of her father's gift. The next morning
was spent in great secrecy at the lodgings, where Phoebe was so notable
and joyous in her labours, that Honor drew the conclusion that
housewifery was her true element; and science, art, and literature only
acquired, because they had been made her duties, reckoning all the more
on the charming order that would rule in Owen Sandbrook's parsonage.

All troubles and disappointments had faded from the young girl's mind, as
she gazed round exulting on the sacred prints on the walls, the delicate
statuettes, and well-filled spill-holder and match-box on the
mantelshelf, the solid inkstand and appurtenances upon the handsome
table-cover, the comfortable easy-chair, and the book-cases, whose
contents had been reduced to order due, and knew that the bedroom bore
equal testimony to her skill; while the good landlady gazed in
admiration, acknowledging that she hardly knew her own rooms, and
promising with all her heart to take care of her lodger.

Alas! when, on the way to the station, Honor and Phoebe made an
unexpected raid to bring some last improvements, Robert was detected in
the act of undoing their work, and denuding his room of even its original
luxuries. Phoebe spoke not, but her face showed her discomfiture, and
Honora attacked him openly.

'I never meant you to know it,' he said, looking rather foolish.

'Then to ingratitude you added treachery.'

'It is not that I do not feel your kindness--'

'But you are determined not to feel it!'

'No, no! only, this is no position for mere luxuries. My
fellow-curates--'

'Will use such conveniences of life as come to them naturally,' said
Honor, who had lived long enough to be afraid of the freaks of
asceticism. 'Hear me, Robert. You are not wise in thrusting aside all
that brings home to you your little sister's love. You think it cannot
be forgotten, but it is not well to cast away these daily memorials. I
know you have much to make you severe--nay, morose--but if you become so,
you will never do your work efficiently. You may repel, but never
invite; frighten, but not soothe.'

'You want me to think my efficiency dependent on arm-chairs and
table-covers.'

'I know you will be harder to all for living in needless discomfort, and
that you will be gentler to all for constantly meeting tokens of your
sister's affection. Had you sought these comforts for yourself, the case
would be different; but, Robert, candidly, which of