She had understood it was to be delayed till Colonel Campbell's return." "So very kind!" replied Miss Bates.

"But you are always kind." There was no bearing such an "always;" and to break through her dreadful gratitude, Emma made the direct inquiry of-- "Where--may I ask ?--is Miss Fairfax going ?" "To a Mrs.Smallridge--charming woman--most superior--to have the charge of her three little girls--delightful children.

Impossible that any situation could be more replete with comfort; if we except, perhaps, Mrs.Suckling's own family, and Mrs.Bragge's; but Mrs.Smallridge is intimate with both, and in the very same neighbourhood:--lives only four miles from Maple Grove.

Jane will be only four miles from Maple Grove." "Mrs.Elton, I suppose, has been the person to whom Miss Fairfax owes--" "Yes, our good Mrs.Elton.The most indefatigable, true friend.

She would not take a denial.