On the one hand I think she might save you the worry of household management; on the other, I fancy we shall be happier by ourselves." Isabel's heart sank within her at the idea of that stern Miss Corny, mounted over her as resident guard; but, refined and sensitive, almost painfully considerate of the feelings of others, she raised no word of objection.

"As you and Miss Carlyle please," she answered.
"Isabel," he said, "I wish it to be as you please; I wish matters to be arranged as may best please you: and I will have them so arranged.

My chief object in life now is your happiness." He spoke in all the sincerity of truth, and Isabel knew it: and the thought came across her that with him by her side, her loving protector, Miss Carlyle could not mar her life's peace.

"Let her stay, Archibald; she will not incommode us." "At any rate it can be tried for a month or two, and we shall see how it works," he musingly observed.
They reached the park gates.

"I wish I could go with you and be your clerk," she cried, unwilling to release his hand.