I 'm just looking forward to meeting her and talking over all our dear , good old times . I do wonder if she has changed much . But I am sure I shall know her . '' `` By her red hair and her freckles ? '' questioned Elliott teasingly . `` They 'll be the same as ever , I 'll be bound . '' Cecilia flushed and looked as angry as she could -- which is n't saying much , after all . She did n't mind when Elliott teased her about her pug nose and her big mouth , but it always hurt her when he made fun of Nan . Nan 's family had once lived across the street from the Newburys . Nan and Cecilia had been playmates all through childhood , but when both girls were fourteen the Harrises had moved out west . Cecilia had never seen Nan since . But now the latter had come east for a visit , and was with her relatives in Campden . She was to be at the picnic , and Cecilia 's cup of delight brimmed over . Mrs. Newbury came briskly into the middle of their sunset plans . She had been down to the post office , and she carried an open letter in her hand . `` Mother , '' said Frances , straightening up anxiously , `` you have a pitying expression on your face . Which of us is it for -- speak out -- do n't keep us in suspense . Has Mary Spearman told you that Sara Beaumont is n't going to be at the picnic ? '' `` Or that the Governor is n't going to be there ? '' `` Or that Nan Harris is n't coming ? ''
`` Or that something 's happened XXXXX put off the affair altogether ? ''
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