There were more books in the house than was usual even in that of a _gentleman farmer_; and several of Sir Walter's novels, besides some travels, and a little Scotch history, were read between them that winter.

In poetry, Annie had to forage for herself.

Mrs Forbes could lend her no guiding hand in that direction.
The bond between them grew stronger every day.

Annie was to Mrs Forbes an outlet for her maternity, which could never have outlet enough without a girl as well as a boy to love; and Annie, in consequence, was surrounded by numberless holy influences, which, operating in a time when she was growing fast, had their full effect upon mind and body both.

In a condition of rapid change, the mass is more yielding and responsive.