model. I only think you may find it a little slow, living in
Springdale. He has a fine, large, old-fashioned house there, and his
sister is a very nice woman; but they are a sort of respectable,
retired set,--never go into fashionable company."

"Oh, I don't mind it!" said Lillie. "I shall have things my own way,
I know. One isn't obliged to live in Springdale, nor with pokey old
sisters, you know; and John will do just as I say, and live where I
please."

She said this with her simple, soft air of perfect assurance, twisting
her shower of bright, golden curls; with her gentle, childlike face,
and soft, beseeching, blue eyes, and dimpling little mouth, looking
back on her, out of the mirror. By these the little queen had always
ruled from her cradle, and should she not rule now? Was it any wonder
that John was half out of his wits with joy at thought of possessing
_her_? Simply and honestly, she thought not. He was to be
congratulated; though it wasn't a bad thing for her, either.

"Belle," said Lillie, after an interval of reflection, "I won't be
married in white satin,--that I'm resolved on. Now," she said, facing
round with increasing earnestness, "there have been five weddings
in our set, and all the girls have been married in just the same
dress,--white satin and point lace, white satin and point lace, over
and over, till I'm tired of it. _I'm_ determined I'll have something
new."

"Well, I would, I'm sure," said Belle. "Say white tulle, for instance:
you know you are so _petite_ and fairy-like."