Mrs.Enderby distrusted the good woman's ability to keep a secret, and, with that prudence which had always distinguished her in her dealings with Hetty, she was resolved that the girl should hear no whisper to disturb her tranquillity till such time as her identity should be considered satisfactorily proved.
At the end of three weeks' time, however, news came from London to Mr.
Enderby which placed it beyond a doubt that Hetty was Helen Gaythorne, the baby who had been supposed to be drowned.

Although Mrs.Enderby and her daughters had been prepared for this result of the inquiries that had been on foot, yet the established fact, with its tremendous importance for Hetty, seemed to come on them with a shock.

The child who had been protected in their house, no longer needed their protection.
The girl who was to have been sent out soon as a governess to earn her bread, would henceforth have pleasant bread to eat in a sister's luxurious home.

The dependant, whom it had been thought judicious to snub, was now the equal of those who had so prudently dealt with her according to their lights.
Mr.and Mrs.Enderby were extremely pleased at the child's good fortune, and thankful that they had not been induced to send her to a charity school.
"You are always right, dear," said Mrs.Enderby, looking at her husband with pride.

"When I was a coward in the matter you insisted on having her here.