' Well, I wish I could take
things as calmly--but I'm not made like that. I'm so sensitive--things
hurt me terribly--I really never get over them. I asked Rilla right out
why she didn't put on mourning for Walter. She said her mother didn't
wish it. But every one is talking about it."
"Rilla doesn't wear colours--nothing but white," protested Betty Mead.
"White becomes her better than anything else," said Irene significantly.
"And we all know black doesn't suit her complexion at all. But of course
I'm not saying that is the reason she doesn't wear it. Only, it's funny.
If my brother had died I'd have gone into deep mourning. I wouldn't have
had the heart for anything else. I confess I'm disappointed in Rilla
Blythe."
"I am not, then," cried Betty Meade, loyally, "I think Rilla is just a
wonderful girl. A few years ago I admit I did think she was rather too
vain and gigglesome; but now she is nothing of the sort. I don't think
there is a girl in the Glen who is so unselfish and plucky as Rilla, or
who has done her bit as thoroughly and patiently. Our Junior Red Cross
would have gone on the rocks a dozen times if it hadn't been for her
tact and perseverance and enthusiasm--you know that perfectly well,
Irene."
"Why, I am not running Rilla down," said Irene, opening her eyes widely.
"It was only her lack of feeling I was criticizing. I suppose she can't
help it.
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