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Wiggin, Kate Douglas Smith, 1856-1923

"Marm Lisa"

I can get her examined
by the commissioners some time before Christmas, and if they decide
she's imbecile they'll take her off my hands. I didn't want to part
with her till the twins got older, but I've just found a possible
home for them if I can endure their actions until New Year's. Our
Army of Present Perfection isn't progressing as it ought to, and it's
going to found a colony down in San Diego County, and advertise for
children to bring up in the faith. A certain number of men and women
have agreed to go and start the thing and I'm sure my sister, if she
was alive would be glad to donate her children to such a splendid
enterprise. If the commissioners won't take Lisa, she can go to Soul
Haven, too--that's the name of the place;--but no, of course they
wouldn't want any but bright children, that would grow up and spread
the light.' (Mary smiled at the thought of the twins engaged in the
occupation of spreading light.) 'I shall not join the community
myself, though I believe it's a good thing; but a very different
future is unveiling itself before me' (her tone was full of mystery
here), 'and some time, if I can ever pursue my investigations in
peace, you will knock at this door and I shall have vanished! But I
shall know of your visit, and the very sound of your footfall will
reach my ear, even if I am inhabiting some remote mountain fastness!'

When Lisa awoke that night, she heard the crackling of a wood fire on
the hearth; she felt the touch of soft linen under her aching body,
and the pressure of something cool and fragrant on her forehead.


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