I could never understand the reason of her dislike to
me. The feeling must always have existed, though kept in check during
the time she had been my pupil. I think the rest of the family must have
noticed her unpleasant manner to me; and, I have no doubt, remonstrated
with her upon the subject. I was of a proud, sensitive nature, and the
many slights, in an indirect way, which I suffered from her roused my
indignation, and I was revolving the idea in my mind of seeking another
home, when an event occurred which caused my departure from the home of
the Leightons sooner than I anticipated. On the morning of the day of
which I speak, Laura was unable to get out, as she was suffering from a
cold. She was very anxious to execute some shopping that morning, and
asked me if I would undertake to make her purchases, as I knew exactly
what she wanted. I gladly assented, and, as I passed the sitting-room,
on my way up stairs, I heard Willie say,--
"I too have business up town, and I will drive Miss Roscom to the store
where she is to make her purchases, and call for her on my return."
Mrs. Leighton replied in a low, but changed voice,--
"Why not send James, the coachman; it is more proper.
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