“I will, madam. Little girl, here is a book entitled the Child’s Guide , read it with prayer, especially that part containing ‘An account of the awfully sudden death of Martha G⁠⸺, a naughty child addicted to falsehood and deceit.’ ”

With these words Mr. Brocklehurst put into my hand a thin pamphlet sewn in a cover, and having rung for his carriage, he departed.