however, Jane was often at the house; and the children became very fond of
her. She could tell so many interesting stories and say so many witty
things, and had so much to communicate that was new to them, that they
seemed almost fascinated by her.

One Saturday afternoon Mrs. Allis was unusually busy, and Jane came to pay
another visit. In spite of her cares, she, however, contrived to find
amusement for the girls in her own presence. After tea, Jane took her
bonnet to go home, and Susie begged permission to walk a short distance
with her, to gather prairie-flowers. Mrs. Allis hesitated, but at length
gave her consent, specifying the distance which she might go.

Scarcely had they started on their walk, when Jane remarked,--

"I declare! it's mean in your mother to keep you so dreadful close, just as
though you didn't know enough to take care of yourself!"

"Mother isn't mean; and you must not say so, Jane, or I shall go right
home."

"What! You're mad, are you? Well, I'm sure I don't care, if _you_ don't;
but I'm glad my mother don't do so, anyway!"

Susie now turned the conversation, and told Jane that Miss Wilson was
making new bonnets for her and Annie. After some questions as to what kind
of bonnets they were, and how they were trimmed, Jane asked,--

"When are they going to be done?"

"I suppose they are done to-day; but we shall not get them until some time