rfectly audible. Uneasy at hearing what was not
meant for them, Hester and Margaret gave tokens of their presence. The
conversation on the other side of the hedge proceeded; and in a very
short time the sisters were persuaded that they had been mistaken in
supposing that what was said was not meant for them.

"My own Matilda," said a voice, which evidently came from under a lady's
bonnet which moved parallel with Hester's and Margaret's; "My own
Matilda, I would not be so harsh as to prevent your playing where you
please before breakfast. Run where you like, my love. I am sorry for
little girls who are not allowed to do as they please in the cool of the
morning. My children shall never suffer such restriction."

"Mother," cried a rough little person, "I'm going fishing with Uncle
Philip to-day. Sydney Grey and I are going, I don't know how far up the
river."

"On no account, my dear boy. You must not think of such a thing. I
should not have a moment's peace while you are away. You would not be
back till evening, perhaps; and I should be fancying all day that you
were in the river. It is out of the question, my own George."

"But I must go, mother. Uncle Philip said I might; and Sydney Grey is
going."

"That is only another reason, my dear boy. Your uncle will yield to my
wishes, I am sure, as he always does. And if Mrs Grey allows her son
to run such risks, I am sure I should not feel myself justified. You
will stay with me, love, won't you? You will stay with your mother, my
own boy."

George ran roaring away, screaming for Uncle Philip; who was not at
hand, however, to plead his cause.

"My Matilda," resumed the fond mother, "you are making yourself a sad
figure. You will not be fit to show yourself at breakfast. Do you
suppose your papa ever saw such a frock as that? There! look--dripping
wet! Pritchard, take Miss Matilda, and change all her clothes directly.
So much for my allowing her to run on the grass while the dew is on!
Lose no time, Pritchard, lest the child should catch cold. Leave Miss
Anna with me. Walk beside me, my Anna. Ah! there is papa. Papa, we
must find some amusement for George today, as I cannot think of letting
him go out fishing. Suppose we take the children to spend the morning
with their cousins at Dingleford?"

"To-morrow would suit me better, my love," replied the husband. "Indeed
I don't see how I can go to-day, or you either." And Mr Rowland
lowered his