"
"I know that; but since Eve's fig-leaf invention the matter of dress has
been an absorbing one for nearly every generation."
"In the main; but there have been beautiful exceptions all down the long
stream of the ages. I met some literary women the last time I was
visiting in England, and their minds seemed so far superior to their
bodies, or the clothes they wore, that ever since I have been ashamed of
myself when I get particularly interested in what I am to wear."
"You are young, my child, to begin to philosophize on the matter of
clothes. You have read Sartor Resartus?"
"Oh, yes, and I want to be something better than a mere biped without
feathers."
"To want is the first step toward the accomplishment. I think you will
suit Mr. Winthrop after he gets to know you, if ever he does," she added,
after a pause.
CHAPTER IV.
THE FUNERAL.
The next morning I went in search of Mrs. Flaxman. I found her busy
superintending, along with the housekeeper, some extensive pickling and
preserving operations. I hesitated at first in making my request; I
wanted her to accompany me to the funeral.
"I promised Mrs. Blake to go to her daughter's funeral to-day, and I
should so much like to have you go with me," I said.
"If you would like my company, your liking shall be gratified, my dear."
"But you looked tired, and it is such a hot day."
"I shall want folk to come and get me safely planted away some day, and
we can take the carriage. Thomas will be glad to go; at least he always
wants to attend funerals.
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