'Indeed I wish to hear all the details,' was the sincere and gentle
answer.

'I had her with me generally in the holidays, and I confess I was
absolutely alarmed to see how pretty the child was growing, knowing
how great a disadvantage it often is. She was always a good girl,
not naturally so studious as could be wished, but docile, merry,
gentle, a favourite with every one, and peculiarly innocent and
childish. I wished her to remain a few years longer as teacher, but
it so happened that Lady Adelaide Egremont, coming to consult the
head of the establishment about a nursery-governess, saw Alice, and
was so much struck with her sweet face, which was all sunshine then,
as to insist on engaging her.'

'Ah! my dear sister, I remember her enthusiastic letter about her
pretty governess, and her boy's affection for her, an affection that
has lasted--'

'It seemed so safe. A clergyman's family in the country, and so kind
a lady at the head, that, though Alice had been educated for a
superior governess, it appeared the best beginning she could have.
And she was very happy, and met with great kindness. Only,
unfortunately, Lady Adelaide was delicate, and for many weeks
entirely confined to the sofa. Mr. Egremont's elder brother was much
there. He seemed to my poor inexperienced child quite elderly, and
his attentions like those of--of an old uncle--she told me
afterwards--'

'He must really have been over forty--'