When they came back Jenny's eyes were fixed on the
matron's fat hand as if she could see the yellow metal through the
fingers.
"Here is your money," said the matron; "four pounds five. You can give
your sister what you like."
Esther held the four sovereigns and the two half-crowns in her hand for a
moment, then she said--
"Here, Jenny, are the two pounds you want to take you to Australia. I 'ope
they'll bring you good luck, and that you'll think of me sometimes."
"Indeed I will, Esther. You've been a good sister to me, indeed you 'ave;
I shall never forget you, and will write to you.... It is very 'ard
parting."
"Come, come, never mind those tears. You have got your money; say good-bye
to your sister and run along."
"Don't be so 'eartless," cried Jenny, whose susceptibilities were now on
the move. "'Ave yer no feeling; don't yer know what it is to bid good-bye
to yer sister, and perhaps for ever?" Jenny flung herself into Esther's
arms crying bitterly. "Oh, Esther, I do love you; yer 'ave been that kind
to me I shall never forget it. I shall be very lonely without you. Write
to me sometimes; it will be a comfort to hear how you are getting on. If I
marry I'll send for you, and you'll bring the baby."
"Do you think I'd leave him behind? Kiss 'im before you go."
"Good-bye, Esther; take care of yourself.
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