Lucy, however, resolved to abide all risks but that of leaving Eugene before his father was warned of his danger. Her resolution was, however, suddenly changed by the arrival of a letter from Mr. Hartell, saying that business had unexpectedly taken him to Richmond, Virginia. Now there was no reason for delay, but whither go? Though she had served all with whom she had lived faithfully, and had left them with a spotless character, they had never manifested that sort of interest in her that inspired the poor child with confidence to apply to them in her present stress. Had they performed their duty—had they been friends as well as employers, with what confidence might this poor girl have appealed to them, sustained as she was inwardly by that "strong-siding champion, conscience?" She thought of going to her mother at once; but though she was sure her mother would believe her story, others might not, and she would not bear the thought of returning to her with a blasted character. She hoped that if she remained in the city the truth might come out. Her heart prompted her to go at once to Charles Lovett; there she was sure of faith and sympathy to the full. But what could he do for her? nothing; while her resorting to a young man as her only friend might render her liable to further and more cruel imputations. What, then, should she do? She had not a shilling in the world, for two days before she had sent all her unexpended earnings to "dear Jemmie." Again she passed her employers in review, and among them Mrs. Ardley, always good-natured and kindly disposed, had made the most favourable impression, and she had half resolved to go and
