left in complete solitude, with but little other resource than that derived from each other's company.
The time, however, did not pass heavily; on the contrary, it was usually varied by a succession of avocations, either pleasurable or useful, and the anticipation of a happy and speedy reunion.
The house stood in a situation so embowered, solitary, and remote from others, that when evening closed in, Mrs. De Brooke and her daughter, had they not reposed their security on the usual tranquillity of the neighbourhood, might have felt their courage forsake them; and the more so as at that time they happened to be deprived of an indoor man-servant—a circumstance chiefly regretted by them on account of a desire they entertained to make an excursion to the residence of Mrs. Boville.
In tête-a-tête with each other during the hour of twilight, the dusky shades of approaching night throwing upon all objects a sort of fearful solemnity, Mrs. De Brooke was informed that a young man had come to offer himself as a servant.
"It is very à propos" said she to her daughter, "should he be found to suit, on account of the excursion we were meditating."
Being shown into the apartment, Mrs. De Brooke questioned him very minutely relative to his capacities, and whether he was an experienced driver. He was a young man of good appearance, seemingly about the age of twenty-five. Mrs. De Brooke felt a prepossession in his favour. He produced several
