is how I came to forget the pie. I didn t know I starched the
handkerchiefs. All the time I was ironing I was trying to think of a
name for a new island Diana and I have discovered up the brook. It s the
most ravishing spot, Marilla. There are two maple trees on it and the
brook flows right around it. At last it struck me that it would be
splendid to call it Victoria Island because we found it on the Queen s
birthday. Both Diana and I are very loyal. But I m sorry about that pie
and the handkerchiefs. I wanted to be extra good today because it s an
anniversary. Do you remember what happened this day last year, Marilla?
No, I can t think of anything special.
Oh, Marilla, it was the day I came to Green Gables. I shall never
forget it. It was the turning point in my life. Of course it wouldn t
seem so important to you. I ve been here for a year and I ve been so
happy. Of course, I ve had my troubles, but one can live down troubles.
Are you sorry you kept me, Marilla?
No, I can t say I m sorry, said Marilla, who sometimes wondered how
she could have lived before Anne came to Green Gables, no, not exactly
sorry. If you ve finished your lessons, Anne, I want you to run over and
ask Mrs. Barry if she ll lend me Diana s apron pattern.
Oh--it s--it s too dark, cried Anne.
Too dark? Why, it s only twilight. And goodness knows you ve gone over
often enough after dark.
I ll go over early in the morning, said Anne eagerly. I ll get up at
sunrise and go over, Marilla.
What has got into your head now, Anne Shirley? I want that pattern to
cut out your new apron this evening. Go at once and be smart too.
I ll have to go around by the road, then, said Anne, taking up her hat
reluctantly.
Go by the road and waste half an hour! I d like to catch you!
I can t go through the Haunted Wood, Marilla, cried Anne desperately.
147