"Not too young, I hope. I shall hardly succeed at first, but the recollection of mamma will come to my assistance. I know what she used to do, and I will endeavour to imitate her. I will come and see you in your study, and be always ready to give up my own occupations to please you. I will give Stephen his lessons. I will keep the accounts. You shall see how steady I will be; only try me, papa."
"Do what you like, my child; I am in no state to make any decision; I can think of nothing. I leave you mistress of the house, of your brother, of myself. If there are still any peaceful moments in store for me on this earth, I shall enjoy them through you, and you alone."
"And Stephen, papa, you forget him."
"Poor child! no, I do not forget him; go and bring him here."
Caroline brought her little brother to her father, who took him in his arms, saying, "Stephen, you loved dear mamma, did you not?"
"With all my heart," replied the child, sobbing.
"And you were also obedient to her. Well, now you must love your sister, and obey her; she will be a mother to you henceforward."
"Would you like it, Stephen?" asked Caroline, "would you like me to take care of you, and give you your lessons?"
"Yes, if you promise not to scold me."
"My dear child, I will not scold you; I will try to be kind like mamma."