This is by Fiona Macleod.
They stood around talking to Miss Kate for a little while, who walking over to Mattie kissed her tenderly, after which each girl followed her example before retiring, and poor Mattie was all broken up over it.
CHAPTER VII
MRS. HOLLISTER’S VISIT TO CAMP
When the morning dawned on the day Mrs. Hollister was expected, great were the preparations made for that lady.
“Listen to me, girls; she’s the cleverest woman you ever met,” said Cousin Kate. “She has not been exactly in favor of our organization, so I wish each of you girls to do your best, and Mrs. Hollister can teach you so many useful things.”
“Yes, indeed,” said Ethel. “Cousin Kate is right. There’s very little that Mother can not do.”
Old Mr. Adams came up with a load of delicacies which had been ordered by the thoughtful Uncle John.
He paid no attention to the girls but as on previous occasions he gave his entire attention to his horses. He wiped off their foaming sweat with his hands. Last year it had been his handkerchief varied with bundles of grass and leaves. After cleaning them to his satisfaction he calmly walked to the clear brook and washed his hands thoroughly.
“Isn’t that awful?” whispered Patty to Miss Kate. “I shall never feel like drinking water from that brook again.”