“You’ve made me feel more comfortable about going,” remarked Annis.
“Why, I thought you were quite desirous to go! quite pleased with the prospect!” Mildred returned in surprise.
“Yes, I did want to go, and yet I felt half frightened at the thought of seeing so many grand ladies and gentlemen all together. I was afraid I shouldn’t behave right at all. It’s very comfortable to think I can look at them and hardly be seen myself.”
“You would not like to think your dress would miss being seen?” Mildred said, playfully.
“No, indeed! it is so pretty.”
“I wish mother could see you in it!”
“Yes; and you in yours, Milly,” glancing at a beautiful evening-dress that had just come from the mantuamaker’s. “I wonder what they are doing at home!”
“Probably getting ready for bed; Fan at least. I think she would not envy you your dress if it must be worn by its possessor to a large party.”
“No, she’s so bashful; poor dear Fan!”
“Now, daughter,” Mr. Dinsmore said as they left the dinner-table on the all-important day, “I want you to go and lie down; sleep all the afternoon if you can. And I should advise Annis to do the same.”