Carolyn Wells

Patty's Butterfly Days Carolyn Wells

"Different men are of different opinions; some like apples, some like inions," sang Patty, asshe swayed herself idly back and forth in the veranda swing; "but, truly-ooly, Nan," shewent on, "I don't care a snipjack. I'm quite ready and willing to go to the WhiteMountains, -or the Blue or Pink or even Lavender Mountains, if you like.""You're willing, Patty, only because you're so good-natured and unselfish; but, really, youdon't want to go one bit.""Now, Nan, I'm no poor, pale martyr, with a halo roundy-bout me noble brow. When wecame down here to Spring Beach, it was understood that we were to stay here part of thesummer, and then go to the mountains. And now it's the first of August and I've had myinnings, so it's only fair you should have your outing."Though Patty's air was gay and careless, and Patty's tones were sincere, she was in realitymaking an heroic self-sacrifice, and Nan knew it. Patty loved the seashore; she had beenthere three months, and loved it better every day. But Nan cared more for the mountains, and longed to get away from the sunny glare of thesea, and enjoy the shaded walks and drives of higher altitudes. However, these two were ofunselfish nature, and each wanted to please the other. But as Patty had had her wish forthree months, it was certainly fair that Nan should be humoured for the rest of the summer. The season had done wonders for Patty, physically. Because of her outdoor life, she hadgrown plumper and browner, her muscles had strengthened, and her rosy cheeksbetokened a perfect state of health. She was still slender, and her willowy figure had gainedsoft curves without losing its dainty gracefulness