“Nothing is too noble, dearest George,” returned Lavinia. “And Pa, I hope you will be careful not to refer before Bella, if you can help it, to my engagement to George. It might seem like reminding her of her having cast herself away. And I hope, Pa, that you will think it equally right to avoid mentioning George’s rising prospects, when Bella is present. It might seem like taunting her with her own poor fortunes. Let me ever remember that I am her younger sister, and ever spare her painful contrasts, which could not but wound her sharply.”

Mr. Sampson expressed his belief that such was the demeanour of angels. Miss Lavvy replied with solemnity, “No, dearest George, I am but too well aware that I am merely human.”