shall give you a smaller room than this--the one across the hall;
you will keep your books there, and remain there during study hours.
At other times you can come to my room, or amuse yourself as you
like; and when there is company here, remember, I shall always
expect you to sit quietly, and listen to the conversation, as it is
very improving to young girls to be in really good society. You will
have a music teacher, and practice on the upright piano in the
library, instead of the large one in the parlor. One thing more, if
you want anything, come to me, and ask for it, and I shall be very
much displeased if you talk to the servants, or encourage them to
talk to you. Now, everything is understood, and I hope you will be
happy, and properly improve the advantages I shall give you."

Edna drew one of the white hands down to her lips and murmured:

"Thank you--thank you! You shall never have cause to regret your
goodness; and your wishes shall always guide me."

"Well, well; I shall remember this promise, and trust I may never
find it necessary to remind you of it. I dare say we shall get on
very happily together. Don't thank me any more, and hereafter we
need not speak of the matter."

Mrs. Murray stooped, and for the first time kissed the child's white
forehead; and Edna longed to throw her arms about the stately form,
but the polished hauteur awed and repelled her.

Before she could reply, and just as Mrs. Murray was moving toward
the door, it was thrown open, and a gentleman strode into the room.
At sight of Edna he stopped suddenly, and dropping a bag of game on