I was now an heiress, privileged to think and act for myself.

My aunt kissed me tenderly.

We talked of my poor mother, and we cried in each other's arms on the memorable day that made a wealthy woman of me.

In a little time more, other troubles than vain regrets for the dead were to try me, and other tears were to fill my eyes than the tears which I had given to the memory of my mother.
II.
I MAY now return to my visit, in June, 1817, to the healing springs at Maplesworth.
This famous inland watering-place was only between nine and ten miles from my new home called Nettlegrove Hall.

I had been feeling weak and out of spirits for some months, and our medical adviser recommended change of scene and a trial of the waters at Maplesworth.