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Finley, Martha, 1828-1909

"Elsie's Womanhood"


"Yes, my eggs are not so many, but quite enough for an old lady like me."
As the evening shadows crept over the landscape the air began to be
chilly, and our friends adjourned to the parlor.
Here all was just as when Elsie last saw it; neat as wax, everything in
place, and each feather-stuffed cushion beaten up and carefully smoothed
to the state of perfect roundness in which Miss Stanhope's soul delighted.
Mrs. Travilla, who had heard descriptions of the room and its appointments
from both her son and Elsie, looked about her with interest: upon the old
portraits, the cabinet of curiosities, and the wonderful sampler worked by
Miss Wealthy's grandmother. She examined with curiosity the rich
embroidery of the chair cushions, but preferred a seat upon the sofa.
"Dr. and Mrs. King and Miss Lottie!" announced Simon's voice from the
doorway, and the three entered.
Lively, cordial greetings followed, especially on the part of the two
young girls. Mrs. Travilla was introduced, and all settled themselves for
a chat; Lottie and Elsie, of course, managing to find seats side by side.
"You dearest girl, you have only changed by growing more beautiful than
ever," cried Lottie, squeezing Elsie's hand which she still held, and
gazing admiringly into her face.


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