I never was fortunate enough to be able to rally, for as much as a single hour, while I was there.

I am sure all, with the exception perhaps of Mary, were very glad when I took my departure.

I begin to perceive that I have too little life in me, now-a-days, to be fit company for any except very quiet people.

Is it age, or what else, that changes me so ?" Alas! she hardly needed to have asked this question.

How could she be otherwise than "flat-spirited," "a poor companion," and a "sad drag" on the gaiety of those who were light-hearted and happy! Her honest plan for earning her own livelihood had fallen away, crumbled to ashes; after all her preparations, not a pupil had offered herself; and, instead of being sorry that this wish of many years could not be realised, she had reason to be glad.