"That is a question I never ask. Rotha does not complain."
"I need not ask whether her abode has been happy here," said the gentleman smiling again; "but, has she been a satisfactory member of your school?"
"Perfectly so! Of my school and family."
"You are satisfied with her studies, her progress in them, I mean?"
"Perfectly. I never taught any one with more pleasure or better results."
"I am very glad to hear that," said Mr. Southwode. And he took his leave.
The very next train for Tanfield carried him northward.
CHAPTER XXVIII.
DISCOVERIES.
The next day, which was the 24th of October, passed as other days of less significance had done. At dinner Mrs. Purcell complained of Rotha's failure of appetite. Rotha had been down-hearted all the morning. Seven days more, and November would begin!