CHAPTER I. IN SEARCH OF A MISSION
“Thou didst refuse the daily round
Of useful, patient love,
And longedst for some great emprise
Thy spirit high to prove.”—C. M. N.
“Che mi sedea con l’antica Rachele.”—DANTE.
“It is very kind in the dear mother.”
“But—what, Rachel? Don’t you like it! She so enjoyed choosing it for you.”
“Oh yes, it is a perfect thing in its way. Don’t say a word to her; but if you are consulted for my next birthday present, Grace, couldn’t you suggest that one does cease to be a girl.”
“Only try it on, Rachel dear, she will be pleased to see you in it.”
“Oh yes, I will bedizen myself to oblige her. I do assure you I am not ungrateful. It is beautiful in itself, and shows how well nature can be imitated; but it is meant for a mere girl, and this is the very day I had fixed for hauling down the flag of youth.”
“Oh, Rachel.”
“Ah, ha! If Rachel be an old maid, what is Grace? Come, my dear, resign yourself! There is nothing more unbecoming than want of perception of the close of young-ladyhood.”