The ugly, sour-faced old matron obviously wore the pants in the family, Gisella thought to herself.

The older matrons sat and chatted among themselves while keeping a close guard on the girls.

During what appeared to be the national anthem, an older matron, from the only table drinking Champagne, stood and saluted.

Every matron, old or young, in Atlanta nursed and did it with an enthusiasm that seemed to Scarlett little short of fanatic.

As she drew near, she saw that a crythli shell was being passed from hand to hand among the older matrons.

So long ago she might be dead now, or an old matron with a brood of grandchildren.

The older matrons who worked there were affectionately referred to as "Webs ladies."

Women who have chosen not to have children, or even old matrons whose children are grown, sometimes find themselves with child.

The withered old matron accepted his remark in good cheer; it showed her that her favorite spy was thinking clearly.

Since he sounded exactly like a highly-offended old matron, he only managed to cause the entire gathering to break up into laughter.