Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman (October 31, 1852 - March 13, 1930) was a prominent 19th-century American author She was born in Randolph, Massachusetts on October 31, 1852, to Eleanor Lothrop and Warren Edward Wilkins, who originally baptized her as "Mary Ella". Freeman's parents were orthodox Congregationalists, causing her to have a very strict childhood. Religious constraints play a key role in some of her works. LIST OF STORIES. A New England nun.--A village singer.--A gala dress.--The twelfth guest.--Sister Liddy.--Calla-lilies & Hannah.--Wayfaring couple.--A poetess.--Christmas Jenny.--Pot of gold.--Scent of the roses.--A solitary.--Gentle ghost.--A discovered pearl.--A village Lear.--Amanda & love.--Up Primrose hill.--Stolen Christmas.--Life everlastin'.--Innocent gamester. Louisa.--Church mouse.--Kitchen colonel.--The revolt of "Mother