“I suppose she was to be subdued and broken to their detestable mould, Heaven help her!” said I. “And she has been.”

“Well, sir, there were violent quarrels at first, I assure you,” said Mr. Chillip; “but she is quite a shadow now. Would it be considered forward if I was to say to you, sir, in confidence, that since the sister came to help, the brother and sister between them have nearly reduced her to a state of imbecility?”

I told him I could easily believe it.