"Do not worry her or argue with her," Aunt Leth said. "Remember the sufferings she has endured, and leave it to herself to confide in us. Time will bring happiness to her bruised heart."
"Ask her to see Fred, mamma."
"She will see him this evening, my dear; she told me so; and I have written a note to him desiring him to come early."
"Then everything will be right," said Fanny. "Mamma, is it not strange that we do not hear from her father? He must know that Phœbe is with us."
"He does know, Fanny. I wrote to him, but I have not received a reply."
"I am glad of it. Phœbe is now entirely ours, and will live with us all her life—that is, till she marries Fred."
Fred Cornwall arrived early in the afternoon, and Aunt Leth opened the door for him.
"She will see me, Aunt Leth?" he said, eagerly.
"Yes, Fred. She wishes to see you alone. You must be very gentle and quiet with her."
"Indeed I will be that. Here is some jelly, the kind she likes best."