asked Susy , Lucy and Lizzie , forgetting their tea party to run and see what was going on . They were told , and in their turn exclaimed so loudly that Kate came to join in the fun . After a great deal of talking and laughing , the dolls were prepared for the long journey . They were common wooden-headed dollies , a hand long , with stuffed bodies and stout legs ornamented with very small feet in red and blue boots . Dora was a blonde and Flora a brunette , otherwise they were just alike and nearly new . Usually when people go travelling they put on their hats and cloaks , but these pilgrims , by papa 's advice , left all encumbrances behind them , for they were to travel in a peculiar way , and blue gingham dresses were chosen for the expedition . `` It is possible that they may never come back . Accidents will happen you know . Are you prepared for that ? '' asked Mr. Plum , pausing with the brown paper spread out before him . `` I am , '' answered Maggie firmly , as she laid Flora on the table , her black eyes staring as if rather alarmed at this sudden start . Marjory hesitated a moment , clasping Dora to her bosom with a face full of maternal anxiety . But Susy , Lucy and Lizzie cried : `` Let her go , do let her go , and if she is lost papa will give you a new doll . '' `` Good-by , my darling dear . Have a splendid time , and be sure you come back to me , '' whispered Marjory , with a tender farewell kiss as she gave up her child . All stood watching silently while papa tied the dolls back to back with the ribbon Kate pulled from her neck , then folded them carefully in strong brown paper , leaving their heads out that they might see the world as they went along . Being carefully fastened up with several turns of cord , Mr. Plum directed the precious parcel to `` Miss Maria Plum , Portland , Maine . With care . '' Then it was weighed , stamped , and pronounced ready for the post . `` I shall write and tell aunty they are coming , because she will want to be prepared for such distinguished visitors , '' said papa , taking up his pen with a glance at the six excited little faces round him .
Silence reigned while the letter was written , and as he sealed it up Mr. XXXXX said solemnly , with his hand on the parcel : `` For the last time , shall they go ? ''
Dora Flora Kate Lizzie Lucy Maggie Maine Marjory Plum Portland