'I don't think it probable.'

'But we don't know for certain,' she said, fixing her great eyes on him.
'Do we?'

'We know nothing for certain,' he answered; and then he said, 'You and Mrs.
Bentley have lived a long time together?'

'No; not very long. About a couple of years. I was about thirteen when I
came to Ashwood. I am now eighteen. Mrs. Bentley is a sort of connection.
She is very poor--that is why Mr. Burnett asked her to come and live here;
besides, as I grew up I wanted a companion. She has been very good to me.
We have been very happy together--at least, as happy as one may be; for I
don't think that any one is ever very happy. Have you been very happy?'

'I have not always been happy. But tell me more about Mrs. Bentley.'

'There is little more to tell. I naturally love her very much. She nursed
me when I was ill--and I'm often ill; she taught me all I know; she cheered
me when I was sad--when I thought my heart would break; when everybody else
seemed unkind she was kind. Besides, I could not remain here without her.'
Emily lowered her eyes, and the conversation seemed to pause.

'I have arranged all that,' Hubert answered hurriedly. 'I spoke to her last
night, and she has consented to remain.'

'That is very good of you.' Emily raised her eyes and looked shyly at
Hubert; and then, as if doubtful of herself, she said, 'Do you like her?
I'm sure you do. Every one does. Do you not think she is very handsome?'