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Mrs. Blunden, ill skilled in analyzing the feelings of those about her, never suspected the mingled ones that prompted the sobs Florence could not repress. She attributed them entirely to the recollections naturally arising on this their first meeting since Mr. Heriton's death. In the same breath she reproached her niece as having by her deceitful conduct occasioned their estrangement, and called herself hard-hearted for not having sooner forgiven her.
"You were a very naughty girl, Florence. I must call you so. I'll never say one thing and mean another. The word of the Heritons has always been their bond; and nothing can excuse you for breaking yours. But I ought to have considered the circumstances in which you were placed. I'm afraid I've been dreadfully unfeeling. Pray don't fret any more -- I can't bear it! And I've come to you with the kindest intentions. You shall take my name, and I'll introduce you into society, and take care that you marry well. You shall never again know what trouble or anxiety means, my dear."