“No, I know that; but she does sometimes write more cheerfully. I wonder will she ever marry.”
Her aunt made no answer, but instead, arose and observed, “I must get the house well in order for Thomas’s home-coming.”
“Will they be here in time for the wedding?”
“They will make the effort.”
“I believe Patsey would be perfectly willing to wait for the sake of having Uncle Tom here.”
“I don’t believe in putting off weddings,” said Betty, coming in. “It has already been put off once. You must have a new gown for the occasion, Lettice. I have been telling you that for weeks; it isn’t like you to be so indifferent to such things.”
“There is time enough before New Year’s Eve.”
“Yes, but time flies. Come, go down with me and select it. There will be nothing so good for you as a shopping expedition. I must stop in Lovely Lane to attend to a matter, and then we will give ourselves up to choosing your bridesmaid gown. Lutie can look after the boy, I suppose.”
“Yes, and will be glad to do it. I must look out for a gay calico for Lutie’s Christmas.”
“You spoil her,” remarked Aunt Martha.