Godey's Lady's Book

GODEY'S LADY'S BOOK
Philadelphia, February 1850

CORA LINTON.

BY JOHN M. EVANS.

Could I but still the throbbings of this heart, And bury deep the memories of the past Which ever and anon like spectres start, And o'er each joy their gloomy shadows cast!

THERE are, in each individual, certain traits of character that claim our highest admiration; while others, of an opposite nature, engender disgust to such a degree, that the few bright spots which, on first acquaintance, we delighted to look upon, become clouded, their lustre dimmed, and their beauty destroyed by the deformities that surround them.

To attain perfection, in this life, we know is impossible; but man can accomplish much to eradicate the deep-seated passions of his nature, by curbing his strong impulses and desires until the mastery is obtained. The imperious, exacting spirit of pride, that for a time sways the heart, must eventually bow, though taught by lessons of painful experience. Illustrative of this, permit us to introduce to the render one who possessed every attraction that a beautiful exterior could present, but who lacked that important charm which alone constitutes true great-

Cora Linton was one who, from childhood, had remained ignorant of the nature of those feelings which flow from disappointed hopes or thwarted desires. Deprived of her parents at a very early age, she was placed in charge of a maiden aunt, whose attachment to her – that mistake love so often displayed – prevented the proper exercise of authority, so necessary to the future well-being of its object. Pampered in the lap of luxury, every wish was anticipated by her whose wealth was equal to the gratification of every desire; while her beauty, vivacious disposition, and early development of talent rendered her an object of interest to those who visited her aunt, by whom she was encouraged in this unusual display of precocity. All who are conversant with the general character of children, who have watched the budding feelings of their nature, are familiar with the effects such a system of education must inevitably produce. In due time, the period of Cora's childhood passed; and she entered society a beautiful and brilliant creature of seventeen summers. But, however much we may admire a form of faultless symmetry and grace, a face perfect in its general contour, there is always an expression revealed through this medium, that, to the close observer, conveys a just idea of character and disposition. Habits contracted in early life, clung with a tenacity that destroyed much which otherwise might have rendered her attractive. Rut notwithstanding these defects, she was soon surrounded by a host of admirers; among whom was George Benton, a young man of promise, who, but one year previous, had entered into a business that was already yielding him the richest return for his exertions, which promised, in a short time, to place him in an elevated position. His friends, who noticed the attachment he evinced for the society of Cora, would not permit him to remain in entire ignorance of her character; but his mind, naturally acute and discerning, was so completely blinded by the powerful passion of love, that, six months subsequent to their acquaintance, he was acknowledged her accepted suitor. What others condemned as faults, with the leniency of love he overlooked; and the domineering spirit she sometimes displayed, he conceded as a privilege her beauty and station granted.

Mr. Walton, an uncle of George, who regarded him with parental interest, was well acquainted with the dissimilarity of their tastes and dispositions; and, before he was aware of their engagement, freely communicated to him the fears he entertained of results that so ill-assorted a union might produce, and attempted to dissuade him from committing himself to one who could never render him happy.

" But, uncle, you know the affections cannot always be controlled by the desires of our friends. In affairs of the heart, where your own happiness alone is concerned, I believe in acting according to its dictates; and this will explain why my attentions are confined to Cora."

"You are right, George; where there is no love, there can be no happiness; but I fear you have not properly reflected upon this subject – that your judgment has, to a great extent, been swayed by your feelings. I have Known Cora from childhood; and though I would not speak in disparaging terms of any one, I do not think she is calculated to make you what I would call a good wife."

"Ah, uncle, everything has changed since yon formed your opinions of the requisite qualities every wife should possess – qualities that have become entirely obsolete, and yielded to others that the improvements of society have suggested."

"Yes, George, I am aware that sad innovations have been made upon the customs of the 'olden time," but much that you call improvement has placed us in a worse position than that occupied fifty years ago, when each one entertained correct ideas in regard to the dignity of labor. And, I fear, you will discover, when too late, that all the boasted achievements of modern reform will fail to impart to your home an air of peace and domestic comfort."

"Well., uncle," gayly replied George, "if I ever marry Cora, you will see what a paragon of a wife she will make; and if you now withhold your consent, I can then say you were mistaken once, at least, in regard to your estimation of character."

"To me, an error of judgment in such a case would be of little importance; but if you commit the mistake, you alone must endure its consequences."

Here he took his departure, leaving George to his own reflections; but all failed to convince him of her true character, as described by his uncle, whom he regarded as prejudiced against everything that was not in strict conformity with his antiquated ideas.

But time passed on, and each day seemed to strengthen the hidden links of that chain which bound him to Cora. The charms of other society were lost in his devotion to her, whose beauty had thus wrought its fascinating spell around his heart.

As we have already stated, six months elapsed before their engagement. was announced; and at the expiration of three more, their marriage was celebrated with all the pomp and display Cora' position in society demanded; and a suite of apartments engaged at a fashionable boarding-house, until possession could be obtained of the splendid mansion George had purchased for his residence. But Cora, thus pleasantly situated, evinced no desire to assume the responsibilities of conducting the affairs of her own house; and full three months elapsed before he could persuade her to occupy with him that home where, he fondly hoped, his dreams of domestic bliss would yet be realized; and though surrounded by everything that could tend to her enjoyment, she was not happy. Her nature required the strongest mental excitement that the gayeties of fashionable life could contribute, to nourish those habits contracted in early life; and, with the arrival of each clay, came some new invitation or engagement for the evening, thus depriving her husband of the only season he had expected to enjoy her society amid the quiet of his home. The prodigality of her expenditures, also, began to awaken serious doubts in regard to the amplitude of his means, as bills of large amount were almost daily presented, for unnecessary articles of dress and decoration; but he could not expostulate. And this course of extravagance continued for months, without interruption, when he was apprised of an entertainment she contemplated giving, which was to eclipse anything of the season.

Well, Cora," pleasantly remarked George, "you certainly have my consent; only let your ambition to eclipse be regulated by moderation in your expenses. I am willing to gratify every reasonable wish; but you must remember that my wealth is not inexhaustible "

There it is," replied Cora; "you men are so prone to look at expenses, and for ever counting the cost of everything, that one would suppose all pleasure must be destroyed by such parsimonious motives. For my part, I never look at this,"

George was silent. It was the first allusion made to anything of the kind; and, at the time, he feared its results. But her plans were not so easily frustrated. Determining, this once, at least, to let her pursue her own course, he was suffered to remain in entire ignorance of who were invited, or what preparations had been made to receive her numerous guests, until the evening arrived, when the fears he had entertained of enormous expenses were more than verified by the brilliant display of ornaments purchased expressly for the occasion; the large table that groaned beneath the weight of costly refreshments, with various other matters of minor importance, that assisted to swell the debt he would have to discharge.

On the following day, various bills were presented, amounting, in all, to nearly five hundred dollars. George was dismayed. The highest estimate he had formed did not exceed one-third the amount; and it was with difficulty he could realize that this sum bad been lavished upon an evening's entertainment.

At an early hour, he returned home, to find Cora seated at her piano; humming a familiar air, that, but a short time previous, had sounded so sweetly to him, as the silvery tones of her musical voice stole o'er his heart; but his feelings had undergone a change; and, seating himself on the sofa, he addressed her: –

"Cora, is it possible that the expenses of last evening could have reached this enormous amount?" at the same time presenting her the bills.

"I believe they are all correct," rejoined Cora.

"Then I must speak plainly, and inform you that my means will not allow of such extravagance. As I have before stated, I am willing to gratify every reasonable desire; but useless expenditures of this nature I can never sanction. Do not impugn my motives, for necessity compels me thus to speak."

Necessity is often employed as an excuse for meanness; but I have never been accustomed to measure my desires by any such rule," warmly replied Cora.

But the propriety of my remarks must appear evident, if you will but reflect a moment. My business, thus far, has been prosperous; but if the expenses attending this one party were generally known, I could scarcely hope of retaining the credit I have succeeded in establishing, and the result would undoubtedly prove my ruin. I therefore entreat you to consider what I have said. I have no desire to limit you to any fixed amount; only let judgment regulate your desires."

Cora could not reply; but retired to her chamber, there to vent her displeasure in a flood of tears; while George was compelled to forego her society at dinner, and returned to his store sad and disheartened, to reflect upon the rupture that had thus occurred so soon after their marriage. He felt grieved at the thought of inflicting painful emotions in the breast of his young and beautiful wife; but an approving conscience justified the course duty had suggested, and he hoped that no necessity would again occur for reverting to a subject so unpleasant. Rut Cora soon forgot this lesson of economy, as she gradually relapsed into old habits. At the end of the year, George discovered that the large demands made upon him had not only consumed all the profits of his business, but made such sad inroads upon his invested capital, that it was with difficulty sufficient funds could be procured to discharge other obligations. Again he endeavored to reason with her, informing her of the alarming deficiency that existed, and of his determination to curtail their vast expenditures; but, alas! these resolves were formed too late. In a few months, he found that all further efforts would prove utterly unavailing; that each day was only adding new difficulties to those under which he was struggling, without hope of relief. Accordingly, he assigned all his property for the benefit of those to whom he was indebted, and frankly communicated the intelligence to Cora. True to her nature, she upbraided him, preferring accusations of mismanagement, as she wept over the blasted hopes of her ambition, instead of imparting that tender sympathy so peculiarly the province of woman to bestow in the dark hour of adversity. Rut all her tears and accusations could not alter their circumstances; and she was compelled to behold everything once her own exposed to the curious gaze of a crowd collected by the display of an ominous red flag that waved from her window.

George was now obliged to accept of a situation as clerk, at a small salary, and remove to a house in an obscure street; and here, in this bumble abode, years rolled on without bringing any change to improve their condition; but to him, they were years of happiness. He now enjoyed the constant society of Cora; and, by the winning force of love, succeeded in reconciling her to the change that had thus reduced them to comparative poverty. But this proved a task of no small importance. The deprivation of those pleasures in which she had delighted, that wealth alone could purchase, at first created a stolid indifference to all his attentions; but gradually, these feelings were dispelled, as her heart yielded to the teachings of that devoted husband.

The flower that, rearing high its stately head, looks with disdain upon the meek beauty of the humble violet, as it slumbers in peaceful security upon its grassy bed, nestling beneath the shade of its more noble companion, is always the first to feel the blighting frosts of autumn pass, with withering breath, o'er all its boasted beauties. Thus it is with the human heart. The man who, elevated by fancied greatness above what surrounds him, swayed by the unholy influence of pride, must eventually bow beneath the humbling touch of adversity. But he experience of all ages has proved the beneficial results that flow from its teachings.

It was the fifth anniversary of their marriage. George returned from his business at an earlier hour than usual, his countenance beaming with delight as he entered Cora's presence.

"My dear, I have received a letter; to which, with your consent, I shall return an affirmative answer. I doubt not that better days yet await us; but there is much we must sacrifice before this object can be attained. My uncle, who, you recollect, removed to the west soon after our marriage, has been apprised of our situation, and generously invites us to share his distant home. Are you willing to relinquish all the associations of youth, to sever the ties that bind you here, and, with me, share the privations incident to an emigrant's life?"

"Yes, willingly, George! Nothing can longer afford me pleasure but your society, with the joys that now cluster around our home. On contrasting my present condition with the first year of our married life, I often think how much more real happiness I now enjoy than when surrounded by all the luxuries of wealth. I have hitherto remained silent upon this subject, but my conscience has been its own accuser. I deeply deplore the ruin my folly has brought upon you; and a sad, but profitable lesson has it proved. Henceforth, my only object shall be to contribute to your happiness, and, if possible, to repay your forbearance, when, led on by the alluring gayeties of life, I preferred the excitement of the ball-room to the quiet of my home; the deceitful flattery of other tongues to the noble praise your love for me expressed in every word and action. Forgive me, George, for all the pain I have caused you; and let my future course satisfy you of the purity of my motives, by increasing devotion to your happiness."

"Let not such thoughts intrude upon your mind, Cora. I regret nothing that has befallen me, when I think of the happiness I now enjoy in your society; and the future, which appears bright, I trust may never again be clouded by sorrow."

Two months after the above conversation, George was settled in his new home amid western wilds, but surrounded by everything that could contribute to his comfort. His uncle, rightly suspecting the cause of his late misfortunes, determined, if possible, to induce him to accept of a home with him, where temptations are not of so dangerous a character, and where every action could be regulated by the restraining hand of experience. He also formed the determination of educating, according to his peculiar ideas, not only George, but this work of reform was to extend to his wife; and, long before their arrival, he had prepared a well-digested mode of procedure, in which he felt the utmost confidence. But what was his surprise, on beholding Cora, to notice the cheerful expression that played o'er those features formerly marked by discontent, as she assisted in arranging each article of furniture, with an interest hat evinced a change in the feelings that had governed the actions of former years, and which he supposed still existed; and as days grew into weeks, the old gentleman could not repress his admiration at the perfect order which reigned around his bachelor home.

Everything had improved – his table not excepted – under the influence of this presiding genius; and he began to think that he bad, indeed, done her injustice; that all his fears were utterly groundless. But he determined to solve what to him appeared a mystery, and accordingly applied to George.

"Well, George, I hope you may enjoy yourself in your new home. You certainly ought to be happy in any condition of life, with such a wife as Cora."

"Why, uncle, your views have undergone an important change since we last conversed on this subject."

"Yes, I confess my error; but there appears to be some mystery connected with all this. How is it? I had supposed your misfortune in business was occasioned by the extravagance of your wife; but that certainly could not have been the cause; for, of all women, I really think Cora is unexcelled in domestic economy."

"The views you once entertained were strictly true; but Cora has been instructed by a teacher that seldom fails in imparting useful lessons to all who are brought under its influence; and I can never regret any loss I have sustained that has been the means of securing so much true happiness. When first married, she was very young; her tastes had become vitiated by mingling with the world, and it was almost an impossibility for her to settle down in life ere a single pleasure had palled. The indulgence of those expensive tastes led to excesses that I could ill afford; and when too late, I endeavored to reason with her in regard to their impropriety. But by me, her character was not understood; consequently, all influence was lost; and to this may be attributed my unsuccessful efforts in effecting a reform. The refining fires of adversity alone have separated the dross from that pure and holy principle of her nature, which now influences every action and regulates each desire."

"I am, indeed, delighted to hear that this change, though at first evidently painful, has been so materially conducive to your happiness. You are now amply repaid for every loss then sustained, in the love she bestows upon you. But, come, we must hasten home; no doubt Cora is anxious to know what subject can prove so interesting as to make us both forget our tea, which is waiting."

Ten years had elapsed since the above conversation. Ten years! What a period of seemingly endless duration to the convict, immured within the gloomy walls of his narrow cell, daring not to breathe the pure atmosphere of heaven or look upon the unclouded sky; whose heart is never gladdened by the bright smiles of nature; who hears no sound but the whistling of the wind without, or the dull echoes of the busy loom reverberating along the vaulted passages of his prison-house; counting each day, as it wearies on, by the light which steals through the grating of his window; at morn, praying for night, and with its approach, sighing for the return of day.

But George could scarcely realize that so many years had passed since he exchanged the scenes of childhood for his western home, so happily had each moment been borne along upon the wings of love. His uncle was not long permitted to enjoy the society of those he loved; the summons of death had called him hence, very soon after their arrival. But the final arrangement of his temporal affairs had not been neglected; and to George was bequeathed the greater portion of his property, which yearly increased in value, until, at the period to which we allude, he was one of the most wealthy citizens of the town of S –. But the return of wealth, which again secured for Cora a prominent position in society, could not tempt her to the indulgence of those transient pleasures that had so nearly destroyed her happiness for ever. The sad lesson of former years had changed the desires of her heart, and given correct views of the important part each one must sustain in the great drama of life; of the responsible position occupied by parents in imparting instruction to those who have been placed under their charge. Nor was she ignorant of the fact, that a neglect of this had so unfitted her for the proper performance of life's duties, causing much of that unhappiness which marked the first year of her married life.

With untiring zeal, she now devoted the energies of her nature to the instruction of her only daughter, who was, in every respect, her exact counterpart. And what a blest employ! It is said that angels rejoice over the conversion of one soul; and may we not suppose that such a sight fills heaven with joy? To behold the fond mother, true to her nature, bending over the child of her love, teaching its infant voice in prayer to lisp the name of its Creator, fitting it for the enjoyment of purer scenes, where, in eternal anthems, that voice shall mingle with those whose music make the very arches of heaven ring? Nothing was neglected that could contribute properly to mould her disposition and refine her tastes. With the jealous eye of love, she watched the budding feelings of her young heart; instilling those principles of virtue and religion, which constitute the only sure foundation of human greatness, upon which must rest, throughout eternity, the happiness of the undying spirit. Her aim was directed to the accomplishment of a more noble object than that of securing the need of praise bestowed by a cold and heartless world. Experience had taught her the folly of listening to its empty praises, or living for aught – but heaven.

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