prompting than hitherto to assert herself, and, if possible, to
surprise Mr. Tarrant. But, as if he understood her thought, his
manner became only more bland, his calm aloofness more pronounced.

The children, who were never at ease in their cousin's presence,
succeeded in drawing Jessica apart, and chattered to her about the
educational methods imposed by Mrs. Baker, airing many grievances.
They nourished a hope that Miss. Morgan might again become their
governess; lessons down at Teignmouth had been nothing like so
oppressive as here at Champion Hill.

Tarrant, meanwhile, having drunk a cup of tea, and touched his
moustache with a silk handkerchief, transferred himself from the
camp-stool to the basket chair vacated by Jessica. He was now
further from Nancy, but facing her.

'I have been talking with Mrs. Bellamy,' fell from him, in the same
tone of idle good nature. 'Do you know her? She has but one subject
of conversation; an engrossing topic, to be sure; namely, her
servants. Do you give much thought to the great servant question? I
have my own modest view of the matter. It may not be novel, but my
mind has worked upon it in the night watches.'

Nancy, resolved not to smile, found herself smiling. Not so much at
what he said, as at the manner of it. Her resentment was falling
away; she felt the influence of this imperturbable geniality.

'Shall I tell you my theory?'

He talked with less reserve than on the last occasion when they had