[97]
touch the point so sacredly guarded [Mina, roll that crust a little thinner.] He spoke in soothing tones [Mina, poke the coals in the oven.]
“Here,” said I, “let me direct
Mina about these matters, and write a while yourself.”
Harriet took the pen and patiently set herself to the work.
For a while my culinary knowledge and skill were proof to all
Mina's investigating inquiries, and they did not fail till I saw two pages completed.
“ You have done bravely,” said I, as I read over the manuscript; “ now you must direct
Mina a while.
Meanwhile dictate and I will write.”
Never was there a more docile literary lady than my friend.
Without a word of objection she followed my request.
“ I am ready to write,” said I.
“The last sentence was: “What is this life to one who has suffered as I have?
” What next?”
“ Shall I put in the brown or the white bread first?”
said
Mina.
“ The brown first,” said Harriet.
““What is this life to one who has suffered as I have?”” said I.
Harriet brushed the flour off her apron and sat down for a moment in a muse.
Then she dictated as follows:--
Under the breaking of my heart I have borne up. I have borne up under all that tries a woman,but this thought,--oh, Henry!
“ Ma'am, shall I put ginger into this pumpkin?”
queried
Mina.
“ No, you may let that alone just now,” replied Harriet.
She then proceeded :--
