Shawl-Straps by Louisa May Alcott is a part of the Aunt Jo's Scrap Bag series. The book follows the real exploits of Louisa May Alcott and her sister May as they travel through Europe in 1870-71, unencumbered by any male solicitude or patronage, along with their sidekick, Alice Bartlett. The story involves a mysterious lady in green velvet with many diamonds, and a shabby, speechless companion, who sailed about the ship, regardless of the rumors told of her.