this genuine tribute to his conversational powers was more charming than if it had cost her a sacrifice. Elderly people in civilized communities are generally treated with courtesy; but it was a rare pleasure to Mr. Copeland to be listened to with such genuine and unflagging interest and attention.
When the brothers and sisters came to see their returned brother and his Australian wife, they were by no means so prepossessed with Jessie as their parents. She sadly wanted style and polish, her accent was distressing, and her education was limited; but as the old people were delighted with her, they contented themselves with a few hints and a somewhat lofty manner to Mrs. George. She was humble in little things, and took their advice with regard to dress and such matters very good naturedly, so that by degrees they took her into greater favour, and congratulated themselves that so suitable a person had turned up to take care of the old people.
It was, as Mr. Copeland thought, a singular coincidence that on the day when George's first child, a boy, was born, old Mr. Derrick after a long and protracted illness should die. Jessie heard this news with some excitement. Young Mr. Derrick was now the Squire, and being
