been confirmed by opportunity of conversation. The promise of
correspondence had hitherto waited for fulfilment. It seemed
natural to Marian that the younger of the two girls should write;
Maud was attractive and agreeable, and probably clever, but Dora
had more spontaneity in friendship.

'It will amuse you to hear,' wrote Dora, 'that the literary
project our brother mentioned in a letter whilst you were still
here is really to come to something. He has sent us a specimen
chapter, written by himself of the "Child's History of
Parliament," and Maud thinks she could carry it on in that style,
if there's no hurry. She and I have both set to work on English
histories, and we shall be authorities before long. Jolly and
Monk offer thirty pounds for the little book, if it suits them
when finished, with certain possible profits in the future. Trust
Jasper for making a bargain! So perhaps our literary career will
be something more than a joke, after all. I hope it may; anything
rather than a life of teaching. We shall be so glad to hear from
you, if you still care to trouble about country girls.'

And so on. Marian read with a pleased smile, then acquainted her
mother with the contents.

'I am very glad,' said Mrs Yule; 'it's so seldom you get a
letter.'

'Yes.'

Marian seemed desirous of saying something more, and her mother
had a thoughtful look, suggestive of sympathetic curiosity.