However, in the last month, when her winter visit to Sally had been decided on, he had assumed the proportions of a worthy adversary.

Children, most astute of match-makers, plot their campaigns quickly, and Sally had played a clever correspondence sonata to Isabelle's excitable temperament.

Isabelle had been for some time capable of very strong, if very transient emotions....
They drew up at a spreading, white-stone building, set back from the snowy street.

Mrs.Weatherby greeted her warmly and her various younger cousins were produced from the corners where they skulked politely.
Isabelle met them tactfully.

At her best she allied all with whom she came in contact--except older girls and some women.