quit her own house, since the pride of Mr Delvile left not even a
chance that his interest would conquer it. She deferred not, therefore,
any longer making preparations for her removal, though wholly unsettled
whither.

Her first, which was also her most painful task, was to acquaint
Henrietta with her situation: she sent, therefore, to desire to speak
with her, but the countenance of Henrietta shewed her communication
would not surprise her.

"What is the matter with my dear Henrietta?" cried Cecilia; "who is it
has already afflicted that kind heart which I am now compelled to
afflict for myself?"

Henrietta, in whom anger appeared to be struggling with sorrow,
answered, "No, madam, not afflicted for _you_! it would be strange if I
were, thinking as I think!"

"I am glad," said Cecilia, calmly, "if you are not, for I would give to
you, were it possible, nothing but pleasure and joy."

"Ah madam!" cried Henrietta, bursting into tears, "why will you say so
when you don't care what becomes of me! when you are going to cast me
off!--and when you will soon be too happy ever to think of me more!"

"If I am never happy till then," said Cecilia, "sad, indeed, will be my
life! no, my gentlest friend, you will always have your share in my
heart; and always, to me, would have been the welcomest guest in my
house, but for those unhappy circumstances which make our separating
inevitable."