It had been their mother's idea to enclose the veranda outside the formal dining room, where there was a nice view of the river and the gardens. They could also see a portion of the drive, lined with great live oaks, and the lawn, with its checkerboard design that had been achieved by planting different kinds of grass. The furniture was white-painted wicker with peach and blue floral cushions and a glass-topped table. Baskets of lush ferns and fragrant flowers were abundant, making the atmosphere seem cool, even on a stifling day. Noting how cheerful Lisbeth seemed, Julius asked, "Do you have a secret I don't know about? Has Barley Tremayne finally proposed?" "No, but he will," she replied airily. "Actually, I'm happy because Steve's been gone so long, which means any day now he'll be back to tell to Ned he couldn't find that girl." "I told you there was nothing to worry about." He patted her hand. Mariah walked in, carrying bowls of fresh peaches for their dessert. She had not only been their mammy when they were babies but had actually run the household ever since Ned had married their mother, for Edith had cared nothing about such responsibilities.
