A lady who attended Dr. Bernays’ German classes with Miss Beale has interesting recollections of her. She remembers her as in appearance ‘very fair and slight and interesting looking,’ with a quiet dignity and attraction about her which gave her an influence; one remarkable instance of this may be told.

Dorothea and Anna Beale were once absent from the German class on its first meeting for a new term. Dr. Bernays said they should read Faust, and accordingly all the pupils brought copies of Faust to the next class. When all were seated, Dorothea stood up and said quietly and respectfully that she thought Faust objectionable reading for young girls, and suggested some other book. Dr. Bernays looked just a little annoyed, but listened quite kindly. He said it was a pity the books had been bought, but put it to the class what should be done. Such was Miss Beale’s influence that all decided to submit to her judgment.