That she should even think of offering such an inexpressible delight and benefit to his sister was sufficient proof of Miss Bannister's solid worth and tender, gracious nature.

These remarks made to the ladies in general really did help in the good work, for, while Ralph was talking in this way, Cicely bent more earnestly over her sewing and stitched faster.
Until now, she had never thought much about Miss Bannister; but, without intending it, or in the least desiring it, she began to think a good deal about her, even when Ralph was not there.
Miriam herself settled the manner of her journey.

She had thought for a moment of Ralph as an escort, but this would cause him trouble and loss of time, which was not at all necessary, and--what was very important--would at least double the expenses of the trip; so she wrote to Miss Pender, the head teacher in her late school, begging that she might come to her and be shipped to Barport.

Miss Pender had great skill and experience in the shipping of girls from the school to destinations in all parts of the country.

Despatched by Miss Pender, the wildest or the vaguest school-girl would go safely to her home, or to whatever spot she might be sent.
As this was vacation, and she happened to be resting idly at school, Miss Pender gladly undertook the congenial task offered her; and welcomed Miriam, and then shipped her to Barport with even more than her usual success.
When the dear girl had gone, everybody greatly missed her,--even La Fleur, for of certain sweets the child had eaten twice as much as any one else in the house.