She tried now to love her country, but she hardly rose before she fell.

“Oh, I know it’s tur’ble what folks are sufferin’, but––well, the Lord’s will be done, I say.”

“And I say it’s mainly the devil’s will that’s being done!” said Mamise.

This terrified Abbie. “I wisht you’d be a little careful of your language, Mamise. Swearin’ and cigarettes both is pretty much of a load for a lady to git by with.”

“O Lord!” sighed Mamise, in despair. She was capable of long, high flights, but she could not carry such a passenger.

Abbie continued: “And do you think it’s right, seein’ men here all by yourself?”

“I’m not seeing men––but a man.”

“But all by yourself.”

“I’m not all by myself when he’s here.”

“You’ll get the neighbors talkin’––you’ll see!”