“But surely sometimes starch sticks.”
“Yes, if you don’t understand it.”
Molly gave up; but she found Marta so far improved by what she had seen, that the money was well expended.
But to return to the dollar and cent question. Her grocery bill for the coming month was $10.02 against $11.22 for the last (see [Chapter IX.]), and the weekly proportion of that would be $2.50½. Of several articles, such as flour and potatoes, she had renewed the supply; not because they were really exhausted, but would be in a few days; all of which small “lap-overs,” however, would make a little difference to one who watched her expenses so closely as Molly.
CHAPTER XXIII.
CHIEFLY SOCIAL—MRS. FRAMLEY’S OPINIONS.
Molly during the month had become acquainted with all Mr. and Mrs. Winfield’s friends; they had gone to the “readings” each week, and, not being hypocritical young people, but very ready to be amused, had enjoyed themselves much. The “readings,” she found, were really modified theatricals; and as happily no great tragedies or legitimate dramas were attempted, but bright comedies or farces, they were usually well done; and where they were not the fun was greater.
Molly was glad they had found so many pleasant people in Greenfield; it made the ordeal of a winter in the country for Harry far less trying. She was expressing an idea of this sort to Mrs. Framley, who said:—
“But you don’t seem to think the ordeal is as great for you, who are in the country all day. I’m afraid you spoil Mr. Bishop.”