“Madeline!” cried the old lady, as Madeline entered her room and beheld her propped up in bed, in her best day cap. “This is too good to be true! I scarcely expected it, though I have advertised every day in the _Times_. Come here, my dear, and kiss me”--tendering a withered cheek. The old lady’s mind was certainly affected, thought her late pupil. That she who had been so ignominiously cast out should be thus welcomed back, and with kisses, was scarcely credible, unless viewed from the idea that Mrs. Harper had become imbecile in the meanwhile. But no, the reason of this astonishing change from the frost of neglect to the sun of welcome--affectionate welcome--was a very potent one indeed. It was nothing less than the prospect of a large sum of money. Since Madeline had been banished, nothing had gone well. Her place had been taken by a governess who had actually required a salary, as well as civility, and had been a great encumbrance and expense. Then came Selina’s wicked tampering with her sister’s sweet-heart, a heart-burning scandal, family linen sent to the public wash, and a serious falling off in the school. Things were going badly. Every step was down hill--one girl leaving after another, and there were many vacant places at the long dinner-table. At last came a letter--from Mr. West of all people! enclosing a large draft on his bankers, and announcing his return a wealthy and successful man. The draft was to pay for two years’ schooling, with interest up to date; but for a whole year Miss West had been elsewhere! How could they honestly claim these badly-wanted pounds? They had banished the man’s daughter, and the money must be restored. Viewed now--in a softer light, through a golden atmosphere--Madeline’s deeds were excusable. The poor girl had been Selina’s victim, and therefore more to be pitied than blamed. Madeline must be sought and, if possible, discovered and reinstated as if there had been no hiatus, as if nothing disagreeable had occurred. And we have seen the “state of life” in which Madeline had been found. “Letitia, do you go down now, and presently send up a nice breakfast for two--two fresh eggs--whilst I have a talk with dear Madeline.” Thus the old lady, who still held the reins of authority, although she had lost the use of her right hand; and Letitia, having previously rehearsed the whole “talk” with her mother, and fearing that “too many cooks might spoil the broth,” departed with meek obedience. “Take off your hat and jacket, my love, and make yourself at home. I am sure you will not be surprised to hear--yes, put them on the ottoman--that your father is alive and well, and returning an _im_mensely”--dwelling lovingly on the word--“rich man.” Madeline’s heart bounded into her mouth, her face became like flame. So her presentiment had come true!