"As Mr. Matterson is a clergyman of
whom I have heard nothing but good, it shall be five hundred." He had in
truth heard nothing either good or bad respecting Mr. Matterson.
Then he asked Amelia to take a walk with him as he went home, reflecting
that now had come the time in which a little wholesome conversation
might have its effect. And an idea entered his head that in his old age
an acquaintance with a neighboring clergyman might be salutary to
himself. So Amelia got her bonnet and walked home with him.
"Is he an eloquent preacher, my dear?" But Amelia had never heard him
preach. "I suppose there will be plenty for you to do in your new home."
"I don't mean to be put upon, if you mean that, uncle."
"But five children!"
"There is a servant who looks after them. Of course I shall have to see
to Mr. Matterson's own things, but I have told him I cannot slave for
them all. The three eldest have to be sent somewhere; that has been
agreed upon. He has got an unmarried sister who can quite afford to do
as much as that." Then she explained her reasons for the marriage. "Papa
is getting quite unbearable, and Sophy spoils him in everything."
Poor Mr. Grey, when his niece turned and went back home, thought that,
as far as the girl was concerned, or her future household, there would
be very little room for employment for him.
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