“That is generally the case, my dear.”
“Yes,” said Phoebe, abstractedly. “Mrs Dorothy, did you know Mrs Marcella Talbot when she was young?”
“A little, my dear. Not so well as I know her now.”
“Was she always as discontented as she is now?”
“That is a spirit that grows on us, Phoebe,” said Mrs Dorothy, gravely.
Phoebe blushed. “I know you think I have it,” she replied. “But I should not wish to be like Mrs Marcella.”
“I think thy temptation lies that way, dear child. But thy disposition is not so light and frivolous as hers. However, we will not talk of our neighbours without we praise them.”
“Mrs Dorothy, Rhoda has engaged herself to Mr Marcus Welles. Madam sent me down to tell all of you.”
“She has, has she?” responded Mrs Dorothy, as if it were quite what she expected. “Well, I trust it may be for her good.”
“Aren’t you sorry, Mrs Dorothy?”