`` How could we ? '' asked Marjory . `` They could go and come by mail , and tell you all about their adventures when they got back , '' said papa . Both children were speechless for a moment , then as the full splendor of this proposition dawned upon them they clapped their hands , crying eagerly : `` We will ! we will ! Let 's do it at once . '' `` What ? where ? who ? '' 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 XXXXX to her bosom with a face full of maternal anxiety .
Dora Flora Kate Lizzie Maggie Marjory Susy brunette cloaks left