'
Winifred was obliged to look out at the window to hide her smile.
Maurice, who was standing on the lawn with the very John Smith,
beckoned to her, and she went down to hear his plans. He was wanted
at home the next day, and asked whether she thought he had better
take Gilbert with him. 'It is the wisest thing that has been said
yet!' exclaimed she. 'Now I shall have a chance for Albinia!' and
accordingly, Mr. Kendal having given a gracious and grateful consent,
Albinia was informed; but Winifred thought her almost perverse when a
perturbed look came over her, and she said, 'It is very kind in
Maurice, but I must speak to him.'
He was struck by the worn, restless expression of her features, so
unlike the calm contented repose of a young mother, and when she
spoke to him, her first word was of Gilbert. 'Maurice, it is so
kind, I know you will make him happy--but oh! take care--he is so
delicate--indeed, he is--don't let him get wet through.'
Maurice promised, but Albinia resumed with minutiae of directions,
ending with, 'Oh! if he should get hurt or into any mischief, what
should we do? Pray, take care, Maurice, you are not used to such
delicate boys.'
'My dear, I think you may rely on me.'
'Yes, but you will not be too strict with him--' and more was
following, when her brother said, 'I promise you to make him my
special charge. I like the boy very much. I think you may be
reasonable, and trust him with me, without so much agitation.
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