Ethel. Five, seven—let me see, it would take about—how much do you usually sell for a costume?
Newcome (with hilarity, holding up the browns). From eight to ten yards, madam, according to the size of the lady. For your size I should say eight yards was an abundance—a great abundance.
Ethel. She is just about my size, isn't she, Maud?
Maud. Just about. It wouldn't take eight yards, I shouldn't think, of such wide goods made in Empire style.
Ethel. No, I suppose not; but then it's always nice to have a piece left over for new sleeves, you know.
Maud. Yes, that's so.
Newcome. An elegant shade, ladies, becoming to anyone, fair or dark. I am sure any lady must be pleased with a dress off of one of these—serviceable, stylish, the height of fashion.
Ethel. Is brown really so fashionable this season?
Newcome. I am sure we have sold a thousand yards of these browns to ten of any other color.
Maud. Is that so?