If there has ever been a difference, it has all been in your favour." "Why, why did you destroy the illusion under which I have so long rested ?" said Fanny, when both were more composed.

"Why tell me a truth from which no good can flow?
Why break in upon my happy ignorance with such a chilling revelation?
Oh, mother, mother! Forgive me, if I say you have been cruel." "Not so, my child.

Believe me, that nothing but duty would have ever driven me to this avowal.

You are now at woman's legal age.

You have a guardian, in whose hands your father, at his death, left, for your benefit, some property; and this person now desires to settle the estate, and transfer to you what remains." Bewildered, like one awakening from a dream, Fanny listened to this strange announcement.