An idyl of work :: :: University of Virginia Library

Larcom, Lucy (1824-1893)

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“Yes, there 's a ladyish drawl and wriggle, too,
Easy enough to catch; and furbelows—
Made usually of silk or satin, though,”
Said Minta, giving Isabel's gown a twitch
Upon its fluttering ruffles, which betrayed
Faint reminiscences of yesterday
Among the looms, in sundry spots of grease.
Strange! Eleanor, in her large coarse apron wrapped,
Walked past the oily wheels immaculate,
As saints have trodden on coals without a smirch;
While Isabel groaned daily over stains
Almost indelible.