from the traces of tears in her eyes, he coolly
pursued his studies. Julia had recovered her
composure, and Charles Weston felt satisfied. Miss
Emmerson and her niece took their seats quietly
with their work at an open window of the parlour,
and order appeared to be restored in some measure
to the mansion. After pursuing their several
occupations for some minutes with a silence that
had lately been a stranger to them, the aunt
observed--

"You appear to have something new in hand, my
love. Surely you must abound with trimmings, and
yet you are working another already?"

"It is for Anna Miller," said Julia with a flush of
feeling.

"I was in hopes you would perform your promise to
your cousin Katherine, now Miss Miller is gone, and
make your portion of the garments for the Orphan
Asylum," returned Miss Emmerson gravely.

"Oh! cousin Katherine must wait. I promised this
trimming to Anna to remember me by, and I would
not disappoint the dear girl for the world."

"It is not your cousin Katherine, but the Orphans,
who will have to wait; and surely a promise to a
relation is as sacred as one to an acquaintance."