"I promise you, Nora; but only because the time draws so very near when
you will be acknowledged without any interference on my part."
"And now, dear sister, about you and Reuben. Have you told him of Mr.
Brudenell's offer?"
"Yes, dear."
"And he will accept it?"
"Yes."
"And when shall you be married?"
"The very day that you shall be settled in your new home, dear. We both
thought that best. I do not wish to go to Brudenell, Nora. Nothing can
ever polish me into a fine lady; so I should be out of place there even
for a day. Besides it would be awkward on account of the house-servants,
who have always looked upon me as a sort of companion, because I have
been their fellow-laborer in busy times. And they would not know how to
treat me if they found me in the drawing-room or at the dinner-table!
With you it is different; you are naturally refined! You have never
worked out of our own house; you are their master's wife, and they will
respect you as such. But as for me, I am sure I should embarrass
everybody if I should go to Brudenell. And, on the other hand, I cannot
remain here by myself. So I have taken Reuben's advice and agreed to
walk with him to the church the same hour that Mr. Brudenell takes you
home."
"That will be early Sunday morning."
"Yes, dear!"
"Well, God bless you, best of mother-sisters! May you have much
happiness," said Nora, as she raised herself from Hannah's knees to
prepare for rest.