The Burnell children adore the doll's house they receive from Mrs. Hay. While the author points out that there are imperfections with the house—the smell, the pools of paint on the porch—the Burnell children believe that this just adds to the charm of the house. The author states, "The Burnell children sounded as though they were in despair. It was too marvelous; it was too much for them." They cannot believe their good fortune to acquire such a beautiful dollhouse.

The Burnell children are very proud of their dollhouse, not only for its beauty, but also for the attention it will garner them at school. The children, Isabel especially, are certain that the novelty of the dollhouse will provide them with extra attention from the other girls at school who wish to see it. Isabel revels in the popularity that the dollhouse has provided, and even Lottie enjoys entertaining the other girls from school at their home. It is only Kezia who genuinely appreciates the doll's house for its specialness and intricate details, regardless of the status it provides at school.