Published: Unpublished, unfinished. Probably written at some point on RK's trip from San Francisco to New York City, 29 May–25 September 1889.

Attribution: Signed in MS: see headnote to ‘Sons of Belial’, above.

Text: Huntington Library, MS HM 12429.

Notes: The title alludes to Rebecca's complaint to Isaac, ‘I am weary of my life because of the daughters of Heth’ (Genesis 27:46). Her fear was lest Joseph marry one.

It was one of the very many trios that you shall find pervading America throughout the Summer videlicet a father mother and daughter. The American man does not content himself merely with bringing up his child in the way she should go. He idolizes her throughout every step of her career and in this idolizing is more than seconded by his wife. The girl has [is?] the hub of that combination. By her own sweet will the length direction and every detail of the journey was regulated: Mamma being required to exercise nothing more than a most modified chaperonage while Papa paid the bills. Did the blue slate dust cloak [under?] the velvet toque wish to go to Alaska – to Alaska it went. Did its thoughts turn to Florida the Yosemite or sub tropical delights of the Hotel del Monte at Monterey a reserved section of the Pullman bore it where it would go with all speed. The gaunt old [word illegible] coat and oiled silk [toiling?] loyally at its side. “We think that travel and seeing the world is good for our little girl” said Mamma. “She hadn't very many amusements you know.” The little girl's lot was indeed a hard one. She had been through two seasons at Washington, taken the best that Saratoga Long Branch and Rockaway Beach had to offer seen till she was wearied all the natural beauties of the American continent and from what I could gather held her own against most of the artificial ones; had bought or been presented with every thing that delights a young womans wayward fancy, and had finally reached a nirvana that would have been soulless were it not so cynical.