`` Well , '' said Cecilia gently -- Cecilia was always gentle even in her enthusiasm -- `` I shall like to see the Governor and Sara Beaumont too . But I 'm going to the picnic more for the sake of seeing Nan Harris than anything else . It 's three years since she went away , you know , and I 've never had another chum whom I love so dearly . I 'm just looking forward to meeting her and talking over all our dear , good old times . I do wonder if she has changed much . But I am sure I shall know her . '' `` By her red hair and her freckles ? '' questioned Elliott teasingly . `` They 'll be the same as ever , I 'll be bound . '' Cecilia flushed and looked as angry as she could -- which is n't saying much , after all . She did n't mind when Elliott teased her about her pug nose and her big mouth , but it always hurt her when he made fun of Nan . Nan 's family had once lived across the street from the Newburys . Nan and Cecilia had been playmates all through childhood , but when both girls were fourteen the Harrises had moved out west . Cecilia had never seen Nan since . But now the latter had come east for a visit , and was with her relatives in Campden . She was to be at the picnic , and Cecilia 's cup of delight brimmed over . Mrs. Newbury came briskly into the middle of their sunset plans . She had been down to the post office , and she carried an open letter in her hand . `` Mother , '' said Frances , straightening up anxiously , `` you have a pitying expression on your face . Which of us is it for -- speak out -- do n't keep us in suspense .
Has Mary Spearman told you that Sara XXXXX is n't going to be at the picnic ? ''
Beaumont Campden Elliott Frances Harris Mother Nan Newburys pug years