At last the day arrived, when her uncle (whom I before forgot to mention) and his wife came to dinner at Smiledale, with an intention of conducting Jemima back with them. She was in her papa's study at the time they alighted, and could not help weeping at the idea of quitting her friends; and throwing her arms around her brother William's neck, silently sobbed forth that grief she wanted power to restrain. The poor boy, who loved his sister with great tenderness, was nearly as much agitated as herself, and could only, with affectionate kisses, every now and then exclaim, Do not cry so, Jemima! pray do not! We shall soon meet again, my love! pray do not cry!--When she had relieved her little heart with this indulgence of her sorrow, she wiped her eyes, and walked slowly up stairs to have her frock put on.--So your aunt is come, miss? said Peggy, as she set down the basin on the table to wash her hands.--Poor Jemima was silent.--I am sorry we are going to lose you, my dear, added she, as she wiped the towel over her forehead, Peggy's hand held back her head, and at the same time supported her chin, so that her face was confined, and exposed to observation. She wanted to hide her tears, but she could not; so at last, hastily covering herself with the maid's apron, and putting her two hands round her waist, she renewed the sorrow which she had so lately suppressed. [Illustration] Peggy was very fond of her young lady, as indeed was every servant in the house; but there was a good woman, who went in the family by the name of Nurse, for whom Jemima had a still greater attachment. She had attended Mrs. Placid before her marriage, had nursed all her children from their births, and Jemima was the darling of her heart. As she entered the room at this time, she took the weeping girl into her lap, and wept herself at the reflexion, that it was the first time in her life she had slept without her!--And so pray, my dear, said she, take care of yourself, and when you go to bed, mind that they pin your night-cap close at the top, otherwise you will get cold; and do not forget to have your linen well aired; for otherwise it is very dangerous, love; and many a person, by such neglect, has caught a cold which has terminated in a fever. Sweet child! I do not like to trust it from me, added she, hugging her still closer, and smothering her face in a check cotton handkerchief, which she wore on her neck. Jemima promised an observance of her injunctions, and being now dressed, attended a summons from her mamma, who was alone in her chamber, the company having left her to walk in the garden, whither she was unable to accompany them.--I see, my dear girl, said she, holding out her hand as she sat in an easy chair by the window; I see that you are sorry to leave me; and indeed, Jemima, I am much grieved that such a separation is necessary; but I hope I shall be better when I return; and I am sure you would wish me to be quite well.