A brilliant complexion and eyes that sparkled with habitual cheerfulness gave her the benefit of doubt when her age was in question; her style of dress, gracefully ornate, would have led a stranger to presume her a wedded lady of some distinction.

Yet Mary Barfoot had known many troubles, poverty among them.

Her experiences and struggles bore a close resemblance to those which Rhoda Nunn had gone through, and the time of trial had lasted longer.

Mental and moral stamina would have assured her against such evils of celibacy as appeared in the elder Maddens, but it was to a change of worldly fortune that she owed this revival of youthful spirit and energy in middle life.
'You and I must be friends,' she said to Monica, holding the girl's soft little hand.

'We are both black but comely.' The compliment to herself seemed the most natural thing in the world.
Monica blushed with pleasure, and could not help laughing.
It was all but decided that Monica should become a pupil at the school in Great Portland Street.