CHAPTER XVI.
Signs of an impending revolution, which, like all revolutions, seems to come of a sudden, though its causes have long been at work; and to go off in a tantrum, though its effects must run on to the end of a history.
Lionel could not find in the toy-shops of the village a doll good enough to satisfy his liberal inclinations, but he bought one which amply contented the humbler aspirations of Sophy.

He then strolled to the post-office.

There were several letters for Vance; one for himself in his mother's handwriting.

He delayed opening it for the moment.

The day was far advanced Sophy must be hungry.