Phoebe was never the same woman since then, though her health did not fail for a year or more afterwards; Mr.Hamilton always says she has had a good riddance of Robert.

He never thought much of him, and he has told me that it is far better that Phoebe never had a chance of marrying him, for she would have been a sad burden to any man; and she would not have had you to nurse her.' And Miss Locke's careworn face brightened.

'That is just what I tell myself, when I am out of heart about her; the Lord knew Robert would have been a cruel husband to her,--for he is not too kind to Nancy,--and so He kept Phoebe away from him.

Phoebe is not one to bear unkindness,--it just maddens her,--and we have all spoilt her.' 'Just so, and she knows her power over you.

I am afraid she gives you a great deal to bear, Miss Locke.' 'I never mind it from her,' she answered simply.