“To the seminary? Does Eunice know?”

“I have not told her, but I think she must know that it is impossible.”

“She has greatly desired for you the privileges of the place. She will be disappointed.”

“I cannot go.”

“I think, if I were you, I would leave it to your sister to say. And, remember, she must not be excited or troubled.”

“I know.”

“And you must know that Mrs Stone is not just a nurse, but a friend whom your sister loves and trusts, and you must trust her too.”

“I know,” repeated Fidelia.

“If you were to ask my advice, I should say—Let there be no change in your plans; go as you intended to go, and—”

“But I am not going to ask your advice, nor the advice of any one. You must think me a poor creature, Dr Everett, if you can believe that I could leave my sister, now that I know!”