In one word--Settlements! But for the profanity of the woman's language, and the really lamentable credulity of the poor old lady, the whole thing would make a fit subject for a burlesque.
"But the saddest part of the story is still to come.
"In due course of time the lady's decision was communicated to Julian Gray.

He took leave of his senses on the spot.

Can you believe it ?--he has resigned his curacy! At a time when the church is thronged every Sunday to hear him preach, this madman shuts the door and walks out of the pulpit.

Even Lady Janet was not far enough gone in folly to abet him in this.

She remonstrated, like the rest of his friends.