Did you know that we are all to walk down as far as that little creek below the old House of Dreams and then sail to the lighthouse ? Wo n't it just be absolutely divine ? '' `` When I was fifteen I talked in italics and superlatives too , '' said Miss Oliver sarcastically . `` I think the party promises to be pleasant for young fry . I expect to be bored . None of those boys will bother dancing with an old maid like me . Jem and Walter will take me out once out of charity . So you ca n't expect me to look forward to it with your touching young rapture . '' `` Did n't you have a good time at your first party , though , Miss Oliver ? '' `` No . I had a hateful time . I was shabby and homely and nobody asked me to dance except one boy , homelier and shabbier than myself . He was so awkward I hated him -- and even he did n't ask me again . I had no real girlhood , Rilla . It 's a sad loss . That 's why I want you to have a splendid , happy girlhood . And I hope your first party will be one you 'll remember all your life with pleasure . '' `` I dreamed last night I was at the dance and right in the middle of things I discovered I was dressed in my kimono and bedroom shoes , '' sighed Rilla . `` I woke up with a gasp of horror . '' `` Speaking of dreams -- I had an odd one , '' said Miss Oliver absently .
`` It was one of those vivid dreams I sometimes have -- they are not the vague jumble of ordinary dreams -- they are as clear cut and real XXXXX life . ''
as at below for in like of that to with