"We stood right there between the windows," she added, "and
the minister stood here. William wouldn't come in. He was always
odd about seein' folks, just's he is now. I run to meet 'em from
a child, an' William, he'd take an' run away."
"I've been the gainer," said the old mother cheerfully.
"William has been son an' daughter both since you was married off
the island. He's been 'most too satisfied to stop at home 'long o'
his old mother, but I always tell 'em I'm the gainer."
We were all moving toward the kitchen as if by common
instinct. The best room was too suggestive of serious occasions,
and the shades were all pulled down to shut out the summer
light and air. It was indeed a tribute to Society to find a room
set apart for her behests out there on so apparently neighborless
and remote an island. Afternoon visits and evening festivals must
be few in such a bleak situation at certain seasons of the year,
but Mrs. Blackett was of those who do not live to themselves, and
who have long since passed the line that divides mere self-concern
from a valued share in whatever Society can give and take.
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