That room is still to be called
Helen's. But now, Anne, do you think that line ought to be straight?
Lizzie says it should, but I think the perspective alters it; I am
sure I saw it so.'
'Indeed, Helen,' said Anne, 'I think the shadow must have deceived
you.' And with a little trouble she proved that Elizabeth was right.
'Ah!' said Helen, 'if Lizzie would but have shewn me patiently,
instead of saying, 'Why, Helen, cannot you draw a straight line?' I
should have understood her.' Then she continued, while taking out
India-rubber and pencil to rectify the mistake, 'I used to draw a
great deal at dear Dykelands; we had a sketching master, and used to
go out with him twice a week, but it was very delightful when we
three went alone, when one of us used to read while the others drew.
I am sure these sketches will for ever remind me of those happy
days.'
'Why, Helen,' said Anne, smiling, 'you speak as if you never meant to
be happy again.'
'Do I?' said poor Helen; 'I am afraid I do seem rather silly about
dear Dykelands. The other day I was singing
"My heart's in the Highlands, my heart is not here,
My heart's in the Highlands, gone chasing the deer,"
when in came Lizzie, and said, "No, Helen,
Your heart is at Dykelands, your heart's in the bogs,
Your heart is at Dykelands, gone chasing the frogs,"
for she is always laughing at it for being so damp, dear place.
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