r and Bridget's kitchen was
so clean, and there was always a nice white cloth on the table. It
seemed a funny way to live but many of the people did not have meals
in their own houses, but went over to the eating place. "I can't spell
the other word," she admitted naively. There were so many pretty girls
in lovely frocks who walked up and down and didn't have to take care
of babies. "I don't believe I am as fond of babies as I used to be. I
get tired of having them every day," she explained frankly. "And soon
I shall begin to count on the five years."

She filled up the whole sheet, folded, slipped it in the envelope and
fastened it. Oh, she must ask for a stamp. She could run down to the
postoffice.

Miss Borden was curious to know what was in the letter, whether
Marilla had found any fault with her surroundings, but the eager,
honest face disarmed curiosity that could not be easily gratified. So
the letter went its way.

There were many things to entertain a child whose former life had been
narrow. Some of the girls spoke to her. "Were the babies her
sisters?"

"Oh, no. She was--well their nurse."

"How odd they looked! Is that little Jack their brother?"

"Yes." Oh how ardently she wished they were pretty.

"He looks more like you than like them. You've both got such pretty
curly hair, though his is darker. I think curly hair's just lovely. I
wish mine curled, and you've such a pretty dimple in your chin."

Marilla blushed at the praise.

"What are the babies called?"

Marilla repeated their names.

"That's funny--they're so much alike."

"Well--they're twins," said another.

Then the babies thought it was time they joined in the conversation,
and a funny mess they made of it. Pansy said--

"Ont to dit down."

"No, you can't," answered Marilla. "Their mother said I must never
take them out."

They happened to be strapped in very securely. But Pansy made a great
fuss and gesticulated furiously with her little fists.

"I had better go on," said Marilla.

"It's awfully funny. Does she often get in such a tantrum?"

"Not very often," returned Marilla half ashamed and almost afraid the
baby would break the strap.

After a few days she began to get quite acquainted with some of the
girls. They came from various places and were quite ready to talk
about themselves. There was to be a lawn party next week at the
Sheldon's, just for the girls, and they were going to dance.

"Oh, did you ever go to