"And you must not feel hurt if I tell you that I should think no other
young lady of that age and in your position is half so deficient as you
are. Deficient in many ways, Caroline: in goodness, in thoughtfulness,
and in other desirable qualities; and greatly so in education. Annabel,
who is a year younger than you, is twice as advanced."

"Annabel says you worry her into learning."

"Annabel is fond of talking nonsense; but she is a good, loving child
at heart. You would be surprised at the little trouble she really gives
me while she makes a show of giving me a great deal. I have _so much_
to teach you, Caroline--to your mind and heart, as well as to your
intellect--that I feel the hours as at present arranged, will be
insufficient for me. My dear, when you grow up to womanhood, I am sure
you will wish to be loving and loved."

Caroline burst into tears. "I should do better if mamma were not so
cross with me, Miss Channing. I always do anything that William Yorke
asks me; and I will do anything for you."

Constance kissed her. "Then will you begin by rising early, and being
ready for me at seven?"

"Yes, I will," answered Caroline. "But Martha must be sure to call me.
Are you going to the meeting this afternoon?"

"Of course not," said Constance. "My time now belongs to you."

"But I think mamma wishes you to go with us. She said something about
it."