Tears and laughter alternate in this novel, based on the author's forebears, of a young girl's growth to womanhood in the 1830's. 16-year-old orphan Martitia Howland has been transplanted into a Quaker farm family of 6 intimidating sons and one disapproving daughter. As Martitia runs their gauntlet, she begins to bloom. Valiantly she acquires the skills they expect of her, and discovers other gifts all her own. Her achievements earn respect in the end and more, her true heart's love. Illustrations by Marguerite de Angeli.