There were neither coals nor ashes in the grate, and I saw no articles of clothing anywhere, nor any kind of food.

Upon a shelf in an open cupboard were a plate or two, a cup or two, and so forth, but all dry and empty.

There was a more affecting meaning in her pinched appearance, I thought as I looked round, than I had understood before.
"Extremely honoured, I am sure," said our poor hostess with the greatest suavity, "by this visit from the wards in Jarndyce.

And very much indebted for the omen.

It is a retired situation.Considering.