This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1885 edition. Excerpt: ...altogether on one side other questions involved, could we rightly refuse this for her? Gwen may shrink from leaving us; but I, her father, should shrink yet more from keeping her under the circumstances." Gwendoline broke into his words suddenly. " Father, it isn"t for my own sake that I want to go." " I know it, dear; but my thought has been for you, at least as much as for the others. There is yet another view of the matter, which I believe Gwen has already considered. Nellie, we have had for days past a heavy trouble impending--a very terrible perplexity as to our future. We have pleaded in prayer with our God, that he would show us where to walk--would supply us with some means of livelihood. Here is, or here seems to be, the response. A way is plainly opened. Shall we dare to refuse it?" Mrs. Halcombe was weeping quietly, but she shook her head, and all knew that the matter was decided. " Still," Mr. Halcombe said, after a pause, as if with a sudden sense of reluctance, " still--if Gwennie were doubtful or unwilling, we would hesitate--would consult others. Mr. Selwyn, for instance." But Gwendoline lifted her head, and looked straight at him with bright clear eyes. " I am not doubtful, and I am quite willing," she said. " I have known from the first moment that it must be--must be, father. How could, we decide otherwise? Father, I don"t think it is for my own sake thai I wish to go, though of course I know it will be a life of ease. I know I have complained sometimes--at least, I suppose I have--but indeed my choice could never be to live away from you all--and from mother." Gwendoline"s voice grew husky. " But this is not choice. I don"t see that any choice at all is left me. Nothing short of your positive command could make it right for me...