Later, we go with Cui Ai to gaze upon her jewels and fine clothings. Her No. 1 Chest of red lacquer holds many garments of fine silk of soft warmth and richness. In the tray, numberless bracelets, hair-pins, brooches and other ornaments have place.
No. 2 Chest, also of red lacquer, contain clothing more ordinary and household linens most plenteous.
All the time Cui Ai showing Chests, not down in the mouth but having smilings.
By and by I say, "Why do you look happy, Cui Ai? Why do you not make cryings? It is our custom."
Cui Ai make response: "Because of our dear Miss Sterling. She say it is of uttermost foolishness to make marriage and cryings at same time. It is not the American way to so do. American lady make first marriage, no cryings, sometimes later make cryings, but not always. Also I have great and copious joys for in my house of littleness I am to live unto myself and husband alone, not with Able Mother-in-law."
We wonder at the manifold good fortune of Cui Ai. It is not to believe that she live not in house of Able Mother-in-law. I have much doubtings.
I return unto my room and will to compose Poem on - "What is House without Mother-in-law?" but Poem no come out. I am floored with completeness. Six bells ring but I go not. Again I make anointment of hair and cut out dinner. I find book of rhyme-words and choose this list - "Air-fare, Where-wear, Prayer-ensnare." At the once I become up to snuff and Poem come unto me of so great quickness I have double joyings: Firstly, that Poem is of everlastingness of length; lastly, that with my rhyme-book, I can now become on to the job of Genius. Poem take of time, three of hours; of moments, four. I give of name unto Poem:
"The Three Graces."
Long New Moons ago, Three Graces most fair,
Dwelt under one roof. And combing long hair,
Made wishes to ride in Red Wedding Chair,
Enwrapted in Red Veil; and Wedding Dress wear.
Most ancient was Faith, with belief that by prayer
A Husband would come, appearing in air.
Sun-time and Moon-time she'd pray, then declare:
"He'll be here tonight; our roof-tree to share."