It will be a real pleasure for me to keep her, for she has become a part of the house, and we should miss her sorely, indeed.

She is quick and intelligent, and I will teach her all I know, and can train her up to take a situation as a governess in a gentleman's family, or perhaps--" and she laughed, "your little romance might come true some day, and she can in that case stop in this home until James makes her another." "You are very kind, ma'am," the sergeant said.

"Truly kind indeed; and I humbly accept your offer, except that so long as I live she shall be no expense to you.

I earn more than enough for my wants, and can, at any rate, do something towards preventing her from being altogether a burden on your hands.

And now, ma'am, how would you recommend me to go to work with the vindictive old man up at the Hall ?" "I shouldn't have thought he was vindictive.