CHAPTER XXI--THE SCHOOL.
I left Horton Lodge, and went to join my mother in our new abode at A---.
I found her well in health, resigned in spirit, and even cheerful, though subdued and sober, in her general demeanour.

We had only three boarders and half a dozen day-pupils to commence with; but by due care and diligence we hoped ere long to increase the number of both.
I set myself with befitting energy to discharge the duties of this new mode of life.

I call it _new_, for there was, indeed, a considerable difference between working with my mother in a school of our own, and working as a hireling among strangers, despised and trampled upon by old and young; and for the first few weeks I was by no means unhappy.

'It is possible we may meet again,' and 'will it be of any consequence to you whether we do or not ?'--Those words still rang in my ear and rested on my heart: they were my secret solace and support.

'I shall see him again .-- He will come; or he will write.' No promise, in fact, was too bright or too extravagant for Hope to whisper in my ear.