"Many a one has been," said Mrs Caxton. But it was tenderly said, not coldly; and the impulse to go on was irresistible. Eleanor changed her seat for one nearer.
"Aunt Caxton, I want somebody's help dreadfully."
"I see you do."
"Do you see it, ma'am?"
"I think I have seen it ever since you have been here."
"But at the same time, aunty, I do not know how to ask it."
"Those are sometimes the neediest eases. But I hope you will find a way, my dear."
Eleanor sat silent nevertheless, for some minutes; and then she spoke in a lowered and changed tone.
"Aunt Caxton, you know the engagements I am under?"
"Yes. I have heard."