Mrs. Barlow was not convinced , and declared she would hide herself if any one came ; but after much discussion consented to let the trial be made , though predicting utter failure , as she retired to her sofa to bewail the sad necessity for such a step . Clara worked busily for several days to carry into execution her plan ; then she sent some notes to a dozen friends , modestly informing them that her `` opening '' would take place on a certain day . `` Curiosity will bring them , if nothing else , '' she said , trying to seem quite cool and gay , though her heart fluttered with anxiety as she arranged her little stock in the front parlor . In the bay-window was her flower-stand , where the white azaleas , red geraniums , and gay nasturtiums seemed to have bloomed their loveliest to help the gentle mistress who had tended them so faithfully , even when misfortune 's frost had nipped her own bright roses . Overhead swung a pair of canaries in their garlanded cage , singing with all their might , as if , like the London ` prentice-boys in old times , they cried , `` What do you lack ? Come buy , come buy ! '' On a long table in the middle of the room , a dozen delicate caps and head-dresses were set forth . On another lay garlands of French flowers bought for pretty Clara 's own adornment . Several dainty ball-dresses , imported for the gay winter she had expected to pass , hung over chairs and couch , also a velvet mantle Mrs. Barlow wished to sell , while some old lace , well-chosen ribbons , and various elegant trifles gave color and grace to the room . Clara 's first customer was Mrs. Tower , -- a stout florid lady , full of the good-will and the real kindliness which is so sweet in times of trouble . `` My dear girl , how are you , and how is mamma ? Now this is charming . Such a capital idea , and just what is needed ; a quiet place , where one can come and be made pretty without all the world 's knowing how we do it . '' And greeting Clara even more cordially than of old , the good lady trotted about , admiring everything , just as she used to do when she visited the girl in her former home to see and exclaim over any fresh arrival of Paris finery . `` I 'll take this mantle off your hands with pleasure , for I intended to import one , and this saves me so much trouble . Put it up for me , dear , at the price mamma paid for it , not a cent less , because it has never been worn , and I 've no duties to pay on it , so it is a good bargain for me . '' Then , before Clara could thank her , she turned to the head-gear , and fell into raptures over a delicate affair , all blonde and forget-me-nots . `` Such a sweet thing ! I must have it before any one else snaps it up . Try it on , love , and give it a touch if it does n't fit . ''
XXXXX knew it would be vain to remonstrate , for Mrs. Tower had not a particle of taste , and insisted on wearing blue , with the complexion of a lobster .
Clara Tower bay-window day execution finery forget-me-nots head-dresses head-gear nasturtiums