Rose was looking at the plate. “Yes, that will be pretty. You are the very Wizard of Old Clothes. And if there are scraps enough of silk and lace left I will make a little hat with purple violets for trimming to wear with it.”
She paused and lifted an impressive finger. “But mind this, when I get to earning for myself I will have some pretty dresses, and never will I wear any more of Great-Aunt Sarah’s cast-offs!”
Mrs. Patience smiled indulgently. “You are young, Rose, it is only natural you should feel so. But you know you are denying yourself now so that day may come.”
“I know it,” Rose nodded. “When I have had to go without things I wanted and that other girls did have, I’ve said, ‘Never mind, you are having an education.’ I expect to have to say that pretty often when I get to college—it’s hard to realize that I am going—but I’m not going to forget that I’m working for a purpose.”
“And that’s better than fine clothes.”
Rose twisted her face. “I wouldn’t object to the fine clothes if I could have them. But I suppose I shall need some dresses for everyday wear; the blue dress I had last year will do for that, won’t it?”
“Yes, and there is your green and red plaid. You can have some separate waists, too. I’m sure, Rose, we can have your wardrobe in shape, that if not fine, it will be neat and tasty.”
“What could I ever have done without you all?” Rose paused and sighed. “I am glad that I can go to college. I shall be gladder the longer I realize it. But I feel that it will just break my heart to leave here. If I could only take you all with me or bring the college to Farmdale.”
“We are glad that you can go to college, Rose,” Mrs. Blossom’s voice had not quite its usual firmness, “but you may be sure of one thing, we shall miss you more than you will us. But it is a long time till September; we will not begin the parting yet.”
“And of course I shall come back in vacations; everybody goes home then, and this is my home.”