"I will give you a hundred a year." A hundred a year! actually certain, and over and above any other income.

It seemed a fortune to poor Hilary.
"Will you give me a day or two to think about it and consult my sisters ?" She spoke quietly, but Miss Balquidder could see how agitated she was; how she evidently struggled with many feelings that would be best struggled with alone.

The good old lady rose.
"Take your own time, my dear; I will keep the situation open for you for one week from this date.

And now I must send you away, for I have a great deal to do." They parted quite like friends; and Hilary went out, walking quickly, feeling neither the wind nor the rain.

Yet when she reached No.