“The recipes are all in the book: I’ve marked the pages,” said Barbara, with dignity. “Of course, Ellen, if cantaloupes are not in the market, we’ll have to substitute something else. Or perhaps we could get along without that course.”
“We might have the ice, without the melons,” suggested Gassy.
Barbara glanced up suspiciously, but the sharp little face was innocent.
“That is all, then, Ellen. The recipes are given in full, and you will have no trouble in following them. I have ordered all the necessary materials. The rice and the cheese will be here in half an hour. Miss Cecilia will show you where the mint-bed is in the garden.”
Ellen’s large freckled face took on an expression of astonishment. “Who will?” she asked.
“Miss Cecilia,” responded Barbara.
Ellen’s eyes followed Barbara’s glance. “Oh, Gassy!” she said. “Didn’t know who you meant, before. Say, Barbara Grafton, I can’t never get up a meal like this, with no meat, and on ironing-day, too. Your ma never has sherbet but Sundays, and then Jack turns the crank fer me. And nuts! Nuts won’t be ripe till October.”
“The nuts are already ordered,” said Barbara, turning away. “That will do, Ellen. I’m going upstairs now to do the chamber-work, and after that I shall go to my writing. I don’t want to be disturbed. If any one comes to see me, say that I’m not at home.”
“I’ll holler if I want you,” said Ellen, grimly.