"And Risk," repeated Lady Mary; "though, I protest, I think there is none; but that the young Woman has merely been overheated, and taken a Chill upon it."
Though Lady Mary spoke not sincerely, yet her expressed Opinion was so much like my Mother's real one, that the Arrangement was speedily concluded. And then, after as much Fuss in departing as they had made in arriving, these heartless Denizens of the Great World quitted us; full of themselves, caring very little for each other, and least of all for the poor Dependent left sick upon our Hands.
"Thank Goodness they're gone!" exclaimed Prudence, as the last Rustle of Silk, and the last empty Laugh was heard.
"And now, where to bestow our young Charge?" said my Mother.
"Oh, how kind you are to me!" said Gatty; Tears rolling down her Cheeks. "Any Place will do."
"I think Prudence must sleep in the little Closet beyond my Chamber," said my Mother, "and then, Patty, you can share your Bed with Mrs. Gatty. You are not afraid, Child, are you?"
"Afraid, Mother? No!"
