I was a favourite at school, having a disposition to make myself and others as happy as I could.

I required a good deal of snubbing, but when properly kept down I believe I was not a disagreeable girl.
My Indian letters generally contained some bit of news to amuse or interest my companions, and now and again captain, or ensign somebody, home upon sick leave, called and presented himself in Miss Sweetman's parlour, with curious presents for me, my mistresses, or favourite companions.

I remember well the day when Major Guthrie arrived with the box of stuffed birds.

Miss Kitty Sweetman, our youngest and best-loved mistress, was sent on before me to speak civilly to the gentleman in the parlour, and announce my coming.

Miss Kitty was the drudge of the school, the sweetest-tempered drudge in the world.