What made Mrs Cobb think that Rebbecca should become a lecturer or elocutionist?

Mrs. Cobb thinks that Rebecca is missing her calling.... her talent for writing and speaking make her the perfect candidate to be an elocutionist.

"I can't see Rebecca as a lady doctor, somehow," mused Mrs. Cobb. "Her gift o' gab is what's goin' to be the makin' of her; mebbe she'll lecture, or recite pieces, like that Portland elocutionist that come out here to the harvest supper."