bigoted Jew, of
a gloomy austere disposition, as may be supposed
from the tenor of his conduct as a father;
but so eminently learned as to have few
equals among his nation. He was also deeply
versed in the cabalistic and traditional
knowledge, so prized among the Polish Jews,
and possessed many curious and scarce manuscripts
of these species of Rabbinical reveries.
He delighted to assemble around him the
most learned Jews, of every country, and held
nightly meetings, at his own house, with
eminent scholars, in order to discuss knotty
points in the Talmud, to make calculations
respecting the advent of the promised Messiah, B5v 10
and the prophetic parts of the Old Testament
scripture. At these meetings Solomon
De Lissau was again allowed to attend,
but he seldom availed himself of the permission,
nor was he ever a desirable visiter,
his enlightened and liberal views, not at all
coinciding with the narrow and clouded dogmas
of his gloomy and austere relative.

Solomon De Lissau was, in character and
disposition, entirely dissimilar to that of
Eleazar, and forming a complete contrast.
Although justly considered as one of the most
learned men of his day, he was still more distinguished
for the modest diffidence and unaffected
humility of his exalted mind;—generosity,
sympathy, philanthropy, and the
tenderest feelings of humanity blended in his
disposition, and were beautifully depicted in
every speaking feature of his pleasing aspect.
To him calamity never applied in vain, nor
did religion or country ever oppose a barrier
to his benevolence, which frequently extended
even to his enemies, Christian reader!
this is not an exaggerated portrait though the
original was a Jew.

Anna De Lissau was a woman of consummate B6r 11
natural abilities, polished by high cultivation,
and enhanced by singular personal
beauty. Her mind was haughty, masculine,
and energetic,—her form majestic,—her aspect
truly dignified and noble: no trait of
feminine softness tempered the lustre of her
piercing dark eyes, or appeared in the animated
expression of her beautiful countenance,
to encourage the diffident mind in her
presence. She inspired awe, and commanded
respect in the bosom of all who approached
her, and received its general expression
as her due; for, being placed by her superior
intellectual powers far above the Jewish
females of her day, she was considered by
them as a prodigy, and it was usual in the
circle of her female friends, to consult her as
an infallible oracle on every important occasion,
but more particularly in religious matters,
for she was an eminent professor according
to the Jewish ritual, and her manifold
acts of devotion, and supererogatory performances,
which, like herself, were profound,
austere, and self-justifying, were admired, extolled,
and even imitated by many whose
weak minds were dazzled and influenced by B6v 12
the commanding superiority of her stronger
intellect. But, above all, she was conspicuous
and foremost in decided hostility to the very
name of the adorable Redeemer, and this
sentiment of hatred against the blessed Jesus
and his disciples, awfully distinguished and
influenced all her actions; even to the latest
period of her existence! “I would rather
perish everlastingly than accept of such a
salvation,” said she once in reply to a Christian
servant, who had attempted to speak to
her of the Saviour, and the proud scorn expressed
in her aspect, spoke even more powerfully
than the words of fearful rejection which
she so haughtily uttered. Her conduct towards
Emma, as delineated in these pages,
affords a lamentable exemplification of this
leading trait in her unbending character;
before which the sweet ties of nature, and
the sacred feelings of maternal and filial
affection gave way and were totally extinguished.

Violette De Lissau, the wife of Eleazar,
and the mother of Anna, resembled her
youngest daughter only in the beauty of her
person. Her temper and disposition were C1r 13
peculiarly gentle and tender; every feminine
grace was her’s, and the retiring delicacy of
her manners and deportment, formed a striking
contrast to the lofty carriage of Anna,
who considered her mother as a weak female;
rather to be pitied for imbecility, than imitated
in what nevertheless was the finishing
charm of her truly feminine character. Violette
was exact, but not rigid in her devotions,
and, though she dared not give expression
to her feelings in the presence of her husband,
joined not in his hatred to Christians,
and in secret her benevolence had often
reached them when in need; this liberality,
however, had its rise in the genuine tenderness
of her nature alone, as with her, Judaism
was not merely the best but the only faith,
and while administering to the distress of a
Christian fellow mortal, she turned with unaffected
horror and compassion from his
erroneous creed.

The eldest daughter of this amiable woman,
was not inferior to her sister Anna in
personal attractions, though of a very different
description. The figure of Julia was diminutive
but exquisitely formed, and her dazzling Vol. I.C C1v 14
complexion and mild blue eyes were in strict
harmony with the delicacy and softness of her
character. A pensive habit, and melancholy
but sweet tone of voice in her ordinary address,
made her an object of interest even at
first sight, and an increasing acquaintance
always confirmed the favourable impression.
At the period of Emma’s birth she was still
unmarried, having rejected many eligible
offers, from a motive, at that time, known
only to her mother, who secretly sighed over
her fate, though she rejoiced in the generosity
of her disposition and the firmness of her
mind. Early disappointment had clouded
the happiness of Julia; she had long beheld
Solomon De Lissau with too partial an eye,
but loving her sister Anna tenderly, though
their dispositions were so very dissimilar, and
religiously respecting the engagement that
bound her to her cousin, she struggled against
the weakness of her heart, and effectually
concealed it from all but the penetrating eye
of her mother. The forced marriage of Anna,
seemed for a moment to open an avenue of
hope, but Julia hastily and nobly repulsed
the selfish wish, and in the subsequent contest, C2r 15
generously, though unavailingly, advocated
her sister’s cause with their obdurate father.
On the marriage of Anna, though forbidden
to attend it, she sent a munificent nuptial
present, the value of which was enhanced by
the delicate manner in which it was forwarded
accompanied by a letter filled with expressions
the most touching, which an heart exquisitely
tender could dictate.

A venerable female, the mother of Violette,
De Lissau, completed the domestic circle into
which the infant Emma was introduced.
This old lady attained her hundredth year on
the same day that gave birth to her great
grand-daughter, and still retained her faculties
unimpaired. She possessed a remarkably
placid temper; the trials of life had passed
lightly by her, and left but few traces on her
brow. She had, as is common among the
Polish Jews, been married at the early age
of fourteen, and at sixteen she was a widow.
A fall from his horse deprived her of a tenderly
attached husband; he survived the
fatal event some days, and a few hours before
his death, sent for his blooming young wife,
and their infant daughter to take a last farewell.C2 C2v 16
The interview was deeply affecting,
and during the solemn adieu, he sought to
bind her by an indissoluble vow never again to
be a wife, but she steadily refused to accede
to the request. “You were the husband of
my choice, and the father of my Violette,”
said Leila, as, bathed in tears, she knelt by
the couch of the sufferer, “Should I lose you,
I feel my heart will never admit another love,
but the future is with the Most High, and I
dare not pledge a vow it may not be in my
power to fulfil.” Such was the discreet reply
of Leila, but the request so selfishly urged
by her dying husband sunk deep in her heart,
and she never again entered the conjugal
state. From the hour of his demise she laid
aside for ever her jewels, assumed the sable
garb of widowhood, and always, to the latest
period of her lengthened existence, appeared
in that habit. The time of this singular woman
was divided between religious exercises and
the education of her daughter, with whom
she went to reside on her marriage, but from
that period she wholly retired from the world,
gave herself up entirely to devotional acts,
seldom appeared in the family circle, and C3r 17
rarely quitted her apartment, excepting to
walk in the large garden attached to Eleazar’s
house, or to fill her place in the synagogue,
at the great Festivals. But though living
thus recluse, and constantly practising the
most austere religious discipline, the temper
of Leila was sweet and affectionate, and her
disposition and manner lively and fascinating
—it was almost impossible to see her without
feelings of interest and admiration. Age,
though it had shaded her still fine forehead
with silver honours, had but slightly bent her
dignified form, and her beautiful dark eyes
still beamed a mild lustre, while her mourning
habit ever reminded the beholder of her
constant adherence to the desire of her husband,
though severed from him in the blossom
of her beauty. Her daily intercourse with
holy writ shewed itself, in a peculiar manner,
in her common address, which was always in
language sublime, affecting, and dignified,
after the eastern mode of expression. In the
household she was regarded as a being of a
superior order, and attended to as such, with
particular reverence. Her practice respecting
christianity accorded with that of her C3 C3v 18
daughter’s, but as she allowed not of salvation
out of the Jewish church, she recoiled with
unaffected detestation from any personal intercourse
with a Nazarene;—and so very far
did she carry this antipathy, that she never
suffered the attendance of a christian servant,
except on the sabbath and festival days,
when her own personal attendant could not
officiate, and even then she invariably retired
to her closet, that she might not be defiled by
their unhallowed presence!

In the family difference, Leila had ever
warmly advocated the cause of Anna, and
earnestly sought to heal the painful breach,
but though on every subject she had
great influence over the mind of her son-in-
law, she never could prevail with him on this
point; she therefore greatly rejoiced in the
birth of Emma, and hailed her entrance among
them as a peculiar blessing.

Solomon De Lissau accompanied his infant,
and witnessed its reception by the family,
into which it was so singularly adopted.
That reception was well calculated to gratify
his paternal heart, and soothe the deep regret
sheher ixpressive features displayed at thus resigning C4r 19
his child. Eleazar, assembling his
household, and bearing the babe in his arms
presented it with proud exultation. Violette
first pressed its cheek, and breathed over it
a tender salutation. Julia then folded it to
her bosom in a transport of joy, while the
aged Leila, advancing with hands and eyes
upraised to the Supreme Power, whose holy
words she was about to utter, pronounced
with deep solemnity, the blessing recorded in
Numbers, III. 24, 25, 26.

Solomon De Lissau was so much affected
by this impressive scene, that he afterwards
perpetuated its recollection, in an exquisite
drawing, still (or till very lately) preserved
in the family. The accuracy of their portraits,
—the tasteful grouping of the venerable
and interesting figures,—and the skilful
management of light and shade, proved the
elegant artist, (whose heart evidently guided
his hand, and inspired his pencil) was no
mean proficient in the beautiful science.—
Frequently, in after life, has Emma gazed on
it, till imagination almost embodied the scene,
and she has thought, even to agony, of the C4v 20
chief actors, then reposing in the silence of
the grave!

Three sons had once enlivened the habitation
of Eleazar, and gladdened their mother’s
heart,—but the austerity of this harsh father
had, long before the period of Emma’s birth,
driven them from their paternal home. The
eldest, Asher, who, gave promise of elevated
qualities, was the first to fly from undue treatment.
At eighteen, on the eve of his union
with a deserving young female, who sunk
under the separation, he secretly withdrew
himself, and was never again heard of by his
family. Samuel, the second son, was expelled
for a trifling fault at sixteen, and entering
the East India Service, solemnly renounced
his nation and family. He did not
however embrace christianity, though more
effectually to sever himself from the Jews,
he caused figures to be marked on his arms,
a practice held in abhorrence by them. This
unhappy young man made one exception,
when he thus tore asunder all relative ties,
in favour of Anna. With her and her husband
he still held intercourse, and never failed C5r 21
to visit them on his return to England, which
was regularly once in three years. The rest
of his family, after solemnly mourning for
him as is usual for the dead, never mentioned
his name, and gave his fate no memorial
among them.

The youngest son, Benjamin, married and
lived quite apart from all the branches of
his family, and the better to avoid any possible
intercourse with them, frequented a
remote synagogue where they never appeared.

The parents of Emma visited her regularly
every year, on her birth-day, which was also
that of Leila, and the double event was
always celebrated with splendour. The birth
of a daughter soon after Emma had completed
her fourth year, made a remarkable change
in Anna, who, from that period, began to
manifest the most decided dislike towards
Emma, and this feeling, equally unnatural
and unfounded, was destined to have a powerful
and afflictive influence on the future
existence of its unoffending victim, though
the Sovereign Disposer of events over-ruled C5v 22
the malignant passion, sanctified the dispensation,
—strengthened the youthful object
of it,—and graciously caused the cup
of sorrow, presented by the hand of a mother,
to become wholesome, medicinal, instructive,
and every way salutary.

Chapter II.

Human Systems and Divine Arrangements.

Eleazar De Lissau evinced for his adopted
child a degree of tenderness quite unusual to
his harsh nature, and every succeeding day
witnessed its increase, until affection for C6v 24
Emma became a master passion in a mind
ever in violent extremes. The manner of
her education, when she should become capable
of receiving instruction, occupied his
constant attention; and, after revolving and
rejecting many plans, he at length formed
and committed to paper a peculiar system
for that purpose. The Jewish females of
that day, were, with the exception of his
own daughter, Anna, particularly uninstructed
and sunk in mental debasement. Violette
and Julia he predetermined should not be
allowed to form the mind of his favourite,
whom he resolved should eclipse every female
of her day in intellectual powers, and far
surpass her vaunted mother.

There were at that period no schools for
females among the Jews, and to entrust his
treasure to Christians was not to be thought
of, as he not only hated them, but also desired
she should, if possible, remain in ignorance of
their very existence, until time had fixed and
matured her religious principles in the Jewish
ritual. He therefore decided that he
would himself become her daily tutor, and
the guardian of her expanding thoughts, and D1r 25
he should then have always near him, a creature
whose mind, moulded by him, would
repay his exertions with implicit submission,
grateful reverence, and corresponding unity
of sentiment. Such was the fanciful theory
of Eleazar De Lissau; its success the following
pages will amply detail.

In accordance with the system hinted at,
Emma was taught to read English fluently by
her grandfather, at so early a period, that
her memory though very tenacious, could
never revert to it. Julia excelled in every
species of needle-work, useful and ornamental,
and was allowed to instruct her neice
daily: and morning and evening Emma was
regularly conducted to the apartment of
Leila, that the aged devotee might train her
in the daily habit of ablution and prayer, according
to the Jewish form. The advanced
age of Leila, and the deep solemnity of her
address at these times, together with the importance
of the subject, had an imposing
effect on the mind of Emma, and filled her
young heart with reverential awe, both toward
the High and Holy One, and the almost
unearthly being who thus statedly and Vol. I.D D1v 26
devoutly instructed her. When not thus employed,
Emma was always kept in the presence
of her ever watchful relations, and
all her time whether reading, working, or
recreation, was passed in their view. Servants
and children were alike kept from her,
every childish sally or trifling habit was carefully
and instantly repressed, and her relatives
always conversed with her in a rational and
prudent manner. Thus situated, the habits
and pursuits of Emma were far beyond her
years, and her understanding began to unfold
itself at an age when most children are enjoying
the innocent recreations and simple
sports of happy thoughtless infancy,—a period
of existence, and a description of pleasure,
she never knew.

When Emma had completed her fourth
year, Eleazar presented to her an English old
testament. His manner and address when he
placed this first part of the precious record
of life in her hands, was unusually solemn
and impressive.—“I give you,” said he, “my
dearest Emma, a volume whose price is inestimable.
You must study it daily with
deep attention, as its sacred contents are of D2r 27
the greatest moment to your everlasting happiness,
for it contains that holy law, undeviating
obedience to which, in all its demands,
can alone insure it;—I am aware you are
thought, by some of the family, too young to
be trusted with this treasure, but I have
formed your mind,” added he proudly, “and
best know its powers, nor shall the pride of
my old age be wanting in any knowledge I
have ability to impart.” Such were the
words of Eleazar De Lissau as he gave his
grandchild the holy volume, against the decided
opinion of her mother, at her annual
visit, when his intention had been hinted at
in her presence.

The address of Eleazar made a powerful
impression on the mind of Emma; she read
her bible with eager attention, and soon forsook
every other employ and abandoned every
species of recreation, limited as they were,
to devour the precious contents of the inspired
book. Eleazar witnessed with self-applauding
approbation, the intense application of
his favorite, and warmly encouraged her rapid
progress, as he saw her committing to memory
whole chapters, little anticipating the D2 D2v 28
result, and quite unconscious that he was
but an instrument in the hand of Him,
“whose way is in the sanctuary,” and who
can and does make the most unlikely means
subserve his purpose, and the good pleasure
of his will, wherever he has a vessel of
mercy on which to manifest his sovereign
grace.

Emma was now permitted to be present
at the evening meetings, during which she
acquired the habit of silent attention to what
was passing around her, which was afterwards
of great service. Seated on a low stool, with
her bible on her lap, she listened to the
various texts quoted, and sometimes explained
by the Rabbins in their discussions, and
employed herself quietly in folding down the
passages referred to in the newly acquired
treasure, to the extreme delight of her grandfather
and his learned associates. Solomon
De Lissau was now a more frequent visiter
at these assemblies, but he was seldom more
than an auditor, and it was evident that his
daughter was the origin and end of his appearing
among a circle so uncongenial to his
expansive mind.

D3r 29

Another year revolved and found Emma
still engaged with her bible, which began to
produce an effect on her mind entirely incomprehensible
to those around her. A deep
sense of inward depravity impressed her
heart, and affected her hitherto tranquil spirits
with sadness, and though remarkably free
from outward acts of sin, the conviction that
she was a transgressor was so powerful that
she dreaded to be left alone a single moment,
and constantly implored her friends to tell
her what she should do to be saved! her
grandfather in alarm, deprived her of her
bible, and sought to amuse her mind, but his
efforts were not successful; the distress the
deprivation of the holy volume caused her,
induced him speedily to restore it, and Emma’s
first lesson in dissimulation was to appear
more cheerful, and conceal her uneasiness
that she might retain the invaluable
treasure, though its perusal evidently increased
her terrors,—surely these feelings, operating
so powerfully on a mind so young, were
the gracious strivings of the Eternal Spirit:—
though like the infant Samuel, Emma understoodD3 D3v 30
it not, nor knew the voice of the
Lord.

About this period, Julia De Lissau became
the wife of an eminent and wealthy Jew, her
heart was averse to the match, but unequal
to contend with her arbitrary father, she
yielded to his intreaty, or rather command,
and soon after accompanied her husband to
his residence in Devonshire, glittering in
bridal splendour, but with an heart oppressed
by anticipations which a few fleeting months
too truly verified.

A combination of circumstances, in themselves
extremely simple, but in their consequences
the most important, now placed in
the hands of Emma the second part of the
record of life, in which is declared that name
that is above every name, even the adorable
name of Jesus Christ, to which every knee
shall bow, and every tongue confess; and this
momentous discovery was destined to take
place under the roof of as determined an
enemy of the Glorious Redeemer as even
those who cried “crucify him,” and daringly
yet prophetically added the memorable words, D4r 31
“his blood be on us and our children!” awful
prediction! and as awfully verified even to
the present day among this devoted nation.
But., “O the depth of the riches both of the
wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable
are his judgments, and his ways
past finding out!” For, this precious blood,
this divine catholicon, while it flows in self
imprecated vengeance, on the unbelieving,
unregenerate, Jew, descends in cleansing,
healing, life-giving, peace-speaking, streams
of ineffable love and mercy on the “Preserved
in Israel,” filling them with all joy and
peace in believing, and causing each ransomed
sinner of the Jewish race, to exclaim,
as they read the sad record of their ancestors
impiety.—“‘On us be thy blood,’ oh thou spotless
Lamb of God! thou precious, precious
Saviour! and the divine efficacy of it, shall
be our exulting theme, through a boundless
eternity.”

Business of moment called Eleazar De
Lissau to Paris, where he was detained some
months and he had scarcely reached his destination,
when a serious indisposition confined
his wife to her apartment, nor was she able D4v 32
to leave it until some time after his return.
Leila quitted her seclusion to attend the
couch of her daughter, whose indisposition,
though lingering, was not considered dangerous.
Her grandmothers were too indulgent
and considerate to detain Emma constantly
in the invalid’s apartment, particularly
as her spirits had been so much depressed,
they therefore, to amuse her mind, permitted
her to employ most of her time as she pleased,
and these moments of unrestrained freedom,
the first she had ever enjoyed, would have
been truly delightful, but for the alloy of her
secret terrors whenever left alone, and the
idea that constantly haunted her imagination,
that, for her sins, the enemy of souls was
lying in wait to destroy her! however, concealing
her feelings, she divided her time
between the garden, and her grandfather’s
spacious library, where she sought to divert
her sad thoughts, by looking over the plates
of some folio volumes of travels within her
reach.

She was thus employed one morning, when
climbing a pair of steps to reach a particular
large book of voyages, she discerned concealed D5r 33
behind it, a small volume, the binding and
gilding of which attracted her attention, from
its close resemblance to her highly prized
bible. Quitting the book she had sought,
merely for its choice engravings, she sat
down to examine her new acquisition, and
soon perceived it was not a bible, but a work
entirely strange to her. Familiar with, and
fond of Scripture language, she was much
pleased to meet with a volume written in that
style, and soon became deeply interested in
its contents. Her time was now no longer
divided, every leisure moment was devoted
to the perusal of this now favourite book, and
she continually revolved in her mind what she
read, though in a very crude and confused
way, for she comprehended but very darkly
many things recorded therein, and was often
lost in astonishment that her grandfather had
never told her of them. She continued, however,
to study this volume, as earnestly as
she had done her bible, and imperceptibly
lost as she did so, the terrors that had so long
annoyed her young mind, it is also a memorable
fact, that she received at this time an
indelible impression that the Jesus of Nazareth D5v 34
of whom she read, was the Messiah
whose advent she had been ever taught to
expect and daily pray for.

The silence constantly observed in her
grandmother’s chamber, the sufferings of the
invalid, and her inability to converse more
than a few minutes at a time, and that not
very frequently, prevented her learning the
nature of Emma’s present studies: for the
latter, unconscious of having done wrong,
and desirous of asking many questions respecting
Jesus of Nazareth, had no design
of concealment, nor any idea of the consequences
about to follow the perusal of a book
which became daily more dear to her, undoubtedly
under the powerful, though secret
and unperceived teaching of the Holy and
Gracious Spirit.

At length Eleazar De Lissau returned
home, and some time after, the convalescence
of his wife restored the family to its wonted
order. It was then the newly acquired knowledge
of Emma was communicated to her
petrified grandfather! He had, as usual with
the Jews, in their prayer, repeated morning,
noon, and evening, called the Shemonah-esrah D6r 35
or prayer of eighteen blessings, been praying
for the advent of the Messiah in the presence
of Emma: heretofore she had ever (during
this prayer considered so solemn) preserved
a reverential silence, but now, almost unconsciously,
and certainly involuntarily, she exclaimed,
“the Messiah is come!” her grandfather
proceeded with the prayer without
appearing to notice the unusual interruption,
but when he had closed his devotions, he enquired
of Emma the meaning of her conduct;
delighted to have an opportunity to speak of
the subject so long in her thoughts, Emma
led the way to the library and put the testament
into his hands. What a moment of
consternation was this to the bigoted Eleazar!
what an overthrow of his plans, hopes, and
systems! he, however, recollected himself
sufficiently to conceal from his grand-daughter
the shock she had so innocently given him,
and merely telling her it was not a proper
book for her use, and that she must never
again pronounce the name of this Messiah
who was a magician and imposter, dismissed
her from his presence, and sought his wife
and her mother to impart what had occurred, D6v 36
and advise with them how to counteract this
unforeseen and distressing event,. They
shared his consternation and regret, but were
so completely undecided as to what should be
done, that after some hours fruitless deliberation,
Leila proposed a family meeting on the
subject, and Eleazar summoned to it the
parents of Emma. Rabbi Colmar, a particularly
devout and bigoted Jew, who resided
with them as the tutor of their children, was
invited to accompany them, and Eleazar procured
the attendance of his peculiar friend
and associate, Rabbi Jonathan, of Posen, a
man of eminent learning, peculiar devotion,
and profound cabalistic knowledge. The
time appointed for the meeting was late in
the evening, that Emma might remain ignorant
of what was passing, and on this eventful
evening she retired to rest at the usual
hour, wholly unconscious of the conference in
which she was so deeply interested; the
family and their friends assembled an hour
before midnight, and remained together until
morning dawn, so opposed were their opinions.

Anna De Lissau was the first to reply to E1r 37
the communication of her father, which she
did in terms so offensive to him, that she
defeated her own wishes by her injudicious
comments. She began by blaming Eleazar’s
mode of education, and expressed a strong
dislike to the manners and acquirements of
Emma, which she at once reprobated and
ridiculed. She concluded with declaring
the young offender deserved severe treatment,
and earnestly requested her father to give
Emma to her care for the next six months
and she would venture to ensure her complete
renunciation of ideas so abominable; her
raised complexion and indignant manner, as
she mentioned this request, proved the nature
of the methods she so confidently rested
on for the desired result.

Rabbi Colmar, after strongly commenting
on the enormity of Emma’s conduct, declared
his opinion exactly in accordance with that of
his patroness, and was certain her mode of
treatment would be eminently successful.

The two grandmothers differed entirely
from Anna and the Rabbi, nor would they,
or any of the rest, allow that guilt attached
to the conduct of Emma in this regretted Vol. I.E E1v 38
affair. She had acted from the simplicity of
her heart, and they contended that the whole
matter was the work of the Evil One! who
sought ever to scatter and annoy the pious in
Israel, they did not profess to know the best
method of proceeding, but requested lenient
measures, and warmly negatived the delivering
of Emma to a mother who avowedly disliked
her, and that long before this unhappy
event.

Rabbi Jonathan was then referred to, and
gave his advice for kindness and gentle treatment,
and particularly insisted on the impolicy
of making any stir in the affair before
Emma. “She is a child and will forget the
whole fable shortly, if you do not impress it
on her mind by unjust persecution,” said he
to Eleazar, “You have already done too
much in leaving such a book where your child
had access, and are most to blame in this
business; do not add to it by opposition, and
it will pass away as the morning dew.”

Solomon De Lissau, who had as yet taken
no part in the conversation, though evidently
much affected, was now urged to speak; he
did so, with the good sense, intelligence, and E2r 39
benevolence that ever characterized him.
Without unnecessarily wounding the feelings
or prejudices of Eleazar, who, however singular
his systems, fondly loved Emma, and
really, though mistakenly, sought to promote
her happiness, spiritual and temporal, he
pointed out the evils of prematurely forming
her mind, secluding her from all society, and
concealing from her the real state of the
Jewish nation at the present day in this
country. He agreed with the opinion of
Rabbi Jonathan, and sustained its wisdom by
many arguments, and finally advised a complete
change in the education of Emma.
“Let her,” said he, addressing Eleazar more
particularly, “mix in society suitable to her
tender age, and send her to a public school
of repute, where she will meet with other
children, and while she is made aware that
Judaism is not the religion of her native
country, example and precept at home, joined
to early habits, will no doubt give it the preponderance
in her heart and affections; and
you will strengthen it by your daily lessons,
and explanation of scripture.” This advice
was, after much debate, finally agreed to by E2 E2v 40
all but Anna and Rabbi Colmar, who declared
that a school of the nature spoken of, and
under the guidance of a Nazarene, would
complete the mischief already done. Eleazar
was staggered at this observation, but his
son-in-law replied, that religion formed in
general no part of school business, and that
certain stipulations could be made respecting
Emma. His plan was at last adopted, and
he was deputed to seek a proper school for
his daughter. The assembly then broke up,
but before Anna left the room, turning to her
father, she said tauntingly. “You used to
term your favourite a wonder, and declare
that she would one day shine a star of the
first magnitude in the religious world, but
she will prove a dazzling, but false meteor,
that will beam a momentary brilliancy, and
then fall and set in darkness for ever!”

Eleazar, highly incensed, was about to
make a severe reply, when Solomon De Lissau,
shocked at the language and vindictive
spirit of his wife, hastily drew her away, and
Rabbi Colmar, who saw the storm gathering
on the clouded brow of Eleazar, lingered behind
to soften the effect of Anna’s address, E3r 41
and soothe his excited feelings. In this he
so far succeeded, that when the Rabbi quitted
him, he appeared perfectly tranquilized,
but he treasured up her words in his heart,
and from that hour never again cast an eye
of pleasure on her at their annual meetings;
while she on her part secretly determined, at
some suitable opportunity, to cross his partial
designs in favour of the being so dear to him,
and so obnoxious to her. Such were the
sentiments of the father and daughter, and
their opposite and conflicting resolves were
allowed for wise purposes, long to cloud and
chequer the early life of the child so singularly
situated.

Chapter III.

Human Systems and Divine Arrangements
Continued.

Accustomed implicitly to obey the lightest
command of her grandfather, Emma retired
from the library with a heavy heart, when she E4r 43
had received his prohibition to think or speak
of Jesus of Nazareth, as the Messiah. But
the very nature of this (to her) incomprehensible
command, had the effect of impressing
what she had read concerning him, more
deeply on her memory, though her lips were
sealed in obedient silence.

The volume so interesting to Emma, was
seen by her no more, though often secretly
sought for, and now, in the family circle, the
chamber of Leila, and the nightly meetings,
the exclusive perfection of the Jewish faith,
and the abomination and blasphemy of the
Nazarene creed was the perpetual theme. The
Rabbins, whom she had been early taught to
revere, as oracles of wisdom and models of
sanctity, unanimously asserted in her hearing,
that there was no salvation but for the house
of Israel alone, and that, of all the idolatrous
false religions which had ever polluted the
earth, Christianity was the most hateful,
having its origin in imposture, and its whole
support in forged miracles invented by abandoned
Apostates! and continued by mercenary
and profligate Gentiles! Many texts E4v 44
of scripture were adduced, and daringly perverted
to prove these assertions, which Eleazar
inwardly hoped had the desired effect on
the mind of Emma. For he observed with pleasure,
that she resumed her wonted custom of
marking in her bible the texts quoted, listened
more attentively than ever to the various
speakers, and never reverted to the hated
subject that so much alarmed him. So that
he hoped and believed she had altogether
forgotten it.

A short time after the family meeting respecting
Emma, her father announced to Eleazar
that he had found a suitable school,
within an easy distance. The governess was
a woman of high repute, and undoubted integrity,
she was willing to accept Emma as a
day scholar, with the necessary restrictions
as a JewessOpen note Back to note he had visited her establishment,
approved her system, and warmly urged
Eleazar to make trial of its effects on Emma.

After much deliberation, and with peculiar
reluctance, Eleazar at length gave his consent
to an interview with the Nazarene lady
and she was formally invited to visit him, E5r 45
before he placed Emma under her care, a
step he felt every day more averse to, and
continually lamented its acknowledged necessity.

The intended change in the mode of her
education was now announced to Emma, by
the family circle, and that in a manner calculated
to impress her with the idea that it was
an unfortunate event, and a Nazarene school
a dangerous and disagreeable place. “Then
why send me there?” was her constant and
natural question. To this simple demand no
reply was returned, but the laconic one “that
it was necessary.” Great pains were taken
however, to shew her the wide difference between
a Jewish preceptor and a Nazarene
governess, and she was solemnly enjoined
while she learned their useful accomplishments,
to beware of imbibing their idolatrous
tenets. She was also strictly commanded to
hold no conversation with the unhallowed and
defiled children, who were to be her school
associates, and above all, never to eat any
thing they might offer to her. Nor was she
to obey her governess in any command that
militated against the least religious observance E5v 46
she had been so carefully taught. Such
were now the daily, and even hourly lessons
of this harrassed child, and the result was,
that she awaited the visit of her destined governess,
with perturbed feelings, a bewildered
mind, and an heart more than usually saddened,
fearing and anticipating she knew not what.

The hour appointed by Eleazar, punctually
brought Mrs. Russel to his house, and Solomon
De Lissau considerately attended to introduce
her. The dignity of her deportment,
and the polished elegance of her address,
won from Eleazar a respectful reception, and
when they had conversed a little, though on
indifferent subjects, he was prepossessed in
her favor, notwithstanding his deep seated
prejudices. Violette shared his sentiments
on the occasion, and inwardly rejoiced, that,
since they must intrust Emma to a Nazarene,
they had met with one apparently so interesting.
Leila was not present, for no inducement
or persuasion could prevail with her
to receive and converse familiarly with a
Nazarene, whatever her rank or accomplishments.

E6r 47

The stipulations entered into with Mrs.
Russel, and which she pledged herself to the
literal performance of, were, that Emma
should never mix with any of her other pupils,
that she should never be allowed to read in,
or have the new Testament, or any other
book in use among Christians, but that her
lessons should be always from the books provided
by her grandfather. That Mrs. Russel
should never converse with her on the
tenets of Christianity, or reply to any questions
her pupil might prefer respecting that
subject. That Emma should be allowed to
return home every evening, and that her provisions
should be such only, as were daily
sent with her, Mrs. Russel allowing her facility
to perform the customary ablutions
before meals.Open note Back to note

There was a candor and frankness in the
manner of Mrs. Russel, that produced a corresponding
feeling in the mind of Eleazar,
and he was inclined to believe she would
keep her promises, and faithfully fulfil her
part of the agreement. Pecuniary terms
were easily adjusted between them, for the
governess was remarkably disinterested, and E6v 48
Eleazar had a princely spirit in all that related
to mere money transactions. When the subject
was finally arranged, Mrs. Russel, who
had consented to spend the evening with
them, requested to see her intended pupil,
and Emma was immediately summoned to
attend her. She entered with a timid step,
and embarrassed air, and approached her
evidently under the influence of fear, but
Mrs. Russel judiciously affected not to perceive
it, and addressed a few words of encouragement
to her, in a voice so soothing
and even affectionate, that the apprehensive
girl was in a measure reassured, and took her
usual seat by her grandfather, with feelings
less oppressive.

Mrs. Russel, though too well bred to give
expression to her thoughts, felt much surprised
at the antique dress of her pupil, and
the heavy and ill-assorted ornaments that decorated,
or rather encumbered, her diminutive
form, but every observation on her singular
exterior, soon gave way to emotions
of mingled pity and tender concern, as she
marked the pensive aspect and thoughtful
brow of Emma, and traced in her countenance F1r 49
lines of premature intelligence, blended with
a sadness incompatible with her very youthful
appearance, and very evidently the result of
deeply excited and oppressive feelings, either
unknown to, or unshared by those about her.
This impression gathered strength, as in the
course of the evening Mrs. Russel had leisure
and opportunity to observe her more attentively,
and she left the house of Eleazar De
Lissau, deeply interested in the fate of his
grand-daughter.

No common motives induced Mrs. Russel
to accept the invitation to his house, or agree
to receive Emma in the manner stipulated
for. Her mind and character may be best
understood in her after conduct to her pupil,
it is therefore only necessary to add, that she
was a truly spiritual Christian, who united
zeal with prudence, in her constant efforts in
the cause of truth, was well skilled in the
scriptures, and, (possessing that wisdom which
is from above,) knew how to speak a word in
season, so as to promote the glory of God, in
which she knew was involved, the happiness
of the creature. When Solomon De Lissau
first visited her establishment, he ingenuously Vol. I. F F1v 50
confided to her the family reasons that induced
him to seek a public school for Emma.
The communication interested her, for she
saw in this peculiar case an extraordinary
interposition of providence, and believing
that she was appointed to be an instrument
of usefulness to the soul of the young Jewess,
she at once signified her assent to De Lissau,
who was gratified and agreeably surprised at
her ready acquiescence, but though he had
not the most distant suspicion of her real
motive, he felt assured, self interest had no
share in her compliance.

At this period a letter reached Eleazar,
written by a person whose name was entirely
unknown to him, containing unpleasant and
alarming intimations respecting his daughter
Julia, and requesting, if he valued her life,
that he would lose no time in visiting her.
The writer assured him, she had addressed
him unknown to Julia, who she believed was
desirous of concealing her situation from
her friends, and concluded by advising him
to come speedily, and without apprizing
his son-in-law of his intention. At first
Eleazar was inclined to slight the information F2r 51
thus conveyed, especially as Julia’s
letters though always very brief, never hinted
at any thing dissatisfactory in her new situation;
but Violette, who had never cordially
esteemed the husband of Julia, warmly urged
Eleazar to comply with the unknown writer’s
advice. And as her daughter was in an interesting
state, she insisted on accompanying
him, the worst reality being in her opinion
more endurable than suspense, and should
their informant be correct in her statement,
a mother’s presence would be at once desirable
and necessary. Eleazar, after much debate,
acceded to his wife’s considerate proposal,
and immediate preparationsOpen note Back to note were made
for the journey. And as it was the Christmas
recess, and five weeks must elapse before
Mrs. Russel’s establishment reassembled,
Emma was allowed to be of the party, which
the addition of a male and female servant
completed.

It was near the close of the second day,
when Eleazar reached the town where Julia
resided, leaving the chaise at the inn, the
party proceeded on foot to the house of Rabbi
Joseph Wilna. They found it easily, but F2 F2v 52
it was occupied by strangers, and from them
Eleazar learned that his son-in-law lodged in
a distant obscure part of the town, to which
they directed him. Surprised and disgusted
he hastened thither, the house was a mean
one in a dirty close lane, and the woman that
let them in, directed them to the attics,
which she said were the apartments of Wilna,
though she believed he was not at home.
Eleazar with some difficulty ascended the
narrow dark stairs, followed by his family.
The third flight was illuminated by a skylight
and terminated in the attics. The first door
was secured by an enormous padlock, but the
second yielded to Eleazar’s hand, and admitted
the party. The room was meanly furnished,
and without fire, and on a small press
bedstead lay Julia, pale and attenuated! Indignation
arrested the steps of her father,
but Violette rushed forward in tearful agony
to the bedside of her daughter, who gazed
wildly on the unexpected visitors for a moment,
then sunk on her pillow exhausted and
insensible. Violette’s servant, an aged Jewish
female, who had been Julia’s nurse, now
pressed forward to assist the invalid. At this F3r 53
moment an elderly woman of respectable exterior
entered, and from her Eleazar sought
an explanation; she immediately avowed
herself to be his unknown correspondent,
and the owner of the house. She had written
from motives of the purest humanity,
having reason to fear the deprivations Julia
daily endured, would destroy her delicate
frame, which was fast sinking under the
pressure of absolute want, though Wilna was
undoubtedly wealthy, and fully competent to
allow his wife the luxuries of life, but such
was his avarice and penurious disposition,
that he denied her the most indispensable
necessaries. A fortnight had elapsed since
she had given birth to an infant which did
not long survive, and the delicate mother was
not allowed a fire in the apartment, though
the weather was so inclement. Mrs. Austin
concluded this account by observing she had
privately visited and comforted the invalid,
but Wilna would not allow of her approach
when at home, and Julia could not be persuaded
to touch nourishing food if prepared
by a Christian!Open note Back to note The tender attention of
Violette and her servant Miriam had restored F3 F3v 54
the fainting Julia, and relieved by a copious
flood of tears, she was enabled to welcome
her family, and endeavoured to soothe the
passionate anger of her indignant father.
But he would not listen to her, and waited
impatiently the return of her despicable husband;
meantime, by his orders, a fire had
been kindled by his servants, and preparations
for tea were by his desire, making by
Mrs. Austin, when Wilna returned. Astonished
at the sight of his unexpected and
unwelcome guests, he for a moment fell back
in apparent confusion, but hastily recollecting
himself, advanced and offered the customary
SalemOpen note Back to note to Eleazar. This was indignantly
rejected, and even the gentle Violette averted
her face when he attempted to address
her. The entrance of Mrs. Austin with the
tea-tray suspended for a time the rising altercation,
but after the weary travellers were
refreshed and the good woman had retired,
Eleazar, in as calm a manner as he could assume,
demanded an explanation from Wilna of
his reasons for letting his house, and depriving
of common necessaries a woman accustomed
to the enjoyment of every indulgence, F4r 55
tenderness could bestow, or opulence procure,
and who had brought to him a very
considerable portion in money and jewels.
To these enquiries Wilna coldly replied; that
he owed an account to no man, he did and
would regulate his house as he pleased;
the luxuries enjoyed by Julia De Lissau, had
no connexion with the mode of living suitable
to Julia Wilna, however, if Eleazar chose to
pay him an annual sum, which he named, he
might take back his daughter as soon as he
thought proper. To this proposal the unworthy
miser adhered, unintimidated by the
threats of Eleazar, whom he defied, declaring
he never would release Julia by divorce, but
if his terms were not complied with, would
embark with her for Poland, that he might
not again be liable to such disagreeable intruders!
This last intimation had such an
effect on Violette that Eleazar at length
came to terms with the worthless being, and
actually agreed to pay the stipulated sum
half-yearly, on condition that Julia should
always reside under the paternal roof, and
that Wilna should never attempt to visit or
even write to her. The night was far spent F4v 56
before this altercation terminated, when the
hospitable Mrs. Austin offered beds for the
strangers, which were thankfully accepted,
but no persuasion could induce Miriam to
quit the apartment of her beloved young
mistress. A few days tender care and proper
nourishment enabled Julia to bear a removal,
and her father conducted her to apartments
he had taken in the house of a respectable
Jewish family, till she could bear the
journey to town. His next care was to remunerate
Mrs. Austin, but she would not
accept any thing at his hands, declaring herself
fully recompensed by the amended situation
of Julia.

The proud heart and prejudiced mind of
Eleazar revolted at the bare idea of owing
an obligation to a Nazarene, and he continued
to urge the point, till she warmly replied
that she would not be paid for an act of
humanity, done in the name and for the sake
of the Lord Jesus. This, to him, hated name
coupled with Deity, ended at once the generous
contest, for the bigoted Jew could not
endure sounds so unhallowed, and he hastily
quitted her, that they might not again wound
his ear!

F5r 57

The Jews with whom the De Lissau family
had taken up their temporary abode, were
thankful for the visit of Eleazar, as they had
no means of procuring animal food nearer
than Plymouth, which was twelve miles distant,
and he was in possession of a licence to
slay animals, and had brought that, and the
knife duly examined and allowed ofOpen note Back to note for
that purpose, with him.

Three weeks elapsed before Julia was sufficiently
recovered to return. The morning
of their departure Wilna demanded a private
audience with his wife. What occurred at
that interview, which lasted some hours,
never transpired, until Julia was on her death
bed, and then was imparted to her father
only, but from that memorable period, a settled
melancholy seized her spirits, she was
always sad, abstracted, and peculiarly timid,
and renouncing society almost as strictly as
her grandmother Leila had done, seemed
absorbed in religious observances, and austerities
that daily detracted from the strength
of her fragile being, and threatened to sever
prematurely the delicate cord of her feeble
existence, nor could any intreaty win from F5v 58
her the cause of her conduct, or induce her
to relax its self-immolating severity.

On the return of the family from Devonshire,
Eleazar found a written remonstrance
from his daughter Anna, respecting his intention
of placing Emma with Mrs. Russel.
The paper was also signed by Rabbi Colmar,
who in a postscript warned him of the evil
consequence that would surely ensue, but this
paper had no other effect on Eleazar’s mind,
than that of more firmly fixing his resolution
on the subject, and he deigned not a reply,
but made the necessary preparation to send
Emma to her destination at the close of the
recess.

Chapter IV.

Human Systems and Divine Arrangements,
Concluded.

The morning at length arrived, for Emma
to attend Mrs. Russel, and her venerable
relations made their several arrangements
for an event in their eyes, highly important.
Violette placed in a small basket, Emma’s F6v 60
food for a day, and with it a knife, fork,
spoon, and cup to drink from, strictly charging
her to replace each article as soon as used,
and on no account to suffer them to be washed
by Mrs. Russel’s servants, the basket
itself was fastened by a padlock of which
Emma had the key. When Emma left her,
to attend the morning prayer in Leila’s chamber,
the old Lady placed next her heart a
small gold box, fastened by a secret spring;
a slender chain of the same metal suspended
it from her neck, and Leila commanded her
never to lay it aside, nor suffer a Nazarene
to touch it. Singular characters were engraven
on this talisman, for such it was, and
it enclosed a small vellum scroll covered with
curious figures and cabalistic hieroglyphicsOpen note Back to note
written by Rabbi Jonathan, and declared by
him to preserve the wearer from heresy,
witchcraft, and the malign influence of the
evil one!

When Leila dismissed Emma, her grandfather
summoned her to his presence, and
after solemnly bestowing on her his benediction,
led her to the library, where was suspended
the vaunted genealogical tree of the G1r 61
De Lissau family. “Youngest and dearest
of my house,” said he, “you will from this
hour mix with society, and daily encounter
GoyimOpen note Back to note and strangers. But remember my
dear child, the Most High has drawn a line
of separation between you and them, never
to be passed but at the price of your salvation!
you are a daughter of Israel, a true
descendant from faithful Abraham, declared
by the holy prophet Isaiah to be the friend of
the Eternal, and a branch of an illustrious
house. They are an accursed seed, children
of Satan, and heirs of perdition! Behold this
tree! you have been familiar with it from
early infancy, and I have constantly taught
you, both to comprehend and venerate this
record of your noble and pious ancestors.
Seventeen centuries have seen the abominable
Nazarenes triumph and flourish, while
Israel has languished in captivity desolate
and afflicted, without temple, altar, prophet,
priest, or king; but I can exultingly declare,
that in all this lapse of time, amidst tribulation
and persecution, and every description
of temptation, the crime of apostacy has
never stained our name, nor sullied our augustVol. I. G G1v 62
lineage! remember this, Emma, in your
intercourse with Goyim, and it will be to you
a shield of preservation from their insidious
discourses. Remember Jerusalem, the holy
city, now in the hands of the spoiler,—remember
my daily admonitions, and above all
remember you also are a De Lissau, the females
of which have for ages been eminent
for devotion, and stedfast followers of the
Holy One of Israel!”

A feeling of awe stole on the mind of Emma
as she listened to the solemn and impressive
address of her grandfather. Each word
sunk deep in her heart, and often in after
scenes of eventful import, did they recur to
her too tenacious memory, when sad recollections
alone were left of her early youth, as
they passed in review before her during the
lonely hours of her captivity.

The books provided for Emma’s use were
three in number. An old testament, a psalter,
and a book of the daily prayers used by the
Jewish nation, the latter was aOpen note Back to note small volume,
printed in Hebrew and English on the
alternate pages, and had but newly appeared.
It was the first translation attempted in England, G2r 63
and its author was Rabbi Moses ben
Gershon, a learned and upright man, whose
chief employment was the tuition of a select
number of jewish youth at his own habitation.

To Miriam was entrusted the duty of
conveying Emma in an hired chariot, to the
house of Mrs. Russel, by nine in the morning,
and calling for her young charge at five
in the afternoon, but no persuasion could ever
induce her to cross the threshold of the house
even for an instant, for she detested the very
name of a christian, and often predicted an
awful result to Emma’s intercourse with
them!

Mrs. Russel received the young Jewess
with winning tenderness, and an encouraging
smile, and placed her on a low stool by her
own chair, quite distant from her scholars,
who were seated in regular rows facing her.
The young ladies eyed Emma with looks of
eager curiosity, and even astonishment, though
the presence of Mrs. Russel repressed any
audible expression of their feelings: their
surprise was quite natural, for Violette
would not allow the dress of Emma, to be modernized,
and her appearance, rich robe, and G2 G2v 64
redundant ornaments, were a complete contrast
to the simple but tasteful frocks of her
school-fellows, who however became accustomed
in time to her singular appearance,
and having no opportunity at any period, of
conversing with her, she soon ceased to excite
particular notice, or be an object of interest
to them.

The first month of Emma’s attendance on
Mrs. Russel passed quietly. The wise preceptress
was aware, that the relatives of her
pupil, would at first be minute in their enquiries
and easily alarmed,. She wished also
to acquaint herself with Emma’s disposition
and character, and win her affection and
confidence. She had before her no common
difficulties, in the case she had undertaken,
and becoming daily more interested for a
child, differing from any she had ever met
with, wished to proceed with prudent caution
and often sought a throne of grace on her behalf.
This amiable woman easily discovered
that Emma was under deep concern respecting
eternal matters, and that her precise attention
to the ceremonies, taught her by her
friends, failed to alleviate her constant uneasiness G3r 65
or soften the sadness that preyed on
her juvenile mind. A state of mind so deeply
affecting, her tender age considered, met
corresponding sympathy in the bosom of Mrs.
Russel, who foresaw in the future life of Emma,
trials of no ordinary cast, and sorrows
of the most exquisite description should she
succeed in leading her, under the divine teaching
of the Holy Spirit, to receive “the truth
as it is in Jesus.” These anticipations, though
they rendered the object of them, more dear,
did not for a moment shake her resolution to
sow the good seed, in the name and fear of
the adorable Redeemer, leaving the event
with him, in the assurance that he would manifest
his strength in the weakness of this
little one, and give sustaining grace in every
afflictive dispensation, appointed in unerring
wisdom by Him, whose nature, name, and
essence is love!

Eleazar and the females of his family were
as Mrs. Russel had anticipated, very minute
in their daily examination of Emma on her
return from school, her replies were perfectly
satisfactory, and after a time they felt quite
assured that no ill consequences would be the G3 G3v 66
result. Emma continued assiduous in every
observance of the jewish ritual, learned by
heart large portions from her prayer book,
and appeared more attached than ever to her
favorite bible, and above all, never commented
in any way on the christian governess, or
the young ladies of her establishment, nor
expressed a wish to mix with them more
freely.

After much deliberation Mrs. Russel allowed
three months to pass by, before she
commenced her attempt to shew the young
Jewess, the way of salvation. This period of
time was employed in needle-work useful
and ornamental, in both which she found
Emma no mean proficient, and also in careful
attention to the correct pronunciation of
her pupil, an article in which most of the
Jews of that era were peculiarly deficient;
though the De Lissau family were remarkable
for the purity and elegance of their language.

In order to preserve inviolably the letter
of the promise made to Eleazar, (though she
broke it in spirit,) Mrs. Russel’s mode of
setting before Emma the great truths of G4r 67
Christianity was peculiar, and wisely adapted
to the emergency of the case, and the
important end in view. Hitherto Emma
had, after reading aloud her daily lesson in
the bible, been dismissed to the garden or
library, as the weather allowed of, while her
schoolfellows were instructed from the new
testament, and received explanations of its
holy contents, calculated under the divine
blessing to advance their knowledge of the
scriptures, and their best interests. Now,
however, Emma was no longer desired to
withdraw, but allowed to pursue her needlework,
on the seat she always occupied at the
side of her governess, while the young ladies
forming a semi-circle around Mrs. Russel,
read in class the appointed chapters. These
were now most carefully selected so as to
explain and open the portion previously read
by Emma, and a short but clear explanation
from Mrs. Russel, addressed to the class
concluded each daily exercise. Nor was
this all, this excellent woman from this time
set apart two afternoons in each week, when
collecting all her establishment about her,
she gave them lectures from a selected text G4v 68
of scripture, concise and simple, but strictly
in accordance with the written word, and
explanatory of the Christian system, but neither
at the lectures or daily lessons, did Mrs.
Russel ever address Emma, or appear conscious
of her presence, though she bore her
ever on her heart, and secretly, but fervently
besought a blessing on her endeavours.
So truly might the exertions of this admirable
Christian be termed a “labor of
love.”

The effect of Mrs. Russel’s plan, on the
mind of Emma was slow and progressive, but
effectual and indelible. At first, when allowed
to remain in the school, she paid little
attention to what was passing around her,
but quietly pursued her allotted employment.
By degrees, however, some sentences reached
her ear, that arrested her attention, and from
this time she was a silent but interested auditor,
and soon became deeply solicitous to
apprehend the wonderful things now daily
opening before her. In proportion as her
heart expanded under the gracious teaching
and powerful influence of the Holy Spirit,
His blessed fruits, which are love, joy, and G5r 69
peace, shed an indescribable tranquility on
her long harrassed mind, and the holy calm,
visibly relieved and even enlivened her
hitherto oppressed feelings.

A year swiftly rolled away, and its close
beheld Emma indeed a new creature! An
extraordinary and memorable era was this to
the young convert, for such she assuredly had
become, though she dared not breathe the
momentous change to mortal ear, nor scarce
ventured to admit it even to her own agitated
heart! She had actually passed the barrier
her grandfather had always declared was not
only insurmountable, but irremediably destructive!
Her heart and its supreme affections
were devoted to the crucified Nazarene!
She adored that Jesus so abhorred by
her nation, with heartfelt sincerity. From
this moment then, she was an isolated being
in the very bosom of her family, possessing
no feelings in common with them, but those
sentiments of relative affection, which the
holy precepts of Christianity strengthen
and purify.

Taught by past experience, the clearer
insight Emma received in the truths of the G5v 70
gospel, the more she felt the imperative necessity
of concealing them in the inmost recesses
of her heart,. The least she had to
fear, if her sentiments were discovered, was
an immediate separation from Mrs. Russel,
and the consequent loss of those lessons she
now listened to with intense interest, and
anticipated daily with eager delight. Personal
affliction, though it had its weight on
her mind, seemed as nothing when compared
with the loss of Christian instruction, and she
redoubled her industry in order to complete
well, and quickly, all the needlework alternately
given her, by her grandmother and
aunt, that it might be manifested her time at
school, was profitably filled up. This alacrity,
and her constant and dutiful obedience to
their commands, entirely satisfied her family,
and Eleazar frequently expressed his approbation
of Emma’s conduct and progress, in
billets addressed to her governess.

Emma, as usual, was present at the evening
meetings, but with views of the scriptures
so changed, the sophistry and subtle
arguments, continually brought forward to
cloud and controvert the predictions respecting G6r 71
the adorable Redeemer, had no
power on her renewed mind, except to fortify
it against such strained and palpable
perversions of the plainest passages of divine
truth, which these Rabbins continually resorted
to, in order to support their traditionary
reveries, and pour contempt on the
religion of Jesus. Emma continued to mark
the texts of scripture they quoted, and was
astonished as she heard these learned men
give mystic and fanciful expositions of various
parts, more peculiarly expressive of the
mission and sufferings of the Lord Jesus, and
silently contrasted it with the clear, convincing,
and consolatory explanations of her
beloved Mrs. Russel. Sometimes her young
heart seemed filled beyond the power of further
endurance or concealment, and she was
tempted to break the painful silence, and declare
what she knew and felt, and defend
that Saviour, whose precious name became
daily more endeared to her soul, until by divine
grace, to love him, was a living and vivid
principle in her heart; but happily at these
moments of temptation, her native timidity
acted in the place of prudence, and prevented G6v 72
an avowal which would have embittered
her situation, without serving the cause
she loved, or producing any but the most
disastrous effects in her family.

Another year revolved in the same manner
as the preceding, and Mrs. Russel pursued
the same undeviating line of conduct, convinced
as she closely watched its effects on
her pupil, that the divine blessing followed
her indefatigable endeavours and rendered,
them completely successful.

During this period, Eleazar frequently invited
Mrs. Russel to his house, and she always
accepted his invitations, as she felt
anxious to conciliate the family of Emma,
and if possible soften their prejudices.

These visits generally passed over very
agreeably, yet it more than once happened
without any premeditated design, that religious
allusions and comparisons escaped Eleazar,
particularly when Rabbi Jonathan was
of the party, but at such times Mrs. Russel
without compromising her opinions, parried
the indirect attack with a prudence and address,
that while it convinced her hearers, of
the sincerity of her faith, yet gave no cause
of offence.

H1r 73

Having heard, during one of these interviews,
much regret expressed by the amiable
Violette at the increasing dislike evinced
by her daughter Anna, to her unoffending
child, Mrs. Russel resolved to accept an invitation
given her by Solomon De Lissau, to
pass an evening at his house. She thought
it almost incredible that a mother could feel
thus without cause, and hoped she might in
this case be serviceable in removing any
secret prejudice between the families, which
operated to the disadvantage of a child, for
whom she had become peculiarly interested.

With motives so laudable Mrs. Russel
signified to De Lissau her intended visit.
He received her with distinguished politeness
and welcomed her to his house with a frankness
that came from the heart; far different
was the manner of his wife, toward the preceptress
of a daughter she all but disowned.
She did not indeed forget the hospitality due
to a stranger under her roof, and whose presence
there was in accordance with the request
of her husband, but the natural dignity
of her aspect and deportment were accompanied
by a cold civility that repelled at once Vol. I. H H1v 74
any approach to familiar or social intercourse,
though she could not but admire the
elegant and dignified exterior of her guest.

Thus situated, the evening passed away
heavily, the conversation was confined to
common place topics alone, but even then,
Anna took no pains to veil her hatred of
Christians, whenever she could find or make
an opportunity to express it. Rabbi Colmar,
who was present, maintained during the
evening a contemptuous silence, except when
his patroness spoke of, or alluded to the Nazarenes,
when in defiance of the respect due
to her guest, he would add his opinion in no
very measured terms, while his haughty
glance at the obnoxious visitor, fully pointed
his meaning; Mrs. Russel however displayed
the most perfect equinimity of temper, and
appeared quite unconscious of any application
to herself, when these remarks were
made, though she felt grieved as she contemplated
the beautiful mother of Emma,
and saw too clearly the inflexibility of her
natural disposition, and her undisguised abhorrence
of Christianity, encouraged and stimulated
as that evidently was by the haughty, H2r 75
gloomy, Rabbi. The request of Mrs. Russel
to see De Lissau’s children was complied
with, and Anna appeared to advantage when
she led in her favorite Sophia. Maternal
love then lit up her beautiful features, and
for the moment softened their majesty; she
presented the lovely child to Mrs. Russel
with evident exultation, and though Emma
was not named, it was easy to discern that
she wished her governess to observe the difference
between the children. Mrs. Russel
did observe it, and was much affected as she
looked on the charming child so tenderly
cherished by her mother, and thought of the
absent Emma, her present circumstances and
future destiny. She rejoiced, however, that
she was not likely to reside under the paternal
roof, or be subjected to the controul of
Rabbi Colmar, whose stern manner, and repelling
demeanour, exceeded all she had ever
imagined of a self-righteous and proud Pharisee,
and she quitted the house, more than
ever attached to her favorite pupil, though
despairing of any success in softening the
heart of her mother.

Soon after this interview, the increasing H2 H2v 76
indisposition of Julia, excited great alarm in
her family, and occasioned, for a time, the
suspension of Emma’s attendance at school.
Soon after which, the temporary convalescence
of her aunt, allowed her again to resume
her studies, but an important change
in the situation of Mrs. Russel has intervened,
and the delightful and soul improving
opportunities which Emma had so long been
favored with, were about to close for ever.
Letters had reached Mrs. Russel which required
her presence on the continent, nor
did she expect to return to England soon, if
ever, a feeling of exquisite regret, not unmixed
with dismay, rent the bosom of Emma,
when the unexpected change was imparted
to her friends by her governess, who on her
part, felt deeply for one to whom she had been
an humble, but faithful, instrument of good,
and, before she left England, she resolved to
form some arrangement whereby she might
in any time of emergency, though absent, be
useful to the young disciple, should a premature
discovery of her principles expose her
to persecution in the house of her incensed
relatives. Alas! she little anticipated the H3r 77
dark cloud that hovered over her beloved
pupil, and when it at length, by the permissive
will of heaven, descended on the unresisting
head of its victim, no sympathising
Christian friend was near to soften its weight
or to alleviate its pressure.

Chapter V.

Progressive Occurrences.

When Mrs. Russel had completed her
arrangements, preparatory to her departure H4r 79
from England, she paid a farewell visit to
Eleazar De Lissau, who was pleased to express
his regret on the occasion, in terms
very gratifying to her feelings, and without
the least hesitation acceded to her request,
that Emma might be allowed to pass the
next day with her.

Mrs. Russel’s servant came for her young
visitor, at an early hour in the morning, and
a basket of provision was sent with her as
usual, with permission from her grandfather
to remain with Mrs. Russel until nine in the
evening, when Miriam and Samuel would attend
to conduct her home.

An earnest desire to converse with Emma
on the important truths, she had been the
instrument of conveying to her, and a deep
anxiety respecting her peculiar situation,
had induced Mrs. Russel to request this
visit, and she determined to devote the whole
day to her pupil, for mingled feelings of affection,
Christian solicitude, and foreboding
sympathy, filled her heart towards the young
creature, she was about to quit for an indefinite
time, perhaps for ever, and at a period
too so important.

H4v 80

This day would have been one of unmixed
delight to Emma, had not the visit been a
farewell visit; this idea saddened her heart,
and filled her eyes with tears of poignant
sorrow, as she entered Mrs. Russel’s parlor,
who perceived with compassion the visible
dejection of her young guest, but without
appearing to notice it, soon dispelled its
audible expression, by a reception truly maternal.
Hitherto, though she had been affable,
and often affectionate, it had been necessary
and proper to keep in view the relative
situations of preceptress and pupil.
Now, this distance was wholly discarded, and
Emma tenderly encouraged to lay aside
all restraint, to regard her as an attached
friend, and converse with her as such, familiarly
and freely. Until now, though Mrs.
Russel had imparted to her the most important
truths, yet in strict accordance with the
letter of her promise, she had never in a
single instance directed to her personally, a
syllable respecting the Christian faith, but
now in language the most familiar and endearing,
and a manner indescribably solemn
and impressive, she addressed Emma on this H5r 81
great subject, and her own peculiar and even
perilous situation in connection with it.
What memorable, what important moments
were these! Every instruction time would
allow of, every direction for the future that
christian prudence warranted, or anxious anticipation
seemed to feel as necessary to be
observed, were repeated again and again with
fond solicitude, and received with deep attention,
filial reverence, and grateful submission.
Nor was fervent prayer omitted at this affecting
interview, and when Mrs. Russel had
closed her earnest supplications on behalf of
Emma, she placed in her hand a small testament,
which she had purchased expressly for
her.

“Take this precious volume, my beloved
child” said she, “as the choicest gift I can offer
to your acceptance, and study its holy contents
whenever you are favored with a safe
opportunity, I have marked many passages
for your use, and the book is so small that
you may easily conceal it. I make no doubt
that though you are (for the present at least)
deprived of any other means of christian instruction,
the Lord Himself will be your teacher, H5v 82
preserve you stedfast in your belief on
our adorable Redeemer, and in his own good
time and manner, make a way for you to honor
Him, by openly professing that faith, it
has pleased Him to reveal to you.”

Emma received the inestimable gift with
thankful joy, and assured Mrs. Russel, she
hoped ever to esteem it a peculiar treasure,
though few and secret would be the opportunities
she could have to peruse it. Christian
reader! in these happy days of religious
liberty, You possess unrestrained this sacred
volume, your access to it is free,—Is it your
peculiar treasure?

The evening of this interesting and profitably
employed day, was closed in an appropriate
manner, by Mrs. Russel’s conveying
Emma to a neighbouring church, where a lecture
was delivered, in order that she might
witness the wide difference between the service
of the church and the synagogue. The
feelings of Emma, as she entered, for the
first time, a place avowedly set apart for
the worship of Jesus of Nazareth, are to
be imagined only by those who have been
similarly circumstanced.

H6r 83

Accustomed, hitherto, to the heartless apathetic,
undevout, form of synagogue worship
Open note Back to note if so it may be termed, she was deeply affected,
as kneelingOpen note Back to note by Mrs. Russel, she
listened to, and joined in, the evening service
with her whole heart; for to her at that time,
it was not a mere form, often heard, and perhaps
therefore, lightly and carelessly responded
to. The sermon that followed was a plain
practical one, and so firmly was it impressed
on the mind of Emma, that she never forgot
either the text or heads of the lecture.

The farewell of Mrs. Russel when she
delivered Emma to the servants of her
grandfather was very tender. It was a final
separation, for they never met again.

The regret of Emma for the loss of her
beloved governess, did not vent itself in
words. She never mentioned her unless in
reply to remarks made by others, but she
cherished her memory with inexpressible
veneration and affection, and frequently pondered
over her parting counsel, resolving to
obey it as nearly as circumstances would
admit.

The testament, that invaluable gift, Emma H6v 84
concealed in an apparently secure place in
her own chamber, resorting to it as often as
she could with prudence, in its leaves she
found a brief note, containing the address of
a lady to whom she was directed to apply for
advice, or even an asylum, should any event
connected with religion, occur to render either
necessary; this note she was requested
to destroy.

Shortly after Mrs. Russel’s departure, the
double anniversary of Leila and Emma’s birthday
returned. The party who assembled at
the house of Eleazar to celebrate it, were
more numerous than usual. Leopold, whom
Emma had met a short time before, at the
house of a friend, was invited at her request.
Rabbi Jonathan, the most esteemed of Eleazar’s
friends, also attended to bid the whole
of the De Lissau family farewell, previous to
his quitting England for ever. He had arranged
his affairs preparatory to his journey,
and his final destination was Jerusalem.Open note Back to note .,
though family matters required his presence
in Poland, previous to his visit to the Holy
city, where he purposed to end his days.
This determination was deeply regretted by I1r 85
Eleazar, yet he extolled the motives of his
friend, and even declared, that were he not
prevented by family ties, Rabbi Jonathan
should not have made the pious journey
alone. The other addition to Eleazar’s party
was Rabbi Joshua ben Elias, a Jew from Jerusalem,
introduced by Rabbi Colmar. His
mission to England was of an interesting description,
it was to collect money from the
different congregations of his brethren, and
also from private individuals piously disposed,
in behalf of certain Jews established in the
holy city, and at that time imprisoned by the
Turkish Government, until they paid a heavy
fine, imposed on them for alleged or rather
imputed offences. To enable these oppressed
people to raise the sum required, a
distant day was set, that they might have
time to solicit aid from their European brethren.
In case of failure, death was the
inevitable alternative, but this had never yet
occurred, though these oppressive levies
were neither moderate nor unfrequent.

Rabbi Joshua, who had been expressly
selected, to conduct this very important mission,
was well qualified to fulfil its duties, Vol. I. I I1v 86
being learned, devout, zealous, of irreproachable
morals, endowed with a pleasing exterior,
and graceful address, and conversant
with most of the European languages, which
he spoke fluently.

On the Continent, however, he had only
partially succeeded, but the English Jews were
liberal beyond his most sanguine hopes, and
he was now returning to the captive Israel.ites,
not only with the price of their ransom,
but also with a large donation for the poor at
Jerusalem,Open note Back to note in return for which the Rabbi
presented to each pious contributor, a small
portion of JerusalemOpen note Back to note earth, duly sealed
and attested as genuine.

During the evening the Rabbi at the request
of Rabbi Colmar, related some affecting
particulars respecting Jerusalem and its
Jewish inhabitants of that day. The changes
in the city once so emphatically denominated,
a “Princess among Nations,” and the misery
and degradation of her children, were subjects
of deep interest to his auditors, and to
none more so than Emma, whose heart was
penetrated with sadness as she reflected on
the cause of these mournful reverses, and I2r 87
glancing a tearful eye on the assembled relatives,
so very dear to her in the ties of nature,
felt the appalling conviction that their enmity
to the Great Redeemer, was equally
potent and malignant as that testified by their
ancestors, before the judgment seat of Pilate,
and at Calvary!

Before the party separated, Rabbi Joshua,
who had received a liberal present from Eleazar
and his household, gave to each individual
in return, a small portion of the earth so
highly estimated, except Emma, to her he
steadily, though civilly, declined presenting
any, nor would he accept of her offering for
the poor, though when pressed for his motive
by her grandfather, he evaded assigning a
direct or satisfactory one. As he was however
on terms of intimacy with Rabbi Colmar,
to whom he had brought letters from
Palestine and the continent, and was at
present staying with the De Lissau family,
his behaviour was attributed to Anna and the
Rabbi, and therefore passed by without any
further remark.

On the mind of Emma this circumstance
made but little impression, for she was exceedinglyI2 I2v 88
grieved to find that her mother’s
conduct to her was more cold and estranged
than ever, and that she repelled her dutiful
approaches with an abhorence, she neither
sought to conceal or soften. One circumstance
however tended in a measure to soothe
her wounded feelings, it was the delicate and
affectionate attentions she received from her
brother Leopold, whose behaviour appeared
greatly to annoy his mother and the Rabbi,
as much as it pleased his grandfather,
who after commending his behaviour in very
warm terms, made him a valuable present as
a token of his approval. This drew from
Anna some remarks extremely displeasing to
Eleazar, who retorted with acrimony, and
plainly told his daughter, if she found one
visit in the year to her child too much, she
need not renew it.

“My annual visit to this house Sir,” coldly
replied Anna, “is solely to mark my respect
for my venerable grandmother, my honored
mother, and valued sister, those are the only
ties that induce my presence here. I cannot,
I will not affect feelings towards your
unworthy favorite which my heart has no I3r 89
share in. And I now avow to you once for
all, that I hate and detest the serpent you so
mistakenly cherish, and who will, I predict,
at no very distant day, fill your heart with
bitter anguish, and cover with disgrace all
who have the misfortune to be allied to
her.”

Anna quitted the room as soon as she had
ceased speaking, and the whole party immediately
broke up, but Emma, petrified by
the words just uttered by her mother, sat
pale and motionless, till roused by the soothing
voice and caresses of her grandfather,
which however added to her distress. Alas!
she was conscious were the truth known, and
the hidden feelings of her soul unveiled, the
detestation expressed by her mother, would
be the universal sentiment of every member
of her family. What piercing anguish did
this assurance convey to her heart! it seemed
at the idea to bleed at every pore. Yet
through grace, she hesitated not, even at this
painful moment to persevere in holding fast
the truth, let the consequences be what they
might, young as she was, she knew the deepest
afflictions of this life could be but transient,I3 I3v 90
and Mrs. Russel, in their last interview
had prepared her to expect sharp trials, and
perhaps eventually a total alienation from her
family, but that dear friend had also pointed
her hope to a surge refuge in the Lord Jesus,
and inwardly commending herself to this
gracious protector, she speedily resumed her
usual quiet manner, and retired to rest apparently
tranquil.

Another school in the neighbourhood was
found for Emma, soon after her birthday.
The head of it readily agreeing to accept her
on the same terms as Mrs. Russel, but she
was a very different character from that excellent
woman. Mrs. Lawrence was only a
nominal christian, and her aspect and disposition
were harsh in the extreme; her conduct
to her scholars was capricious and
tyrannical, frequently inflicting severe punishments
for very trivial faults, and Emma
who from the first was so unfortunate as to
incur her dislike, experienced very severe
treatment from her,. She bore it however,
for some months with uncomplaining patience,
in hopes that her submission and
forbearance would soften her arbitrary governess, I4r 91
and induce her to become more humane,
but at length she was compelled teto
acquaint her grandfather with some particulars,
that inclined him to investigate the
conduct of Mrs. Lawrence closely, and soon
an act of cruelty inflicted on Emma to which
he was himself witness, calling unexpectedly
at the school, determined him instantly to
remove her from a scene where in a short
space of time she had endured many sorrows,
the sense of which was not a little heightened
by their originating with a christian, a title
so dear and sacred in her eyes. She knew
not at that time the difference between a
nominal and real profession of christianity,
and in the simplicity of her heart verily believed,
all who bore the name so hallowed
were truly so, but in after life, she was taught
by bitter experience, to distinguish more
wisely.

The very precarious state of Julia’s health
at this period, engaged the anxious and undivided
attention of her family, and Emma in
consequence was allowed for the present to
remain quietly at home, with the additional
happiness of frequent and safe opportunities I4v 92
of reading in her testament, thereby embracing
the benefits God had given. What
sweet refreshing moments were these to her
wearied spirit! How healing and salutary
the balm, which the holy conveyancer of all
good never fails to bestow!

Julia had, unknown to Eleazar, but with
the consent and assistance of Violette, whose
gentle spirit was not proof against the entreaties
of her daughter, seen her unworthy
husband of late several times, but each succeeding
interview agitated her delicate frame
so violently, that at last, her mother absolutely
refused to sanction them any longer,
and Wilna departed from town. But the
decisive blow was already given, and Julia
was actually sinking into her grave, a martyr
to superstitious terrors and weak credulity,
inspired by the firm impression that her
husband was in possession of certain cabalistic
powers, which he had the cruelty to assure
her, he was resolved to exert, during
his life on her parents and family, to revenge
their interference on her behalf, and her consequent
departure from him.

About two months after Emma was emancipated I5r 93
from Mrs. Lawrence, the family
Physician pronounced Julia’s case hopeless,
and that a very few days would terminate her
existence. She received this intelligence
with composure, persuaded of her acceptance
in the world she was hastening to. After a
long private interview with her father, she
sent for De Lissau and Anna and took an
affecting leave of them, requesting that they
would send to her, Rachel the aged servant
of the Synagogue,Open note Back to note whose office it was to
attend the dying moments of the Jewish
females, and prepare them for the solemn
event.

The next wish of Julia was, that Emma
should be summoned to her, and left alone
with her to receive her last admonitions, but
she was so much exhausted, by her previous
agitated interviews with her family, that it
was postponed until the next day, when Emma
dissolved in tears, was led to her bedside,
and Rachel and her attendants withdrew at
Julia’s request, leaving them together.

The present was a moment of peculiar
sorrow to Emma, who tenderly loved her
amiable aunt, yet saw her passing into eternity I5v 94
under the awful delusion of a false religion,
without daring to shew her its fallacy,
and her own fearful state! Impressed with
this tremendous idea, she stood trembling in
silent but indescribable agony, every feature
working with an emotion almost too powerful
for endurance, while Julia regarded her for a
short time, with a fixed and eager glance, as
if she sought to read her inmost thoughts,
and was aware of their nature.

At length the invalid broke the painful
silence, and addressed her neice in broken
periods, but with surprising energy, and in
accents equally solemn and pathetic, but if
Emma was so much affected previously, what
were now her feelings, when she found that
her aunt was aware of her secret sentiments,
and had actually discovered her testament,
and he letter she had neglected, or rather
been unwilling to destroy!

“Unhappy child,” concluded Julia, “for
the peace of my family I have concealed
these things. The knowledge would be fatal
to your fond deceived grandfather, but
your dissimulation, astonishing in one so
young! fully justifies the severity of your I6r 95
mother. It is however yet in your power to
return to the God of your fathers. Repentance
Open note Back to note will still atone for past guilt. Destroy
then the gift of the wily Nazarene,
(who had seduced your inexperienced youth,)
the false record of the carpenter’s son, and
forsake the error of your ways. Emma!
will you obey your dying friend, who seeks
the welfare of your soul? shall I yet embrace
you as a penitent before my departure?”

Overcome by the effort she had made,
Julia sunk back on her pillow, and awaited
Emma’s reply, but the shock had proved too
much for feelings already highly wrought.
While Julia addressed her, she stood in a
listening attitude, but the pulsation of her
heart seemed suspended, it died within her,
her features became fixed and rigid, and
when her aunt had ceased speaking, she fell
down without sense or motion, nor did she
recover from her death-like swoon, till the
deep and mournful exclamation of, “‘Hear
O Israel!’” had announced that Julia had
ceased to exist!

Chapter VI.

Family Dissentions.

The funeral of Julia took place as usual
among the Jews, at noon the next day. Violette
overpowered by the shock, was confined
to her bed, and quite incapable of K1r 97
attending to, or even witnessing the customary
ceremonies, but Leila, desirous of honoring
the memory of the departed, and anxious
to share the merit attached to a voluntary participation
of the funeral preparations, was
present at, and assisting in the minutest of
them. It was a touching spectacle, and
spoke forcibly to the heart, of the uncertainty
and mutability of this life, to see the
withered hands of one, long past the usual
term of human existence, folding the habiliments
of the grave, about the form of a descendant,
who had not attained the meridian
of her days! Leila passed through every
rite with astonishing composure, and when
the procession had quitted the house, with
her own hands veiled the looking glasses,
placed the ewer and basin in one corner of
the apartment prepared for the mourners, in
which the spirit of the deceased, is supposed
to bathe itself daily, during the seven days
the family sit on the ground, to bewail their
bereavement, and piously kindled the memorial
lamp for Julia, that though childless, her
remembrance should be preserved. To this
end also she provided a substitute to attend Vol. I. K K1v 98
morning prayers daily in the synagogue, for
the ensuing eleven months. “She was a true
daughter of Israel,” observed Leila, “she
died in the faith, let not her name pass away
unhonored or undistinguished.”

Emma saw all these preparations in mournful
silence. The suddeness of the event,
which though expected, was not supposed to
be so very near, and the trying scene which
more immediately preceded, and perhaps
accelerated it, had for the moment blunted
her feelings, and imparted to them an unnatural
composure. This, however, soon gave
way to a sense of indescribable grief. Julia’s
last words still sounded on her ear, Alas!
they expressed such utter detestation of the
only way of salvation, and such hatred to him
who is the Holy one of Israel, the Saviour,
that Emma could entertain no hope! alike
unable to think on a subject so awful, or quit
it, she joined the mourners on their return.
But her agonised feelings met no relief in
the change, as she contemplated them, seated
on low cushions, with rent garments and
bare feet, surrounded by those who came to
join in the morning and evening prayers, K2r 99
which are recited before the mourners during
the seven days. How gladly would Emma
at this moment have opened her heart, and
spoke of Jesus to this assembly of self-deceivers!
gathered together in their own righteousness,
but whose solemn convocations,
the lip of eternal truth had denounced as
iniquity! but the effort was beyond her. The
same sovereign power, who had so graciously
opened and renewed her heart, because it
was the good pleasure of his will, had closed
those of her family and nation, and a reverential
submission to the mysterious decree,
that severed her spiritual interests, from those
of the relations so dear to her, was her final
resource, amidst the conflicting feelings
which she was the constant subject of.

When Emma’s mind had a little recovered
its tone, the insecurity of the spot she had
selected for her testament recurred to her.
Julia had seen it, others less lenient might
do so, and to be deprived of it was the least
she had to apprehend. After much deliberation,
and chusing and rejecting many plans
for securing her treasure, she felt convinced
that to secure it about her person was her K2 K2v 100
only alternative. This she at length accomplished.
The testament was very small, and
placing it in a silk cover, made to contain it,
without increasing its bulk, she wore the
precious parcel in her bosom in the day time,
and during the night, it was safe beneath her
pillow. In this simple arrangement, Emma
had no view beyond present security. She
saw not the clouds gathering around her.
She knew not, that ere long a sorrowful
change of circumstances awaited her, in connexion
with which, the possession of this
little volume, would be of incalculable importance
to her, both as a source of consolation
and instruction, during a long series of afflictive
trials, and intolerant persecutions,
such as in the saddest anticipations she had
feared, never occurred to her as either possible
or probable to be destined for her.

When the first close mourning for Julia
had passed by, and Eleazar could again mix
with society, he was called on to visit his
brother, the father of Solomon De Lissau.
His dissolution was fast approaching, and
though it was repelling to Eleazar’s feelings,
to enter his daughter’s house, on this occasion K3r 101
he restrained himself and visited his
dying relative frequently.

He was preparing to set out on this charitable
errand one day as usual, when he was
struck with the deep dejection Emma’s countenance
expressed, and the rather as she had
never experienced any particular notice or
kindness from her paternal grandfather. He
therefore called her to him, and demanded
why she looked so sad. Emma did not immediately
reply, she could not;—unconscious
that he was observing her, she was reflecting
with her usual feeling of grief, that another
relative was about to pass into eternity uninterested
in the Lord Jesus, and therefore in
a state of awful reprobation, though self-secure
and fully justified in his own eyes. Eleazar
impatiently repeated his question, and
alarmed, and hardly knowing what she said,
she murmured an indistinct answer, in which
the name of Sophia caught his ear. “You
are pining then to see your sister?” said Eleazar,
“well, you shall see her, I promise
you Sophia shall visit you on the coming
sabbath.”

Astonished and delighted at this unexpectedK3 K3v 102
event, Emma gave way to emotions
of the liveliest joy, and her grandfather left
her, gratified at having, as he supposed, discovered
the cause of a dejection, he had
frequently witnessed with equal surprise and
alarm, and which until now was wholly unaccountable
to him.

Emma had never before been so impatient
as she now felt for the arrival of the
sabbath, and much she feared all her grandfather’s
influence would fail to accomplish
his promise, though on his return he reassured
her of its certainty.

The sabbath day so ardently desired, at
length arrived, and it was certainly the happiest
Emma had ever known, as her throbbing
heart acknowledged, when she eagerly
folded to it the young and interesting Sophia!
Emma’s spirits revived during this delightful
interview, and an affection truly sisterly filled
her bosom towards her charming relative.
Hope threw a ray of light on the future, and
forgetting, for the moment, the cherished
secret of her bosom, the opposite belief in
which Sophia was so strictly educated, and
the irreconcilable nature of their principles, K4r 103
she looked forward to scenes in which her
sister was a chief actor, without considering
the improbability, that they would ever be
realized.

This day, so soothing to the mind of Emma,
drew at last to a close, and the sisters
separated with mutual and avowed regret,
but in the hope of meeting again shortly.
The death of De Lissau’s father immediately
followed it, and again Eleazar’s house was a
scene of mourning and retirement; during
which, Emma had many favorable opportunities
of reading the word of God uninterruptedly,
and a composure, she had long been a
stranger to, was the happy result.

No event of moment ruffled this serenity,
until the return of Emma’s birthday,. The
usual invitation had been duly forwarded,
the customary preparations made, and in Eleazar’s
letter he had requested Sophia might
accompany Leopold, but the day arrived
without any notice of it by the De Lissau
family, and regret, disappointment, and
gloom, marked the era hitherto always celebrated
with so much festivity.

Eleazar was not of a temper to pass by K4v 104
such a return to his condescension unnoticed.
He wrote a letter to his daughter
dictated by passion, and therefore very unlikely
to win or reclaim a spirit, equally
haughty as his own. The reply of Anna was
such as proved she had in this instance
forgot her relative duty, this produced an
answer still more severe, and for some time
letters passed between them highly discreditable
to both parties, while Leila and Violette,
who had in the first instance pleaded
for Anna, shocked at the tenor of her addresses
to her father, at length ceased to
speak on her behalf.

Emma beheld these occurrences with bitter
anguish, and though at a loss to account
for the conduct of her mother, felt an indefinable
sensation of terror as she reflected on
it, nor could she help thinking herself in
some measure the cause of it, she therefore
with the permission of her two grandmothers,
dictated a very humble and pathetic letter to
her mother, which Miriam wrote in the Jewish
character, and undertook to convey to
Anna.

An opportunity soon offered for the errand K5r 105
Miriam wished to make, and she delivered
Emma’s letter into her mother’s hand, but
its contents seemed to augment her displeasure,
and it was returned torn in pieces with
every mark of contempt.

A few days after this painful event, Rabbi
Colmar was announced. Eleazar, in consideration
of his character, and supposing he
came with overtures of peace, received him
courteously, but what were his feelings when
the Rabbi made a formal demand for the immediate
restoration of Emma, at the desire
of her parents! for once, however, Eleazar
stifled ever resentful expression, and coldly,
but firmly, negatived the demand, though he
still affected to behave to the Rabbi with politeness.
The next request of Colmar was to
be permitted to speak to Emma, but this
Eleazar politely but decidedly refused. “Her
spirits have been already sufficiently agitated,”
replied he warmly, “she shall not know
of your present application, for be assured
I will never consent to part with her. Her
mother has never evinced towards her one
spark of maternal feeling, therefore good
Rabbi urge no further so unavailing a suit, K5v 106
but bear my determination to your patroness,
and tell her also from me, that from this
moment, I will endeavour to forget that I
ever had any daughter, but the one I have so
lately seen deposited in her grave!”

Rabbi Colmar attempted to soften this last
resolution, but Eleazar was inflexible and he
left the house entirely unsuccessful.

This demand for the restoration of Emma
deeply wounded Eleazar, and he never forgave
it, he was, however, much surprised to
find it was not repeated. An entire cessation
of intercourse followed the late hostilities
and they never met even in public, for immediately
after the visit of Rabbi Colmar to
Eleazar, De Lissau and his family, who had
hitherto attended the same synagogue, with
Eleazar, now quitted it to unite themselves
with a community which had originally seceded
from it.

Some months passed away in a quiescent
state, during which Emma had been kept in
seclusion, lest an attempt might be made to
agitate or alarm her. Anything beyond that
Eleazar did not imagine likely to occur,
and after a time the politic and assumed indifference K6r 107
of Anna completely deceived her
father, and set his mind perfectly at ease
respecting the child of his adoption.

The time now approached for Eleazar to
make his accustomed visit to Paris, and
Emma saw him depart, with feelings of uneasiness
she could neither define nor repress.
Eleazar observed the sadness of his favorite,
and tenderly embracing her, told her to be
dutiful to her grandmothers, and she should
be rewarded, by some presents from Paris,
on his return, he was however himself much
affected, and he actually returned to bestow
on Emma once more his fervent benediction!
Alas! these feelings on both sides, were surely
prophetic. The farewell was an eternal
one. Never again did Eleazar behold the
child of his affection, nor ever again did
Emma meet the fond parent who so tenderly
loved her.

Shortly after the departure of Eleazar, an
eminent Jewish female died, her funeral was
attended by a great concourse of pious
women, among whom were Leila and Violette.
Anna had long sought an opportunity
like this, and immediately dispatched Rabbi K6v 108
Colmar to execute her cruel plan. The absence
of Solomon De Lissau at this critical
period he considered a fortunate omen, and
hastened exultingly to obey commands, which
had their origin in his own counsels. Emma’s
terror when this stern bigot appeared
before her, and avowed his intentions, were
beyond description. In an agony she flew
from him, and appealed to the servants for
protection, but the Rabbi came prepared for
resistance, and determined to brave it. He
summoned from the carriage that brought
him, two men who bore away Emma by force
from the astonished domestics, and placing
her in the vehicle, Rabbi Colmar hastily entered
it, and it proceeded rapidly to the house
of Solomon De Lissau; when it arrived there,
Emma, stunned by the sudden event, and exhausted
by the efforts she had previously
made, had lost the power of resistance, and
silently and mechanically followed the Rabbi,
who conducted her by the garden entrance,
into his own apartment, where he locked her
in, and hastened to give an account of his
mission and its success, to an heart still more
obdurate than his own.

L1r 109

What a moment of anguish mingled with
horror was this to the unhappy captive! torn
from her home, severed from her beloved
friends, and in the power of the vindictive
Rabbi what had she not to dread! Her mother
too, how she longed yet feared to see her!
Could it be, she frequently thought, as she
gazed wildly around, that she was in her
father’s house, under the same room with her
brothers, (all of them, but Leopold, strangers
to her) and her beloved sister! yet treated
with indignity, brought thither by brutal
force, and without the power of leaving the
apartment. These thoughts passed rapidly
through her bewildered mind, which, confused
and agitated, could not reason with any
connexion, meantime the shades of night approached,
and not even a sound broke the
silence around her.

At length the key turning in the door announced
a visitor, and the Rabbi entered,
accompanied by her mother. The first impulse
of Emma was to hasten towards her,
but the terrible expression of her countenance
appalled her, and she resumed her seat, on
the floor, in a remote corner of the chamber, Vol. I. L L1v 110
though she could not suppress the heavy sobs
that burst from her overcharged heart. Anna
took no notice of her but conversed sometime
with the Rabbi, and it was a relief to
Emma to see her depart. The Rabbi had
the humanity to offer her some food, but she
could not partake of it, and worn out by the
deep emotions that had shaken her frame and
almost unsettled her reason, she unresistingly
allowed him to place her on his couch, where,
after a time, sleep closed her tearful eyes,
while the Rabbi divided the hours, between
his studies, and observations on the behaviour
of the child, he thought it meritorious to
snatch, by the most desperate means, from
the fate attached to Apostacy!

Chapter VII.

Persecution.

The feverish slumber of the unhappy Emma,
was broken at early dawn by her mother,
who hastily aroused her from this temporary L2 L2v 112
alleviation of her misery, and changed the
flowered silk robe and satin slip she wore, for
a coarse stuff frock and blue checked apron.
She also divested her of the valuable ornaments,
which, by her grandfather’s desire she
always appeared in. All these changes were
rapidly effected in silence, and Emma felt no
disposition to break it, though the expression
of her countenance sufficiently depicted
what was passing in her heart. Her mother
in a harsh voice commanded her to follow
her, and led the way through a number of
passages to a narrow flight of stairs, apparently
at a remote part of the house; ascending
these, they passed into a long winding
entry, at the extremity of which was a low
door which Anna unlocked. It opened into
a small chamber with only one window, which
was a circular sky-light; a little bed in one
corner, and a stool and table, completed its
furniture; the floor was matted, and the whole
bore evident marks of recent arrangement.

“This is your present abode” said the pitiless
mother, “until I have finally decided how
to dispose of you,—that will in a great measure
depend on your answers to some questions, L3r 113
Rabbi Colmar intends putting to you,
by my desire, meantime I forbid you to quit
it under any pretence whatsoever, without
my permission, or that of the Rabbi.”

She then closed the door, and left Emma
to meditate at her leisure, on the sudden and
extraordinary change in her situation, and
the treacherous and violent manner in which
it had been effected.

Emma’s heart melted into feelings of the
tenderest sympathy, as memory pourtrayed
the sorrow of Leila and Violette, when on
their return, they were apprized of the manner
in which she had been torn from them.
It represented too, the more passionate displeasure,
her grandfather would not fail to
make known to, and felt by those who had
thus violated the domestic arrangement of
his house, in defiance of a contract the most
solemn, and her tears flowed copiously, as
forgetting her personal interests, she mourned
over the inevitable disunion of her family.

After indulging these natural feelings for a
time, her mind became more calm, and Mrs.
Russel’s advice at their last interview recurred
to her. At a moment like this, how valuable L3 L3v 114
were her counsels! soothed by their remembrance,
Emma poured out her heart before
him, who is the sure refuge of the oppressed;
in the exercise of this blessed privilege, her
soul was strengthened and refreshed, and she
awaited with composure, astonishing even
to herself, the expected visit of Rabbi Colmar.
The hours however wore away, yet he
came not, and Emma, who had not tasted
food since she left her grandfather’s house,
now that her mental sufferings were somewhat
allayed, began to feel the pressure of
hunger, but afternoon was succeeded by the
shades of approaching night, and still no one
came! An intolerable thirst parched her pale
lips, but the chamber did not contain even a
little water, a feverish glow flushed her
cheek,—her heart sickened—her head grew
light and dizzy—a clammy dew hung on her
forehead, and at length, feeling the appalling
conviction that she had been left there to
perish, she laid her throbbing head on her
pillow, and soon sunk, from mere exhaustion,
into a deep sleep, wherein imagination placed
her at a table spread with tempting viands,
cooling fruits, and vases of the purest water.

L4r 115

Late in the evening of this trying day, the
voice of Rabbi Colmar dispelled the delusive
dream occasioned by the unsatisfied cravings
of nature, and aroused the sufferer. In an
imperious tone he commanded her to rise,
and attend to a message from her mother.
At that name, Emma attempted to obey, but
an universal tremor shook her frame, and she
felt entirely unable to comply.

“I am very ill,” said she, in weak accents.

“Obstinacy, and hypocrisy!” exclaimed
the Rabbi. “I insist on your obedience.”

“I have not tasted food this day, Rabbi,”
she murmured, in a faultering voice, as she
raised her languid eyes to his, and held up
her clasped hands in a supplicating attitude.

The Rabbi was excessively shocked as he
heard her piteous declaration, and saw her
heart moving manner of silently imploring
his compassion. Obdurate as he was, he
had not, even in idea, intended to inflict on
her the pangs of hunger, nor had Anna contemplated
a punishment of that nature; but
in their exultation at having so easily and effectually
executed a plan, they had rather
hoped, than expected to accomplish, they L4v 116
had actually forgotten the isolated situation
of the poor captive, her natural wants, and
the impossibility of her receiving food without
their assistance.

Anxious to repair the consequence of his
negligence, the Rabbi hastened away, and
soon returned with some light refreshments,
which he presented to Emma in a manner
almost like kindness, requesting her to partake
of them sparingly, that she might not
injure herself. After this repast, he told her
she might go to rest, as he would defer the
subject he had intended to enter upon, until
she was better prepared for it. Before he
left her, however, he desired her to take the
contents of a small glass he had brought for
that purpose. Emma complied without any
hesitation. It was a composing medicine,
and she soon experienced its salutary effects.
Before that took place however, a delightful
surprise awaited her. As she laid aside her
coarse garments, in order to retire to the
flock mattrass, destined to succeed the luxurious
couch, she had hitherto been accustomed
to repose on, the silken bag enclosing
the testament fell from her bosom! what a
moment of exquisite pleasure was this!

L5r 117

In the first ebullition of her distress, the
hurry of mind consequent to it, and the physical
sufferings that so rapidly succeeded,
she had entirely forgotten the treasure she
wore next her heart, and which, as if by miracle,
had escaped her mother’s observation,
during the transactions of the morning.
Folding it to her throbbing bosom with feelings
of mingled joy, reverence, and gratitude,
and bathing it with tears, sweet salutary,
and heart relieving, Emma at length
yielded to the power of the Rabbi’s potion,
and sunk into a sound and refreshing repose.
The first rays of morning gleaming through
the skylight dispelled Emma’s sleep, and she
arose from her hard couch invigorated and
composed.

After offering a short but fervent prayer
to the God of her mercies, who had so graciously
sustained her feeble mind at this
trying period, and strengthened it, to rest
solely on Him, she ventured, as a profound
silence reigned through the house, to read a
portion of the holy volume, so happily preserved
to her, and felt assured that while she
possessed this inestimable privilege, the heaviest L5v 118
deprivations her mother could inflict,
would be softened and rendered endurable.

At an early hour, Sarah, the personal servant
of Anna, and the superintendant of the
household, brought Emma’s breakfast, and
informed her, she should return in an hour,
to conduct her to her father, who had arrived
from the country late the preceding evening,
and wished to have some conversation with
her. Emma’s heart was at once agitated,
and revived by this intelligence, she knew
that from her father she had no undue severity
to apprehend, and much to hope from
the tenderness of his paternal feelings.
Pleasing anticipation therefore, was the sensation
inspired by this message, though it
was imparted in a most ungracious and
scornful manner by Sarah, who appeared to
think herself degraded, by her present employment
of conveying food to one, whom
her revered mistress considered a reprobate!

This favorite domestic, who had the power
(and stretched it to its utmost limits) of embittering
Emma’s subsequent trials, was a
bigotted and zealous Jewess, of an extremely
harsh temper, and unfeeling disposition, but L6r 119
enthusiastically devoted to her mistress, and
minutely exact in all that pertained to religion,
which in her view consisted in a scrupulous
attention to an endless round of ceremonies,
traditional superstitions, and an
unextinguishable hatred to even the very
name of Christianity, insomuch that she always
conducted herself towards the servants
of that persuasion, in a manner the most
tyrannical and oppressive.

Such was the messenger that came at the
time specified, to conduct Emma to her
father. He waited for her in a little chamber
directly under the one she occupied, and
which was his oratory, the narrow flight of
stairs that led to the one apartment, terminated
at the door of the other.

Emma felt a degree of uneasy timidity as
she entered into the presence of her father,
but the first glance of his benign features, at
once reassured her, and she bent before him
to receive the paternal benediction. It was
given with fervent tenderness, and as he
raised and folded her to his kind bosom, a
father’s tears fell on her face, and mingled
with those she shed in abundance, at a
reception so very affectionate.

L6v 120

When these emotions had a little subsided,
De Lissau explained to Emma, his motive
for desiring to see her at this time. It was
to ascertain from her own lips, whether she
really had imbibed any sentiments contrary
to the Jewish faith; and if so, which he
avowed he did not believe, he requested her
to make known to him their nature, extent,
and from whom she had received them.

“You need not fear to reply to my questions
ingenuously, my beloved child,” added
this excellent parent, “Your welfare prompts
them. If your mother is mistaken, I am resolved
to restore you immediately to your
grandfather. Should the contrary be the
case, I then cannot, consistently with my
given word, interfere on your behalf. But
even then, my Emma may rely on her father’s
indulgence, and expect from him every alleviation
in his power.”

Emma heard this address with intense
interest, and an emotion that for the moment,
rendered her unable to reply. De Lissau
perceived her agitation, and soothed her in
the gentlest manner. At length finding she
was still silent, he repeated his request for M1r 121
an explicit reply, that his future conduct might
be guided by it. Thus urged, Emma felt
called on, by her filial duty, to answer him
with undisguised sincerity; yet she was deeply
affected at the idea of avowing principles
so decidedly opposed to her nation and family,
as with a palpitating heart, she said:—

“My dearest father, I acknowledge your
right to know the inmost thoughts of my
mind, I will neither deny or conceal the
truth from you. I am a Christian.”

De Lissau was astonished. An uneasy
anticipation of the tenor of her reply, had
floated on his mind, but an avowal at once
so frank and fearless, he expected not, and
he paused awhile as if at a loss what to say.
Meantime Emma, who at this moment felt
elevated beyond herself, and entirely divested
of the terror, that until now had ever accompanied
any anticipation of discovery, watched
the expression of her father’s features, and
saw with pleasure that anger mingled not
with the visible emotion there depicted.

At length De Lissau broke the affecting
silence, and made many minute enquiries,
which Emma answered with perfect candor, Vol. I. M M1v 122
and simplicity. He could not conceal his
surprise at Mrs. Russel’s conduct, but he
made no comment on it to his daughter.
His next question related to Rabbi Colmar’s
behaviour towards her in the late scenes, and
Emma detailed it accurately, with the exception
of her having passed the preceding day
without food, as that had not been a wilful
infliction. Her father, however, had been
apprised of that circumstance by the Rabbi
himself, and kindly commended her conduct
respecting it.

“Ever continue to evince a candid and
forgiving spirit my Emma,” said he, “In
consequence of your situation, you will often
have occasion to exercise it. Honor your
mother, I charge you, whatever may be her
conduct, and remember that under every trial
she may expose you to, you owe her respect and
obedience, as far as you conscientiously can
do so. I have promised not to interfere with
her plans respecting you, but I shall see you
every day, and do all in my power to console
you, and supply to you, the dear friends
you are deprived of, but neither by my advice,
or with my approbation.”

M2r 123

De Lissau, as he concluded this affectionate
address, again fervently blessed and embraced
the object of his tenderest love, and compassion,
whose eyes overflowed at his allusion
to the beloved and venerable protectors of
her infant years. He then summoned Sarah,
who conducted her to her chamber, where
she found a work-box, and a basket of new
linen cut out, and prepared for sewing. This
she was desired to attend to immediately,
and expedite with neatness and diligence, by
her mother’s command; to which Sarah added
a taunting comment of her own, and
then hastened away,.

The employment furnished to Emma,
though intended as a task, was in reality of
essential service to her, by dividing her attention,
and preventing her mind from dwelling
too intently on her present solitary confinement.
The interview with her father
had also a beneficial effect, she had been at
last permitted to cast aside the veil that concealed
her real sentiments, without reproach
or comment, and felt her bosom lightened
and relieved, by her ingenuous avowal which
the noble minded De Lissau had so generously
received.

M2 M2v 124

Several days passed away in regular succession,
during which, Rabbi Colmar and
her mother, took not the least notice of Emma,
who daily saw her father at an early hour
in his oratory, and uniformly received from
him the tenderest attentions, though she
could not but observe that he looked thoughtful
and unhappy. The cause of his uneasiness,
however, he did not impart, and evaded
her anxious enquiries, by waving the subject,
in a manner that silenced without satisfying
her; but though De Lissau was thus silent to
Emma, she was the sole cause of the sorrow
that hung on his brow. He had, during the
time that passed so quietly with her, been
engaged in incessant debates with his wife.
She intended, originally, to convey Emma to
an intimate friend of her’s, who resided in
Germany, and with whom she constantly corresponded.
This friend entered warmly into
her intentions respecting Emma, and had
consented to assist in forwarding them. She
was, like Anna, an austere and bigoted Jewess,
added to which, her hatred to Christianity,
was deepened by the oppressive tax, at
that time levied on all Jews travelling in or M3r 125
through Germany.Open note Back to note Under her auspices,
all opportunity of either imbibing or cherishing
heretical opinions would have been completely
prevented, as she was the wife of the
presiding Rabbi, and her house was inaccessible
to Christians; but De Lissau firmly
opposed this favorite arrangement of his
wife, and insisted that Emma should remain
under his roof, nor could either Anna or the
Rabbi prevail on him to alter his determination,
and they were ultimately obliged to
yield the point, lest he should, (as he more
than once hinted,) restore her to the happy
asylum of her infancy.

Chapter VIII.

Trials and Temptations.

When the obstinately contested point of
Emma’s future residence was finally adjusted, M4r 127
De Lissau, in accordance with a promise previously
extorted from him by his wife, resigned
the disposal of her time and pursuits,
to her mother and the Rabbi. But he earnestly
recommended a mild and persuasive
mode of treatment, as most likely to compass
their wishes. And, (dreading the effects of
Anna’s temper, increased and influenced as
its natural violence was, by the unfeeling
Rabbi,) he warned them to beware of offering
at any time, or under any pretence, personal
ill-usage to the child he regarded, as
having a double claim to his pity, as he would
certainly interfere in that case, in a way neither
of them would approve,

“She will have sufficient mental sorrow to
contend with,” added he compassionately,
“to cloud her youthful days with gloom.
On earth she has no friend but me; unless
the sacred feelings of nature, should eventually
plead for her in a mother’s bosom.”

“Call me not her mother,” exclaimed Anna
passionately, “I hate her, even should she not
be the apostate I believe her to be.”

De Lissau was about to reply in an indignant
tone, when Rabbi Colmar interposed, M4v 128
and spoke loftily of religious discipline, and
sanctity, when laudably exerted in defending
the true faith, and the necessity of extirpating,
by every possible means, all that was
opposed to it. He also ventured., though
with caution, to hint his surprise at the toleration
and even indulgence, De Lissau, in
all other respects so exemplary, evinced for
the detestable Nazarenes.

“You may spare your observations on this
head, Rabbi,” replied De Lissau coldly, “with
all my real respect for you, I cannot allow of
dictation in matters of conscience, from the
holiest saint,. My religious opinions and
belief are matters between God and my
soul. I enter not on them with any one, nor
is it agreeable to me to dwell on the subject,
suffer me, however, as it regards Emma, to
remind you, that religious persecution is extremely
unwise as well as unjust, and generally
defeats its own object,. And experience
has long since convinced me, that coercive
measures may make hypocrites, but never yet
produced a genuine convert.”

Neither Anna or the Rabbi were at all
satisfied with De Lissau’s opinions, or inclined M5r 129
to adopt them, and he left them to their
own arrangements, while he went to fortify
Emma’s mind to meet unkindness with patience,
and to repeat his charge ever to display
towards his mother, filial respect and
obedience.

“I know this will sometimes prove a difficult
matter,” concluded he, “but it is your
duty, and I expect it from you.”

Emma felt her father’s kindness; it was
sweet and soothing to her mind, but she derived
the patience he recommended her to
practise, from a better and higher source
than her own weak endeavours. The Power
that had been pleased to call her, while so
young, to trials so affecting, had graciously
proportioned her strength to them, and shed
on her heart a peace, nothing earthly, however
alluring, could possibly either impart or
deprive her of.

The next morning Rabbi Colmar visited
Emma, to elicit from her the true sentiments
of her heart respecting religion. He came
alone, for Anna could not, as yet, so far govern
her unruly passions, as to bear from her
any avowal such as she expected.

M5v 130

The Rabbi was surprised to find Emma
sitting composedly at work, and that her
features wore an air of thoughtfulness, but
not sadness. He had felt assured that solitary
confinement would have produced a very
contrary effect, and inwardly suspected she
was in possession of some secret source of
consolation, which he determined to discover,
and take from her. These thoughts, however,
were dispelled by his astonishment, at the
ingenuous manner in which she met his ensnaring
questions respecting her belief, and
the undaunted though respectful tenor of her
answers. Passions, the most furious, agitated
his whole frame while she spoke, and his imprecations,
when his rage at last found vent
in words, were terrific, as, in the prostituted
name of the Holy One of Israel, he denounced
the vengeance of heaven on her Apostate
head!

Emma listened to the Rabbi in perfect silence,
and with seeming composure,. Though
shocked at his stern looks, appalling language,
and impious curses, she feared them not.
She was no longer the timid child shrinking
back terrified at the least allusion to her M6r 131
religious sentiments. Her character appeared
to have undergone a complete change
amidst the trials she had experienced, and a
divine support raised her above the fear of
man, and imparted to her mind, a firmness
that in its effects, proved its holy origin:
under this gracious influence, the violent indignation
of Rabbi Colmar, was as nothing,
when compared with the oppresive feelings,
concealment of her sentiments had hitherto
inflicted on her. Her natural disposition was
open and communicative, she had therefore
always felt sad, under the unavoidable restraint,
and even dissimulation, which prudence
had imposed on her conduct, and,
her bosom, lightened of that painful weight,
feared not the trials preparing for her, but
rather rejoiced in having an opportunity, of
frankly acknowledging those truths of which
her soul was so firmly assured.

In his report to his patroness, the Rabbi,
did not fail to give every minute particular,
of Emma’s answers and deportment; at the
latter he declared his astonishment.

“Good Rabbi,” replied Anna, “her hardihood
need not surprise you. An unequalled M6v 132
effrontery, and diabolical audacity, are distinguishing
characteristics of this unholy sect,
and owe their source to their base-born founder.
Recollect you not, his depraved and
unnatural conduct towards his mother,Open note Back to note
and its consequences? Were they not the
origin of his inventing and disseminating the
Nazarene heresy, termed by his deluded followers,
Christianity?”

The Rabbi could not but assent to these
assertions, and applaud the holy indignation
of Anna, against a faith, which was indeed
too spiritual to be discerned, by these self
righteous worshippers of the letter of scripture,
while its spirit was veiled from them,
and lost, amidst a cloud of absurd traditions,
the mere work of man, and therefore, well
pleasing to his carnal mind.

They were still in deliberation how to act
with respect to Emma, when De Lissau
joined them. He heard them choose and
reject various plans for compelling her to
return to Judaism, without making any remark,
until appealed to by his wife, for his
opinion, though she meant it rather as a
compliment, than intending to act on any
method he might advise.

N1r 133

“I have neither inclination nor ability to
assist your deliberations on this subject,” answered
De Lissau, carelessly, “nor need you
be told that the best, perhaps the only method
of repelling and refuting error, is by
advancing and disseminating truth.”

It was at last finally arranged between
Anna and the Rabbi, that they should, each
in their turn, try the force of arguments, persuasion,
and promises, on Emma’s mind, before
they proceeded to extremities with her,
as a confirmed and irreclaimable apostate.

In pursuance of this line of conduct, Rabbi
Colmar visited Emma’s apartment daily,
and laying aside, as much as he could, the
native austerity of his character, condescended
to enter into familiar conversation
with her on religious topics, in the course of
which, he represented to her in strong terms,
how very inadequate so young and inexperienced
a creature, was, to judge for herself,
on so important a subject as religion, and
what lamentable arrogance and self-conceit,
it evinced to oppose her immature judgment,
to the belief and opinions of the whole Jewish
nation, abounding as it did, with innumerableVol. I. N N1v 134
wise, holy, and heaven-inspired Rabbins,
whose doctrines were infallible, their
lives pure and spotless as angels, and whose
souls were most assuredly bound up in the
bundle of life everlasting!

“Emma De Lissau!” said he in conclusion,
and with peculiar earnestness, “ponder
over what I have said, and harden not your
heart against truth. The evil one has led you
fearfully astray, and greatly prevailed over
you hitherto. Remember, however, it is not
as yet too late, to renounce the abominable
errors you have imbibed, and return to the
God of Israel. Prayer and penitence have
great power with the most High. Life and
death are before you, the choice is with yourself.
On the one hand, you may, as a true
daughter of Israel, win by your due observance
of the rites of our holy faith, in this
life, temporal blessings, and in that to come,
eternal glory. On the other hand, if, after
this solemn warning, you persist in adhering
to Nazarene idolatry, your soul shall be
swept away in the destruction appointed to
them, with the addition of the awful punishment,
attached to apostacy!”

N2r 135

Arguments such as Rabbi Colmar used, and
an address so impressive as was his concluding
one, could not fail to affect Emma. His
influence, however, only extended to her natural
feelings, it reached not her heart, and
had no power on her faith. He read in her
countenance the effect of his words, and inwardly
triumphed, but he was mistaken.
Her respectful demeanour, strengthened his
belief that he had prevailed, and he made a
report to Anna in accordance with that opinion.
But when he saw his supposed convert
next day, the illusion vanished! Emma, who
had hitherto been an attentive auditress only,
was now called on by him to speak, and she
obeyed the call, with extreme simplicity, yet
in a manner, that annoyed and disconcerted
this learned and proud Pharisee, who was
actually more than once at a loss, to reply to
the plain but searching questions of this despised
illiterate girl, who had not yet attained
the twelfth year of her age!

Rabbi Colmar at length quite relinquished,
as utterly hopeless, any further attempt on
his part, to convince or reclaim so obstinate
an heretic; but, in order to prevent any reflectionN2 N2v 136
on the part of De Lissau, he requested
Anna to try her influence, though he
declared he had not the shadow of an expectation
that she would succeed. The opinions
of the Rabbi were ever, all-prevalent with
his patroness, and, in compliance with his
wishes, she took an early opportunity of visiting
her daughter, whom she had not seen,
since the memorable morning, when she had
conducted her to her present abode.

Emma was diligently employed at her
needle, when her mother unexpectedly entered
the little chamber, and felt much surprised
at the composure and security of her
aspect and manner.

Hitherto, Anna had always seen her, under
a constraint that imparted itself to all
she said or did, and gave her features, an air
of sadness not natural to them, and difficult
to account for, amidst the indulgence and
affluence that surrounded her. But now,
though deprived of every customary luxury,
and placed in a garret, solitary and oppressed,
those appearances of discontent, had
given place to a tranquillity, that shed a
sweet influence over her, and made her feel N3r 137
superior to every thing merely outward or
temporal. “How can this be?” thought Anna,
as she surveyed her. Alas! she knew
not that holy peace, the religion of Jesus
alone can bestow. It was not to be found in
the austere discipline she devoted herself to
so rigidly, it rested not on creature acts of
self-righteous, or Jewish observances; it left
the boasting Pharisee to reap from carnal
ceremonies a carnal enjoyment, as transient
and empty as its hollow and sandy foundation,
while it flowed richly, freely, and influentially,
on the weak, helpless, empty, friendless,
abased sinner, who had by sovereign
grace, been led by the Eternal Spirit, to worship
the despised Nazarene!

Emma was in her turn equally surprised at
the altered manner of her mother, whose address
on this occasion, was persuasive and
even maternal. She remained with Emma
for a considerable space of time, during
which, with seductive eloquence, she adduced
every argument that could allure, bewilder,
terrify, or deter, on the subject of religion.
And when she had concluded this
effort, aided by all the consummate talent of N3 N3v 138
her brilliant mind, she arose to depart, desiring
Emma to reflect on what she had heard,
with a becoming humility, and in an obedient
spirit.

“No reply!” added she, waving her hand,
with a dignity peculiar to her, for Emma
was about to speak: “Meditate on what I
have said. Tomorrow evening, Rabbi Colmar
shall conduct you to my chamber. I will
then hear you, and your answer shall decide,
whether I am to consider you as a daughter
of Israel, and as such, my daughter, or an
accursed Nazarene, the child of perdition,
and an alien for ever, from the holy nation,
and your family!”

The hours that intervened before she was
to attend her mother, were deeply afflictive,
and peculiarly trying to Emma. The earnestness
displayed by Anna, and the unusual
suavity of her address, could not but affect
an heart but too susceptible of the endearing
claims of natural affection. To win her
mother’s love, what would she not have endured,
but that which was demanded of her!
but to give up her faith was quite impossible,
and tears of indescribable agony fell from N4r 139
her eyes, as she besought from above,
strength and submission, to meet the impending
trial, and endure its inevitable consequences.

De Lissau was absent at this time, and
Emma saw not the face of a human being,
with the exception of Sarah, she had therefore
full opportunity for the meditation her
mother had recommended.

At a late hour in the appointed evening,
Rabbi Colmar came for Emma. He surveyed
her with a penetrating glance, as he
commanded her to follow him, to the apartment
of her mother. Secretly commending
herself to Him, whose cause she was about
by His grace, to avow her unalterable devotion
to, she obeyed, with a pale countenance,
and throbbing heart, but with a spirit firm,
as the rock it was fixed on, and a conscience
clear and at peace, though her answer would
be incompatible in this instance, with her
filial duty.

Anna awaited her daughter in her dressing
room; the glass door leading to her bed-chamber
was open, and as Emma entered, the
first object that caught her attention, was her N4v 140
sister Sophia, sleeping on a couch near her
mother’s bed. Forgetting at this sight, her
own situation and the subject that had
brought her into this place, she fell at her
mother’s feet, and eagerly besought her to
let her look on her dear sister as she slept,
if but for one moment. Anna was moved
for an instant by her emotion, but Rabbi
Colmar hastily closed the door, and drew a
curtain across it, and his patroness, recovering
her usual cold manner, bid Emma arise,
and make known her final determination;
representing to her, at the same time, that it
was at her own option, if she really loved
Sophia, to live constantly in her society, and
that of her own family, at the same time,
drawing a vivid picture of the happiness,
such an intercourse could not fail to convey.

This appeal to the natural feelings of Emma
could not fail to affect her. She paused
and wept, it was a moment of powerful
temptation, and assuredly, had her faith
either emanated from, or rested on, any
thing in herself, it had failed at that critical
period; but He who had first called her
from the darkness of nature, into light, now N5r 141
manifested His strength in her weakness,
and lifting up an invincible standard against
the tempter, he fled discomfited, to the glory
of that grace which delights to prove its
omnipotence in the most trying moments of
creature inability.

Anna saw the varied emotions, that agitated
the features of Emma, during this mental
conflict, and mistaking their nature, placed
before her daughter, a case containing a
suit of valuable pearls, which she said should
be her’s, the moment she signified her assent
to return wholly to the true faith. This
action, at once dispelled every confused
thought, and chased the last lingering tear of
regret from her eyes. How despicable did
these baubles appear to her at this moment!
She turned indignantly from the proffered
reward, intended to induce her to deny the
God of her salvation, and loosing at the instant,
all fear of her mother, and the Rabbi,
was enabled to return a decisive negative to
all their propositions.

Language is inadequate to describe the
rage of Anna, at the address of Emma, and
her rejection of all her tempting offers. She N5v 142
poured on her devoted head, a malediction
rendered almost inarticulate, from the passion
that dictated it, and Rabbi Colmar,
hurried her away, fearful of the consequences
of a violence which seemed to verge on
frenzy. Arrived at her garret, he left her
there, to anticipate the result of a declaration,
which he assured her, had for ever
severed her from her family, in this life, and
any hope of salvation, in the world of spirits.

Chapter IX.

Bondage.

The gloomy predictions of Rabbi Colmar,
had not the effect he intended they should on
the mind of Emma. Young and inexperienced
as she was, she knew in whom she believed,
his unauthorised anathemas, therefore,
moved her not; yet she was not indifferent to N6v 144
the heavy displeasure of her mother, whom
she ardently desired to be permitted to love
and honor, but, as she had only disobeyed
her commands on a subject, where obedience
would have been a crime against the Majesty
of heaven, her regret, though deep and sincere,
was yet endurable, for it was unmingled
with remorse.

Several days passed on in a manner inexplicably
tranquil, without making the slightest
alteration in the situation of Emma, who
now saw not a living creature, with the exception
of Sarah, who treated her with marked
insolence; this however, had not the
least effect on Emma, except as it appeared
to her, the transcript of her mother’s present
feelings towards her.

At length De Lissau returned home, and
from him, Emma gained the painful intelligence,
that Anna had been confined to her
bed, from the consequences of the excitement
she had felt, on the evening of their
stormy interview, and her indisposition had
been considerably heightened by a very violent
letter she had just received from her
incensed father, whose passion on learning O1r 145
the abduction of his adopted child, vented
itself in language the most indignant and
appalling!

Emma mourned afresh over these afflictive
events, originating as they undoubtedly
did, in circumstances connected with those
sentiments, which, nevertheless, were the only
solace of her chequered existence. But for
her there was no alternative! The path of
tribulation lay before her, and it must be
trodden! Yet, gloomy as was the vista of
life, to this solitary young pilgrim, she was
not left comfortless. “A good hope:” “a
hope full of immortality,” shed a celestial
light on the wilderness scene, and faith pointed
to the glorious Captain of her salvation,
who had passed through the desart before
her, and removed every deadly snare, and
who would be ever near to shield her, from
her many foes, and guide her safely, though
perhaps sorrowfully, through its painful intricacies.

Emma continued her daily avocations unmolested,
until Anna was sufficiently convalescent
to leave her apartment; previous to
which, she had, by the advice of Rabbi ColmarVol. I. O O1v 146
endeavoured to dismiss from her mind,
every recollection that might retard her recovery.
Consequently Emma was suffered
to remain unnoticed in her solitary chamber,
until her future destination was decided on
by her mother and the Rabbi. This occasioned
no small perplexity to them, as they
wished and resolved to make the Apostate,
(as they now invariably termed her,) as unhappy
and degraded as possible, and at the
same time prevent any intercourse between
her and the junior branches of the family.
Before finally deciding how to dispose of her,
Anna made another attempt to obtain De
Lissau’s consent to transfer her to the care
of her friend in Germany. But he was inflexible
on this subject, though it occasioned
much angry recrimination between them. A
temporary mode of employing Emma was
therefore adopted, though both Anna and
the Rabbi cordially regretted, that they were
not at liberty in this country, to have recourse
to measures, which in parallel cases were
resorted to in Poland, without exciting any
troublesome enquiry, or involving the actors
in any serious danger.

O2r 147

The day after these deliberations Rabbi
Colmar conveyed to Emma, her mother’s
commands relative to the future disposal of
her time. She received them respectfully,
nor could the Rabbi discern in the tranquil
composure of her features, while he spoke,
any repugnance, either at the arbitrary message
he was the bearer of, or the harsh terms
in which he had purposely chosen to express
it. Not so his own aspect, that was dark and
clouded, and the vindictive passions depicted
on it, gave the beholder no very favorable
idea of the religious principles he so zealously
professed, and so proudly boasted of.

Exasperated by the seeming tranquillity
of Emma, (it was but seeming) which he
thought proper to attribute to hardened impenitence
and Nazerene effrontery, Rabbi
Colmar determined, ere he left her, to disturb
and distress her mind, if possible. To
do this in the most effectual manner, he drew
from the folds of his vest, the letter Eleazar
had sent to his daughter, and casting it down
before Emma, told her to read and enjoy its
contents at her leisure.

“Serpent!” said he tauntingly, “contemplateO2 O2v 148
and rejoice over your work. It is worthy
the disciple of him, who boasted that he
came to divide, and sow discord! But know,
and let the consciousness of it wring your
heart, and fill it with despair, every curse that
paper invokes, will pass harmless over your
injured mother, to fall with tenfold vengeance
on your head, as the wilful cause of these
deplorable dissensions.”

The furious Rabbi would have added more,
but was at a loss for language, sufficiently
bitter to express his feelings, and casting
a withering glance on Emma, who had preserved
a prudent silence, he quitted the chamber,
muttering that it would be a meritorious
action to strangle such a viper!

When relieved from the presence of this
violent bigot, Emma ventured not to examine
Eleazar’s letter, until she had poured
out the bursting grief of her agitated heart,
before her heavenly father. Strengthened by
the sacred exercise, she took up the paper
written by her grandfather. How vindictive
and bitter were its contents! What fearful
imprecations! and these denunciations were
couched in scripture language, and in the O3r 149
name of the Most High! “And is this unforgiving
spirit, evinced by my dear mistaken
grandfather, compatible with his religion?”
said Emma, as she folded up his letter. “Oh
how different from the precepts of the holy
Jesus, who commands his people to love their
enemies, and pray for their oppressors.”
Such were her reflections, and most earnestly
did she implore grace, to enable her to walk
by this rule, under the trials that lay before
her.

The new arrangements communicated to
Emma by Rabbi Colmar, were of a very unpleasant
nature; placed from this time, at
the sole disposal of Sarah, she was strictly
commanded to obey her implicitly, as the
appointed representative of her mother, and
to whom she had delegated her parental authority;
Emma had reason from what she
already knew, of the disposition and previous
conduct of this favorite servant, to anticipate
unkind usage, and she judged rightly, for
Sarah felt a pleasure in mortifying this outcast
of the De Lissau family, by the wanton
infliction of every species of degradation and
insult, while from her tyranny, there was no O3 O3v 150
appeal. The chief employment of the morning
now consisted, in waiting as a menial on
her mother’s servant, and doing anything, and
everything she chose to command. When
this despot dispensed with her personal attendance,
she would dismiss her to the little
chamber, to occupy herself in needle-work,
of which she always had a great store, and a
certain portion of it, was daily allotted to
her as a task, which she was obliged to complete.

Emma’s food was now no longer brought
to her chamber. Her meals were served in
the kitchen, and in this particular, Sarah had
an opportunity of offering still further indignity
to her, for the Jewish and Gentile servants
sat at separate tables, at the one Sarah
presided, at the lower end of the other, Emma
was placed, being thus ranked by her oppressor,
as the lowest among the Nazarene servants
of her father’s house! with whom,
however, she was not suffered to have any
conversation, and they were encouraged to
offer to her, every species of neglect and
contempt,. To these uncomfortable meals,
she was commanded to descend by the back O4r 151
stairs, used exclusively by the servants, lest
she should encounter her sister, or brothers.
For the same reason, she was interdicted from
walking at any time, in the spacious garden,
attached to the house.

To add to the annoyance of her present
situation, Sarah compelled her to repeat
daily, the long form of prayer used by the
Jews, and insisted on her minute observance
of every rite, traditional or customary,
which she chose to impose, and on fast days
(though Emma was as yet exempt from keeping
them, on account of her youth,) Sarah,
unfeelingly, contrived to enforce her strictly
attending to them, by locking her in her little
chamber, knowing that thus situated, Emma
could not possibly infringe her commands,
respecting this hard task, for such it was,
though veiled under the name of religion,
and complied with, not only reluctantly, but
absolutely against the dictates of her heart,
and conscience, which equally revolted
against such profanation.

It was not the least painful part of Emma’s
present trials, that her early attendance on
Sarah, entirely precluded her from visiting O4v 152
her beloved father, as heretofore, in the leisure
morning hours, when he had been wont
so kindly to receive, and so tenderly to soothe
her wounded mind. He was mostly engaged
from home, when she returned to her needlework,
though he sometimes contrived to
spend a few hurried moments with her, and
this short time was generally occupied by him
in expressing his regret, at Emma’s present
mode of life, and the entire check it gave to
her education, and the improvement of her
mind. But he endeavored to console her by
the assurance, that he would watch for an
opportunity to effect a change in her situation,
and certainly embrace the very first that
offered,. As De Lissau was so much affected
on her account, Emma did not increase it by
any unavailing complaints, but sought to wear
an air of cheerfulness when they met, which
effort, her affectionate father, fully appreciated,
and rewarded by every endearing attention
in his power to bestow.

Emma had been some weeks in the situation
already described, when a trifling incident
greatly affected her. Her two youngest brothers
who were at play in the garden., had O5r 153
chased each other into the kitchen, where
Emma was at that time engaged in waiting
on Sarah, she had never before seen them,
but a glance convinced her they were her
brothers, Oh what a trying moment was
this! Her heart yearned to embrace and
weep over them, and hear from their lips, the
endearing appellation of “sister.” Compelled
however to suppress her feelings and remain
silent, she stood gazing on the unconscious
boys, pale, trembling, and agitated even to
agony, until Sarah hastily sent them away.
On this occasion the unfeeling being, taunted
her in a manner calculated and intended, to
add to her visible distress; Emma replied not,
but, (strengthened from on high) was enabled
to submit to this, and every other trial, as the
wise appointment of her heavenly Father, and
wait patiently until it should please Him, to
loose the galling bonds of her captivity, and
deliver her from the iron hand of her oppressor,.

A few days after this trial of Emma’s feelings,
she was greatly alarmed by an incident
that had nearly discovered to Sarah, her
testament. Sarah had unexpectedly called O5v 154
her down stairs, late in the evening, to fit on
a new article of clothing, providentially however,
she was summoned away, before Emma
had time to comply. The terror she endured
at the moment, determined Emma to remove
the treasure from her person, lest any future
occurrence might reveal the important secret.
To find a secure hiding place was not however
an easy matter, and this subject occupied
much serious consideration, until at last, Emma
decided to open her flock mattrass and
place it there. This she accomplished without
difficulty, but not without many tears, as
instead of a short but daily perusal of its soul
reviving contents, access to it would now be
troublesome, and seldom in her power. “But
it will be secure at all events.,” said she, “it
is still mine, and I must endeavor to supply
its frequent perusal, by meditation and prayer,
that God himself may instruct and teach me,
a weak ignorant child, how to discern and
obey His blessed will in all things.”

By a gracious interposition of Providence
in Emma’s favor, a very few days after she
had concealed her testament as described,
De Lissau placed in her chamber a few select O6r 155
volumes, that she might not from disuse,
lose any of her former attainments. Among
these books Emma rejoiced exceedingly to
find the old testament, which she had not
read for some time. Sarah murmured, and
even threatened, when she first saw this considerate
gift, but she did not venture to interfere
in any way with her master’s actions,
though she endeavouredendeavoured to render his intention
almost nugatory, by increasing Emma’s
already difficult, daily, task of needle-work,
besides otherwise engrossing more of her
time, in attendance on herself. Still, however,
Emma had many, though fleeting opportunities,
over which her tyrant had no
control. Among these were the sabbaths, and
festivals, during which Sarah accompanied
the family to synagogue, at which place
Emma was precluded from appearing, as she
was never allowed to leave the house, on any
account.

This strict seclusion, so materially calculated
to injure Emma’s health, (but which
happily, had not that effect, to any serious
extent,) was owing to the varied, though ineffectual
attempts of her grandfather, to recover O6v 156
possession of her. Besides being constantly
on the watch, for her going out, that
he might waylay and carry her off; he had
in his pay, some trusty persons, to whom he
promised an adequate recompense should
they succeed in conducting Emma to his presence.
He had even descended so far, as
to seduce some of De Lissau’s servants to
his interest, but hitherto, without any success
resulting from a measure so unworthy of
him, however kindly and affectionately intended
towards an unjustly oppressed being.

The vigilance of Anna and the Rabbi.,
aided by Sarah, detected and defeated, many
well imagined plans, of Eleazar, and every
fresh movement on his part, was sure to produce
renewed acts of severity towards the
object of these contentions, so that the very
proofs Eleazar gave, of his peculiar attachment
to Emma, were ever the signals of additional
disgrace and distress, to the creature
so fondly loved on the one hand, and so utterly
detested on the other, and in this respect she
might be said to resemble a fallen leaf, driven
to and fro by violent and opposite winds.

Rabbi Colmar sometimes visited Emma’s P1r 157
chamber, and questioned her, to discover
whether her religious principles were shaken,
by the present method adopted towards her,.
The replies she gave were sincere, though
guarded, and he left her, at each interview,
with additional hatred against, what he termed,
her diabolical obstinacy, while to her his
departure was ever a relief, from feelings the
most oppressive.

At certain periods, the presence of Anna
was necessary among her domestics. At
such times, if Emma was with them, her
lowly obeisance to her mother, was either passed
by without observation, or angrily reproved
and rejected, as mere hypocritical
mockery, yet, if she omitted this outward
mark of dutiful recognition, severe censures
were heaped on her; so that the presence of
her mother became of itself a real affliction to
her, and the solitary chamber, where she performed
her heavy task, was, in her eyes, a
peaceful retreat. There she could commune
freely, with the Saviour, for whose sake she
was thus reprobated, and receive from Him a
fresh supply of grace, to endure it patiently,
and even joyfully. There also, she could Vol. I. P P1v 158
read in peace, (at least a part of) His holy
word. And there, in accordance with that
word, she had sweet opportunities of pouring
out her heart before Him, who is the refuge
of the oppressed, and “a very present help
in time of trouble,.”

Chapter X.

The Subject Continued.

Days, weeks, and months glided by, without
effecting any acceptable change in the
situation of Emma, though the mode of annoying
her was frequently varied by Sarah.
She, however, possessed no power over the
mind of her captive, though her person was
completely at her disposal, and her actions P2 P2v 160
constantly subjected to her controul and caprice.
Whatever, therefore, were the outwards
trials of Emma, her soul enjoyed a solid
peace, which had omnipotence for its author,
and was unknown to, and untangible by, the
proud Pharisees who ruled over her.

The peculiar manner in which, at this time,
it pleased the sovereign disposer of events,
to deal with this little one of His household,
was as memorable, as the circumstances, she
was then placed in. In those days of persecution,
and oppressive acts, rendered more
galling and intolerable, by their daily renewal,
she was led in her spiritual walk, by the
golden cords of eternal love. Her soul was
refreshed and comforted, day by day, with
sweet manifestations of pardoning and redeeming
mercy, and she was constantly cherished
and strengthened, by viewing, in the
light of the Spirit, the reconciled face of her
Heavenly Father in Christ Jesus. Thus
sustained, how enviable was her lot!

The indefatigable enemy of souls, was not
suffered to assault or distress her. The indwelling
corruption of her nature, was kept
down, and only so far allowed to be felt, as P3r 161
to bring her abased and empty, to the feet of
Him in whom is all fulness. The Canaanite
indeed still dwelt in the land, but was not
at this period, permitted to shew himself.
Doubts and fears, and distrustful inferences
drawn from human reasoning, so common,
yet so Christ-dishonoring, had no power to
annoy and bewilder a mind kept simply trusting
to what is revealed in the written word,
and resting with child-like affiance, on the
sure accomplishment of all it contained.
Ah! those were halcyon days! overbalancing
the severest temporal trials, or rather, not
worthy of being placed in competition with
them. It was truly, Goshen light dispelling
the gloom of Egyptian darkness and bondage.

Christian reader! Are you placed in the
vale of poverty, or on the bed of languishing?
or are you in possession of those valuable,
but responsible gifts, health, and earthly
riches? In either case, you cannot stand a
single moment, but as you are upheld by omnipotence,
you need Jesus in every situation,
and in every situation He will be with you.
This daughter of Israel, found “strength as P3 P3v 162
her day,” and in the gloomiest scenes of her
chequered existence, had “joy and peace in
believing,” let the mercies vouchsafed to her,
in every needful exigence, animate and encourage
you, to expect the same, in the hour
of trial, for, “He is ever mindful of his
people,” and will never leave nor forsake
them, but guide them by a right, though
oftimes thorny, way, until grace is consummated
in eternal glory.

The situation of Emma was, of course, well
known among her nation. Anna, glorying in
her motives, sought not to veil her conduct,
and Eleazar had commented on it, to
all who visited him. The case was spoken of
therefore for a time, according to the views
of those who alluded to it in the conversation
of the day.

Eleazar’s friends reprobated what had been
done, not only as a wanton and unjustifiable
outrage, but as also evincing the most undutiful
conduct, especially as Violette, had
never recovered the shock, and often declared
it would accelerate her death. Anna’s party
as warmly defended her conduct, and termed
it an admirable instance of devotion, to the P4r 163
sacred cause of religion, in preferring its interests,
before the powerful pleadings of nature’s
endearing ties. Anna herself, was almost
equally indifferent to either opinion.
Her chief solicitude was, to keep the rest of
her children in ignorance of their sister’s residence,
beneath the same roof, in this she
had hitherto succeeded. She had not yet
forgotten the impression, a single interview
with Emma, had made on the mind of her
favorite Sophia, who continued frequently to
speak of her, and enquire when she should
again visit her. Leopold also, had been
greatly taken with his sister, and often expressed
his regret at not being allowed to see
her, or his grandfather.

These circumstances induced Anna, still
to cherish a hope of finding an opportunity
of sending Emma from her native country, to
return to it no more; and in this desire, and
intention she was secretly encouraged by her
oracle, Rabbi Colmar.

Such were Anna’s thoughts and intentions,
when, as if purposely to frustrate, at least a
part of them, Leopold overheard a conversation
between his mother and the Rabbi, P4v 164
which at once unfolded to him, the present
situation of his sister, in the house where she
first saw the light.

Leopold was at this time, a fine, graceful,
intelligent youth, giving promise of qualities
the most desirable, he was the pride of his
parents, and the very idol and glory of his
Rabbi, who was about to prepare his favorite
pupil, for the ceremony of confirmation,
which would take place in a few months.

From the nature of what he had overheard,
Leopold at once perceived that he
must conceal it within his own bosom, if he
would secure an interview with a sister, more
than ever endeared to him, by the peculiarity
of her situation:—perhaps, to a young and
ardent mind, the difficulty of accomplishing
this, had an animating effect. He now cautiously
watched the movements of Sarah, to
learn where Emma was placed, and when she
was likely to be alone. He was some time
in effecting this discovery, and hastened to
take advantage of it the very first opportunity.
Never before having explored this
part of the house, he ascended the stairs
leading to Emma’s chamber, very quietly, P5r 165
and had his hand on the lock of the door,
when the sound of Sarah’s voice within, arrested
his progress, and he stepped back
cautiously, into a dark recess, at the extremity
of the passage, determining there to
await her departure. While in his place
of concealment, he heard this menial, address
language to Emma, that crimsoned
his cheek with high indignation. “Whatever
may be my sister’s faults,” said he mentally,
“It is audacious and unpardonable for
my mother’s servant, thus to address a De
Lissau!” and from this moment his young
heart, deeply affected, and filled with brotherly
love, and generous commiseration, became
tenderly interested for his sister, and
in the warmth of the moment, he vowed to
use every effort in his power, to console her
sorrows and alleviate them.

This vow he kept in its fullest acceptation,
until in after years, scepticism reared her
dark banner over his corrupted understanding,
effaced from his bosom every tender
relative tie, and ranked him among the
heartless disciples of modern deism!

The reply of Emma to the taunts of Sarah P5v 166
(who had been sharply reproving her for an
unfinished task,) next met Leopold’s ear. It
was meek, submissive, and deprecatory, and
fell on his heart, in powerful sympathy,
melting him even to tears, yet he almost
blamed what he thought undue submission.
He knew not at that time, that Emma always
behaved towards Sarah, as the representative
of her mother, and as such, ever met her insolent
conduct, with mildness and forbearance.

Sarah at length quitted the chamber, and
passed down the stairs without perceiving
Leopold, as soon as he thought her secure,
he entered the room, and hastily folded the
astonished Emma to his beating heart. Oh
how delightful was this interview to the
lonely one! but her conntenance fell, when
Leopold detailed how he had discovered her,
and that his presence at that time was clandestine.

“Ah, dear Leopold.” said she mournfully,
“let not your unfortunate sister, occasion you
to act undutifully. If you were allowed to
visit me sometimes, it would fill my heart with
joy, but as it is, How can I receive you?”

P6r 167

Leopold was silent, there was something
in the manner and looks of his sister, which
spoke to his feelings, more forcibly than her
words. He sat musing for some minutes,
on a sudden his countenance brightened.

“My dear scrupulous sister,” said he, “I
believe you are right, but if I procure the
assent of our good father, will it satisfy you?”

“Undoubtedly beloved Leopold,” replied
Emma, with a look of approbation, “but—”

“No more, my Emma, I will hear no
more objections,” gaily answered her brother,
“except me again at this time tomorrow,”
so saying, he hastily embraced and bade her
adieu.

This event greatly affected Emma. On
her father’s kindness she could confidently
rely, and she ventured to hope, she should
sometimes be favored with the company of a
brother, she could not but love, in addition
to the pleasure his presence would afford,
she should also receive from him, those minute
and interesting details of Sophia, which
her affectionate heart panted after. How
grateful were her acknowledgements, that
night at the throne of grace, for this appearance
in her favor!

P6v 168

Leopold, true to his promise, sought and
obtained a private interview with De Lissau,
and frankly imparted to him, what had occurred
on the preceding day. The gratified
father, warmly commended his beloved son,
and expressed his delight to find, that the
outcast Emma, had so much interested him.
He freely gave the permission requested,
but desired his son, to be cautious and prudent,
that he might not offend his mother.
De Lissau then, himself conducted him to
Emma, after having seen her apart, and
strictly commanded her, never to enter on
the subject of religion with her brother.

From this period Leopold visited Emma’s
little chamber, as often as he could unobserved,
and used every method he could devise
to amuse his sister, and lighten her captivity.
De Lissau had given to her a beautiful
goldfinch, this Leopold tamed for her,
and at his request, Emma embroidered for
him, a bag to contain his phylacteries,
though she did it reluctantly, but she knew
not how to refuse him so slight a favor, yet
she could not help bathing it with tears, as
she reflected on the vain superstitious use it Q1r 169
was destined to be put to,Open note Back to note but this was
an interdicted subject, and she could not enter
on it, with Leopold, who was delighted
with her work, for which he had procured the
materials, and which had been made at
hours stolen from sleep.

De Lissau, from time to time, visited Emma
when Leopold was there, and the fleeting
moments, thus spent, were made profitable to
both his children, by the improving nature of
his conversation, and thus the time passed on
until the arrival of the eventful day of Leopold’s
confirmation.

Chapter XI.

The Subject Concluded.

Great preparations were made to celebrate
with splendor, the event of Leopold’s Q2r 171
admission into the Jewish Church. Gaiety
reigned throughout the house, and the lowest
servants in it, received tokens of their employers’
bounty, that they also might have
reason to share in the general expression of
pleasure, on this particular occasion. Nor
were the indigent, whether jew or gentile,
forgotten in the arrangements for the day by
the generous De Lissau.

One heart alone was sad at this period of
mirth and enjoyment, but that heart was ever
destined to mourn, while all around were
rejoicing. Leopold was deservedly dear to
his sister, his constant and endearing attentions,
and truly sympathetic, and disinterested
affection, could not fail to win her
grateful love. How then, could she participate
in the universal sentiment of happiness,
on an occasion, that appeared to place a
seal, as it were, on the complete separation
of their best interests? He would this day
declare by a public and deliberate act, his
affiance in, and adherence to, the religion of
his Ancestors. A religion directly opposed
to the only way of salvation, and therefore
certain to entail on its deluded professors, Q2 Q2v 172
irremediable destruction! Assured of this
inevitable result, from the word of God,
Emma sat in heaviness, in her solitary garret,
and wept bitterly in the anguish of her spirit,
while her family were enjoying a carnal
(though by them termed, religious,) ceremony,
surrounded by applauding and congratulating
friends, equally zealous worshippers
of the letter, with themselves.

On a day so busy, Emma had at least the
negative comfort, of remaining quietly in her
little chamber. De Lissau had stolen a moment,
to embrace and bless her, but Sarah
was too much occupied, to interfere with
her, in any way. Towards the close of day,
however, the object of her mental disquiet,
broke in on her solitude. He bore in his
hand a small ivory basket of exquisite workmanship,
filled with delicacies, culled by the
hand of fraternal affection, from his father’s
table. The pensive aspect, and tearful eyes
of Emma, affected, but did not surprise him,
for he naturally supposed, her grief had its
origin, in the exile she endured, while her
brothers and sisters, were caressed, admired,
surrounded with indulgencies, and cherished Q3r 173
(by the mother who hated her,) with the
fondest solicitude. How indeed, could he
even imagine, the real source of her sorrow,
since, in obedience to her father’s commands,
she had never breathed a sentence to him,
on the subject of religion? Under these impressions,
Leopold hastened to console his
beloved sister, with the assurance of his continued,
and even increasing affection, and
reminding her, how fervently their father
loved his Emma, tenderly chid her, for
giving way to grief at a time, when those
who so dearly prized her, were more than
usually happy. Unable to parry those remarks,
and prohibited from disclosing the
real source of her visible uneasiness, she endeavoured
to be cheerful, and listen with composure,
to the details of the day, which Leopold
entered into, with all the spirit, and
animated intelligence, of his character, until
reminded by his watch, he had been absent
more than two hours, and ran the risk, of
suspicion, if not detection, from his vigilant
mother: except on Emma’s account, however,
this idea did not disturb him, for it was
the unalterable resolve of his mind, never to Q3 Q3v 174
abandon, or be deterred from intercourse
with his sister, especially as he could plead,
the sanction, and approval of De Lissau.

If this day had passed (with the exception
of his father, and Leopold’s visits,) so cheerlessly
with Emma, who rejoiced to see it
close, how enviable it seemed, when contrasted
with the trials, awaiting her, on the succeeding
one! That day arose in gloom on
her, ere she quitted her chamber, and its
close, left her lamenting with an heart, almost
rent in twain, the event that had been
disclosed to her, and filled her soul with unutterable
distress.

Early in the morning of this cloudy day,
just as Emma was concluding a short mental
prayer, for needful support, previous to her
usual attendance on Sarah, Rabbi Colmar
entered her apartment precipitately, and
with more than usual austerity depicted on
his conntenance. He did not speak to her,
but glancing his keen eye, round the room,
which contained no closets for concealment,
soon discovered Leopold’s gift, which he
seized on immediately, with an air of exultation
and bore away, without addressing a Q4r 175
single word, to the hapless object of his
petty malice.

Emma regretted the deprivation of this
token of fraternal love, but its loss affected
her the less, as she ventured not to hope,
Sarah would permit her to retain it, unless
De Lissau interfered, and this she had hinted
to Leopold, on the preceding evening, when
he promised to speak to his father respecting
it, now it was too late. And she was surprised
and chagrined at Rabbi Colmar’s visit,
as it plainly proved, he had made discoveries,
that would add to her already sufficiently
heavy yoke, and most likely deprive her of
Leopold’s consolatory visits.

Such were her thoughts, as she descended
to recite before Sarah, her daily monotonous
task, but she had scarcely commenced it, ere
the latter was called away, to conduct to De
Lissau, a messenger of the Synagogue, who
came with mournful tidings; while he was
imparting them, his attendant was receiving,
(in the copper box, always made use of on
these occasions,) the alms of the faithful, invariably
bestowed, on the announcement of a
death, among their nation. Emma drew Q4v 176
near with the rest of the servants, little anticipating
the shock that awaited her, when
she heard the fatal declaration, that her beloved
grandmother, the tender affectionate
Violette, was no more!

Overwhelmed by tidings so unlooked for
at this moment, when traces of the late festival
met the view on every side, Emma felt
sick at heart, and desired nothing so much,
as permission to retire to her home, as she
was wont to term the lonely garret, this, however,
she could not do, until dismissed by
Sarah, who was at present attending her
mother, and retiring to a corner of the
kitchen, she gave free vent to the anguish of
her heart, which was again the prey of hopeless
sorrow, at the bereavement of another
beloved relative, the acute pain of whose
loss, was unassuaged by the slightest shadow
of consolatory anticipation, as it respected
her final happiness!

“And such,” said Emma, mentally, “must
ever be my feelings, when called on to witness,
or hear of, the departure of those I
love! Alas! how tremendous is the certainty
of their fate, who deny the Christ of God! Q5r 177
Surely, they alone, taste the bitterness of
death, who meet it, uninterested in the blood
of the covenant!”

While reflections of this melancholy nature
agitated the heart of Emma, and gave
her pale countenance, an air of deep dejection,
the person who held the copper box,
was attentively regarding her with looks of
peculiar meaning. The servants had dispersed
to their several employments, and at
this moment, he was alone with Emma.
Approaching her very cautiously, he put in
her hand a folded paper. She hesitated to
receive it, and cast on him a look of enquiry.

“This paper is sent by your grandfather,”
whispered he, “conceal it quickly, for I
hear footsteps.”

The man then passed to a distant part of
the room, and Emma placed the letter in her
pocket, she had scarcely accomplished this
when Sarah entered, and dismissed her to
her chamber, commanding her to expedite
some work, she had just placed there, and
never were her commands so welcome!

Emma had but just entered her garret,
when De Lissau and Leopold joined her, to Q5v 178
to offer that consolation, of which she stood
so much in need. From them she learned,
that Eleazar had written a severe letter to
her mother, and had interdicted her, from
attending in his house, to pass through the
customary ceremonies, on the demise of a
parent, but that Rabbi Colmar, had just
departed to Eleazar’s house, in order to obtain
a revocation of this prohibition. This
intelligence, inflicted an additional pang, on
the overcharged heart of Emma, and surely,
(at the moment,) guilt could not have caused
a feeling of keener agony than she experienced,
even the presence of her kindest
earthly friends, was at this time oppressive
to her, and she breathed more freely when
they quitted her chamber.

After spending some time in yielding to
fruitless regret, Emma began to recall her
bewildered thoughts, and remember, at
whose hand, she received the cup so distasteful
to her. This salutary recollection,
was the work of the Comforter. It emanated
not from herself, and its sanctifying
effect, was to humble, while it strengthened,
a creature, who was surely, one of the least
and weakest, of the Saviour’s family.

Q6r 179

The shades of night gathered around Emma,
ere she had sufficiently recovered the
events of the day, to allow of her reading the
letter of her grandfather, and then, darkness
prevented its immediate perusal. Next
morning, however, she arose at the first
gleam of day, and after earnestly supplicating,
that its contents, might not be suffered
to lead her mind astray, or too much
affect its earthly susceptibilities, she opened
the paper, and read the following address,
penned in the Jewish character, invariably
used by them, in corresponding with each
other, and which character, bears some resemblance
to Greek writing.

Emma was so absorbed, in the contents of
this singular document, that De Lissau stood
before her, and she knew it not. He had
entered her apartment thus early, uneasy at
the effect, he feared the death of her grandmother,
might produce on her mind, especially
in her lonely situation. He was much
surprised at her abstraction of mind, and
alarmed at her vacant, though fixed gaze,
on the paper she held in her hand. In this
situation, he contemplated her with compassion
the most tender, and sighed as he
thought of the stormy waves which had alreadyVol. I. R R1v 182
passed over that youthful head, and appeared
in perspective, still rolling towards
her, with vengeful impetuosity. He thought
not, at that moment of the shield of eternal
love, which is ever interposed, by the hand
of omnipotence, between the lambs of the
fold, and “the fury of the oppressor,” of
whom it is emphatically said, in the word of
God, “where is the fury of the oppressor?”

Starting at length from her long and painful
reverie, Emma caught her father’s look,
beaming on her, all the love and pity of his
paternal heart, and hastening to receive his
blessing, freely imparted to his indulgent
bosom, the laboring feelings of her own.
She also placed in his hands Eleazar’s letter,
and requested him to preserve it for her,
lest Sarah should discover and bear it to her
mother. Another motive for parting with
this transcript of her grandfather’s love of,
and affiance in her, was, that its contents
might not add to feelings, too highly excited,
and engender in her weakened mind, a sinful
impatience under the present dispensations
of providence.

The week of mourning for Violette was R2r 183
punctually observed by Anna, and it was,
indeed, a time of misery for Emma. Her
mother was highly exasperated, at the vindictive
conduct of Eleazar, and deeply
shocked, at the certainty, that her departed
parent, had not forgiven her conduct, respecting
Emma, added to which, Rabbi Colmar
had been greiviously and publicly insulted,
by Eleazar, when he attended him as a
mediator, all these galling circumstances,
were in their opinion, wholly attributable to,
the hated object of such lamentable dissensions,
and ought therefore to be visited heavily
on her. In pursuance with these sentiments,
whenever De Lissau was absent,
during this memorable week, the Rabbi and
Anna inflicted on their victim, acts of cruelty
that require a veil, suffice it to say, mercy or
even humanity, were totally lost sight of at
this period, and a divine support alone, preserved
Emma from absolute desperation!

In the following week, just eight days
after Violette’s demise, the venerable Leila
was found dead in her bed. She had appeared
to bear the shock, of her daughter’s
loss, with astonishing calmness, but in reality, R2 R2v 184
it affected her so deeply, as to snap at once,
the attenuated cord of her lengthened existence;
she was interred with peculiar marks
of veneration, but, for her, here was neither
rending of garments, sitting on the ground,
nor memorial lamp, she having survived all
those relatives whose affinity entails on them
these observances.Open note Back to note

The departure of Leila, was at this period
an addition to the sorrows of Emma, but she
did not yield to, or indulge in unavailing
regret. She suffered her memory to rest,
only, on the endearing acts of kindness, the
departed had ever evinced to her, until the
recollection of Leila, softened into a gentle
melancholy, rather pleasing than painful to
her wearied spirit.

Chapter XII.

A Partial Emancipation.

When the mourning for Violette was over,
and Anna could again attend to family concerns,
her first care was to prevent, as much
as possible, Leopold’s intercourse with his
sister, which at once irritated and alarmed
her. To him however, she did not venture
any remonstrance. She knew his character
was energetic and decided, though his dispositionR3 R3v 186
was amiable, and his manner, (unless
unduly excited) resembled that of De Lissau,
in its mildness and suavity. His filial conduct
was, except in this instance, exemplary,
and above all, he had prudently kept in his
own bosom, all he knew respecting his sister.
Anna, therefore, thought the best way of separating
them, would be to employ Emma, so
as to give her very few opportunities, of receiving
visitors in her garret, and acted on
this plan so successfully, that the circumscribed
enjoyments of Emma were greatly
curtailed.

Leopold bore this interference of his mother
very impatiently, and to cross her design,
of separating Emma for ever from her family,
formed in his mind, the daring resolution, of
making Sophia aware of her sister’s situation.
He did not, however, impart his plan to any
one. Emma he knew would at once deprecate
any opposition to her mother, and De
Lissau would certainly forbid it, but he felt,
as it were, impelled to bring about an interview
between his sisters, and for that purpose
visited his mother’s apartments more frequently
than usual, seeking, eagerly, every
opportunity of conversing with Sophia.

R4r 187

Anna observed this alteration in Leopold’s
customary behaviour, and divining his intentions
in part, contrived, without any appearance
of design, to prevent him effectually, by
her incessant watchfulness, from having any
secret conference with Sophia. Months passed
in this way, and Leopold began to despair
of success, when an unexpected opportunity
offered. He met Sophia alone, on her way
from Rabbi Colmar’s chamber, to that of her
mother, who had remained behind for a few
minutes: knowing that Emma was then in her
garret, he, without weighing, or even thinking
of the result of his bold enterprise, hurried
Sophia up the stairs that led to the forbidden
chamber, and had the delight of seeing her
(though greatly surprised) at once recognise,
and return the eager embrace of her long
estranged sister, while their mingled tears,
and caresses, spoke the tenderness of their affection,
notwithstanding the unnatural means,
that had been employed to suppress it.

Absorbed in the contemplation of a scene
so affecting, Leopold, as he clasped his brotherly
arms around these beloved ones, almost
forgot his vigilant mother, and the Rabbi, R4v 188
and before he had time to retreat, they suddenly
stood before him!

Emma pale as marble, and almost petrified
by terror, as she caught the appalling looks
of her mother, fell back to the farthest part
of the chamber in utter dismay.

Sophia, who had never before seen Anna’s
countenance assume so terrible an expression,
clung instinctively to her sister, but Leopold,
stood erect and firm before his mother,
determined to justify what he had done, and
exonerate Emma from any share in it.

His feelings, however, were at once changed,
from proud defiance, to an agony of terror.
Anna rushed forward to separate the
sisters, and in the violence of her movements,
dashed Emma forcibly against a sharp angle
of her little bedstead, when she fell, bathed
in the blood that flowed freely, from a wound
in her head. Maddened at the piteous situation,
of an object so dear to him, Leopold
uttered a fearful cry, as he raised her in his
arms, and Sophia, loudly joined in it, as Anna
attempted to tear her from the room.

Rabbi Colmar during this scene, had stood
mute from anger, when the goldfinch De R5r 189
Lissau had given to Emma, alarmed by
sounds so unusual, flew to him for refuge.
The little fugitive nestled close to him, as it
had been wont to do, with Leopold and Emma,
but that bosom was steeled against her
so powerfully, that he barbarously destroyed
it, merely because it belonged to her, and he
was aware, its cheerful song, and innocent
endearments, aided to enliven her solitary
hours!

Happily for his children, De Lissau was at
this critical period engaged in his oratory,
and heard with alarm their repeated cries;
hastening to the spot, he was amazed beyond
expression at the scene that presented itself;
nor were any of the actors in it capable of
explanation except Leopold, who still supported
Emma, though she had fainted from
loss of blood.

When De Lissau had gathered from Leopold’s
disjointed account, what had happened,
he instantly decided in his mind how to act.
His first care was to dismiss the Rabbi and
Anna; awed at the moment by his manner,
and the unusual sternness of his features, they
complied, and bore with them the weeping R5v 190
Sophia. When they had departed, De Lissau
commanded Leopold, to assist him in
carrying the still unconcious Emma, to the
bedchamber of the latter. “She shall return
here no more” said De Lissau, firmly, “the
events of this day, have decided my plans,
Emma is my child, and I will protect her.”

Attended by the family surgeon, and affectionately
guarded by Leopold, Emma had
full leisure to meditate on her present situation,
and felt assured it would issue in good,
let it end as it might. As excitement was
unfavorable to her recovery, De Lissau did
not apprize her of the terms, he had proposed
to her mother, in which her emancipation
from bondage was the leading feature. But
when, after much discussion, Anna and the
Rabbi, consented to allow Emma, to fill her
place in the family, as the eldest daughter of
it, he hastened to her bedside to congratulate
her, on an event so desirable, yet so
unlooked for.

This concession had not been obtained by
De Lissau, without a strong effort on his
part, and the point was yielded by his wife
and Colmar, from mixed motives of policy R6r 191
and necessity, without any abatement of their
hatred to Emma, and secret determination,
to render her future situation, such, as should
frequently give her cause to regret, emerging
from solitude to fill a place in the circle
where her most determined enemies bore
away, although her appearance among them,
was involuntary on her part, who had no
choice in the matter, and it was in truth entirely
owing to their own overstrained severity.

While Emma was still an invalid, a chamber
was arranged, for the sleeping room of
the sisters, who were henceforward to occupy
it, but, to prevent any private intercourse
between them, Sarah’s couch was removed to
their apartment, and during the day, they
were never to be left alone, under any pretext.

When the object of such strict rules, and
singular precautions, was sufficiently recovered
to leave Leopold’s room, De Lissau had
a long private interview with her, in which
he imparted his wishes, as to her future conduct,
the regulation of which would require
peculiar prudence, continual forbearance, and R6v 192
a temper of mind, proof against the daily,
petty, yet annoying trials, she might reasonably
expect from one whom nevertheless, she
was bound to obey, and treat with undeviating
respect and filial duty. He also particularly
cautioned her, against developing, at
any time, or under any circumstances, her
religious views, either among the children,
or to any other individual in the family, and
concluded by assuring her, of his continued
paternal affection, and protection, which he
felt certain she would do all in her power to
deserve.

Emma was very attentive to the long address
of De Lissau, which was evidently dictated
by an earnest solicitude for her comfort
amidst the difficulties she would have to encounter,
under the immediate government,
and control of a mother, to whom she was
so obnoxious. Her reply was brief, she
knew her own insufficiency too well, not to
use guarded terms, but she was also happily
aware, to whom to look for power, to obey
her beloved father, and De Lissau who appeared
to read her thoughts, was perfectly
satisfied with her concise answer.

S1r 193

De Lissau took an opportunity, after he had
thus cautioned Emma, of imparting his will
to Sarah, as to her future conduct towards
his daughter, which he assured her, must be
such, as became their respective stations
in his family. He then dismissed the mortified
domestic, with the significant observation,
that persecuting zeal, was no evidence
of a true faith, nor acts of cruelty acceptable
in the sight of that Being whose essence is
love.

The Rabbi and Anna, had not been idle
on their part, and had so prejudiced the mind
of Sophia, on the subject of religion, that she
readily gave the solemn promise required of
her, never, under any pretence, to discourse
with Emma on that topic. But when they
sought to bias her affection, and alienate it
from the creature they proscribed, their efforts
were ineffectual, for Sophia’s heart, was
knit to that of her sister, and death alone dissolved
the endearing union.

The day that restored Emma to her family,
was one of powerful excitement. She embraced,
for the first time, three brothers, and
received their innocent endearments, while Vol. I. S S1v 194
the exulting Leopold, and the tender Sophia,
repeatedly congratulated her and each other,
on the pleasing occasion:—and these delightful
moments were enjoyed by Emma,
without the least sacrifice of principle, or compromise
of her superior duties. Oh with
what gratitude did she mentally express her
sense of these mercies, when she retired to
her new and comfortable apartment, accompanied
by her charming and beloved sister!
Nor had the scowling brow, and sullen manners
of Sarah, any power to cast a shade over
these bright moments, though a tender recollection
of Eleazar, chastened the vivid transport
of her feelings.

The sisters were now daily employed in
their mother’s apartment, in the various duties
of religion, and at their needle. Sophia’s
share of the latter was trifling, and chiefly of
the ornamental kind, for her education was
strictly attended to as usual, at the stated
hours, but no plea could induce Anna to allow
of Emma’s participation in the advantages
enjoyed by her sister, unless she would
unequivocally declare her adoption of Judaism,
and sincere renunciation of Christianity, S2r 195
and the proof of her doing so was, to use a
form of abjuration, (in the presence of ten
Rabbins,) drawn up by Colmar, and expressive
of fearful blasphemy against the glorious
Redeemer! However desirable human
and external accomplishments might appear
to Emma, she was not left to herself in this
temptation, and in consequence of restraining
grace, steadily rejected knowledge and acquirements
rated at such a price. This was
the last effort, her mother or the Rabbi, ever
made to convert her, though other, and strenuous
attempts, were made by individuals of
her nation, in aftertimes, to shake her faith,
as will appear in the course of this narrative.

In consequence of Emma’s decision, she
was kept as heretofore, very strictly to her
needlework, and many and trying were the
mortifications she daily endured from her
mother, who appeared to delight in devising
means to torment her, in every practicable
way, nor did Colmar omit his part on these
occasions. Daily strictures on Christianity,
were a powerful means in his hands, to annoy
and grieve the very soul of Emma, and both
her persecutors did all in their power to S2 S2v 196
elicit from her, some unguarded reply, or act
of disobedience which they might report to
De Lissau against her. They did not however
succeed, Emma knew her own weakness,
in the light of the Holy Spirit, and by His
teaching. Day by day, did this tempted
and tried one, cry to a covenant God, for
needful support, and received so gracious a
measure of it, that she was silent when taunted,
and obedient to every command that did
not militate against her faith: and though
she was continually made to experience, that
the lonely garret afforded opportunities and
enjoyments, no longer her’s, she yet had, even
in the presence of her mother and the Rabbi,
moments of secret enjoyment, they were not
aware of, nor could prevent.

The first Sabbath eve, that Emma passed
with her family was a trying one to her feelings.
Her mother had privately advised her,
not to present herself, with the other children,
when according to custom, on De Lissau’s
return from synagogue, they came to
claim the parental salute and benedictionOpen note Back to note
from their father, mother and Rabbi Colmar.

Emma hardly knew how to act, after this S3r 197
previous admonition of Anna, nor had she an
opportunity of consulting De Lissau, she resolved
therefore, to do her duty, in supplicating
her share in this interesting ceremony,
whatever might be the conduct of her mother
on the occasion. Her heart throbbed uneasily,
however, as with her brothers, and
Sophia, she entered the parlor, where the
Sabbath lamp, tables covered with linen
cloths, and the wine, and peculiar bread set
apart for holy purposes, announced the eve
of the seventh day. His children first approached
De Lissau, (according to their respective
ages) to receive the highly prized
benediction. How fervent, yet how tender,
was that bestowed on Emma, by the best of
fathers! They next turned to their mother,
and Emma stood in suspense and irresolute,
till a look from De Lissau, decided and encouraged
her to advance in her turn. Anna
was surprised at this unexpected temerity, in
a creature hitherto so submissive, and quickly
resolved to act in a manner, that would at
once punish her present presumption, and
effectually deter her from repeating it:—elevating
her hands over her head, she softly S3 S3v 198
whispered as she did so, “my curse be upon
thee, now, and at all times when thou darest to
claim a blessing that never shall be thine!”
Emma’s cheek was blanched with horror, at
this unlooked for malediction, but, as it appeared
to be unheard, save by herself, she
had the presence of mind to suppress any
audible expression of the anguish that for
the moment almost overwhelmed her, though
the pleading look she gave her mother, would
have melted any other, than an heart closed
as her’s was, by the firm conviction, that in
reprobating an avowed Nazarene, she performed
a duty highly acceptable to God.
Yes! Anna De Lissau’s conduct in this respect,
though cruel, emanated purely from a
mistaken religious zeal. Nor is it without
a parallel in the annals of Rome, and the
heart-affecting pages of christian martyrology.

Chapter XIII.

An Unexpected Application.

Some months after Emma’s emancipation
from her garret, Eleazar, whose health had
been much impaired since the loss of his wife
and mother, set out as usual, to visit his Parisian
friend, intending if able, to revisit his
native Poland, ere he returned to England,
and to an home, which he frequently declared
appeared doubly desolate, on account of the S4v 200
absence of his adopted child. Rabbi Jonathan
on learning his bereavement, wrote to
him immediately, urging him to arrange his
affairs, and join him in the holy city, though
he gave no very pleasing description of the
state of the Jews residing there at that time.
Eleazar, however, in reply stated, that he
would not, on Emma’s account, entirely forsake
the spot that contained a creature so
very dear to him, and besides, he felt a desire
to be interred in the place that contained the
ashes of his lamented wife.

The departure of Eleazar was soon ascertained
by his daughter, and in consequence
of it, Emma had more liberty than before.
She now appeared regularly at synagogue,
accompanied by Sophia, and was sometimes
allowed to accept the invitations of De Lissau’s
friends. This species of liberty, however,
added neither to her happiness or comfort,
the behaviour of her mother was still
the same, whether in public or private, and
to conciliate her, neglect, and ill-concealed
dislike, was Emma’s portion, wheresoever
she was permitted to visit. Some affected
to pity her obstinacy, and undutiful resistance, S5r 201
to the religious opinions of a mother,
so eminent for holiness, and a Rabbi whose
wisdom, sanctity, and supererogatory merits,
emulated the saints of old, and very far surpassed
most devout men of his day; but they
ascribed her infatuation to the Evil one, and
hesitated not to assert, that she was possessed!
Others blamed De Lissau’s lenity, prognosticated
its eventually falling in some heavy
judgment on his family, and stimulated Anna,
to fresh acts of severity, until perseverance in
them should break the spirit, and subdue the
perverseness, of a creature so audacious. A
third class, while they gave no opinion on the
subject, because they desired equally to conciliate
De Lissau and his wife, behaved to
Emma with marked neglect, and (when an
opportunity offered) even with insult, while
they loaded Sophia, with praises and caresses.
Such being the case, Emma would have
rejoiced to remain constantly at home, but
her mother soon perceived, how powerful a
means of additional annoyance, the conduct
of her friends presented, and therefore enforced
Emma’s compliance, when invited by
those persons who best seconded her views, S5v 202
and the time of this persecuted being, was
now divided between, a diurnal round of religious
ceremonies, (many of which were of
the most puerile description,) recitations of
long prayers, in many points diametrically
opposed to her own sentiments,Open note Back to note needlework,
and visiting; happily, however, the latter
was not a daily infliction.

Circumstanced in this manner, precluded
from attaining the common advantages of
education,–the daily subject of reproof and
sarcasm,—and having her mind, constantly
exercised in a peculiar manner, on topics
almost wholly unconnected, with the things
of this life, Emma, to the eye of a superficial
observer, unacquainted with her situation,
presented a contrast to her elegant sister,
greatly to her own disadvantage, as it respected
external impressions. Sophia added
to exquisite personal loveliness, all the graces
of a refined and highly polished address,
while the fascinating sweetness of her disposition,
diffused an inexpressible charm, on
all she said or did. The freshness of her
blossoming beauty, had never been sullied by
sorrow, and among her nation, there was not S6r 203
a female, more irresistibly lovely, than the
delicate, unassuming, Sophia De Lissau.

Emma, appeared much older than she
really was, her manner was reserved, and
cold, except to the very few, who would permit
her to love them;—her gait was awkward,
and rendered still more so by her
downcast looks:—intense thought gave her
features a stupid and sullen air, not natural
to them. In the gaiest parties, she sat pensive,
silent, and abstracted, and when spoken
to, monosyllables generally formed her replies.
She was therefore, considered to be a
disagreeable, illtempered being, by all her
mother’s friends. Yet, when an occasional
word of kindness, was addressed to her, or
her feelings were interested, by any subject,
her countenance became animated, and displayed
for the moment, an intelligence, and
vivacity, that plainly proved, pains must have
been taken, and harsh measures resorted to,
thus to crush and alter her natural disposition
and turn of mind. But though these
sisters were so very dissimilar in externals,
their hearts were firmly united, and their sentiments
in delightful accord, on every subject S6v 204
save one, which however, they never entered
upon.

In the course of the visits thus made by
Emma with her family, her heart became
deeply interested, for a young female, whose
mother was one of the most cherished friends
of Anna De Lissau. She was a widow in
easy circumstances, extremely devout and
superstitious, and of a disposition, exactly
corresponding with that of her friend, whom
she preferred to every one, but her only child,
and whose example was her guide, on all
subjects connected with religion, and so far
did she carry this, that she exchanged her
seat in the gallery of the synagogue, at considerable
expence, in order to obtain one
next to Anna, that she might regulate the
mode of her devotions by that of her admired
model.

Catherine Levy, was about the same age
as Emma, her person was extremely pleasing,
and her manner mild and affectionate, she
possessed much sensibility, but her character,
except when peculiarly acted on, was indolent,
indecisive, and capricious, and her mental
powers little above mediocrity, though T1r 205
she had made some progress, in the usual accomplishments
of the day, could play and
sing with taste and feeling, and was an elegant,
though not animated companion, in the
ball-room. None of these acquirements however,
had the power of touching the heart of
Emma, and attracting its sympathy towards
Catherine. A subject the most important
and interesting, formed the connecting link
of union, between two characters, in every
other respect so entirely unlike.

An intimate and frequent intercourse, had
subsisted between Mrs. Levy, and the De
Lissau family, for several years; she lived
near them, and was a very constant visitor.
As she never dissented in opinion from Anna,
Emma was of necessity an object of dislike,
and she chose to testify her feelings in
this respect, in a very unwarrantable manner,
even under her own roof, in despite of the
common rules of hospitality, knowing how
acceptable such a line of conduct was to her
friend. To visit her therefore, was among
the trials which Emma was destined to endure,
and she endeavoured to submit patiently,
to an annoyance, not in her power to
avoid.

Vol. I. T T1v 206

At a party given by Mrs. Levy, on a family
occasion, where cards formed the principal
feature, as is usual at most Jewish entertainments,
except weddings, and young, as
well as old, were seated round the card
tables, Sophia not expected, Emma, overlooked
and purposely neglected, sat in an
obscure corner of the apartment, half concealed
by the drapery of a window curtain.
Pensive and abstracted as usual, and uninterested
in the vapid scene passing around
her, she sighed for seclusion, were it even in
the solitary garret, where she had enjoyed
moments of delightful communion with the
God of her hope, in His Holy word. She
was completely absorbed, in these unavailing
feelings of retrospective regret, when a gentle
pressure on her arm aroused her, and she
started from her reverie. It was Catherine,
who had approached unperceived, and now
quietly seated herself next her.

“Emma De Lissau,” whispered she, “tell
me sincerely, is it true, that you believe on
Jesus of Nazareth?”

The color faded from Emma’s cheek, so
much was she surprised, and agitated, at this
abrupt manner of putting a question, so T2r 207
weighty and unexpected, and she gazed
earnestly, and doubtfully, on Catherine, too
much overpowered to reply.

Catherine was equally astonished by the
emotion of Emma, at a question she considered
to be a very simple one and easily
answered. She had ever, till now, supposed
her to be an apathetic being, without a grain
of tenderness in her composition, and feeling
affected by the visible distress she now witnessed,
hastened to soften it.

“I have given you pain, dear Emma,”
said she tenderly, and in a low tone, “believe
me I did not intend it. I am deeply interested
in the subject I alluded to, I must
however leave you now to avoid suspicion,
but I will soon find or make an opportunity,
of opening my heart to you, if you are a
believer on Jesus of Nazareth.”

Catherine glided away, unperceived by
any one, leaving Emma in a state of mind,
not easy to depict. Catherine had never
before appeared to have any serious thoughts
of religion. She sat next Emma in the Synagogue,
who therefore had frequent opportunities
of observing how little her heart was T2 T2v 208
interested in the worship, she joined in, as it
were mechanically. If she had spoken sincerely,
and Emma did not doubt her, what a
solution of her conduct she could offer! The
very hope of such a communication, from her,
was inexpressibly delightful to Emma, and
she experienced that memorable evening, a
sensation of pleasure she had long been
a stranger to, though Catherine studiously
avoided any further intercourse with her, that
she might not excite surprise or enquiry.

Some days elapsed, ere Catherine and her
mother, called on Anna, and then, no favorable
opportunity presented. At synagogue,
on the sabbath, she made an attempt to converse
with Emma, but Anna greatly displeased
at such indecorous conduct, though
she had no suspicion of the truth, immediately
separated the offenders, nor did her
anger rest there, for Emma experienced on
her return the effect of it, in the increased
severity of her mother’s treatment, as the
least offence she gave, was ever attributed,
to her detestable principles, and visited accordingly.

After many unsuccessful attempts to gain T3r 209
the desired interview with Emma, Catherine
at last made a request to Anna, which she
thought would effect her wish. Emma had
just finished flowering an apron for her mother,
which Miss Levy pretended to admire
extremely, and expressed a great desire, to
work a similar one for her mamma, if she
could acquire the manner of doing it. The
better to veil her design, she requested Sophia’s
instructions on the subject, but the
latter, as she was well aware, was not accustomed
to that description of work: and she
then asked Anna, if she would permit her
eldest daughter, to give her the necessary
directions, for which she could wait on her,
daily at her own time. Permission was given
unhesitatingly, by Anna, to the daughter of
her friend, and Emma was commanded to
assist her, in her attempt, to the great delight
of Catherine; but her stratagem was of
no avail, for her superstitious mother made a
point of accompanying her at every lesson,
and the apron was actually completed, without
her having had one single moment’s conversation
with her instructress separate from
the work they were upon!

T3 T3v 210

Three months passed on, in the same tantalizing
manner, until the persevering Catherine,
at last found a moment, while passing
down the crowded stairs of the synagogue
gallery, to whisper to Emma, an interrogatory.

“Can you write either English or German?”

“I cannot write at all, but I can read
writing,” replied Emma.

“Enough, I will write soon,” returned
Catherine, pressing her hand affectionately
and passing on.

Emma waited with anxiety, more than a
fortnight, for the promised packet, when, as
she sat alone at work in her mother’s apartment,
Mrs. Levy and her daughter, entered
it in quest of Anna. She was then with
Rabbi Colmar, and they hastened to join her.
In leaving the room, however, Catherine
dropped in Emma’s work basket a paper
parcel and giving her a significant look, followed
her mamma.

Emma lost no time in secreting the deposit
of Catherine, about her person, and had
but just time to secure it, before her mother
entered, accompanied by her visitors, who T4r 211
remained for the day, during which, Catherine
appeared unusually thoughtful, and
whenever she could do so, unnoticed, cast
on Emma, glances full of meaning, though
the latter, dared not appear to seek her conversation,
or approach her, and the time
spent under restraint so irksome, was equally
tedious to both, but the excitement this produced
in the mind of Emma, was so far beneficial,
that it drew her from the perpetual
contemplation of her own peculiar situation,
and created an interest in her bosom, for
Catherine, that formed an event, in her isolated
monotonous state of existence.