e rest of that summer is very dear to remember. When I think over
my life, much of it seems misty and far away; but that summer is as
distinct to my mind as it was when its roses had but just faded, just as
sweet and wonderful in its sunshine, its blue skies, its fresh-blowing
winds, its birds and flowers, as it seemed to me then,--only now I know
what it was that so glorified it.

"Ephraim had a much greater flow of spirits than I had. I was grave
beyond my years. But I caught the love of fun from him, and mother and
father wondered at the change in me. I think a girl always changes when
she is engaged. A whole world of feeling that has slept is now awakened.
Even shallow women bloom out for a brief time, and sparkle and shine
wonderfully. To be sure they fade full soon oftentimes, and only the dry
leaves are left of all the charm and fragrance.

"And so autumn came, and winter, and with the winter the frolics which
Ephraim was so fond of, and which he persisted stoutly were as innocent
as church-going. But father was so disturbed when I spoke of going that
I gave it up at once, and told Ephraim that, as long as I lived at home,
I couldn't feel right to disobey father. So at first Ephraim stayed
contentedly with me, but by and by the old love stirred. A bit of
dance-music would start his color, and set his feet in motion, and it
was plain to see where his heart was. I was sorely grieved at this; nay,
I was more than grieved. I wanted him all to myself. I could not bear
that he should need anything but me. Ephraim said I was exacting, and I
thought him cold and unkind. And so there gradually grew up a coldness
between us; and yet the coldness was all on my side. Ephraim was always
gentle, even when I was pettish and cross. For so I was. It was partly
physical. I was not well that winter. I did not sleep, or when I did by
fits and starts, I woke frightened and crying. Now, my doctor would call
it nervous sensitiveness; but then people did not give fine names to
their humors, and mother only looked sorry, and said she was afraid I
was growing ill-tempered.

"While things were in this state, Ephraim's mother invited me to come
and spend a week with them. I didn't feel acquainted, and I was shy
about going; but Ephraim urged it, and mother advised it, and so at last
I consented to go.

"I was a good deal mortified that I had nothing nice to wear. My best
gown had been in use two winters, and there were only three breadth