1636!
That's one of the earliest sampler dates! I can't see how it's lain
unknown all these years. Who had it before you did?"
"Mother."
"Oh, yes,--of course. Well, I'm not going to take it from you--"
"Yes, you are, Elise. I want to give it to you. I've wanted all along
to give you something nice,--you've been so good to me--"
"Rubbish! don't talk like that, Zaly! If you want to make Patty a
present, now,--give it to her. That would be a worth-while return for
her kindness to you."
"Oh, I don't think so much of the old thing as you do. I don't even
think it's pretty."
"It isn't a question of prettiness, or even of a well worked piece. It's
the date. And this is genuine,--I can see that. But I can't understand
it! Why,--I think this border wasn't used until--I must look it up in my
book. That's home in New York. But, there's one thing sure and certain!
This doesn't get put in with my bunch of wares! Mr. Greatorex may come
this afternoon. He's an expert on these things. He'll know just what
it's worth."
"Oh, Elise," Azalea looked troubled, "don't take it so seriously. It's
just an old thing. You've others here that are far handsomer."
"As I told you, Zaly, it's the age that counts,--not the beauty. Run
along to your own booth. I'll lay this aside until I can find out about
it. But if it's as valuable as I think it is, you mustn't give it to
Vanity Fair,--or to anybody.
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