The indisposition of Mr. Wilmot on the following day, prevented the little party from meeting in the gallery as usual. It proved to be an attack of a very serious nature, which confined him to his room for some months. Susan and Ann attended him with an assiduity and affection, that proved his instructions had not been thrown away upon them. At intervals, they read the books from which his anecdotes had been taken; and thus became acquainted with the history of their own and other countries.

The tuition and wise counsel of their sensible mother, had done much to correct the errors of their dispositions and characters, and to infuse a love of rational pursuits. The love of dress became a secondary point, and neatness and simplicity was alone regarded. They had still faults, but they were open to conviction. A sense of weakness opens an encouraging prospect of improvement, and time and care will, it is to be hoped, rectify the most serious of their erroneous propensities.

When Mr. Wilmot’s health was a little restored, they accompanied him to the sea-side; and here I must take my leave of my young readers, unless, at any future time, they should wish to hear more of Susan and Ann, and the Picture Gallery.