
A quiet winter night sets the scene, as Mrs. North watches from behind her shutters while snow drifts cling to the evergreens. The arrival of a young couple, Bessie and her mysterious escort, sparks whispered conversation about propriety, telephone calls, and the subtle dance of courtship in a small town. Through gentle humor and tender observations, the story captures the everyday concerns of families balancing duty, affection, and the expectations of society.
As Bessie returns home, her bright excitement hints at a blossoming romance that challenges the conventions of her household. The narrative weaves together the warmth of familial bonds with the anticipation of new love, inviting listeners to linger on the delicate moments that shape a life’s turning point. With vivid period details and heartfelt dialogue, the tale offers a comforting glimpse into the joys and uncertainties of early‑twentieth‑century marriage.
Language
en
Duration
~2 hours (139K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Annie R. McGuire. This book was produced from scanned images of public domain material from the Google Print archive.
Release date
2012-01-03
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1859–1937
Best known for vivid historical and religious novels, this Ohio-born writer reached a wide audience in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her stories blend romance, faith, and drama in a style that helped make books like Titus, a Comrade of the Cross and Stephen, a Soldier of the Cross enduring favorites.
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