an ever to make up the many deficiencies of which I am sensible, in my
qualifications for teaching. I have had a good deal of experience, and
I may in that way prove a help to Isabella, and I have tried to make the
most of the two hours which I have daily set apart for study. Still
much remains to be done; but two years of application may do much for my
improvement. I scarcely think at all about the separation from my
sister, so pleasant is the prospect of living together afterwards, and
in independence too. One thing, however, rather troubles me. I am
afraid Isabella's expenses will be considerable, and a new tax upon the
kindness of our friends. I think that our little fund, joined to what I
can save from our household expenditure in consequence of her absence,
may make up the difference for one year: how shall we manage to raise
the rest? Can you put me in any way of doing it? She is to go at
Christmas. What a pleasure it must be to you, to think of seeing her so
soon! You cannot possibly be much together, but a few happy hours you
may enjoy occasionally. If Mr Rathbone indeed--but it is wrong to
repine at that one sad circumstance when we are so surrounded with
blessings. Never, never let us forget to whom we owe them: never again
let us repine at the present, or fear for the future. I almost fancy
that I can see the time, dearest Charles, when you may begin to work for
yourself. If Isabella and I get forward as our friends hope we may,
Alfred will be the only remaining charge, for Harriet will be first our
pupil, and afterwards our partner, we hope. Tell me, without delay,
what you think of our plans."

Charles was much pleased with the scheme, and, before Christmas arrived,
he was able to send his sisters the delightful intelligence, that he
could assist as well as approve it. Mr Gardiner had given him a
situation of greater trust, with an enlarged salary, so that he found he
should henceforth be able to spare twenty pounds a year to his sisters.
This removed Jane's anxiety with respect to the increased expense which
must be incurred by Isabella's London advantages. Still she was afraid
that Charles denied himself necessary comforts, and was not satisfied
till Isabella had seen his lodgings, and ascertained by close
examination that his self-denial was not too severe. His little parlour
was found to be the picture of comfort. His sisters had compelled him
to accept a share of the beautiful books