"Is not that the case with others than they? Persons who have more enduring objects of contemplation than personal attire do not bestow enough time on how they shall robe themselves to excel in dressing artistically."
"I know that; but since Eve's fig-leaf invention the matter of dress has been an absorbing one for nearly every generation."
"In the main; but there have been beautiful exceptions all down the long stream of the ages. I met some literary women the last time I was visiting in England, and their minds seemed so far superior to their bodies, or the clothes they wore, that ever since I have been ashamed of myself when I get particularly interested in what I am to wear."
"You are young, my child, to begin to philosophize on the matter of clothes. You have read Sartor Resartus?"
"Oh, yes, and I want to be something better than a mere biped without feathers."
"To want is the first step toward the accomplishment. I think you will suit Mr. Winthrop after he gets to know you, if ever he does," she added, after a pause.
CHAPTER IV.
THE FUNERAL.
The next morning I went in search of Mrs. Flaxman. I found her busy superintending, along with the housekeeper, some extensive pickling and preserving operations. I hesitated at first in making my request; I wanted her to accompany me to the funeral.