She was called mighty smart and dry, which was the shop synonym for witty, and her favors, possibly because she never granted them, were accounted valuable.

Abby Atkins had more admirers than many a girl who was prettier and presumably more winning in every way, and could have married twice to their once.

But Abby had no wish for a lover.

"I've got all I can do to earn my own living and the living of them that belong to me," said she.
That afternoon Andrew Brewster stayed at home.

After dinner Eva Tenny and her little girl came in, and Ellen went down street on an errand.
Mrs.Zelotes Brewster was crossing her yard to her son's house when she saw Ellen passing, and paused to gaze at her with that superb pride which pertains to self and is yet superior to it.