'I suppose so; but what shall we do without you?'
Rowland spoke as he felt, from his heart. Miss Gwynne was touched by the words and tone.
'I shall be very sorry,' she said, simply. 'I never was so happy as in that dingy old square.'
Rowland felt that his new living, with all its increased responsibilities, would be a heavy burden to him without Freda's ready energy to lighten it. He did not at that moment pause to think how closely even our highest duties are entwined with our affections, and thereby lowered to earth—but so it is. The conscientious man does them; but a helping hand, a friendly voice, a loving word, is a wonderful aid towards doing them with a cheerful spirit.
There was silence for a few minutes between Rowland and Freda, and their quick steps slackened. At last:
'I thank you from my heart, Miss Gwynne,' said Rowland, for all your kindness to my dear sister. It must cease, alas! but it will never be forgotten.'
'Poor Netta! my old playfellow! I was only too thankful to be of any service. I wish we could have saved her.'
'God knows best. Her husband is in Newgate gaol.'
Rowland said this with a great effort; Freda started, and there was again a brief silence.
'Miss Gwynne, I have long wished to say to you, how much I have felt your devotion to the schools and poor of our parish. Now that we are about to lose you, perhaps, I may do so. Glanyravon will gain what our poor East End loses.'