I did not think you capable of so much duplicity, niece; when you pleaded this excuse for remaining here, I foolishly believed it to be a just one, nor expected to have found with you so agreeable a companion as this M.La Val--, I forget his name.' Emily could no longer endure these cruel indignities.

'It was a just one, madam,' said she; 'and now, indeed, I feel more than ever the value of the retirement I then solicited; and, if the purport of your visit is only to add insult to the sorrows of your brother's child, she could well have spared it.' 'I see that I have undertaken a very troublesome task,' said Madame Cheron, colouring highly.

'I am sure, madam,' said Emily mildly, and endeavouring to restrain her tears, 'I am sure my father did not mean it should be such.

I have the happiness to reflect, that my conduct under his eye was such as he often delighted to approve.

It would be very painful to me to disobey the sister of such a parent, and, if you believe the task will really be so troublesome, I must lament, that it is yours.' 'Well! niece, fine speaking signifies little.