"Think of the thousands of pounds he has lost, Jane. For my part I wonder he has a temper of any kind left; and all those families on his hands, as it were. I am sure it is no wonder he is cross at times. Your father would not have been to live with at all."
"I hope you have not lost much, mother."
"O Jane, how could I help losing? Well then, I have been glad I could give. When hungry children look at you, they do not need to speak. My God, Jane! You must have seen that look—if it was in Martha's eyes——"
Jane caught her breath with a cry, "O mother!
Mother! Do not say such words! I should die!"
"Yes. Many mothers did die. It was like a knife in their heart. When did you see John's mother?"
"The day the children came from Metwold."
"Did you speak to her?"
"No."
"Why not? She has been kind to me."