Her never appearing as Emmeline did, and so very seldom even at home, certainly gave matter for observation to those who, seeking for it, refused to believe the true reason of her retirement.

Miss Harcourt, though she steadfastly refused to go out with her friend--for Mrs.
Hamilton never could allow that she filled any situation save that of a friend and relation of the family--yet sometimes accompanied Emmeline to the Opera, and always joined Mrs.Hamilton at home.

Many, therefore, were the hours Ellen spent entirely alone, but she persevered unrepiningly in the course laid down for her by the first medical man in London, whom her aunt had consulted.
How she employed those lonely hours Mrs.Hamilton never would inquire.
Perfect liberty to follow her own inclinations she should enjoy at least; but it was not without pain that Mrs.Hamilton so frequently left her niece.

She knew that the greatest privation, far more than any of the pleasures her cousins enjoyed, was the loss of her society.

The mornings and evenings were now so much occupied, that it often happened that the Sabbath and the evening previous were the only times Ellen could have intercourse of any duration with her.