I have been looking forward very much to
teaching you and Sophia.'
'Thank you, mamma.'
The word was said with an effort as if it came strangely, but it
thrilled Albinia's heart, and she kissed Lucy, who clung to her, and
returned the caress.
'I shall tell Gilbert and Sophy what a dear mamma you are,' she said.
'Do you know, Sophy says she shall never call you anything but Mrs.
Kendal; and I know Gilbert means the same.'
'Let them call me whatever suits them best,' said Albinia; 'I had
rather they waited till they feel that they like to call me as you
have done--thank you for it, dear Lucy. You must not fancy I shall
be at all hurt at your thinking of times past. I shall want you to
tell me of them, and of your own dear mother, and what will suit papa
best.'
Lucy looked highly gratified, and eagerly said, 'I am sure I shall
love you just like my own mamma.'
'No,' said Albinia, kindly; 'I do not expect that, my dear. I don't
ask for any more than you can freely give, dear child. You must bear
with having me in that place, and we will try and help each other to
make your papa comfortable; and, Lucy, you will forgive me, if I am
impetuous, and make mistakes.'
Lucy's little clear black eyes looked as if nothing like this had
ever come within her range of observation, and Albinia could
sympathize with her difficulty of reply.
Mr. Kendal was not in the drawing-room when they re-entered, there
was only Gilbert nursing his toothache by the fire, and Sophy sitting
in the middle of the rug, holding up a screen.
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