I 'd stick pictures all round and have a gallery . That reminds me ! Up in the garret at our house is a box full of old fashion-books my aunt left . I often look at them on rainy days , and they are very funny . I 'll go this minute and get every one . We can pin them up , or make paper dolls ; '' and away rushed Molly Loo , with the small brother waddling behind , for , when he lost sight of her , he was desolate indeed . The girls had fits of laughter over the queer costumes of years gone by , and put up a splendid procession of ladies in full skirts , towering hats , pointed slippers , powdered hair , simpering faces , and impossible waists . `` I do think this bride is perfectly splendid , the long train and veil are so sweet , '' said Jill , revelling in fine clothes as she turned from one plate to another . `` I like the elephants best , and I 'd give anything to go on a hunt like that ! '' cried Molly Loo , who rode cows , drove any horse she could get , had nine cats , and was not afraid of the biggest dog that ever barked . `` I fancy ` The Dancing Lesson ; ' it is so sort of splendid , with the great windows , gold chairs , and fine folks . Oh , I would like to live in a castle with a father and mother like that , '' said Merry , who was romantic , and found the old farmhouse on the hill a sad trial to her high-flown ideas of elegance . `` Now , that ship , setting out for some far-away place , is more to my mind . I weary for home now and then , and mean to see it again some day ; '' and Mrs. Pecq looked longingly at the English ship , though it was evidently outward bound . Then , as if reproaching herself for discontent , she added : `` It looks like those I used to see going off to India with a load of missionaries . I came near going myself once , with a lady bound for Siam ; but I went to Canada with her sister , and here I am . '' `` I 'd like to be a missionary and go where folks throw their babies to the crocodiles . I 'd watch and fish them out , and have a school , and bring them up , and convert all the people till they knew better , '' said warm-hearted Molly Loo , who befriended every abused animal and forlorn child she met . `` We need n't go to Africa to be missionaries ; they have 'em nearer home and need 'em , too . In all the big cities there are a many , and they have their hands full with the poor , the wicked , and the helpless .
One can find that sort of work anywhere , if one has a mind , '' said Mrs. XXXXX .
English Jill Loo Merry Pecq days fashion-books left waists years