And taking Mrs. Falconer's hand, she sat down by her side and allowed the love that filled her heart to send its sweet radiance over her face with a charm that seemed kept for special occasions.
"I know it, dear friend," said Mrs. Falconer; "but why this preface to me? You know that I should not so misapprehend you."
"Then here it comes. Take care you are not shot down with it! I want to see you in more active life—painting and working here will kill you in six months. The lady superintending our Orphan Home has resigned, will you take her place? The salary is not large, but there are airy, pleasant rooms, attendance, many comforts, and immense opportunities of usefulness. Think of it, and I will call in a few days for your answer."
Mrs. Falconer's colour rose and faded again before she spoke, but not from pride or displeasure.
"Is it possible that I could perform the duties of such an office?" she asked, timidly.
"Why, if you ruled the old Moat, tenants, schools, clergy, village, and all, I cannot see any difficulty about it," said Mrs. W—, laughing; "any other objection?"
"My children," said Mrs. Falconer.
"There is plenty of room for them. Maude may assist you, and Guy, going daily to school, will never be in your way."
"Dear, kind friend, let me think and pray over it; and if my heavenly Father guided you to make such an offer, I cannot doubt that He will guide me to accept it; but I ought to wait and know."
"And when naming it to your children, tell them that you are invited to take charge for three months as a favour to the committee, but our present superintendent's term will not expire for two months, which must be spent in regaining your strength."