earth. I do not think that is resignation--there are some things
under which I do not think I could be resigned, at least not with my
present feelings.'

'Yes, you would, Anne,' said Elizabeth; 'you are just the calm
tempered person who would rise up to meet the trial in peace.--But I
do not know what I am talking about; and so I shall go on with what I
meant to say before--that bright visions are my great delight. I
like to fancy what Horace and Edward may be, I like to imagine my own
mind grown older, I like to consider what I shall think of the things
that occupy us now. But then I am not likely to be disappointed,
even if my castles in the air should fall down. You know I am not
likely to be a long-lived person.'

'Oh! do not say so, my dear Lizzie,' cried Anne; 'I cannot bear it.'

'Indeed, Anne,' said Elizabeth, 'I did not mean to say anything which
could shock you. I only touched upon what you must have known half
your life, and what Mrs. Hazleby has taken good care that I should
not forget. I am perfectly well now, and have nothing the matter
with me; but then I know that a little illness has a great effect
upon me, and my colds are much sooner caught than cured.'

Before Anne could answer, there was a knock at the door, and Lady
Merton's maid appeared, ready to dress her young lady for the
evening; and thus the conversation ended.

The girls were to drink tea in the inner drawing-room, as soon as the
company were gone into the dining-room; and Anne and Elizabeth waited
to come down-stairs till dinner had begun.