On the day appointed, no impediments having arisen, Agnes and her friend left London for Dover. Such was the child's kindness of disposition, that little as had been the notice or favour she had received from Madame Leroux, she could not quit her without some degree of concern; but perhaps, the object she parted from with the greatest regret was the friendly parrot, and the leave she took of him, was more affectionate than that which passed between her and any other member of the family. Monsieur Leroux, who was amongst those assembled at the door to / see her set off, exhorted her not to forget his dancing instructions, and evinced considerable regret at losing his scholar before he had had time to render her parfaite.

Their journey to Dover was without incidents; but great was the surprise of Madame Morinval, almost on arriving at the inn, to receive from the hands of a waiter, the following note written in French:

‘You are entreated, madam, when you land at Calais, to secure a private lodging, and there to remain till you hear from me again. Your journey to Paris, though delayed, shall not be made the less convenient to you, it being my full intention to remunerate you amply for all expenses incurred through my means.

That this application was made in reference to some affair connected with her young charge, Madame Morinval could not for an instant / doubt. She was sorry to be retarded on her way to her children, but for the sake of Agnes, she thought it right to submit; and her answer, therefore, was written in accordance with this determination, and given to the waiter who had brought her the note.

The first day or two spent at Calais, passed off lightly and cheerfully not only to Agnes, but even to Madame Morinval. She was on her native soil, she heard only her own language, and saw none but the faces of compatriots.