them; but I suppose, as Ethel said, the caring to be first in
attainments is as bad."

"Or in affection," said Mrs. May.

"In affection--oh, mamma, there is always some one person with whom
one is first!" said Margaret eagerly; and then, her colour deepening,
as she saw her mother looking at her, she said hastily, "Ritchie--I
never considered it--but I know--it is my great pleasure--oh, mamma!"

"Well, my dear, I do not say but that you are the first with Richard,
and that you well deserve to be so; but is the seeking to be the
first even in that way safe? Is it not self-seeking again?"

"Well, perhaps it is. I know it is what makes jealousy."

"The only plan is not to think about ourselves at all," said Mrs.
May. "Affection is round us like sunshine, and there is no use in
measuring and comparing. We must give it out freely ourselves,
hoping for nothing again."

"Oh, mamma, you don't mean that!"

"Perhaps I should have said, bargaining for nothing again. It will
come of itself, if we don't exact it; but rivalry is the sure means
of driving it away, because that is trying to get oneself
worshipped."

"I suppose, then, you have never thought of it," said Margaret,
smiling.