She had already settled the matter with Miranda,
over the wiping of the breakfast dishes.
Miranda had lived with the Shaws ever since Pauline was a baby, and was
a very important member of the family, both in her own and their
opinion. She was tall and gaunt, and somewhat severe looking; however,
in her case, looks were deceptive. It would never have occurred to
Miranda that the Shaws' interests were not her interests--she
considered herself an important factor in the upbringing of the three
young people. If she had a favorite, it was probably Hilary.
"Hmn," she said, when Pauline broached the subject of the spare room,
"what put that notion in your head, I'd like to know! That paper ain't
got a tear in it!"
So Pauline went further, telling her something of Uncle Paul's letter
and how they hoped to carry his suggestion out.
Miranda stood still, her hands in the dish water--"That's your pa's own
brother, ain't it?"
Pauline nodded. "And Miranda--"
"I reckon he ain't much like the minister. Well, me an' Sarah Jane
ain't the least bit alike--if we are sisters. I guess I can manage
'bout the papering. But it does go 'gainst me, having that sexton
woman in.
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