Lady of the Aroostook Chapter XXV

In which Mrs. Erwin wrestles with the unsettling arrival of Lydia alone with three young men, while she and her husband debate American delicacy and propriety in contrast with English expectations. Throughout the afternoon and evening, Mrs. Erwin strives to bolster Lydia's spirits with affectionate attention and diversion, only to witness the girl's quiet despair when the awaited visitor fails to appear.