‘Mamma and I once spent a month there, and enjoyed it exceedingly.’
‘Oh! and did you go up Helvellyn!’
‘Yes, that we did, in spite of the showers; and what a view we had!’
They were surprised to find that dinner had been announced. Violet was placed next to Mr. Martindale, and was able to ask the name of her new acquaintance.
‘Miss Brandon, you mean.’ ‘O no, not Miss Brandon, but that light pale girl in the lilac worked muslin, who was talking to me!’
‘I saw you talking to Miss Brandon.’
‘Could it be? She looked all astray and frightened, like me!’
‘That description answers to Emma Brandon,’ said John, smiling.
‘Who would have thought it! I should never have begun talking to her if I had guessed who she was. I only did it because she looked so uncomfortable. I hope it was not being forward.’
‘Not in the least. You know you are at home here,—it was a great kindness.’