"I don't know," said Ethel, "only he thought it would not do.
Perhaps he said right, but it was coldly, and he smiled."

"He is too sober-minded for our flights," said Margaret. "I know the
feeling of it, Ethel dear; but you know if he did see that some of
your plans might not answer, it is no reason you should not try to do
something at once. You have not told me about the girl."

Ethel proceeded to tell the history. "There!" said Margaret
cheerfully, "there are two ways of helping Cocksmoor already. Could
you not make some clothes for the two grandchildren? I could help
you a little, and then, if they were well clothed, you might get them
to come to the Sunday-school. And as to the twins, I wonder what the
hire of a cart would be to bring the christening party? It is just
what Richard could manage."

"Yes," said Ethel; "but those are only little isolated individual
things!"

"But one must make a beginning."

"Then, Margaret, you think it was a real vow? You don't think it
silly of me?" said Ethel wistfully.

"Ethel, dear, I don't think dear mamma would say we ought to make
vows, except what the church decrees for us. I don't think she would
like the notion of your considering yourself pledged; but I do think,
that, after all you have said and felt about Cocksmoor, and being led
there on that day, it does seem as if we might be intended to make it
our especial charge."