I think she would like to shrink up to the size of a mouse, that she might run about and do people good without their noticing her.' 'It isn't patience I want, God knows; it's lungs to speak loud enough.
But you'll be at home yourself, I suppose, this morning; and you can talk to her for me.' 'No, mammy; I promised poor Mrs.Lowme to go and sit with her.

She's confined to her room, and both the Miss Lowmes are out; so I'm going to read the newspaper to her and amuse her.' 'Couldn't you go another morning?
As Mr.Armstrong and that other gentleman are coming to dinner, I should think it would be better to stay at home.

Can you trust Betty to see to everything?
She's new to the place.' 'O I couldn't disappoint Mrs.Lowme; I promised her.

Betty will do very well, no fear.' Old Mrs.Dempster was silent after this, and began to sip her tea.

The breakfast went on without further conversation for some time, Mr.
Dempster being absorbed in the papers.