still in existence, I believe. Had a letter from 'Ned' the other day, and
the old place hasn't burned down, or anything."

"From Edna? How are they all?" and Dorothy helped Tavia into her house
garments.

"Able to sit up," answered Tavia facetiously. "Cologne is pining for you,
I believe."

"I did hope Rose-Mary could come over for the holidays, but she has
written she cannot."

"Sorry for you, Doro, dear, but I really like The Cedars all to myself."

"And the boys?" asked Dorothy archly.

"Well, if you like, I'll take the boys too. Don't care if I do." And Tavia
stood before the oval mirror inspecting herself in Dorothy's blue and
white empire gown with the long sash at the side.

"What a pretty new dress you have!" remarked Dorothy as she picked up the
one that Tavia had so carelessly discarded.

"Like it? I suppose it's all rumples and crumples after the cart. But
really, Doro, if I had had only some one to talk to, I believe I should
have enjoyed it. It was too funny! The man had a mouth without any
backstop in it--"

"Palate?"