"I think they are both very much grown and very much improved," replied Edward; "but I must confess to you that I think it is high time that they were, if possible, removed from their present homely occupations, and instructed as young ladies should be."
"But how, Edward, is that to be?"
"That I can not yet tell, and it grieves me that I can not; but still I see the necessity of it, if ever we are to return to our position in society."
"And are we ever to return?"
"I don't know. I thought little of it before I went away and mixed in society; but since I have been in the world, I have been compelled to feel that my dear sisters are not in their sphere, and I have resolved upon trying if I can not find a more suitable position for them. Had we been successful I should have had no difficulty, but now I hardly know what to do."
"I have not inquired about Mistress Patience, brother; how is she?"
"She is as good and as handsome as ever, and very much grown; indeed, she is becoming quite womanly."
"And Clara?"
"Oh, I do not perceive any difference in her: I think she is grown, but I hardly observed her. Here comes Chaloner; we will tell him of our arrangements in case we are disturbed by the military parties."
"It is a most excellent arrangement," said Chaloner, when Edward had made the communication; "and it was a lucky day when I first fell in with you, Beverley."