I began to talk to her, and found her well educated, refined, intelligent--all, in fact, that one could wish.
"Little by little their story came out--it was one of a mother's pride and glory in her only child.

She worshiped her--literally worshiped her.
She had not filled the girl's mind with any nonsensical idea about being a lady, but she had denied herself everything in order that Madaline might be well educated.

For many years Madaline had been what is called a governess-pupil in a most excellent school.

'Let me die when I may,' said the poor, proud mother, 'I shall leave Madaline with a fortune in her own hands; her education will always be a fortune to her.' "I asked her one day if she would let me take Madaline home with me for a few hours; she seemed delighted, and consented at once.

I took the girl home, and with my own hands dressed her in one of my most becoming toilets.