CHAPTER IX.
Breaking up.
The time for the departure of the Garies having been fixed, all in the house were soon engaged in the bustle of preparation.

Boxes were packed with books, pictures, and linen; plate and china were wrapped and swaddled, to prevent breakage and bruises; carpets were taken up, and packed away; curtains taken down, and looking-glasses covered.

Only a small part of the house was left in a furnished state for the use of the overseer, who was a young bachelor, and did not require much space.
In superintending all these arrangements Mrs.Garie displayed great activity; her former cheerfulness of manner had entirely returned, and Mr.
Garie often listened with delight to the quick pattering of her feet, as she tripped lightly through the hall, and up and down the long stairs.

The birds that sang about the windows were not more cheerful than herself, and when Mr.Garie heard her merry voice singing her lively songs, as in days gone by, he experienced a feeling of satisfaction at the pleasant result of his acquiescence in her wishes.

He had consented to it as an act of justice due to her and the children; there was no pleasure to himself growing out of the intended change, beyond that of gratifying Emily, and securing freedom to her and the children.