May I run home and ask ?" "To be sure, my dear!" Jemima flew off; and fortunately her father was at home; for her mother's permission would have been deemed insufficient.

She received many directions about her behaviour.
"Take no sugar in your tea, Jemima.

I am sure the Bensons ought not to be able to afford sugar, with their means.

And do not eat much; you can have plenty at home on your return; remember Mrs Denbigh's keep must cost them a great deal." So Jemima returned considerably sobered, and very much afraid of her hunger leading her to forget Mr Benson's poverty.

Meanwhile Miss Benson and Sally, acquainted with Mr Benson's invitation to Jemima, set about making some capital tea-cakes on which they piqued themselves.