pproached the letter-bag with some curiosity. It
contained one for her from her sister Juliana, a very unusual
correspondent, and Phoebe's mind misgave her lest it should have any
connection with the hints in Lucilla's note. But she was little prepared
for what she read.

'Acton Manor, Dec. 24th.

'MY DEAR PHOEBE,

'Although, after what passed in July, I cannot suppose that the
opinion of your elders can have any effect on your proceedings, yet
for the sake of our relationship, as well as of regard to
appearances, I cannot forbear endeavouring to rescue you from the
consequences of your own folly and obstinacy. Nothing better was to
be expected from Mervyn; but at your age, with your pretences to
religion, you cannot plead simplicity, nor ignorance of the usages of
the world. Neither Sir Bevil nor myself can express our amazement at
your recklessness, thus forfeiting the esteem of society, and
outraging the opinion of our old friends. To put an end to the
impropriety, we will at once receive you here, overlooking any
inconvenience, and we shall expect you all three on Tuesday, under
charge of Miss Fennimore, who seems to have been about as fit as
Maria to think for you. It is too late to write to Mervyn to-night,
but he shall hear from us to-morrow, as well as from your guardian,
to whom Sir Bevil has written, You had better bring my jewels; and
the buhl clock from my mother's mantelshelf, which I was to have.
Mrs. Brisbane will pack them. Tell Bertha, with my love, that she
might have been more explicit in her correspondence.

'Your affectionate sister,
'JULIANA ACTON.'

When Miss Fennimore entered the room, she found Phoebe sitting like one
petrified, only just able to hold out the letter, and murmur--'What does
it mean?' Imagining that it could only contain something fatal about
Robert, Miss Fennimore sprang at the paper, and glanced through it, while
Phoebe again faintly asked, 'What have I done?'

'Lady Acton is pleased to be mysterious!' said the governess. 'The kind
sister she always was!'

'Don't say that,' exclaimed Phoebe, rallying. 'It must be something
shocking, for Sir Bevil thinks so too,' and the tears sprang forth.

'He will never think anything unkind of