But I was so unhealthy, and suffered so in every way.

Work and anxiety without cease, from when I was twelve years old.

You know all about my father?
If I hadn't been clever at figures, what would have become of me?
I should have drudged at some wretched occupation until the work and the misery of everything killed me." Hilliard listened intently, his eyes never stirring from her face.
"The change in me began when father came back to us, and I began to feel my freedom.

Then I wanted to get away, and to live by myself.

I thought of London--I've told you how much I always thought of London--but I hadn't the courage to go there.