her attendance on Miss Judith, who was very exacting, and had a high
notion of her own consequence. The other two had more than sufficient
employment; as, when there is no money to pay with, every thing must
be done at home. That, under such circumstances, the boys became
boisterous and the little girls became romps, is not to be wondered
at: but their having become so was the cause of Miss Judith seldom
admitting them into her room. It is true that they were sent for once
a day, to ascertain if they were in the house, or in existence, but
soon dismissed and left to their own resources. Such was the neglect
to which these young orphans was exposed. It must, however, be
admitted, that this very neglect made them independent and bold, full
of health from constant activity, and more fitted for the change which
was so soon to take place.

"Benjamin," said Jacob, as the other came to the door, "I must speak
with the old lady."

"Have you brought any venison, Jacob?" said Benjamin, grinning, "else,
I reckon, you'll not be over welcome."

"No, I have not; but it is an important business, so send Agatha to
her directly."

"I will; and I'll not say any thing about the venison."

In a few minutes, Jacob was ushered up by Agatha into Miss Judith
Villiers's apartment. The old lady was about fifty years of age, very
prim and starched, sitting in a high-backed chair, with her feet upon
a stool, and her hands crossed before her, her black mittens reposing
upon her snow-white apron.