untry-house, and that she did not
require a great deal of education; and she even spoke of the lake and
the boat. Oh, I was so glad to come! for I am not certificated, you
know, and cannot get the posts that other women can. Well, anyhow, I
arrived, and for a month it was really a reign of terror."

Miss Carter began to tremble.

"You must not do that, really," said Rosamund. "You are not suited to
it. But do tell me what you think a very strong-minded person would have
made of Irene."

"Well, you see, the first and principal thing was not to fear her, and
it was impossible not to fear her, for she was up to so many tricks; she
was worse than the most mischievous school-boy who ever walked. She
would suddenly come into the drawing-room in her gymnasium clothes, and
turn somersaults up and down the room in the presence of Lady Jane's
distinguished guests. Oh! I cannot tell you half she did--I dare not
tell you. There was no trick she was not up to; but you will know for
yourself if you really mean to have more to do with her."

"I certainly mean to have a great deal more to do with her, although at
the present moment I am forbidden by Professor Merriman even to speak to
her."

"I know the Merrimans have a very bad opinion of her," said Miss Carter.

"Yes, that is just it; but she is the daughter of my mother's dearest
friend, and I am not going to give her up."

"Yet you are at school at Mr. Merriman's!"

"That is true."

Miss Carter looked in a puzzled way at Rosamund.

"I cannot reveal any more of my plans," said Rosamund, speaking in a
rather lofty tone; "but now I want to know a few things about her. Is
she stingy or generous?"

"Oh! absolutely and perfectly generous, and in her own way forgiving
too; and I do not think she could tell a lie, for she has no fear in
her, and I suppose it is fear that makes us tell lies. She has never
feared any mortal. She has no respect for authority, not even her
mother; and although she rushes at her sometimes and smothers her with
kisses, she seems to have no real affection for her. If I could be sure
that she was absolutely affectionate I think something could be done for
her. Now, that is all I can tell you. You can scarcely believe how this
subject distresses me and causes that terrible trembling to come on. I
don't think, Miss Cunliffe, young as you are, and brave as you doubtless
are, you ought to undertake the reform of that wild girl at your age.
Allow me to sa