'I have ever looked forward to the time that should enable thee to mix among the gayest and prettiest, and take thy station with the best.

But I still look forward, Nell, I still look forward, and if I should be forced to leave thee, meanwhile, how have I fitted thee for struggles with the world?
The poor bird yonder is as well qualified to encounter it, and be turned adrift upon its mercies--Hark! I hear Kit outside.

Go to him, Nell, go to him.' She rose, and hurrying away, stopped, turned back, and put her arms about the old man's neck, then left him and hurried away again--but faster this time, to hide her falling tears.
'A word in your ear, sir,' said the old man in a hurried whisper.

'I have been rendered uneasy by what you said the other night, and can only plead that I have done all for the best--that it is too late to retract, if I could (though I cannot)--and that I hope to triumph yet.
All is for her sake.

I have borne great poverty myself, and would spare her the sufferings that poverty carries with it.