see one
of the Directors of the ---- Institution on that evening, and was to
make inquiries; he had some influence with one or two of the directors,
and would use it in Miss Melville's favour if she was disposed to apply
for it. It was expected that there would be at least fifty applications
for it, and a little interest was a good auxiliary even to the greatest
merits in the world. The duties, so far as Francis knew them, were the
active superintendence of a large number of female servants, and the
charge of all the stores, both of food and clothing, required for a
household of several hundreds, who could none of them think for
themselves. He did not know if she would come much in contact with the
patients; he hoped not, for he thought it would be a sufficiently
exhausting and anxious life without that. He had heard that the
institution parted with the present occupant of the situation for
incompetence--that there had been both waste and peculation.

"I feel sure that my superintendence of my uncle's household, and my
knowledge of accounts, should enable me to fill such a situation well,
and from the number of applications, and the responsible nature of the
duties, the salary should be handsome," said Jane. "I think I should
send in an application, and I feel obliged both to Mr. Rennie and you
for the suggestion. The establishment is well managed; you know it is
one of those to which my uncle's property was to go in case you
disobeyed his injunctions. He had a high opinion of the kind and
rational treatment of the patients there. I do not see any objection to
mingling with them either. I might be very useful."

"It seems a throwing away of your talents and acquirements, to make a
mere housekeeper of you," said Francis.

"It is not such an insignificant office after all. What contributes to
the comfort and happiness of a family every day, and all day long, is
surely as valuable a thing as much book-learning; and to keep such a
large establishment going smoothly and satisfactorily requires much
care and thought, and a particular kind of talent, which I think I
possess, and which such a life will develop. When can I see Mr. Rennie,
and when can I send in my application?"

"Mr. Rennie particularly desires to see you to-morrow morning; and if
you like the prospect he holds out, your application can be sent in
immediately."

When they reached the small but prettily situated cottage occupied by
Francis, Jane was agreeab