So saying, he kissed her and went away, and she came back to me with a little line of vexation between her arched brows.
"Well, well! Men will be men. Come up-stairs, child, and we will look over your wardrobe and see what you need."
I ventured to say that, my Lady Stanton had provided me with everything she thought needful.
"Yes, I dare say, according to her notions. But she has not been in London these seven years, and I dare say she has not changed the fashion of her dress since that time."
My new maid had unpacked all my things by this time, and my aunt, though she criticised unmercifully the fashion of my gowns and petticoats, yet allowed that Lady Stanton had been very liberal.
"This may do well enough with a silk petticoat laid with silver," said she, laying aside what was meant for my best gown. "But you must have another and some lace whisks and a hat and riding coat, and Mercer must curl your hair."
"It curls of itself," said I, "but I have always worn a cap."
"Nonsense, child; what do you want of a cap? Come, I shall allow yo no free will in this matter of dressing. You must needs confess that I am the best judge, and be ruled by me. You shall wear my t'other hat and mantle, and we will drive to the Royal Exchange and buy you some gloves and stockings and a fan and so on."
"But, Aunt Jem, I am in mourning," I ventured to say.
"Well, and so am I, child. Don't you see I am all in black?"