"Oh what a little Paradise!" said Beatrice, looking round her, "how
happy you must be here. Do Ethelind let me have one peep outside ere
daylight is gone;" so saying, she darted through the French casement,
on to the lawn, which sloped down to the water's edge. "Well I
declare, this is a perfect Elysium, I am so glad I made up my mind to
come here, instead of going with the Fultons to Cheltenham."

"I am indeed rejoiced that you are so pleased with our retreat, my
dear Miss Trevor, it is indeed a lovely spot."

"No Miss Trevor, if you please, my dear madam: it must be plain
Beatrice, and you must regard me as you do Ethelind, and be a mother
to me; for I know I greatly need a monitress; for you will find me, I
fear a sad giddy mad-cap."

Mrs. Fortescue smiling benignly promised acquiescence, and taking her
hand, which she grasped affectionately; led her into the next room,
where tea was waiting. After which, Ethelind took her up stairs, and
showed her the little bedroom prepared for her. They remained here
some time, chatting over their old school days, till summoned to
prayers. On taking leave for the night, Mrs. Fortescue begged if at
all heavy in the morning, that Beatrice would not hurry up. But she
arose early, much refreshed and delighted with all she saw. Ethelind
soon joined her, and offered to help her unpack, and arrange her
things, while the only servant they had, prepared the breakfast.

Soon as the morning meal was over, and little necessary arrangements
made, Ethelind proposed a ramble, which was gladly acceded to on the
part of Beatrice. They passed through an orchard into a lane, and as
they crossed a rustic bridge, the village church came in view. It was