"The Joy of Nelly Deane" is a short story by American writer Willa Cather.
She later receives a latter from Mrs Dow saying Mr Deane has lost money in an investment in Cripple Creek, Colorado, Franklin ended up marrying a woman in Long Pine, Nebraska, and Nelly is a teacher at the local school.
The following winter, Peggy stops at Riverbend, where Nelly is to join the Baptist faith and marry Scott.
After living in Rome for years, Peggy receives another letter from Mr Dow announcing Nelly's death subsequent to her second child's birth.
Finally, Peggy meets Margaret whilst she is sledging on Lupton's Hill, and Mrs Spinny also shows her the new baby, who reaches for the flower in her hat.