"And then, Eleanor, what was the other question you came here to settle?"
"It is quite a different question, aunty, and yet it was all twisted up with the other."
"You can tell it me; it will hardly involve greater confidence," said Mrs. Caxton, bending over and kissing Eleanor's brow which rested upon her knee. "Eleanor, I am very thankful you came to Plassy."
The girl rose up and kneeling beside her hid her face in Mrs. Caxton's bosom. "Aunt Caxton, I am so glad! I have wanted just this help so long! and this refuge. Put your arms both round me, and hold me tight."
Mrs. Caxton said nothing for a little while. She waited for Eleanor to take her own time and speak. Very still the two were. There were some straining sobs that came from the one and went to the heart of the other; heavy and hard; but with no sound till they were quieted.
"Aunt Caxton," said Eleanor at last, "the other question was that one of a refuge."
"A heavenly one?"
"Yes. I had heard of a 'helmet of salvation'—I wanted it;—but I do not know how to get it."
"Do you know what it is?"
"Not very clearly. But I have seen it, aunt Caxton;—I know it makes people safe and happy. I want it for myself."