One son, the eldest of their family, they spoke of as the pride of their
hearts even on that first interview. He was in the navy, and,
consequently, much from home. They regretted this for many reasons, they
said, and, among others, on my account. He was so genial, so
companionable--their own dear Walter--"such a delightful fellow," as his
sister Madge declared exultingly--the second of this band of
sisters--and, as far as I could observe, on first acquaintance, the
brightest. Marion, the elder, was extremely pretty and gentle; and
Bertie, the third, taciturn and unprepossessing, yet evidently sensible.
She it was who alone resembled her father.
* * * * *
Fortunately, for the uninterrupted success of my scheme, Evelyn had one
of her sick turns that day, and remained closely shut up in her room. At
one o'clock, I summoned Franklin to my chamber.
"There is a trunk," I said, "that I wish you would take to the Mansion
House--to the care of a Mr. Somnus lodging there--here is the card
attached, with his name; place it with his baggage. It is to go to New
York, for a Miss Harz, a relation of mine--a teacher, I believe, who has
applied to me for assistance; but he understands all that, so you need
not be at, any trouble to explain. Be quiet, Franklin, in removing it,
as Evelyn is very nervous to-day, and dislikes noise; and go with the
drayman yourself to insure its safe delivery.
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