On perceiving me, she turned round, exclaiming, with a laugh that savoured more of malice than of mirth,--'Why, Helen! what have you been doing so long?
I came to tell you my good fortune,' she continued, regardless of Rachel's presence.

'Lord Lowborough has proposed, and I have been graciously pleased to accept him.

Don't you envy me, dear ?' 'No, love,' said I--'or him either,' I mentally added.

'And do you like him, Annabella ?' 'Like him! yes, to be sure--over head and ears in love!' 'Well, I hope you'll make him a good wife.' 'Thank you, my dear! And what besides do you hope ?' 'I hope you will both love each other, and both be happy.' 'Thanks; and I hope you will make a very good wife to Mr.Huntingdon!' said she, with a queenly bow, and retired.
'Oh, Miss! how could you say so to her!' cried Rachel.
'Say what ?' replied I.
'Why, that you hoped she would make him a good wife.

I never heard such a thing!' 'Because I do hope it, or rather, I wish it; she's almost past hope.' 'Well,' said she, 'I'm sure I hope he'll make her a good husband.