could set the clothes straight without wakening her."

How very sweet and gentle Aunt Jane's voice was in that low cautious
whisper.

Some one--and Kate knew the peculiar sound of Mrs. Lacy's crape--was
moving the bed-clothes as gently as she could.

"Poor little dear!" again said Lady Jane; "it is very sad to see a
child who has cried herself to sleep. I do wish we could manage her
better. Do you think the child is happy?" she ended by asking in a
wistful voice.

"She has very high spirits," was the answer.

"Ah, yes! her impetuosity; it is her misfortune, poor child! Barbara
is so calm and resolute, that--that--" Was Lady Jane really going to
regret anything in her sister? She did not say it, however; but Kate
heard her sigh, and add, "Ah, well! if I were stronger, perhaps we
could make her happier; but I am so nervous. I must try not to look
distressed when her spirits do break out, for perhaps it is only
natural. And I am so sorry to have brought all this on her, and
spoilt those poor children's pleasure!"

Lady Jane bent over the child, and Kate reared herself up on a
sudden, threw her arms round her neck, and whispered, "Aunt Jane,
dear Aunt Jane, I'll try never to frighten you again! I am so
sorry."

"There, there; have I waked you? Don't, my dear; your aunt will