Page:A Study in Colour - Augusta Zelia Fraser.pdf/53

42 feathered hats, with their fans, their essence, and their violet-powdered faces, that it made her feel too much her inferiority.

Soon also Mrs. Thomas was accompanied by her baby girl.

Orinthia was inordinately proud of this little grandchild, who, although a sickly, puny, little creature, was unusually fair in colour, with almost straight hair. A greater contrast than little, vigorous Angelina presented to her drooping, sallow little niece, could not well be found, but the whole family rejoiced in the possession of such a superfine article as little Elvira, and Angie had her hands full in amusing and waiting on her to their united satisfaction.

It is to be recorded to her credit that she was very proud and fond of Elvira herself, although she never felt her own blackness, or the disgrace of her "tied" head so acutely as when she compared herself to the more fortunate yellow-skinned baby. What she liked best, however, was when Mrs. Thomas left the precious Elvira with Orinthia, while she went on various visits to her numerous friends; for Mrs. Thomas was gay, and liked to attend all the weddings