It is better to deny ourselves things not necessary to health, than to injure health by extra labour." She urged this view, however, in vain.

Claire could not, without at least a trial of his strength, decline the important offer which had been made to him.

And so, after a consultation with Mr.Melleville, he entered upon his new employment, leaving his wife to spend the hours of his absence alone.

Not idly were those hours spent.

What she had at first proposed to do, she now began to execute.