Lydia always did that for her.

When the table was cleared, the former took up a story-paper which she bought every week, and made a show of reading.

Lydia went about her accustomed tasks.
Presently she took a brush and comb and went behind her sister's chair.
She began to unloosen the rough coils in which the golden hair was pinned together.

It was always a joy to her to bathe her hands in the warm, soft torrent.

With delicate care she combed out every intricacy, and brushed the ordered tresses till the light gleamed on their smooth surface; then with skilful fingers she wove the braid, tying it with a blue ribbon so that the ends hung loose.