Books and embroidery was the absolute last thing on Mable’s mind once Nettie mentioned courting someone.  A man, even!  A man she liked!  Mable could have jumped up and down and ran around in circles in her excitement.

“Miss Nettie, you’re courting someone?!  How exciting!  What is his name?  Is he very nice, and very handsome?  I hope he is, he must be for someone as pretty as you to like him!”  Mable then remembered she’d been asked a question.

“Oh, I don’t think it odd at all to give a man a present!  I think it’s very sweet actually, and sometimes, it’s only fair!  I hear usually, ladies get presents all the time, so I bet he’ll be very pleased to get something for once.  Especially from you!  What were you thinking of getting him?  Would you let me help choose something out for him?  I’m very amazing at these things, you know!”