Gradually, however, a feeling of vague misery ensued.

She longed to be away in India with her dear soldier father; she wished Jeffreys had never come under the Wildtree roof to bring insult on himself and wretchedness to her.

She dreaded the future for her boy cousin without his protector, and half wished him dead and safe from temptation.
In due time her brave spirit came back.

She despised herself for her weakness, and, resolved boldly to face her aunt and every one, she came down to dinner.
It was strictly a family party, with Mrs Scarfe added; for the other three visitors had not yet returned from Windsor.

Raby sought protection from her aunt by devoting herself to Mrs Scarfe, and quite delighted that good lady by her brightness and spirit.