It need not interfere with any talent you may possess , but it is a necessary part of your training , and I hope that you will set about it at once , now that you are well and strong . '' `` Who is the lady ? '' asked Rose , rather impressed by her uncle 's earnest speech . `` Aunt Plenty . '' `` Is she accomplished ? '' began Rose in a wondering tone , for this great-aunt of hers had seemed the least cultivated of them all . `` In the good old-fashioned way she is very accomplished , and has made this house a happy home to us all , ever since we can remember . She is not elegant , but genuinely good , and so beloved and respected that there will be universal mourning for her when her place is empty . No one can fill it , for the solid , homely virtues of the dear soul have gone out of fashion , as I say , and nothing new can be half so satisfactory , to me at least . '' `` I should like to have people feel so about me . Can she teach me to do what she does , and to grow as good ? '' asked Rose , with a little prick of remorse for even thinking that Aunt Plenty was a commonplace old lady . `` Yes , if you do n't despise such simple lessons as she can give . I know it would fill her dear old heart with pride and pleasure to feel that anyone cared to learn of her , for she fancies her day gone by . Let her teach you how to be what she has been a skilful , frugal , cheerful housewife ; the maker and the keeper of a happy home , and by and by you will see what a valuable lesson it is . '' `` I will , uncle . But how shall I begin ? '' `` I 'll speak to her about it , and she will make it all right with Dolly , for cooking is one of the main things , you know . '' `` So it is ! I do n't mind that a bit , for I like to mess , and used to try at home ; but I had no one to tell me , so I never did much but spoil my aprons .
Pies are great fun , only XXXXX is so cross , I do n't believe she will ever let me do a thing in the kitchen . ''
Dolly Rose day fashion great-aunt home lesson one people tone