Marilla made the babies ready. They were very fond of walking up and down stairs. Now she lifted them in the carriage, tucked them in with the pretty robe and they did look picturesque in their fluffy white hoods and fur cloaks. They uttered shrieks of delight as they went along. The Brant’s were moving in the Jamreth house; she would remember hereafter to turn off at State street and not pass it. Somehow she felt very tired. At times there was such a fluttering somewhere inside of her that for a moment things went round and she had to gasp for breath. She would like to tell Dr. Richards about it. She had seen him twice, both times in the street and it had kept her happy for days.
CHAPTER X
ON THE BORDER OF TRAGEDY
For two days Jack had been out of school with a sore throat. Today it was better. The ladies wanted to go out to match some trimming and view some elegant new party frocks that might do for a wedding gown.
“Now don’t tear the house down while we are gone. And if you are good Jack, I’ll bring you home that new top you wanted. Remember the noise disturbs Aunt Hetty.”
But the children enjoyed the noise. Aunt Hetty’s bell rang.
“Oh, Marilla, can’t you keep those children in a little better order,” said the fretful voice. “And get me a drink of cold tea, I feel so queer.”
“I’m so sorry,” answered the child, “I’ll try my best. If only Jack wasn’t home.”