e of the invitation. So, "for the children's sake," she
consented. But she sighed, as if making a sacrifice.

"That's right," said Mr. Buxton. "Now for the day."

It was fixed that they should go on that day week; and after some further
conversation about the school at which Edward was to be placed, and some
more jokes about Maggie's notability, and an inquiry if she would come and
live with him the next time he wanted a housemaid, Mr. Buxton took his
leave.

His visit had been an event; and they made no great attempt at settling
again that day to any of their usual employments. In the first place, Nancy
came in to hear and discuss all the proposed plans. Ned, who was uncertain
whether to like or dislike the prospect of school, was very much offended
by the old servant's remark, on first hearing of the project.

"It's time for him. He'll learn his place there, which, it strikes me, he
and others too are apt to forget at home."

Then followed discussions and arrangements respecting his clothes. And then
they came to the plan of spending a day at Mr. Buxton's, which Mrs. Browne
was rather shy of mentioning, having a sort of an idea of inconstancy and
guilt connected with the thought of mingling with the world again. However,
Nancy approved: "It was quite right," and "just as it should be," and "good
for the children."

"Yes; it was on their account I did it, Nancy," said Mrs. Browne.

"How many children has Mr. Buxton?" asked Edward.

"Only one. Frank, I think, they call him. But you must say Master Buxton;
be sure."

"Who is the little girl, then," asked Maggie, "who sits with them in
church?"

"Oh! that's little Miss Harvey, his niece, and a great fortune."

"They do say he never forgave her mother till the day of her death,"
remarked Nancy.

"Then they tell stories, Nancy!" replied Mrs. Browne (it was she herself
who had said it; but that was before Mr. Buxton's call). For d'ye think his
sister would have left him guardian to her child, if they were not on good
terms?"

"Well! I only know what folks say. And, for sure, he took a spite at Mr.
Harvey for no reason on earth; and every one knows he never spoke to him."

"He speaks very kindly and pleasantly," put in Maggie.

"Ay; and I'm not saying but what he is a very good, kind man in the main.
But he has his whims, and keeps hold on 'em when he's got 'em. There's them
pies burning, and I'm talking here!"

When Nancy had returned to her kitchen, Mrs.