Disregarding paternal censure, she subscribed to the Literary Institute, and read at hap-hazard with little enough profit.

Twenty-three years old, she was now doubly independent, for the will of a maiden aunt (a lady always on the worst of terms with Mr.and Mrs.Mumbray, and therefore glad to encourage Serena against them) had made her an heiress of no slight consideration.

Young men of Polterham regarded her as the greatest prize within view, though none could flatter himself that he stood in any sensible degree of favour with her.

There seemed no reason why Miss Mumbray should not marry, but it was certain that as yet she behaved disdainfully to all who approached her with the show of intention.

She was not handsome, but had agreeable features.