Remember sarcasm is forbidden and sincerity the order of the day . You are country folks now , and it will do you good to try their simple , honest ways for a few days . '' Sophie had no time to say more , for Saul came up and drove off with the brief remark that the baggage would `` be along right away . '' Being hungry , cold and tired , the guests were rather silent during the short drive , but Aunt Plumy 's hospitable welcome , and the savory fumes of the dinner awaiting them , thawed the ice and won their hearts at once . `` Is n't it nice ? Are n't you glad you came ? '' asked Sophie , as she led her friends into the parlor , which she had redeemed from its primness by putting bright chintz curtains to the windows , hemlock boughs over the old portraits , a china bowl of flowers on the table , and a splendid fire on the wide hearth . `` It is perfectly jolly , and this is the way I begin to enjoy myself , '' answered Emily , sitting down upon the home-made rug , whose red flannel roses bloomed in a blue list basket . `` If I may add a little smoke to your glorious fire , it will be quite perfect . Wo n't Samson join me ? '' asked Randal , waiting for permission , cigar-case in hand . `` He has no small vices , but you may indulge yours , '' answered Sophie , from the depths of a grandmotherly chair . Emily glanced up at her friend as if she caught a new tone in her voice , then turned to the fire again with a wise little nod , as if confiding some secret to the reflection of herself in the bright brass andiron . `` His Delilah does not take this form . I wait with interest to discover if he has one . What a daisy the sister is . Does she ever speak ? '' asked Randal , trying to lounge on the haircloth sofa , where he was slipping uncomfortably about . `` Oh yes , and sings like a bird . You shall hear her when she gets over her shyness .
But no trifling , mind you , for it is a jealously guarded XXXXX and not to be picked by any idle hand , '' said Sophie warningly , as she recalled Ruth 's blushes and Randal 's compliments at dinner .
Emily Samson Saul andiron daisy days fire haircloth primness right