presume, of addressing Mrs. Leighton?"

The lady acknowledged her claim to that name, and I continued,--"Seeing
your advertisement for a governess, I have made bold to apply for the
situation."

The lady bent upon me a searching look, as she replied,--

"Pray be seated Miss, and we will converse upon the matter."

I gladly obeyed her request that I should be seated, for I felt nervous
and agitated. After a moment's silence she addressed me, saying,--

"You look rather young, for the responsible duties of a governess."

I replied that I was not yet nineteen years of age, that I had not as
yet been engaged in teaching, having only myself left school three
months since,--but that I found it necessary that I should do something
for my own support and that of my widowed mother,--and that I would
gladly do my utmost to give satisfaction, could I obtain a situation.

Mrs. Leighton, after a moment's thought, said,--"Although you are young
for the position, your countenance pleases me, and I feel inclined to
give you a trial."

She then informed me that my pupils would consist of two girls, the
eldest twelve, the other ten years of age, also a little boy of seven.
She added, "I had almost forgotten to enquire if you have brought any
references?"