At the
next, which occurred a fortnight later, Pauline announced that she had a
piece of interesting news.
"Do you know a Mr. Joel Flagg in Benham?"
"I know who he is," said Selma. "I have met his daughter."
"It seems he has made a fortune in oil and real estate, and is desirous
to build a college for women in memory of his mother, Sarah Wetmore. One
of my friends has just received a letter from a Mrs. Hallett Taylor, to
whom Mr. Flagg appears to have applied for counsel, and who wishes some
of us who are interested in educational matters to serve as an advisory
committee. Probably you know Mrs. Taylor too?"
"Oh yes. I have been at her house, and I served with her on the
committee which awarded Wilbur the church."
"Why, then you are the very person to tell us all about her. I think I
remember now having heard Wilbur mention her name."
"Wilbur fancied her, I believe."
"Your tone rather implies that you did not. You must tell me everything
you know. My friend has corresponded with her before in regard to some
artistic matters, but she has never met her. Her letter suggests a
lady."
"I dare say you would like Mrs. Taylor," said Selma, gravely. "She is
attractive, I suppose, and seemed to know more or less about European
art and pictures, but we in Benham didn't consider her exactly an
American.
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