ing quietly into the kitchen, abstract the bowl of potatoes when Tabby was not looking, and remove the "eyes" herself. Never once did she omit to perform a duty, nor even the smallest act of kindness or courtesy, on account of her literary work.
The success of "Jane Eyre" was great and immediate. Messrs. Smith & Elder had every reason to be glad of their connection with that "C. Bell, Esquire," to whom they addressed their business letters under cover to Miss Bronté. C. Bell herself was glad and proud, in a quiet way, and thought it time to tell her father of her success—for he had not been the confidante of his children in their literary ventures. One day, she went in to him in his study, taking with her a copy of her novel and several reviews of it, one adverse, the others favorable. Mrs. Gaskell relates the conversation that followed, as it was told to her by Charlotte.
"Papa," said the daughter, "I've been writing a book."
"Have you, my dear."
"Yes, and I want you to read it."
"I am afraid it will try my eyes too much."
"But it is not in manuscript; it is printed."
"My dear! you've never thought of the expense it will be! It will be almost sure to be a loss, for how can you get a book sold? No one knows you or your name."
"But, papa, I don't think it will be a loss; no more will you if you will let me read you a review or two, and tell you more about it."
She read him the reviews and left him "Jane Eyre." When he came down that evening to tea he said to his daughters:
"Girls, do you know Charlotte has been writing a book, and it is much better than likely!"
It was not until after the publication of "Jane Eyre" that "Wuthering Heights" and "Agnes Gray," long as
