`` Why , Florrie Hamilton , to think you 've never said a word about your wonderful experiences ! I love to hear about foreign countries from people who have really been there . Please just talk -- and I 'll listen and ask questions . '' Florrie did talk . I 'm not sure whether she or Nan was the more surprised to find that she could talk so well and describe her travels so brightly and humorously . The afternoon passed quickly , and when Florrie went away at dusk , after a dainty tea served up in Nan 's room , it was with a cordial invitation to come again soon . `` I 've enjoyed your visit so much , '' said Nan sincerely . `` I 'm going down to see you as soon as I can walk . But do n't wait for that . Let us be good , chummy friends without any ceremony . '' When Florrie , with a light heart and a happy smile , had gone , came Maude , sunburned and glowing from her picnic . `` Such a nice time as we had ! '' she exclaimed . `` Was n't I sorry to think of you cooped up here ! Did Florrie come ? '' `` One Florrie did . Maude , you addressed that note to Florrie Hamilton today instead of Florrie Hastings . '' `` Nan , surely not ! I 'm sure -- '' `` Yes , you did . And she came here .
Was I not taken aback XXXXX first , Maude ! ''
about after at for from in to whether with without