The terms were 50_l_. each pupil, for board and French alone,
but a separate room was to be allowed for this sum; without this
indulgence, it was lower. Charlotte writes:--
"January 20th, 1842.
"I consider it kind in aunt to consent to an extra sum for a separate
room. We shall find it a great privilege in many ways. I regret the
change from Brussels to Lille on many accounts, chiefly that I shall
not see Martha. Mary has been indefatigably kind in providing me with
information. She has grudged no labour, and scarcely any expense, to
that end. Mary's price is above rubies. I have, in fact, two
friends--you and her--staunch and true, in whose faith and sincerity I
have as strong a belief as I have in the Bible. I have bothered you
both--you especially; but you always get the tongs and heap coals of
fire upon my head. I have had letters to write lately to Brussels, to
Lille, and to London. I have lots of chemises, nightgowns, pocket-
handkerchiefs, and pockets to make; besides clothes to repair. I have
been, every week since I came home, expecting to see Branwell, and he
has never been able to get over yet. We fully expect him, however,
next Saturday. Under these circumstances how can I go visiting? You
tantalize me to death with talking of conversations by the fireside.
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