so on the paw of a tabby cat, who resisted the
indignity by a very prolonged yell and an angry spit at her enemy.

'Poor puss,' said her mistress. 'I expect, sir, your foot is no light
weight. I believe you brought me this letter,' laying her hand on the
precious document, which was placed on a little table by her side.

Jack murmured an assent.

'I have been much troubled by the loss of servants of late. One made a
foolish match, the other died--both old servants. I have made efforts to
replace them, and have failed. Is this young woman known to you, sir?'

'Well known, madam, but--' Jack paused. 'She isn't a servant. I believe
she is a relative of yours.'

Mrs Lambert gave a little incredulous laugh.

'I see she subscribes herself as my cousin, but this is a _very_ distant
connection. However, it is a pretty note, take it altogether, and she
speaks of trouble at home--her father in money difficulty. I showed my
son the letter, and from all he can make out the sum borrowed will have
to be repaid. He will speak more of that hereafter, but I will send my
answer to Miss Palmer's request. Writing is difficult to me, for my
fingers are a little stiff with rheumatism, therefore I am glad to spare
them. First, are you the accepted lover of Miss Palmer?'

Again poor Jack felt the hot blushes rise to his face, again he shrank
from the rough touch of the secret in his heart which he held sacred.

'Because,' Mrs Lambert continued, 'I do not permit sweethearts in the
house. It is on this ground that I have dismissed several young
serving-maids and depend on the services of Mrs Symes. I don't quite
know what your views may be about Miss Palmer, but as I hear you are
apprenticed in Bristol to a respectable goldsmith I should wish to make
it plain that I can have no gallivanting or--'

'Madam,' Jack said, interrupting this long speech,' I have known Miss
Bryda Palmer all my life. I am anxious to serve her, but I am not her
accepted suitor.' Then, rising to his full height, Jack asked, 'What are
your commands, madam? What answer am I to take to Miss Palmer?'

'I will take her on trial, and give a wage, say ten pounds per annum.
This is only an arrangement, as I say, on trial, to be broken by either
party at a month's not a quarter's notice.'

'Miss Palmer will come next Monday,' Jack said. Then, his voice
faltering, he went on with some hesitation. 'She has been much cared for
and--and loved. I hope you will be good to her,