As Reynolds, the servant-man, entered the drawing room, Lettice heard a
voice, "Is it come at last!" And the young lady, who thus inquired, was
Catherine Melvin, who was then making an early breakfast before a noble
blazing fire.

"Has the woman brought her bill," asked Mrs. Danvers.

"I will go and ask," said the servant. "Stay, ask her to come up. I
should like to inquire how she is getting along this cold weather."

Reynolds obeyed, and soon Lettice found herself in a warm, comfortable
breakfast room.

"Good morning," said Mrs. Danvers. "I am sorry you have had such a cold
walk this morning. I am sorry you could not come last night. This young
lady is just leaving, and there is barely time to put up the things."
Catherine (for this was the young lady's name,) had her back turned to
the door quietly continuing her breakfast, but when the gentle voice of
Lettice replied:

"Indeed, madam, I beg your pardon, I did my very best"--Catherine
started, looked up, and rose hastily from her chair--Lettice, advancing
a few steps, exclaimed "Catherine."

And Catherine exclaimed--"It is--it is you!" and coming forward and
taking her by the hand, she gazed with astonishment at the wan face and
the miserable attire of the work-woman. "You," she kept repeating.
"Lettice! Lettice Arnold! Good Heavens! Where is your father? your
mother? your sister?"