Page:Leah Reed--Brenda's summer at Rockley.djvu/317

Rh of the season. Goldenrod and an abundance of glossy foliage from various shrubs were twined around the balusters, and festooned over the tops of the doors and  windows. There were masses of white banked up on the mantelpieces, and the fireplaces were filled with goldenrod. There was very little, indeed, for any onlooker to alter or suggest, and whatever Brenda did say, was said  rather with the intent of showing her authority, than because she expected to accomplish much by her suggestions.

The family came down and had breakfast individually, one by one. Agnes, indeed, had hers sent up to the little balcony on which her room opened.

There was bustle and confusion everywhere, and Brenda was in her element. With her mother occupied with Agnes, and a house full of visitors, Brenda felt more like the eldest  daughter than had been possible for her for a long time.

From time to time she stole into the side room where the presents were still displayed on tables. They were not to be shown at the wedding, as Mr. and Mrs. Barlow,  as well as Agnes, disliked this kind of ostentation, but  for the gratification of the family they had been placed  where those who wished could see them. During the reception, the door of the little room was to be locked,  so that the gifts might not seem to be on exhibition. This arrangement suited all the family except Brenda. She thought it a great pity that all the guests were not to have the chance of inspecting the gifts.

“Why, they ’ll think that she has n’t had any presents,” and Brenda pouted as she spoke.