We hoped to persuade her to go back to the shop at Weston; but if this you speak of were possible--how _much_ better! We have never reconciled ourselves to her being in that position--never.' 'I see no harm in the position itself,' replied Miss Nunn in her rather blunt tone, 'but I see a great deal in those outrageous hours.

She won't easily do better in London, without special qualifications; and probably she is reluctant to go back to the country.' 'Yes, she is; very reluctant.' 'I understand it,' said the other, with a nod.

'Will you ask her to come and see me ?' A servant entered with tea.

Miss Nunn caught the expression in her visitor's eyes, and said cheerfully-- 'I had no midday meal to-day, and really I feel the omission.

Mary, please do put tea in the dining-room, and bring up some meat--Miss Barfoot,' she added, in explanation to Virginia, is out of town, and I am a shockingly irregular person about meals.