Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/78

72 the graceful and interesting circle, and grew the more anxious to consult Mrs. Dalrymple. He was too full of the subject to take an interest in any other, and, after the first general topics were discussed, he said that he should take the liberty of an old friend, and mention the object of their visit. Mrs. Dalrymple had both heard more and seen more than would have pleased Mrs. Dalton, but she was too judicious to hazard making matters worse by fruitless interference. Experience had long since taught her that a stranger rarely did any good in family affairs, but, now that her opinion was asked, and her advice likely to be followed, she at once saw how much she might benefit the twins, who had interested her exceedingly. Any home was better than their own, and if she could promote their being placed under Mrs. Wilson's charge, she knew they were sure both of instruction and kindness: she did not therefore content herself with expressing merely her warm approbation of the establishment, but she entered at length into her reasons