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An Old Maid.
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Her perceptions are keenly alive to discover the work that is spread for her hands, and to do it when found. She religiously believes that there is work, Heaven-allotted, to all, in the great vineyard of the world, and that our work lies just within our grasp, if we will but look for and recognize the task. "Labor is worship!" says the prophet. "Labor is worship!" responds every throbbing pulse in Miriam's well-attuned frame. Like the woman of Bethany who poured the perfumed ointment (her humble tribute of love) upon the head of her Lord, she did what she could?" What she could? What more could be required of her? Do what we can, as much as we can, all we can! Oh, how large would be the sum of works of the very humblest, feeblest, poorest, when counted up in the Hereafter, if they only "did what they could!" Alas! for the thousand opportunities of ministering and comforting thrown daily in our pathway, while we pass by on the other side through sheer unconcern, through "lack of thought" rather than "lack of heart!" Will they not rise up to convict us when we render the account of our stewardship in the great day.

With such thoughts ever quickening her to action, Miriam takes a lively, never failing interest in all things around her. No fellow-creature is indifferent to her. She regards all with a tender sympathy, a sympathy which breaks unaware through cold conventionalities, and fraternizes

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