h!'

For that matter, I don't think any one else would be good enough to take
care of such a silly little thing. But what is the that, that it is, or
is not?'

'Nothing now, only when we are older. At least, you know papa has not
heard it.'

'Provided my father gives his consent, as the Irish young lady added to
all her responses through the marriage service. But tell me all--all you
like, I mean--for you will have lovers' secrets now, Amy.'

Mrs. Edmonstone had, meantime, gone down to Laura. Poor Laura, as soon
as her brother had left the room, she allowed the fixed composure of her
face to relax into a restless, harassed, almost miserable expression,
and walked up and down with agitated steps.

'O wealth, wealth!'--her lips formed the words, without uttering
them--'what cruel differences it makes! All smooth here! Young, not
to be trusted, with strange reserves, discreditable connections,--that
family,--that fearful temper, showing itself even to her! All will be
overlooked! Papa will be delighted, I know he will! And how is it with
us? Proved, noble, superior, owned as such by all, as Philip is, yet,
for that want of hateful money, he would be spurned. And, for this--for
this--the love that has grown up with our lives must be crushed down and
hidden--our life is wearing out in wearying self-watching!'

The lock of the door turned, and Laura had resumed her ordinary
expression before it opened, and her mother came in: but there was
anything but calmness beneath, for the pang of self-reproach had
come--'Was it thus that she prepared to hear these tidings of her
sister?'

'Well, Laura,' began Mrs. Edmonstone, with the eager smile of one
bringing delightful news, and sure of sympathy.

'It is so, then?' said Laura. 'Dear, dear, little Amy! I hope--' and
her eyes filled with tears; but she had learnt to dread any outbreak of
feeling, conquered it in a minute, and said--

'What has happened? How does it stand?'

'It stands, at least as far as I can say without papa, as the dear
Guy very rightly and wisely wished it to stand. There is no positive
engagement, they are both too young; but he thought it was not right to
remain here without letting us know his sentiments towards her.'

A pang shot through Laura; but it was but for a moment. Guy might doubt
where Philip need never do so. Her mother went on,--

'Their frankness and confidence are most beautiful. We know dear little
Amy could not help it; but there