“Try a little now; here is Schiller’s Mary Stuart , and a tutor who loves to teach,” and Mr. Brooke laid his book on her lap, with an inviting smile.

“It’s so hard I’m afraid to try,” said Meg, grateful, but bashful in the presence of the accomplished young lady beside her.

“I’ll read a bit to encourage you;” and Miss Kate read one of the most beautiful passages, in a perfectly correct but perfectly expressionless manner.

Mr. Brooke made no comment, as she returned the book to Meg, who said innocently⁠—

“I thought it was poetry.”

“Some of it is. Try this passage.”