17 An Epoch in Anne’s Life

CHAPTER 17 An Epoch in Anne's Life One night as Anne was bringing in the cows from the field, Diana told Anne the most wonderful news. "You will never guess," Diana laughed. "Aunt Josephine has invited us to visit her in the city and see the fair. Can you believe it?" "It seems too wonderful," Anne squealed. "What if Marilla won't let me go? You know

how she feels about concerts and the like." "We'll have my mother ask her," Diana said. "That's sure to help." And help it did. Marilla agreed to let Anne go. They got up bright and early for the thirty- mile ride to Charlottetown. Miss Barry met them at the door with a big hug. It was such a magical time. Anne and Diana saw all kinds of animals and crafts at the fair. They ate fresh-baked pie and watched as people from Avonlea won prizes, so there was plenty to cheer about. The high point for Anne was watching a man go up in a hot-air balloon. Another night, Miss Barry took them out for ice cream. It all seemed like heaven to Anne, but she was happy to return home to Avonlea and Green Gables. "I don't think I'm cut out for city life," she told Marilla. "I felt lonesome

without you and Matthew—not to mention the orchard and the Lake of Shining Waters." "I hope you thanked Miss Barry for her kindness," Marilla said. "Oh yes, I did. And she thanked us both for the visit, too. Miss Barry said she first thought you were an old fool for keeping an orphan girl. But now she's changed her mind. She said I was lovely to have around the house." "You shouldn't brag, Anne," Marilla scolded. "I'm not bragging, Marilla. That's exactly what she said." "Well, then, I guess I agree with Miss Barry. And I'm awful glad to have you home."