And this serves both for a reward,
and for exercise; and the misses who have this favour are not a little
proud of it; and it brings them forward in their respective tasks.
A very good method, sir, said I. And just as we were talking, the chaise
came in with four misses, all pretty much of a size, and a maid-servant
to attend them. They were shewn another little neat apartment, that went
through ours; and made their honours very prettily, as they passed by us.
I went into the room to them, and asked them questions about their work,
and their lessons; and what they had done to deserve such a fine airing
and breakfasting; and they all answered me very prettily. And pray,
little ladies, said I, what may I call your names? One was called Miss
Burdoff, one Miss Nugent, one Miss Booth, and the fourth Miss Goodwin. I
don't know which, said I, is the prettiest; but you are all best, my
little dears; and you have a very good governess, to indulge you with
such a fine airing, and such delicate cream, and bread and butter. I
hope you think so too.
My master came in, and I had no mistrust in the world; and he kissed each
of them; but looked more wishfully on Miss Goodwin, than on any of the
others; but I thought nothing just then: Had she been called Miss
Godfrey, I had hit upon it in a trice.
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