Still, there was something in the details of the transactions which caused Carrie to feel that her requests were not a delight to him.

He did not enthuse over the purchases.

This led her to believe that neglect was creeping in, and so another small wedge was entered.
Nevertheless, one of the results of Mrs.Vance's suggestions was the fact that on this occasion Carrie was dressed somewhat to her own satisfaction.

She had on her best, but there was comfort in the thought that if she must confine herself to a best, it was neat and fitting.

She looked the well-groomed woman of twenty-one, and Mrs.Vance praised her, which brought color to her plump cheeks and a noticeable brightness into her large eyes.