She did not try to shut out either vision. Which should she take? Was life just for one's self?
She was not morbid. It was only in religion that people took out their very souls and examined them for lurking sins; the days' duties were what must be accomplished, whether or no. She knew she was not very religious, the deep things seemed beyond her grasp. And there was a certain joyousness in her love for sunshine, flowers, people, and all the attractive things of life. She was deeply grateful, she raised her heart in thankfulness to God for every good gift. And now she took up the daily duties cheerfully. It was not their fault the shadow had fallen over them.
Some days afterward she was rambling around aimlessly, when she met a girl friend, and they chatted about various matters.
"Oh," exclaimed the friend, "there'll be another wedding in the autumn, and Betty Upham is keeping steady company. I used to have an idea that you and Ben would make a match——"
"It's Jenny Willing," she interrupted. "And I am heartily glad."
"You were all such friends;" looking puzzled.
"And I hope we will go on being friends. I have always liked Jenny."
"She was awfully afraid you'd cut her out. You know he did fancy you first. I think she would have been very unhappy if she had missed him. I don't see what there is about you, Cynthia;" studying her intently. "You are pretty, but there are some handsome girls in Salem. And they run after Ed Saltonstall as if there was no other man in town. And my advice to you is to seize on him, for I think your chance best. He's an awful flirt, though. I think good-looking men always are."
Cynthia flushed. Why should these things be profaned by foolish gossip.
Polly came over one afternoon. She had accomplished the bag and was proud enough of it. And she announced Bentley's engagement.