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246 both in mind and body, crying bitterly. This was too much for Mrs. Beaumont, and Fanny was roused from her own painful indulgence, by seeing her mother in strong hysterics. Caresses and intreaties at length restored her, and Fanny took the opportunity of telling what her own hopes were. This seemed only making matters worse: "If you leave, what will become of us?" said her mother wringing her hands.

"If I stay, we shall starve; my obtaining a situation as a governess is our only resource against absolute want," replied Fanny gently, but firmly. "Dearest mother, do not deny me the happiness of working for you. I hope our sepation will not be long, and Edith will always be with you."

"Oh my child, how I shall miss you," and again Mrs. Beaumont gave way to her tears. Gradually she became more composed, and Fanny thenceforth made her approaching departure the constant subject of discourse. When once Mrs. Beaumont considered it as inevitable, she grew