“ Mr. Hareton recoiled, looking as foolish as he could do: he sat down in the settle very quiet, and she continued turning over her volumes another half hour; finally, Earnshaw crossed over, and whispered to me.

“ ‘Will you ask her to read to us, Zillah? I’m stalled of doing naught; and I do like⁠—I could like to hear her! Dunnot say I wanted it, but ask of yourseln.’

“ ‘ Mr. Hareton wishes you would read to us, ma’am,’ I said, immediately. ‘He’d take it very kind⁠—he’d be much obliged.’

“She frowned; and looking up, answered⁠—