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242 my plan to my mother. It will be hard enough to bear when it succeeds, let me spare her all unhappiness beforehand."

Mr. Bennett had only time to look a reply, when Mrs. Beaumont entered the little parlour. During breakfast, Mr. Bennett had ample time to admire the self-control which Fanny had so early learnt to practise. Her young heart was swelling with anxiety, and even then she was anticipating all the bitterness of parting, yet she suppressed all outward sign of what she felt, she was even more attentive than usual to the courtisies of the breakfast table; and, if a little silent, she nevertheless answered the questions addressed to her by Mr. Bennett with equal intelligence and grace. The meal was soon dispatched, for their guest was in haste, and both Fanny and Edith accompanied him till actually in the direct line of his route.

During the walk, Mr. Bennett put many questions, and ended by assuring Fanny that she should soon hear from him, and he hoped