Alcott, Louisa May - SSC 11 by Glimpses of Louisa (v2.1) Page A

than herself, very
simply dressed, laden with wraps, and apparently conscious just then of nothing
but three dark specks on the wharf, as she still waved her little white flag,
and looked shoreward with eyes too dim for seeing. A sweet, modest face it was,
with intelligent eyes, a firm mouth, and the look of one who had early learned
self-reliance and self-control.
                            
The lady and gentleman watched the pair with interest and amusement; for both
liked young people, and were anxious to know these two better, since they were
to be their guides and guardians for six months. Professor Homer was going
abroad to look up certain important facts for his great historical work, and as
usual took his wife with him; for they had no family, and the good lady was
ready to march to any quarter of the globe at short notice. Fearing to be
lonely while her husband pored over old papers in foreign libraries, Mrs. Homer
had invited Ethel Amory, a friend's daughter, to accompany her. Of course the
invitation was gladly accepted, for it was a rare opportunity to travel in such
company, and Ethel was wild with delight at the idea. One thorn, however, vexed
her, among the roses with which her way seemed strewn. Mamma would not let her
take a French maid, but preferred a young lady as companion; for, three being
an awkward number, a fourth party would be not only convenient, but necessary
on the girl's account, since she was not used to take care of herself and Mrs.
Homer could only be expected to act as chaperone.
                            
"Jane Bassett is just the person I want, and Jane shall go. She needs a
change after teaching all these years; it will do her a world of good, for she
will improve and enjoy every moment, and the salary I shall offer her will make
it worth her while," said Mrs. Amory, as she discussed the plan with her
daughter.
                            
"She is only three years older than I am, and I hate to be taken care of,
and watched, and fussed over. I can order a maid round, but a companion is
worse than a governess; such people are always sensitive and proud, and hard to
get on with. Every one takes a maid, and I'd set my heart on that nice Marie
who wants to go home, and talks such lovely French. Do let me have her,
Mamma!" begged Ethel, who was a spoiled child and usually got her own way.
                            
But for once Mamma stood firm, having a strong desire to benefit her daughter
by the society of better companions than the gay girls of her own set, also to
give a great pleasure to good little Jane Bassett, who had been governessing
ever since she was sixteen, with very few vacations in her hard, dutiful life.
                            
"No, darling, I have asked Jane, and if her mother can spare her, Jane it
shall be. She is just what you need,—sensible and kind, intelligent and
capable; not ashamed to do anything for you, and able to teach you a great deal
in a pleasant way. Mrs. Homer approves of her, and I am sure you will be glad
by-and-by; for travelling is not all 'fun,' as you expect, and I don't want you
to be a burden on our friends. You two young things can take care of each other
while the Professor and his wife are busy with their own affairs; and Jane is a
far better companion for you than that coquettish French woman, who will
probably leave you in the lurch as soon as you reach Paris .
I shouldn't have a moment's peace if you were left with her, but I have entire
confidence in Jane Bassett because she is faithful, discreet, and a true lady in all things."
                            
There was no more to be said, and Ethel pouted in vain. Jane accepted the place
with joy; and after a month of delightful hurry they were off, one all
eagerness for the new world, the other full of tender regret for the dear souls
left behind. How they got on, and