I should break down at the first word; we never were very familiar.

She is stiff, and I am nervous--and--and--I really could not summon courage.' Miss Hall had been Miss Gwynne's governess during a few years of her education era, and had succeeded in entirely gaining her affections, as well as a small portion of ascendancy over her determined will.

She had left Glanyravon to reside with an aged father, who, having lately died, left her again under the necessity of seeking a situation.

Miss Gwynne had invited her to pay her a visit, and she was to arrive almost immediately.
She did arrive whilst they were talking about her, and as the carriage that had been sent to meet her drove up to the door out flew Freda in great excitement, and scarcely allowed her _ci-devant_ governess to alight before she was overwhelming her with embraces.

Mr Gwynne followed somewhat more leisurely, and received Miss Hall with his usual nervous reserve of manner, but great courtesy.