When I was twelve years old, Father engaged a governess who was different from the others.

She was a widow and had to support herself.

She was highly educated and one of the sweetest women I have ever known.

When she took charge of me I was a vain, stupid little tyrant, but she soon made me over.

She remained with me until I entered a prep school, then an uncle whom she had never seen died and left her some money.