Constance laughed. "Oh, Tom! there are worse misfortunes at sea. I
would go out wholly, but that papa would not like to spare me, and I
must take Annabel for music and other things of an evening. Don't look
cross. It is an excellent thought; and I shall not mind it."

"What will mamma say?" asked Tom, ironically. "You just ask her!"

"Mamma knows," replied Constance. "Mamma has had her fears about the
termination of the lawsuit, just as I have. Ah! while you boys were
laughing and joking, and pursuing your sports or your studies of a
night, I and mamma would be talking over the shadowed future. I told
mamma that if the time and the necessity came for turning my education
and talents to account, I should do it with a willing heart; and mamma,
being rather more sensible than her impetuous son Tom, cordially
approved."

Tom made a paper bullet and flung it at Constance, his honest eyes half
laughing.

"So should I approve," said Hamish. "It is a case, taking into
consideration my father's state, in which all of us should help who are
able. Of course, were you boys grown up and getting money, Constance
_should_ be exempt from aiding and abetting; but as it is, it is
different. There will be no disgrace in her becoming a governess; and
Helstonleigh will never think it so. She is a lady always, and so she
would be if she were to turn to and wash up dishes. The only doubt
is--"

He stopped, and looked hesitatingly at Constance. As if penetrating his
meaning, her eyes fell before his.