"But she acts years and years older," was Laura's inward comment. "I guess she's used to 'sociating with grown folks."
"I don't like to wear lace-trimmed things, either," continued Alene.
"Why, I think they're lovely," said Laura, tenderly fingering one of the flounces which billowed like waves against her own blue print.
"But you don't have to wear them and be 'called down' by your governess every minute for fear they'll get torn or dirty!"
"Have you a governess?" inquired Laura in a tone of awe.
"Yes, but she took sick just after mother went away and had to go to the hospital. You see mother expected her to come here and take care of me. Uncle hasn't told mother 'cause he don't want to spoil their trip and he thinks it won't hurt me to learn to take care of myself. It's the first time I ever went round without a nurse or someone tagging after me, telling me to do this or not to do that—it's lovely to be free, girls!"
"'Give me liberty or give me death!'" said Laura in a tragic tone, and Alene squeezed her hand.
"Oh, Laura, it's so nice to talk with someone who understands! But in spite of being so free, I get so lonely!"
Laura's eyes shone with sudden comprehension.
"Oh, you poor little lonely baby," she said to herself, and then aloud,