The Wortlebank Diary, by Holme Lee (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1860 edition. Excerpt: ... "And that is the end of it," said Miss Mostyn, laying the manuscript aside. "It will do," pronounced my pickle of a Belle. "There was some fun in you, mamie when you were young, for all Hannah says you were so solemn. Do you think there is time for another story before papa comes home?" "No, my dear," replied Miss Mostyn, seriously. "Our tea will have been carried into the schoolroom, and there are to-morrow's lessons to prepare." I did not gainsay the governess, so Belle tied up the portfolio, shouldered it with some show of exertion, and informing me that she knew of a nice safe place to keep it in--namely, the old trash closet--she went away to her own domains. My dear child is very outspoken, but I think her own warmth of heart will preserve her from blundering upon the tender feelings of her relations and friends, which is a danger some ready-tongucd people often risk. When Emmy and I were left to ourselves, we had a little quiet talk over the great event of the day, and then leaving James to clear away the dessert, and set the table for tea, we adjourned upstairs to dress against the return of Felix and Mr. Dover. Neither of us said so, but, of course, we expected Mr. Dover to come in to drink tea and spend the evening. I was writing a little letter to Steenie, when I heard the phaeton drive round the avenue, so I waited upstairs until Felix came to me. He looked frosty-faced but cheerful, so I perceived, at once, that Mr. Dover's unbosoming had been agreeable to both. "Well, Katie, where is she?" asked he, having first ascertained by a glance round the room that Emmy was not hiding in any of its shady corners. The next moment she came running in, and throwing her arms round his neck, kissed him and cried, "Oh papa, papa " It was...