Queer Judson by Joseph C. Lincoln — Read

There were no cast-iron animals in the yard of the "Cap'n Jim-Carey place," although the path from the front gate was flanked by a pair of iron benches, of the scrolled and curlicued cemetery variety. The path led straight to the front steps, the top step having a scraper at either end. Above that step was the formal front door, its upper panels of ground glass ornamented with designs of fruit and flowers. These, however--and the door itself--were hidden by closed green blinds, for the Judson front door, like all front doors in Wellmouth at that period, was strictly for ornament and almost never for use. As a matter of fact, that particular door had not been opened since the day of Captain Jim-Carey's funeral.

George and Carey Judson did not attempt entering the house by way of the front door. They would as soon have thought of entering by the chimney. Midway of the yard, the walk forked and they took the branch to the left, that leading to the side door and side entry. In this entry, on a walnut rack, they hung their straw hats and, George leading the way, they went on into the sitting room. The sitting room was bright and cheery and livable and in it, in rocking chairs each with a crocheted "tidy" on the back, sat Mrs. Judson and Aunt Susan Dain, sewing. No, Mrs. Dain was sewing; Cora T. was making a splintwork photograph frame. The ladies put down their work and rose. The brothers came forward to meet them. Mrs. Judson spoke first.