rlane strongly advised her to apply for it, for the salary was
more than she could look for in a situation, and she would probably be
more independent. But as for him employing a girl as a law-writer, what
would the profession say to that? It was quite out of the question.

"I fear I have no turn for teaching, but I suppose I must try for
something better than a situation. Could I not get up classes?"

"Oh! yes, certainly--classes if you feel competent."

"Not quite for French or Italian. My uncle was never satisfied with our
accent; and we must advertise French acquired on the Continent
now-a-days, if we want to succeed in Edinburgh. The things I could
teach best--English grammar and composition, writing and arithmetic,
history, and the elements of science--are monopolized by men; but I
must make an effort. I am sorry my dear old friend, Mr. Wilson, is no
more, he would have recommended me strongly; but I will go to Mr. Bell.
I studied under him for four winters, and though I am threatening him
with competition, I know I was his favourite pupil, and I hope he will
help me. I never would encroach on his field if I could find any
elbow-room elsewhere."

This was another long walk, and to no purpose, for Mr. Bell was away
from home, in bad health, for an indefinite period, leaving his classes
in the care of a young man, who had been strongly recommended to him.

The other masters she had had were not likely to take nearly so much
interest in her as Mr. Bell; but she was resolved to leave no stone
unturned, and went to see several of them. They gave Miss Melville very
faint hopes of success. Edinburgh was overdone with masters and
mistresses, rents were very high, and classes the most uncertain things
possible. But she might apply at one of the institutions. Thither she
went, and found that her want of accomplishments prevented her from
getting a good situation; and her want of experience was objected to
for any situation at all. With a few more lessons, and a little
training, she might suit by-and-by.

She was glad that those long walks and many interviews occupied the
whole day till the time Francis had appointed for dinner; she had not
courage to face the empty house and the respectable woman-servant till
she was sure her cousin would be at home to receive her. Heartsick,
weary, and footsore she felt, when she reached the cottage where
Francis was standing at the door to welcome her return.

"Well, friend," said