She went up to look at her on her bed, and kissed her--but so lightly that little Mary's sleep was undisturbed by that farewell token of tenderness and love.
"Tell her to write to me, sir," said poor Mrs.Peckover, holding Valentine's hand fast, and looking wistfully in his face through her gathering tears.

"I shall prize my first letter from her so much, if it's only a couple of lines.

God bless you, sir; and good-bye.

It ought to be a comfort to me, and it is, to know that you will be kind to her--I hope I shall get up to London some day, and see her myself.

But don't forget the letter, sir: I shan't fret so much after her when once I've got that!" She went away, sadly murmuring these last words many times over, while Valentine was trying to cheer and reassure her, as they walked together to the outer gate.