the idea that Mr. Herries suggested of his probable place in the future
state, while Jane felt indignant.

They had both hoped for some help and comfort from Mrs. Dalzell; but
when her visit was so long delayed, their expectations fell
considerably. Jane had become so tired of the useless kind of
condolence that was offered, that she determined to ask for advice from
the next person who came, and that happened to be Mrs. Dalzell. She
spoke a little more freely and kindly to the girls than other people
had done; but still she was keeping serious difficulties at arm's
length, when Jane turned rather sharply round on her with the abrupt
question----

"What do you think we ought to do, Mrs. Dalzell?"

"Indeed, I cannot say, Miss Melville. This most unaccountable conduct
of Mr. Hogarth's has taken us all by surprise, so much that I
can think of nothing but overturning the will. I am sure when William
told me of the extraordinary disposition of the property, I felt--I
cannot tell you how I felt. Such a shocking thing to leave all to a son
whom nobody ever heard of before, and to leave his sister's children
destitute. You certainly have a claim on the heir, for a maintenance at
least. He should be made to refund a part of the spoil."

"He would if he could, but it is forbidden. There is no help in that
way," said Jane. "But employment, Mrs. Dalzell; can you suggest any
employment for us?"

Mrs. Dalzell hesitated. "Mrs. Chalmers is in need of a finishing
governess for Emma and Robina; but I am afraid neither of you two young