Elizabeth, as she affectionately embraced her, whilst tears filled the eyes of both, lost not a moment in asking whether anything had been heard of the fugitives.

     "Not yet," replied Jane. "But now that my dear uncle is come, I hope everything will be well."

     "Is my father in town?"

     "Yes, he went on Tuesday, as I wrote you word."

     "And have you heard from him often?"

     "We have heard only twice. He wrote me a few lines on Wednesday to say that he had arrived in safety, and to give me his directions, which I particularly begged him to do. He merely added that he should not write again till he had something of importance to mention."

     "And my mother--how is she? How are you all?"

     "My mother is tolerably well, I trust; though her spirits are greatly shaken. She is upstairs and will have great satisfaction in seeing you all. She does not yet leave her dressing-room. Mary and Kitty, thank Heaven, are quite well."