And I cannot understand why there should be such a suspicion because he and I are thrown closely together, and are fond of each other.

Whether he is a sixth, eighth, or tenth cousin makes no difference.

He is the nearest I have on that side; and since my poor brother's death he is papa's heir.

It is so natural that he should be my friend;--and such a comfort that he should be such a friend as he is! I own it seems cruel to me that under such circumstances there should be any suspicion." "Suspicion, my dear;--suspicion of what ?" "Not that I care for it.

I am prepared to love him as if he were my brother.