"As for me, a letter from my lord came the day after you went away, offering me my choice of two situations, matron of a big orphanage near Stafford, or housekeeper at Kelmersdale Castle. The matronship was the best pay, so I took it. But, my health being so feeble, I found the work too much, and after my little darlings, Frank and Fred, the children seemed a dreadful lot, and after a few weeks, I wrote to my lord to say my health would not stand it, and that if the other place was still open, I would prefer it. I am thankful to say my lord had not been able to suit himself, so I came to the Castle, and I just wish I had the dear boys here, with such places to play about, and every comfort. "The place is very old, and was once besieged. I am learning all the history off by heart, for many a shilling can be got by showing visitors over the Castle in summer. My lord never lives here long, but comes on business or for the shooting. The living rooms are small, with thick walls and little windows high up. My rooms are very comfortable, and I have servants under me, and am to see all kept in order; the armour, and old pictures and furniture. But, except just when the earl is here, I have little to do but to amuse myself like any grand lady. The salary is small, or I should send you a present, as well I might after all your kindness to me, which I can never forget. I hope the darling boys have not forgotten grandma. I seem to hear Frank calling me, dear little rogue. Some day you must all come and pay me a visit; I know my lord will give leave. "You say the boys go to school, but in the summer holidays they might be glad of a change. But take my advice and get after Fred as soon as you can; don't lose your hold over him, it will be the ruin of him. "Ever your affectionate mother, "LYDIA RAYBURN." "Oh, I wish people would not say things like this to me!" cried Janet, unconscious that no one had said anything to her about her husband except Mrs. Rayburn and her own anxious, loving heart. Mrs. Lydia Rayburn little thought when she penned that letter, so full of patronizing kindness, what the effect of her words would be; for simpleminded Janet believed that she meant every word most sincerely. She sent the letter on to Fred, and said to the two children, "How fond grandma is of you both, boys!" To which Frank replied thoughtfully, "Is she, muddie?" Soon after this Fred failed to write for some weeks, and Janet was getting seriously uneasy, when she received a letter from her brother; not one of his usual brief epistles, but a long, closely written letter with a money order enclosed. "Old Man's Ferry Farm, Gattigo, British Columbia. "MY DEAR SISTER,