produced by david reed

eight cousins

by louisa m alcott

preface

the author is quite aware of the defects of this little story , many of which were unavoidable , as it first appeared serially .

l.m.a.

chapter @number@ two girls

then both old ladies put their heads together and picked out the model child of the neighbourhood to come and play with their niece .

so prim little ariadne was sent home , and the exhausted aunties left rose to her own devices for a day or two .

bad weather and a cold kept her in-doors , and she spent most of her time in the library where her father 's books were stored .

before she had time to squeeze out a single tear a sound broke the stillness , making her prick up her ears .

rose laughed also , and , forgetting her woes , jumped up , saying eagerly ,

" it is a mocking-bird .

where is it ? "

running down the long hall , she peeped out at both doors , but saw nothing feathered except a draggle-tailed chicken under a burdock leaf .

she listened again , and the sound seemed to be in the house .

away she went , much excited by the chase , and following the changeful song , it led her to the china-closet door .

" in there ?

how funny ! " she said .

but when she entered , not a bird appeared except the everlastingly kissing swallows on the canton china that lined the shelves .

all of a sudden rose 's face brightened , and , softly opening the slide , she peered into the kitchen .

but the music had stopped , and all she saw was a girl in a blue apron scrubbing the hearth .

rose stared about her for a minute , and then asked abruptly ,

" did you hear that mocking-bird ? "

" i should call it a phebe-bird , " answered the girl , looking up with a twinkle in her black eyes .

" where did it go ? "

" it is here still . "

" where ? "

" in my throat .

do you want to hear it ? "

" oh , yes !

i 'll come in . "

rose was so astonished that she nearly fell off her perch , and when the little concert was over clapped her hands delightedly .

" oh , it was lovely !

who taught you ? "

" the birds , " answered the girl , with a smile , as she fell to work again .

" it is very wonderful !

i can sing , but nothing half so fine as that .

what is your name , please ? "

" phebe moore . "

it is very lonely in the parlor . "

" it must be fun to swash the water round and dig out the soap .

i 'd love to do it , only aunt wouldn't like it , i suppose , " said rose , quite taken with the new employment .

" you 'd soon get tired , so you 'd better keep tidy and look on . "

" i suppose you help your mother a good deal ? "

" i haven't got any folks . "

" why , where do you live , then ? "

" i 'm going to live here , i hope .

debby wants some one to help round , and i 've come to try for a week . "

" hope i shall ; for i 'm fifteen now , and old enough to earn my own living .

" yes , i shall stay till my uncle comes .

he is my guardian now , and i don't know what he will do with me .

have you a guardian ? "

" my sakes , no !

but she is dead now , and i take care of myself . "

" how interesting !

it is like arabella montgomery in the ' gypsy 's child . '

did you ever read that sweet story ? " asked rose , who was fond of tales of found-lings , and had read many .

presently phebe seemed to think it was her turn to ask questions , and said , wistfully ,

" you 've had lots of schooling , i suppose ? "

" oh , dear me , yes !

i 've been at boarding school nearly a year , and i 'm almost dead with lessons .

the more i got , the more miss power gave me , and i was so miserable that i ' most cried my eyes out .

papa never gave me hard things to do , and he always taught me so pleasantly i loved to study .

oh , we were so happy and so fond of one another !

but now he is gone , and i am left all alone . "

for a minute there was no sound in the kitchen but the little daughter 's sobbing and the sympathetic patter of the rain .

fearing that might not be considered proper , she said , in her cheery voice ,

" i 'm sure you ain't all alone with such a lot of folks belonging to you , and all so rich and clever .

you 'll be petted to pieces , debby says , because you are the only girl in the family . "

" that 's one of my troubles !

i 've got six aunts , and they all want me , and i don't know any of them very well .

papa named this place the aunt-hill , and now i see why . "

phebe laughed with her as she said encouragingly ,

" i could stand the aunts , but there are dozens of cousins , dreadful boys all of them , and i detest boys !

i shall have to see them some time , but i do dread it so . "

" oh !

i guess you 'll like ' em .

i 've seen ' em flying round when they come over from the point , sometimes in their boats and sometimes on horseback .

if you like boats and horses , you 'll enjoy yourself first-rate . "

" but i don't !

i 'm afraid of horses , and boats make me ill , and i hate boys ! "

and poor rose wrung her hands at the awful prospect before her .

phebe laughed at her woe till the beans danced in the pan , but tried to comfort her by suggesting a means of relief .

" perhaps your uncle will take you away where there ain't any boys .

debby says he is a real kind man , and always bring heaps of nice things when he comes . "

" yes , but you see that is another trouble , for i don't know uncle alec at all .

he hardly ever came to see us , though he sent me pretty things very often .

now i belong to him , and shall have to mind him , till i am eighteen .

i may not like him a bit , and i fret about it all the time . "

" well , i wouldn't borrow trouble , but have a real good time .

" it 's thunder , " said phebe .

" you are wanted in the parlor , miss rose . "

" has anybody come ? "

" little girls shouldn't ask questions , but do as they are bid , " was all debby would answer .

" guess you 'll wish it was aunt myra when you see who has come .

chapter @number@ the clan

then she crept softly down the hall and peeped into the parlor .

no one appeared , and all was so still she felt sure the company was upstairs .

so she skipped boldly through the half-open folding-doors , to behold on the other side a sight that nearly took her breath away .

before she could run , however , the tallest lad stepped out of the line , saying pleasantly ,

" don't be frightened .

this is the clan come to welcome you ; and i 'm the chief , archie , at your service . "

" we came in full rig , for we always turn out in style on grand occasions .

hope you like it .

now i 'll tell you who these chaps are , and then we shall be all right .

this big one is prince charlie , aunt clara 's boy .

she has but one , so he is an extra good one .

this old fellow is mac , the bookworm , called worm for short .

this sweet creature is steve the dandy .

look at his gloves and top-knot , if you please .

they are aunt jane 's lads , and a precious pair you 'd better believe .

these are the brats , my brothers , geordie and will , and jamie the baby .

now , my men , step out and show your manners . "

this impressive ceremony being over , the clan broke ranks , and both rooms instantly appeared to be pervaded with boys .

archie came first , and , leaning over the chair-back , observed in a paternal tone ,

" i 'm glad you 've come , cousin , and i hope you 'll find the aunt-hill pretty jolly . "

" i think i shall . "

mac shook his hair out of his eyes , stumbled over a stool , and asked abruptly ,

" did you bring any books with you ? "

" four boxes full .

they are in the library . "

mac vanished from the room , and steve , striking an attitude which displayed his costume effectively , said with an affable smile ,

" we were sorry not to see you last wednesday .

i hope your cold is better . "

" yes , thank you . "

and a smile began to dimple about rose 's mouth , as she remembered her retreat under the bed-cover .

" mamma sent her love and hopes you will be well enough to come over for a day next week .

it must be desperately dull here for a little thing like you . "

" beg pardon , ma'am ; never should have guessed it . "

and charlie went off with a laugh , glad to have struck a spark out of his meek cousin .

" did you bring your monkey ? "

" no ; he is dead . "

" are you going to have a boat ? "

" i hope not . "

here the two , with a right-about-face movement , abruptly marched away , and little jamie demanded with childish frankness ,

" did you bring me anything nice ? "

" did you see the circus go by ? "

" when ?

where ? " cried all the boys in great excitement at once .

" just before you came .

" it was our new dog-cart and the shetland ponies .

you 'll never hear the last of your circus , cousin . "

" come and see them all ! " cried the prince .

" no , you won't !

" step in , ma'am , and make yourself comfortable while we show you some fun . "

" how is that , my lassie ? " asked the prince , coming up all flushed and breathless when the ballet was over .

" it was splendid !

i never went to the theatre but once , and the dancing was not half so pretty as this .

what clever boys you must be ! " said rose , smiling upon her kinsmen like a little queen upon her subjects .

" ah , we 're a fine lot , and that is only the beginning of our larks .

we haven't got the pipes here or we 'd ,

' sing for you , play for you a dulcy melody , ' "

answered charlie , looking much elated at her praise .

" neither did we till lately .

we 've been reading scott 's novels , and all of a sudden we remembered that our grandfather was a scotchman .

we 've been at it some time now , and it 's great fun .

our people like it , and i think we are a pretty canny set . "

" i 'm fitzjames and he's roderick dhu , and we 'll give you the broadsword combat some day .

it 's a great thing , you 'd better believe , " added the prince .

" yes , and you should hear steve play the pipes .

he makes ' em skirl like a good one , " cried will from the box , eager to air the accomplishments of his race .

" them harum-scarum boys will certainly be the death of that delicate little creter ! "

" oh , please don't !

" marmalade for me , auntie . "

" plenty of plum-cake , please . "

" tell debby to trot out the baked pears . "

" i 'm your man for lemon-pie , ma'am . "

" do have fritters ; rose will like ' em . "

" she 'd rather have tarts , i know . "

they were all so characteristically employed that she could not help smiling as she looked .

she guessed his intention , and forestalled his demand by dropping a handful of sugar-plums down upon him .

" there she is , as fine as you please , " cried steve , kissing his hand to her .

" come on , missy ; tea is ready , " added the prince encouragingly .

" i shall take her in . "

something uncommonly fine , they declared it was , but enveloped in the deepest mystery for the present .

" did i ever see it ? " asked jamie .

" who will have it first ? " asked will , with his mouth full of marmalade .

" aunt plenty , i guess . "

" when will she have it ? " demanded geordie , bouncing in his seat with impatience .

" sometime on monday . "

" doesn't auntie know ? " asked a chorus of voices .

" no ; and that 's the best of the joke , for she is desperately fond of it . "

" what colour is it ? " asked rose , joining in the fun .

" blue and brown . "

" is it good to eat ? " asked jamie .

" some people think so , but i shouldn't like to try it , " answered charlie , laughing so he split his tea .

" who does it belong to ? " put in steve .

" to grandfather campbell . "

soon after tea the clan departed , singing " all the blue bonnets are over the border , " at the tops of their voices .

" pretty well , ma'am ; but i like phebe better . "

right in the middle of her meditations she fell asleep and dreamed she was at home again in her own little bed .

" this is my little girl , and i am uncle alec . "

chapter @number@ uncles

when rose woke next morning , she was not sure whether she had dreamed what occurred the night before , or it had actually happened .

the sun was shining , and rose opened her window to let in the soft may air fresh from the sea .

he waved his hand to her , nodded , and called out in a bluff , cheery voice ,

" you are on deck early , little niece . "

" i got up to see if you had really come , uncle . "

" did you ?

well , come down here and make sure of it . "

" i 'm not allowed to go out before breakfast , sir . "

" oh , indeed ! " with a shrug .

rose was so taken aback , she could only answer with a smile as she went to meet him .

" pretty well , thank you , sir . "

" ah , but it should be very well .

why isn't it ? "

" i always wake up with a headache , and feel tired . "

" don't you sleep well ? "

" i lie awake a long time , and then i dream , and my sleep does not seem to rest me much . "

" what do you do all day ? "

" oh , i read , and sew a little , and take naps , and sit with auntie . "

" no running about out of doors , or house-work , or riding , hey ? "

" aunt plenty says i 'm not strong enough for much exercise .

i drive out with her sometimes , but i don't care for it . "

" no one but ariadne blish , and she was such a goose i couldn't bear her .

the boys came yesterday , and seemed rather nice ; but , of course , i couldn't play with them . "

" why not ? "

" i 'm too old to play with boys . "

" not a bit of it ; that 's just what you need , for you 've been molly-coddled too much .

i will look you up some girls also , if i can find a sensible one who is not spoilt by her nonsensical education . "

" and who is phebe , if you please ? "

" you may laugh at me , but i do .

" how do you know that ? "

" so she doesn't call desertion , poverty , and hard work , troubles ?

she 's a brave little girl , and i shall be proud to know her . "

and uncle alec gave an approving nod , that made rose wish she had been the one to earn it .

" but what are these troubles of yours , child ? " he asked , after a minute of silence .

" please don't ask me , uncle . "

" can't you tell them to me as well as to phebe ? "

" the greatest one was losing dear papa . "

" that is a trouble which i cannot cure , my child ; but i shall try to make you feel it less .

what else , dear ? "

we will show her how to make constitutions and turn pale-faced little ghosts into rosy , hearty girls .

that 's my business , you know , " he added , more quietly , for his sudden outburst had rather startled rose .

" i had forgotten you were a doctor .

as she spoke , rose pointed to a little table just inside the window , on which appeared a regiment of bottles .

" ah , ha !

now we 'll see what mischief these blessed women have been at . "

and , as quick as a flash , he sent one after another smashing down into the posy-beds below .

" you are my patient now , and i 'll take the responsibility .

" when i prescribe such rubbish , i 'll give you leave to pitch it overboard as soon as you like .

now what is the next trouble ? "

" i hoped you would forget to ask . "

" but how can i help you if i don't know them ?

come , let us have no . @number@ "

" it is very wrong , i suppose , but i do sometimes wish i had not quite so many aunts .

" i intend to try a course of uncles now , and see how that suits your constitution .

i 'm going to have you all to myself , and no one is to give a word of advice unless i ask it .

there is no other way to keep order aboard , and i am captain of this little craft , for a time at least .

what comes next ? "

but rose stuck there , and grew so red , her uncle guessed what that trouble was .

" i don't think i can tell this one .

it wouldn't be polite , and i feel pretty sure that it isn't going to be a trouble any more . "

that is one of my mistakes , and i never repented it more deeply than i do now .

your father and i had a trouble once , and i thought i could never forgive him ; so i kept away for years .

will she believe this and try ? "

phebe appeared with a cup of coffee .

" i 'm all dressed , so i don't need any help .

i hope that is good and strong , " added rose , eyeing the steaming cup with an eager look .

but she did not get it , for a brown hand took possession of it as her uncle said quickly ,

" hold hard , my lass , and let me overhaul that dose before you take it .

do you drink all this strong coffee every morning , rose ? "

" yes , sir , and i like it .

auntie says it ' tones ' me up , and i always feel better after it . "

no more coffee for you , my dear , and by and by you 'll see that i am right .

any new milk downstairs , phebe ? "

" yes , sir , plenty right in from the barn . "

" that 's the drink for my patient .

go bring me a pitcherful , and another cup ; i want a draught myself .

this won't hurt the honeysuckles , for they have no nerves to speak of . "

and , to rose 's great discomfort , the coffee went after the medicine .

dr alec saw the injured look she put on , but took no notice , and presently banished it by saying pleasantly ,

that reminds me ; one of the boxes phebe wanted to lug upstairs last night is for you .

early to-morrow we 'll have a grand rummage .

here's our milk !

i propose the health of miss rose campbell and drink it with all my heart . "

" do you always go in and out like a cat , uncle ? " asked rose , much amused at his odd ways .

good-bye till breakfast . "

and away he went down the water-spout , over the roof , and vanished among the budding honey-suckles below .

" ain't he a funny guardeen ? " exclaimed phebe , as she went off with the cups .

" got a fresh trouble , rosy ? " he asked , stroking her smooth head .

" uncle , are you going to make me eat oatmeal ? " asked rose , in a tragic tone .

" don't you like it ? "

" you are not a true scotchwoman , if you don't like the ' parritch . '

well , never mind . "

and he sat down with a disappointed air .

no hot bread and fried stuff for them , and they are the biggest and bonniest lads of the lot .

bless you , auntie , and good morning ! "

in five minutes she forgot what she was eating , so interested was she in the chat that went on .

" i came all the way from calcutta for that express purpose , ma'am .

" now , girls , i want you to come and dine with alec ; mac also , of course .

chapter @number@ aunts

" run up and sit awhile with sister peace , my dear .

she likes to have you read while she rests , and we are going to be busy . "

she wore no black , but soft , pale colours , as if always ready for the marriage that had never come .

" i should like her better if i could have begun at the beginning , and so got a fair start .

" my dear boy , we did what we thought best while waiting for you to wind up your affairs and get home .

" if my advice had been taken , she would have remained at the excellent school where i placed her .

but our aunt thought best to remove her because she complained , and she has been dawdling about ever since she came .

a most ruinous state of things for a morbid , spoilt girl like rose , " said mrs jane , severely .

" i never thought it the proper school for a child in good circumstances an heiress , in fact , as rose is .

" now , it is my opinion that the dear thing only wants freedom , rest , and care .

" jane campbell , i will not hear a word !

my sainted caroline is a sacred object , " cried aunt myra , rising as if to leave the room .

you have had her among you for a year , and done what you liked .

i cannot say that your success is great , but that is owing to too many fingers in the pie .

that 's fair , i think . "

" by jupiter !

myra , you are enough to damp the ardour of a saint ! " cried dr alec , with a sudden spark in his eyes .

you have put it into her head that she has no constitution , and she rather likes the idea .

" hear , hear ! " came from the corner where uncle mac was apparently wrapt in slumber .

" you were appointed guardian , so we can do nothing .

but i predict that the girl will be spoilt , utterly spoilt , " answered mrs jane , grimly .

" thank you , sister .

" no , thank you .

come and have a cigar , mac , " said dr alec , abruptly .

" don't marry ; women enough in the family already , " muttered uncle mac ; and then the gentlemen hastily fled .

" aunt peace would like to see you all , she says , " was the message rose brought before the ladies could begin again .

" now that your uncle has come , i no longer expect you to review the studies of the past year .

all of a sudden he said , half aloud , as if he had made up his mind ,

" this will do for a start , " he said , as he plumped up the cushion and dusted the cup .

" it won't do to begin too energetically , or rose will be frightened .

i must beguile her gently and pleasantly along till i 've won her confidence , and then she will be ready for anything . "

just then phebe came out of the dining-room with a plate of brown bread , for rose had been allowed no hot biscuit for tea .

" there ! if they insist on medicine , i 'll order these , and no harm will be done .

as the clock struck eight , he called out ,

" time for my girl to be abed , else she won't be up early , and i 'm full of jolly plans for to-morrow .

come and see what i 've found for you to begin upon . "

rose ran in and listened with bright attentive face , while dr alec said impressively ,

this is a herb-pillow , given to me by a wise old woman when i was ill in india .

" shall i really ?

how nice it smells . "

and rose willingly received the pretty pillow , and stood enjoying its faint , sweet odour , as she listened to the doctor 's next remedy .

" this is the cup i told you of .

its virtue depends , they say , on the drinker filling it himself ; so you must learn to milk .

i 'll teach you . "

" don't you think she ought to have something more strengthening than milk , alec ?

" well , ma'am , i 'm willing to give her a pill , if you think best .

it is a very simple one , and very large quantities may be taken without harm .

you know hasheesh is the extract of hemp ?

well , this is a preparation of corn and rye , much used in old times , and i hope it will be again . "

then , as she vanished , he put both hands into his hair , exclaiming , with a comical mixture of anxiety and amusement ,

chapter @number@ a belt and a box

when he heard her step , he turned about and began to sing ,

" where are you going , my pretty maid ? "

" what in the world are you doing about so early ? "

" clearing our pipes for the day , ma'am .

look here , auntie , can i have this room ? " said dr alec , making her a sailor 's bow .

" any room you like , except sister 's . "

" thanks .

and may i go rummaging round in the garrets and glory-holes to furnish it as i like ? "

" my dear boy , you may turn the house upside down if you will only stay in it . "

" that 's a handsome offer , i 'm sure .

i 'll stay , ma'am ; here 's my little anchor , so you will get more than you want of me this time . "

" that 's impossible !

put on your jacket , rose .

don't tire her out with antics , alec .

yes , sister , i 'm coming ! " and the cabbage vanished suddenly .

" you look chilly in spite of all this laughing .

take a smart run round the garden and get up a glow , " said the doctor , as they left the barn .

" i take the liberty of differing from madame prunes and prisms , and , as your physician , i order you to run .

" very well done , child ; i see you have not lost the use of your limbs though you are in your teens .

that belt is too tight ; unfasten it , then you can take a long breath without panting so . "

" it isn't tight , sir ; i can breathe perfectly well , " began rose , trying to compose herself .

her uncle 's only answer was to lift her up and unhook the new belt of which she was so proud .

" why , i didn't know it was tight ! it didn't feel so a bit .

" i see you don't half fill your lungs , and so you can wear this absurd thing without feeling it .

" not if you keep taking long breaths to hold it on .

" how it does look ! " and rose gave a glance of scorn at the loose belt hanging round her trim little waist .

just smell how nice . "

" if it is lost i 'll give you a better one .

ah ! that makes you feel better , doesn't it ? " and he pinched the cheek that had suddenly dimpled with a smile .

dr alec 's eyed twinkled , but he said very soberly ,

" rose , are you vain ? "

" i 'm afraid i am , " answered a very meek voice from behind the veil of hair that hid the red face .

" that is a sad fault . "

and he sighed as if grieved at the confession .

" phebe ! " and rose looked so amazed that her uncle nearly went off again .

" yes , phebe ; for she has what you need health .

a happy soul in a healthy body makes the best sort of beauty for man or woman .

do you understand that , my dear ? "

" yes , sir , " answered rose , much taken down by this comparison with the girl from the poor-house .

it nettled her sadly , and she showed that it did by saying quickly ,

" can't i help you , uncle ? " asked rose , quite burning to be useful .

" no , thank you , i 'm going to borrow phebe for a while , if aunt plenty can spare her . "

" anybody anything , alec .

dr alec meanwhile had apparently taken aunt plenty at her word , and was turning the house upside down .

" look at me ! look at me !

i 'm splendid i don't know myself .

i haven't put these things on right , i dare say , but i do like them so much ! "

" i feel like a girl in the ' arabian nights , ' and expect to find a magic carpet or a wonderful talisman somewhere .

it will do your spirits good , and cheer up this sober old house .

won't it , auntie ? "

" you just let me direct miss hemming how to make some of these things .

aunt peace and rose laughed so that he could not display his knowledge any farther , till they stopped , when he said good-naturedly ,

" i couldn't help it , ' shirred biases ' were so very funny ! "

rose said , as she turned to her box after the splendid laugh .

" but really , auntie , " she added soberly , " i feel as if i ought not to have so many nice things .

i suppose it wouldn't do to give phebe some of them ?

uncle might not like it . "

" he would not mind ; but they are not suitable for phebe .

" i 'd rather give her new ones , for i think she is a little bit proud and might not like old things .

i know how i can manage beautifully ; i 'll adopt her ! " and rose looked quite radiant with this new idea .

" my stars , ain't you splendid ! " was all she could say , holding up two dusty hands .

won't that be nice ? "

" why , miss rose , have you lost your wits ? "

seeing phebe 's bewilderment , she quieted down and said , with a pretty air of earnestness ,

i thought if i adopted you as much as i can now , it would be nicer .

will you let me , please ? "

to rose 's great surprise , phebe sat down on the floor and hid her face in her apron for a minute without answering a word .

" i think you are the dearest girl in the world , and i 'll let you do anything you like with me . "

" then you do like the plan ?

you didn't cry because i seemed to be kind of patronising ?

i truly didn't mean to be , " cried rose , delighted .

phebe understood that , for she had a good deal of natural refinement , though she did come from the poor-house .

" why , i haven't done anything but given you a bit of candy !

here , have some more , and eat ' em while you work , and think what i can do .

i must go and clear up , so good-bye , and don't forget i 've adopted you . "

" you 've given me sweeter things than candy , and i 'm not likely to forget it . "

chapter @number@ uncle alec 's room

" now we will have a good time !

" i left this for the last call , so that we might find the lads just in from school .

" little mum ! little mum ! here they are with lots of goodies !

come down and see the fun right away !

" well , dear , and how are things going with you now ?

better , i hope , than they were a week ago . "

" aunt jessie , i think i 'm going to be very happy , now uncle has come .

" i am very glad , dear .

but , rose , i must warn you of one thing ; don't let uncle spoil you . "

" but i like to be spoilt , auntie . "

" i never thought of that , and i 'll try not to be spoilt .

but how can i help it ? " asked rose anxiously .

" i will , i truly will ! and when i get in a worry about things may i come to you ?

uncle told me to , and i feel as if i shouldn't be afraid . "

it was so sweet and comfortable that rose sat still enjoying it till a little voice said ,

" mamma , don't you think pokey would like some of my shells ?

rose gave phebe some of her nice things , and it was very good of her .

can i ? "

" who is pokey ? " asked rose , popping up her head , attracted by the odd name .

" yes ; i 'm fond of dollies , only don't tell the boys , or they will laugh at me . "

" all for dimmy and me , for dimmy and me ! "

" she is a dear dolly .

but why call her pokey ? " asked rose , charmed with the new plaything .

not a pretty name , but very expressive . "

" 'puss-tat , puss-tat , where you been ? '

' i been lunnin , to saw a tween . " '

after which superb display she retired , escorted by jamie , both making a fearful d in blowing on conch shells .

" we must tear ourselves away , rose , because i want to get you home before sunset .

will you come for a drive , jessie ? " said dr alec , as the music died away in the distance .

that is only allowed on holidays . "

the words were hardly out of aunt jessie 's mouth when archie said , in a tone of command ,

" pass the word , lads .

boot and saddle , and be quick about it . "

" all right ! "

and in a moment not a vestige of boy remained but the litter on the floor .

" oh , i couldn't ride one of those horrid , frisky little beasts !

they roll their eyes and bounce about so , i should die of fright , " cried rose , clasping her hands tragically .

" are you a coward ? "

" about horses i am . "

" never mind , then ; come and see my new room " ; and he led the way upstairs without another word .

as rose followed she remembered her promise to aunt jessie , and was sorry she had objected so decidedly .

she was a great deal more sorry five minutes later , and well she might be .

in a recess stood a narrow white bed , with a lovely madonna hanging over it .

" uncle must love cold water like a duck , " she thought , with a shiver .

" what a grand place for my new things , " she thought , wondering what her uncle kept in that cedar retreat .

" oh me , what a sweet toilet table ! " was her next mental exclamation , as she approached this inviting spot .

that cushion rather astonished rose ; in fact , the whole table did , and she was just thinking , with a sly smile ,

" men like plenty of room for their rattle-traps ; don't you think that ought to satisfy me ? "

" o uncle , you are too good to me !

" you like it , then ?

aunt jessie said you would spoil me , and i must not let you .

then he smiled that cordial smile , which was like sunshine on his brown face , as he said ,

does that sound hard and disagreeable to you , dear ? "

" no , sir ; very , very pleasant , and i 'll do my best to be a good patient .

chapter @number@ a trip to china

" come , little girl , i 've got another dose for you .

" what is it now ? " she asked , shutting her work-box without a murmur .

" salt-water . "

" how must i take it ? "

" put on the new suit miss hemming sent home yesterday , and come down to the beach ; then i 'll show you . "

" it is for you ; so sit in the stern and learn to steer , till you are ready to learn to row . "

" do all boats wiggle about in that way ? " she asked , lingering as if to tie her hat more firmly .

" is it rough to-day ? "

" not very ; it looks a trifle squally to the eastward , but we are all right till the wind changes .

come . "

" can you swim , uncle ? " asked rose , clutching at his arm as he took her hand .

" like a fish .

now then . "

" oh , please hold me very tight till i get there !

" suppose we go to china ? "

" isn't that rather a long voyage ? "

" not as i go .

steer round the point into the harbour , and i 'll give you a glimpse of china in twenty minutes or so . "

" i should like that ! " and rose sat wondering what he meant , while she enjoyed the new sights all about her .

" are we going there ? " she asked , for she had never seen this aspect of the rich and busy old city before .

" yes .

uncle mac has a ship just in from hong kong , and i thought you would like to go and see it . "

" oh , i should .

" i 'll show you two genuine chinamen who have just arrived .

you will like to welcome whang lo and fun see , i 'm sure . "

please let me just trot round after you ; i like that best . "

" very well ; now steer toward the wharf where the big ship with the queer flag is .

that 's the ' rajah , ' and we will go aboard if we can . "

" i should like to see the world , but not in such a small , untidy , smelly place as this .

now come ashore and chin-chin with the celestials . "

mr whang lo was an elderly gentleman in american costume , with his pig-tail neatly wound round his head .

he spoke english , and was talking busily with uncle mac in the most commonplace way so rose considered him a failure .

taking a box from his table , he gave it to fun see , with an order that seemed to please him very much .

his hat was the cover , his queue the handle , and his pipe the nose .

when he had arranged them on a little table before her , fun signified in pantomime that they were hers , from her uncle .

while she waited for her funny new friend , she improved her mind in a way that would have charmed aunt jane .

she had never seen such an astonishing fan , and at once became absorbed in examining it .

in another charming view a brook appeared to flow in at the front door of a stout gentleman 's house , and out at his chimney .

" we will have out the maps and the globe , and i 'll show you some of my journeys , telling stories as we go .

that will be next best to doing it actually . "

" you are so fond of travelling , i should think it would be very dull for you here , uncle .

do you know , aunt plenty says she is sure you will be off in a year or two . "

" very likely . "

" next time i go i shall take my little anchor with me .

how will that suit ? "

" really , uncle ? "

" really , niece . "

rose gave a little bounce of rapture which caused the boat to " wiggle " in a way that speedily quieted her down .

" how well those fellows row !

look at them , and take notes for your own use by and by . "

" how beautifully they go , and they are only boys .

why , i do believe they are our boys !

yes , i see charlie laughing over his shoulder .

row , uncle , row !

" did you catch a crab , uncle ? "

" no , a blue-fish , " he answered , as the dripping hat was landed on a seat to dry .

" what have you been doing ? "

" seeing fun . "

" good for you , rose !

i know what you mean .

we are going to have him up to show us how to fly the big kite , for we can't get the hang of it .

isn't he great fun , though ? "

" no , little fun . "

" come , stop joking , and show us what you 've got . "

" you 'd better hoist that fan for a sail . "

" lend dandy your umbrella ; he hates to burn his pretty nose . "

" i say , uncle , are you going to have a feast of lanterns ? "

" no , i 'm going to have a feast of bread and butter , for it 's tea-time .

" ay , ay , skipper .

good-night , rose ; come out often , and we 'll teach you all there is to know about rowing , " was charlie 's modest invitation .

" oh , timballoo ! how happy we are , we live in a sieve and a crockery jar !

chapter @number@ and what came of it

" uncle , could you lend me a ninepence ?

i 'll return it as soon as i get my pocket-money , " said rose , coming into the library in a great hurry that evening .

" i shall shake my head when you write , if you don't do it better than you did in making out this catalogue . "

" i know it 's bad , but i was in a hurry when i did it , and i am in one now . "

and away went rose , glad to escape a lecture .

" is that meant for ' pulverized bones , ' ma'am ? "

" no , sir ; it 's ' paradise lost . ' "

" well , i 'm glad to know it , for i began to think you were planning to study surgery or farming .

and what is this , if you please ?

' babies ' aprons ' is all i can make of it . "

rose looked hard at the scrawl , and presently announced , with an air of superior wisdom ,

" oh , that 's ' bacon 's essays . ' "

" miss power did not teach anything so old-fashioned as writing , i see .

now look at this memorandum aunt plenty gave me , and see what a handsome plain hand that is .

" well , i 'm sure i was considered a bright girl at school , and learned everything i was taught .

" why , uncle , we did study english grammar , and i could parse beautifully .

miss power used to have us up to show off when people came .

i don't see but i talk as right as most girls . "

" i dare say you do , but we are all too careless about our english .

" thank you ; and if you will kindly drop ' i guess , ' i shall like my little yankee all the better .

let us be thorough , no matter how slowly we go . "

" i 'm sorry i was cross , uncle , when i ought to thank you for taking so much interest in me .

i 'm sure i don't wonder it ached . "

and she held on to it as if the mere memory of the " jumble " made it swim .

it is the fault with most american schools , and the poor little heads will go on aching till we learn better . "

" uncle mac has put all your affairs into my hands now , and here is your month 's pocket money .

you keep your own little accounts , i suppose ? "

" thank you .

" i thought you would do all that fussy part and take care of the pounds , as you call them .

need i worry about it ?

i do hate sums , so ! "

rose peeped over his shoulder at it , and then turned to the arithmetical puzzle in her hand with a sigh of despair .

" no ; i usually find that i have a good deal less than i had in the beginning .

are you troubled in the peculiar way you mention ? "

" yes ; it is very curious , but i never can make things come out square . "

" perhaps i can help you , " began uncle alec , in the most respectful tone .

" i think you had better , for if i have got to keep accounts i may as well begin in the right way .

but please don't laugh !

i know i 'm very stupid , and my book is a disgrace , but i never could get it straight . "

and with great trepidation , rose gave up her funny little accounts .

it really was good in dr alec not to laugh , and rose felt deeply grateful when he said in a mildly suggestive tone ,

" please do , and then show me on a fresh leaf how to make mine look nice and ship-shape as yours do . "

" am i a rich girl , uncle ? " she asked suddenly , as he was copying a column of figures .

" rather a poor one , i should say , since you had to borrow a ninepence . "

" that was your fault , because you forgot my pocket-money .

but , really , shall i be rich by and by ? "

" i am afraid you will . "

" why afraid , uncle ? "

" too much money is a bad thing . "

" but i can give it away , you know ; that is always the pleasantest part of having it i think . "

" i 'm glad you feel so , for you can do much good with your fortune if you know how to use it well . "

" you are an impertinent little baggage , to turn on me in that way right in the midst of my first attempt at teaching .

never mind , i 'll have an extra bitter dose for you next time , miss . "

" i knew you wanted to laugh , so i gave you a chance .

now , i will be good , master , and do my lesson nicely . "

so dr alec had his laugh , and then rose sat down and took a lesson in accounts which she never forgot .

rose liked to read aloud , and gladly gave him the chapter in " nicholas nickleby " where the miss kenwigses take their french lesson .

" shall i go on , sir ? " she asked very meekly , when the chapter ended .

" if you are not tired , dear .

" do you really think so , uncle ?

i 'm so glad !

come here in this cosy , low chair ; the light is better , and i can pull these curls if you go too fast .

i see you are going to be a great comfort as well as a great credit to your old uncle , rosy . "

another chapter was just finished , when the sound of a carriage warned them that aunt jane was about to depart .

" just as i thought ! petting that child to death and letting her sit up late reading trash .

" it is sad to see a great girl wasting these precious hours so .

" i 've had five to-day , ma'am , " was rose 's very unexpected answer .

" i 'm glad to hear it ; and what were they , pray ? "

rose looked very demure as she replied ,

" navigation , geography , grammar , arithmetic , and keeping my temper . "

" queer lessons , i fancy ; and what have you learned from this remarkable mixture , i should like to know ? "

a naughty sparkle came into rose 's eyes as she answered , with a droll look at her uncle ,

shanghai is on the woosung river .

hong kong means ' island of sweet waters . '

singapore is ' lion 's town . '

' chops ' are the boats they live in ; and they drink tea out of little saucers .

principal productions are porcelain , tea , cinnamon , shawls , tin , tamarinds and opium .

the effect of this remarkable burst was immense , especially the fact last mentioned .

chapter @number@ phebe 's secret

" i was thinking about a nice little secret i know , and couldn't help smiling . "

" shall i know it , sometime ? "

" guess you will . "

" shall i like it ? "

" oh , won't you , though ! "

" will it happen soon ? "

" sometime this week . "

" i know what it is !

the boys are going to have fireworks on the fourth , and have got some surprise for me .

haven't they ? "

" that 's telling . "

" well , i can wait ; only tell me one thing is uncle in it ? "

" of course he is ; there 's never any fun without him . "

" then it 's all right , and sure to be nice . "

morning-glories and nasturtiums ran all over the bars , making haste to bloom .

" oh , phebe , it 's such a lovely day , i do wish your fine secret was going to happen right away !

she could work and play all day , sleep sweetly all night , and enjoy life with the zest of a healthy , happy child .

no one talked to her about her health , and she forgot that she had " no constitution . "

she took no medicine but dr alec 's three great remedies , and they seemed to suit her excellently .

said a voice from below , as a great cabbage-rose came flying against her cheek .

" what is the princess dreaming about up there in her hanging-garden ? " added dr alec as she flung back a morning-glory .

" suppose we take a pull over to the island ?

i intended to go this afternoon ; but if you feel more like it now , we can be off at once . "

" i do !

i do !

i 'll come in fifteen minutes , uncle .

i must just scrabble my room to rights , for phebe has got a great deal to do . "

" it may upset things a trifle , but half a child 's pleasure consists in having their fun when they want it . "

" we can't eat half that luncheon , and i know we shall not need so many wraps .

i wouldn't lumber the boat up so , " said rose , who still had secret scares when on the water .

" couldn't you make a smaller parcel , phebe ? " asked dr alec , eyeing the bundle suspiciously .

" no , sir , not in such a hurry , " and phebe laughed as she gave a particularly large knob a good poke .

" well , it will do for ballast .

don't forget the note to mrs jessie , i beg of you . "

" no , sir .

i 'll send it right off , " and phebe ran up the bank as if she had wings to her feet .

" we 'll take a look at the lighthouse first , for you have not been there yet , and it is worth seeing .

by the time we have done that it will be pretty warm , and we will have lunch under the trees on the island . "

it was past twelve before they reached the island , and rose was ready for her lunch long before she got it .

" now this is lovely !

i do wish the boys were here .

won't it be nice to have them with us all their vacation ?

why , it begins to-day , doesn't it ?

" so we might .

next time we won't be in such a hurry .

i expect the lads will take our heads off when they find us out , " answered dr alec , placidly drinking cold tea .

" so do i ; it is fish , i think . "

" now , this won't do !

no one is permitted on this island without asking leave .

i must see who dares to fry fish on my private property . "

" and there they are !

two tents and two boats , as i live !

these rascals mean to enjoy themselves , that 's evident . "

" there ought to be more boats and no tents .

i wonder where the prisoners are ? "

" there are traces of them , " and dr alec pointed to the heads and tails of fishes strewn on the grass .

" and there are more , " said rose , laughing , as she pointed to a scarlet heap of what looked like lobsters .

" the savages are probably eating their victims now ; don't you hear the knives rattle in that tent ? "

" but this crusoe is going to pounce upon them , regardless of consequences .

" pirates , surrender ! "

" you came too soon !

we are not half ready !

you 've spoilt it all !

where is rose ? "

" you good-for-nothing boys !

you are always bursting out upon me in some ridiculous way , and i always get taken in because i 'm not used to such pranks .

" you were not to come till afternoon , and mamma was to be here to receive you .

" as this seat is rather damp , i think i 'll rise , " said rose , as the excitement lessened a little .

several fishy hands helped her up , and charlie said , as he scattered the scarlet garments over the grass with an oar ,

" we had a jolly good swim before dinner , and i told the brats to spread these to dry .

" oh , that sly phebe !

" catch a girl going anywhere without a looking-glass .

we haven't got one among the whole lot of us , " added mac , with masculine scorn .

" come , come , you lazy lubbers , fall to work , or we shall not be ready for mamma .

take rose 's things to her tent , and tell her all about it , prince .

please , uncle , i 'd like your advice about the boundary lines and the best place for the kitchen . "

everyone obeyed the chief , and rose was escorted to her tent by charlie , who devoted himself to her service .

she was charmed with her quarters , and still more so with the programme which he unfolded before her as they worked .

" we always camp out somewhere in vacation , and this year we thought we 'd try the island .

it is handy , and our fireworks will show off well from here . "

" shall we stay over the fourth ?

three whole days !

oh , me ! what a frolic it will be ! "

" i had no idea boys had such good times .

their plays never seemed a bit interesting before .

" we are a pretty clever set , i fancy ; but we have a good many advantages , you see .

there , ma'am , you can hang your smashed glass on that nail and do up your back hair as fine as you please .

anything more i can do for you , cousin ? "

" no , thank you .

i think i 'll leave the rest till auntie comes , and go and help you somewhere else , if i may . "

" yes , indeed , come on and see to the kitchen .

can you cook ? " asked charlie , as he led the way to the rocky nook where archie was putting up a sail-cloth awning .

" i can make tea and toast bread . "

" well , we 'll shew you how to fry fish , and make chowder .

this welcome was answered by the flapping of a handkerchief and the shrill " rah !

rah !

it 's much the best way , i think , " replied geordie , who reposed in another boat alongside .

" how phebe would like this !

i wonder uncle did not have her come . "

" i believe he tried to , but dolly was as cross as two sticks , and said she couldn't spare her .

i 'm sorry , for we all like the phebe bird , and she 'd chirp like a good one out here , wouldn't she ? "

" she ought to have a holiday like the rest of us .

it 's too bad to leave her out . "

" what is my girl doing here ? "

" having a good time , " answered rose , not at all startled .

" i wonder what she was thinking about with such a sober look . "

people who make sacrifices are very much loved and admired , aren't they ? " she asked , earnestly .

" if the sacrifice is a true one .

but many of the bravest never are known , and get no praise .

" i suppose you have made a great many ?

would you mind telling me one of them ? " asked rose , arrested by the sigh .

" my last was to give up smoking , " was the very unromantic answer to her pensive question .

" why did you ? "

" bad example for the boys . "

" that was very good of you , uncle !

was it hard ? "

" i 'm ashamed to say it was .

but as a wise old fellow once said , ' it is necessary to do right ; it is not necessary to be happy . ' "

rose pondered over the saying as if it pleased her , and then said , with a clear , bright look ,

" a real sacrifice is giving up something you want or enjoy very much , isn't it ? "

" yes . "

" doing it one 's own self because one loves another person very much and wants her to be happy ? "

" yes . "

" and doing it pleasantly , and being glad about it , and not minding the praise if it doesn't come ? "

i hope they won't be very hard ones . "

" i think they will , " began rose , and there stopped short .

chapter @number@ rose 's sacrifice

the elders had just settled to a comfortable nap when the youngsters rose , refreshed and ready for further exploits .

captain cook was murdered by the natives of owhyhee in the most thrilling manner .

sinbad came ashore there and had manifold adventures , and numberless wrecks bestrewed the sands .

" archie , didn't i hear uncle ask you to row home in the morning for fresh milk and things ? "

" yes , why ? "

" please , may i go too ?

" i 'm willing , and i guess charlie won't mind . "

promise , " urged rose , so eagerly , that archie struck an attitude and cried dramatically ,

" by yonder moon i swear ! "

" hush ! it 's all right , go along " ; and rose departed as if satisfied .

" she 's a queer little thing , isn't she , prince ? "

" rather a nice little thing , i think .

i 'm quite fond of her . "

rose 's quick ears caught both remarks , and she retired to her tent , saying to herself with sleepy dignity ,

" little thing , indeed !

those boys talk as if i was a baby .

they will treat me with more respect after to-morrow , i guess . "

archie did stand by her in the morning , and her request was readily granted , as the lads were coming directly back .

" but why not come now ?

what are you about , miss ?

uncle won't like it , " protested charlie , in great amazement .

" just do as i tell you , little boy ; uncle will understand and explain .

obey , as phebe does , and ask no questions .

i can have secrets as well as other people " ; and rose walked off with an air of lofty independence that impressed her friends immensely .

" it 's some plot between uncle and herself , so we won't meddle .

all right , phebe ?

pull away , prince " ; and off they went to be received with much surprise by the islanders .

this was the note phebe bore :

" dear uncle , i am going to take phebe 's place to-day , and let her have all the fun she can .

please don't mind what she says , but keep her , and tell the boys to be very good to her for my sake .

love to all from ,

" rose . "

" bless the little dear , what a generous heart she has !

" let her alone , and don't spoil her little sacrifice .

phebe was with difficulty kept from going straight home , and declared that she should not enjoy herself one bit without miss rose .

but hour after hour passed , and no signal appeared on the balcony , though phebe watched it hopefully .

" i really did not think the child had it in her .

dear little soul !

" i hope someone wishes i was there ! "

" come , child , put on your tippet , pelisse , or whatever you call it , and run off with me .

i came to get phebe , but aunt says she is gone , so i want you .

i 've got fun down in the boat , and i want you to go with us and see my fireworks .

got them up for you , and you mustn't miss them , or i shall be disappointed . "

" but , uncle , " began rose , feeling as if she ought to refuse even a glimpse of bliss , " perhaps "

look , rosy , and see how you like this one ; it was ordered especially in honour of your coming . "

" is it a rose , uncle ? " she asked , clasping her hands with delight as she recognised the handsome flower .

" of course it is !

look again , and guess what those are , " answered uncle mac , chuckling and enjoying it all like a boy .

" thistles , uncle , scotch thistles !

there are seven of them one for each boy !

" home , please uncle ; and i thank you very very much for the beautiful firework you got up for me .

chapter @number@ poor mac

soon after the island episode , mac had a sunstroke , and was very ill for some time .

it was so sudden that everyone was startled , and for some days the boy 's life was in danger .

everyone was very ready to read to him , and at first the lads contended for this honour .

her pleasant voice suited him , her patience was unfailing , her time of no apparent value , and her eager good-will was very comforting .

the womanly power of self-devotion was strong in the child , and she remained faithfully at her post when all the rest dropped away .

through all these trials rose persevered , using all her little arts to please him .

he said little , but she knew he was grateful , for she suited him better than anyone else .

" i don't know what i should do without that child , " aunt jane often said .

she did not know how much she was learning , both from the books she read and the daily sacrifices she made .

" what day of the month is it ? "

" the seventh of august , i believe . "

" more than half my vacation gone , and i 've only had a week of it !

i call that hard , " and he groaned dismally .

" so it is ; but there is more to come , and you may be able to enjoy that . "

" may be able !

i will be able !

does that old noodle think i 'm going to stay stived up here much longer ? "

" i guess he does , unless your eyes get on faster than they have yet . "

" has he said anything more lately ? "

" i haven't seen him , you know .

shall i begin ? this looks rather nice . "

" read away ; it 's all one to me . "

and mac cast himself down upon the old lounge , where his heavy head felt easiest .

" stop !

i don't hear a word , and you may as well save your breath to answer my question . "

his next words proved that she was right .

" now , look here , i want to know something , and you 've got to tell me . "

" please , don't " began rose , beseechingly .

" you must , or i 'll pull off this shade and stare at the sun as hard as ever i can stare .

come now ! " and he half rose , as if ready to execute the threat .

" i will ! oh , i will tell , if i know !

but don't be reckless and do anything so crazy as that , " cried rose , in great distress .

" very well ; then listen , and don't dodge , as everyone else does .

didn't the doctor think my eyes worse the last time he came ?

mother won't say , but you shall . "

" i believe he did , " faltered rose .

" i thought so !

did he say i should be able to go to school when it begins ? "

" no , mac , " very low .

" ah ! "

he bore the disappointment bravely , however , and asked quite steadily in a minute ,

" how soon does he think i can study again ? "

it was so hard to answer that !

" not for a good many months . "

" how many ? " he asked with a pathetic sort of gruffness .

" a year , perhaps . "

" a whole year !

why , i expected to be ready for college by that time . "

" i won't do it !

i will study and get through somehow .

it 's all humbug about taking care so long .

these doctors like to keep hold of a fellow if they can .

" now , mac , listen to me , " rose said very earnestly , though her voice shook a little and her heart ached .

you must be careful , and do as he tells you , or you will be blind . "

" no ! "

" yes , it is true , and he wanted us to tell you that nothing but entire rest would cure you .

" oh , my dear , you mustn't cry !

it is so bad for your poor eyes .

take your head out of that hot pillow , and let me cool it .

i don't wonder you feel so , but please don't cry .

i 'll cry for you ; it won't hurt me . "

i 'm all right . "

but rose cried out , and caught his arm , " don't touch them with that rough woollen stuff !

lie down and let me bathe them , there 's a dear boy ; then there will be no harm done . "

" they do smart confoundedly .

" of course i won't ; but anyone would be upset at the idea of being well troubled in this way .

i 'm sure you bear it splendidly , and you know it isn't half so bad when you get used to it .

besides , it is only for a time , and you can do lots of pleasant things if you can't study .

you 'll have to wear blue goggles , perhaps ; won't that be funny ? "

" papa had a picture of milton and his daughters writing for him .

" perhaps i could study if someone read and did the eye part .

do you suppose i could , by and by ? " he asked , with a sudden ray of hope .

" i dare say , if your head is strong enough .

this sunstroke , you know , is what upset you , and your brain needs rest , the doctor says . "

i see ' em now when i shut my eyes ; black balls bobbing round , and stars and all sorts of queer things .

wonder if all blind people do ? "

" don't think about them ; i 'll go on reading , shall i ?

we shall come to the exciting part soon , and then you 'll forget all this , " suggested rose .

" no , i never shall forget .

hang the old ' revolution ' !

i don't want to hear another word of it .

my head aches , and i 'm hot .

" perhaps i shall ; i didn't sleep much last night , and when i did i dreamed like fun .

that 's all ; now drone away , and i 'll try to sleep .

wish i could for a year , and wake up cured . "

" oh , i wish , i wish you could ! "

but all he said was ,

" you are a good little soul , rosy .

give us ' the birks ' ; that is a drowsy one that always sends me off . "

" bonny lassie , will ye gang , will ye gang to the birks of aberfeldie ? "

chapter @number@ " the other fellows "

the boys were much impressed , both by the greatness of the affliction which hung over him and by his way of bearing it .

she still kept her place as head-nurse and chief-reader , though the boys did their best in an irregular sort of way .

vacation was almost over , and the time drawing near when mac would be left outside the happy school-world which he so much enjoyed .

" she 's put the room to rights in a jiffey .

what jacks we were to let those dogs in and kick up such a row , " observed steve , after a prolonged peep .

" the poor old worm turns as if she was treading on him instead of cuddling him like a pussy cat .

isn't he cross , though ? " added charlie , as mac was heard growling about his " confounded head . "

" she will manage him ; but it 's mean in us to rumple him up and then leave her to smooth him down .

" she has been ever so good to mac , " began steve , in a self-reproachful tone .

" better than his own brother , hey ? " cut in archie , finding relief for his own regret in the delinquencies of another .

i always fret him , he says , and it isn't my fault if i am a quiddle , " protested steve , in self-defence .

" rose has stood by him like a good one , and it 's no wonder he likes to have her round best .

" i 'll go down on my knees and beg her pardon for treating her as if she was a child .

don't it make her mad , though ?

come to think of it , she 's only two years or so younger than i am .

" that dolly has got a real good little heart , and a bright mind of her own , you 'd better believe .

of course , everybody likes the chief best ; they ought to , and i 'll punch their heads if they don't .

so calm yourself , dandy , and mend your own manners before you come down on other people 's . "

it was funny to see the look the three tall lads cast at the little person sedately threading a needle with green silk .

" please forgive me this time , and i 'll never do so any more . "

it was very hard to keep sober , but rose managed it and answered gravely ,

seeing the wholesome effects of her treatment upon these culprits , rose felt that she might relent and allow them a gleam of hope .

" now , boys , if you really want to be good to mac , you can do it in this way .

don't keep talking about things he can't do , or go and tell what fun you have had batting your ridiculous balls about .

" i 'm glad you think so , though i am a ' queer chicken . " '

" i 'd bespoken an extra sunny day , but i 'll tell the clerk of the weather to change it .

" it 's horrid !

take it off , take it off !

" i think i might , for she 's taking care of my brother , " put in steve , asserting his rights .

" let's all go , that will please her " ; proposed charlie , with a burst of gallantry which electrified his mates .

" now , that is the way i like to be treated . "

chapter @number@ cosey corner

vacation was over , the boys went back to school , and poor mac was left lamenting .

everyone nodded and smiled in the friendliest manner , and a lively old lady kissed the new-comers all round , as she said heartily ,

" well , now , i 'm proper glad to see you !

come right in and rest , and we 'll have tea in less than no time , for you must be tired .

bless the dears , they want to go see the pussies , and so they shall ! "

the three pretty daughters did " fly round , " and everyone felt at home at once , all were so hospitable and kind .

next day began the wholesome out-of-door life , which works such wonders with tired minds and feeble bodies .

" now i lay me down to sleep . "

" now i shall preach you a short sermon , and my text is , ' little children , love one another . '

i asked mamma to give me one , and she thought that would be good ; so you all sit still and i 'll preach it .

you mustn't whisper , marion , but hear me .

jack can't always drive , and needn't be mad because i like to go with frank .

jamie seems to be a good boy , but i shall preach to him if he isn't .

no , pokey , people don't kiss in church or put their hats on .

now you must all remember what i tell you , because i am the captain , and you should mind me . "

here lieutenant jack spoke right out in meeting with the rebellious remark ,

" yes , and you slapped frank ; i saw you ! " bawled willie snow , bobbing up in his pew .

fifteen minutes of repose rendered it a physical impossibility for the company to march out as quietly as they had marched in .

chapter @number@ a happy birthday

" i 'm going to drive auntie and a lot of the babies , so you must ride the pony .

you won't mind , will you ? " said mac , in a confidential aside during the wild flurry of the start .

" not a bit , " answered rose .

i 'll be ready as soon as you are , giglamps . "

one look was enough , and with a cry of delight , rose was off down the road as fast as barkis could go .

" now i 'll astonish uncle , " she thought .

" i 'll dash up in grand style , and show him that i am not a coward , after all . "

" o uncle , i 'm so glad to see you !

it is better than a cart-load of goodies , and so dear of you to come ! "

" but aren't you hurt , child !

" my feelings are hurt , but my bones are all safe .

it 's too bad !

you couldn't have done anything that would please me more , and i 'm delighted to see how well you ride .

" i prefer to ride .

come on , and see who will catch up first . "

" you ought to see her go over a fence and race when we ride together .

" good good ! that 's the best news you could tell me , " and dr alec rubbed his hands heartily .

a general scramble among the rocks was followed by a regular gypsy lunch , which the young folks had the rapture of helping to prepare .

as soon as the merry meal and a brief interval of repose were over , it was unanimously voted to have some charades .

the first scene discovered mac in a despondent attitude and shabby dress , evidently much troubled in mind .

to him entered a remarkable creature with a brown paper bag over its head .

a little pink nose peeped through one hole in the middle , white teeth through another , and above two eyes glared fiercely .

" cat is the word , " replied a voice , and the curtain fell .

a gray shawl concealed its face , but an inquisitive sunbeam betrayed the glitter as of goggles under the fringe .

suddenly a spirit appeared , all in white , with long newspaper wings upon its back and golden locks about its face .

the children were all in the dark till mother atkinson said , in an inquiring tone ,

" if that isn't balaam and the ass , i 'd like to know what it is .

rose makes a sweet angel , doesn't she ? "

" ass " was evidently the word , and the angel retired , smiling with mundane satisfaction over the compliment that reached her ears .

the next was a pretty little scene from the immortal story of " babes in the wood . "

" now the wobins tum .

you be twite dead , dimmy , and i 'll peep in and see ' em , " one defunct innocent was heard to say .

he prescribed one pellet with an unpronounceable name , and left after demanding twenty dollars for his brief visit .

the pellet was administered , and such awful agonies immediately set in that the distracted mamma bade a sympathetic neighbour run for mother know-all .

instant relief ensued , the dying child sat up and demanded baked beans .

no one enjoyed it more than herself , and the saucy children prepared for the grand finale in high feather .

" now let us act a proverb .

i 've got one all ready , " said rose , who was dying to distinguish herself in some way before uncle alec .

a small note below informed the public that @time@ . was the time .

hardly had the audience grasped this important fact when a long waterproof serpent was seen uncoiling itself from behind a stump .

an inch-worm , perhaps , would be a better description , for it travelled in the same humpy way as that pleasing reptile .

suddenly a very wide-awake and active fowl advanced , pecking , chirping , and scratching vigorously .

he squirmed , he wriggled , he humped as fast as he could , trying to escape ; but all in vain .

the tufted bird espied him , gave one warbling sort of crow , pounced upon him , and flapped triumphantly away .

" very clever ; what next ? " asked dr alec as she sat down beside him .

enter napoleon , cocked hat , gray coat , high boots , folded arms , grim mouth , and a melodramatic stride .

he saw the sleeping soldier and glared upon him , saying in an awful tone ,

" ha ! asleep at his post !

death is the penalty he must die ! "

" brave fellow , he is worn out ; i will let him sleep , and mount guard in his place . "

then , shouldering the gun , this noble being strode to and fro with a dignity which thrilled the younger spectators .

the sentinel awakes , sees what has happened , and gives himself up for lost .

rose took part in all the fun , and never betrayed by look or word the twinges of pain she suffered in her ankle .

" no , i won't !

there 's predicament for a man and an uncle ! "

and that was rose 's little prayer on the night of her fourteenth birthday .

" i can't rampage if i want to for a time , at least ; and i 'll tell you why .

it 's only fair , you know ; for i don't forget how good you have been to me . "

and mac went to call phebe , so full of gratitude and good-will that his very goggles shone .

chapter @number@ ear-rings

presently , phebe appeared with a card .

rose read it , made a grimace , then laughed and said ,

" i 'll see miss blish , " and immediately put on her company face , pulled out her locket , and settled her curls .

" you dear thing , how do you do ?

" how nice to have a maid ! " said ariadne , as she settled herself with much commotion .

" still , dear , you must be very lonely , and feel the need of a bosom friend . "

" i have my cousins , " began rose , with dignity , for her visitor 's patronising manner ruffled her temper .

" gracious , child ! you don't make friends of those great boys , do you ?

mamma says she really doesn't think it 's proper for you to be with them so much . "

she is too mean to live , so i gave her up .

just think , she never paid back one of the caramels i 've given her , and never invited me to her party .

so ariadne concealed her vexation at rose 's coolness , and changed the subject as fast as possible .

" i don't study it , for i read french as well as english , and uncle and i often speak it for hours .

he talks like a native , and says i have a remarkably good accent . "

she felt that ariadne would be the better for a little crushing , and could not resist the temptation to patronise in her turn .

" oh , indeed ! " said miss blish , rather blankly , for french was not her strong point by any means .

" i am to go abroad with uncle in a year or two , and he knows how important it is to understand the languages .

half the girls who leave school can't speak decent french , and when they go abroad they are so mortified .

the touch of an ear-ring consoled her , and suggested a way of returning tit for tat in a telling manner .

papa gave them to me last week , and everyone says they are lovely . "

rose came down from her high horse with a rapidity that was comical , for ariadne had the upper hand now .

" they are too sweet for anything !

if uncle would only let me wear some , i should be perfectly happy . "

" i wouldn't mind what he says .

" then do it .

" i asked him if it wouldn't do my eyes good once when they were red , and he only laughed .

people do cure weak eyes that way , don't they ? "

" yes , indeed , and yours are sort of red .

let me see .

" does it hurt much ? " asked rose , wavering .

" oh dear , no ; just a prick and a pull , and it 's all over .

i 've done lots of ears , and know just how .

come , push up your hair and get a big needle . "

" i don't quite like to do it without asking uncle 's leave , " faltered rose , when all was ready for the operation .

" did he ever forbid it ? " demanded ariadne , hovering over her prey like a vampire .

" no , never ! "

" then do it , unless you are afraid , " cried miss blish , bent on accomplishing the deed .

ariadne punched , and the victim bore it in heroic silence , though she turned pale and her eyes were full of tears of anguish .

" there !

" it does hurt dreadfully , and i know uncle won't like it , " sighed rose , as remorse began to gnaw .

" never .

mercy me , what 's that ? " and ariadne started as a sudden sound of steps and voices came up from below .

" it 's the boys !

hide the needle .

do my ears show ?

don't breathe a word ! " whispered rose , scrambling about to conceal all traces of their iniquity from the sharp eyes of the clan .

" how many , and how big !

" that lot was picked especially for you , rosy .

i got every one myself , and they are extra whackers , " said mac , presenting a bushel or so .

" you should have seen giglamps when he was after them .

" i 'm not going to do all the gallivanting .

let steve take that chit home and show his manners . "

" i 'll be hanged if i do ! " answered prince , who disliked miss blish because she tried to be coquettish with him .

" then i will take this lady down to tea , as the other one has found a gentleman to go home with her .

" fire away , " said geordie , and she obeyed , little thinking what a disastrous story it would prove to herself .

" well , once upon a time , a little girl went to see a young lady who was very fond of her .

" but an eye did see this naughty little girl , and whose eye do you think it was ? "

rose was rather taken aback by this reply , but , feeling that she was producing a good effect , she added seriously ,

the young lady was glad to see that , and wondered what made the little girl put it back . "

" tonscience p'icked her , " murmured a contrite voice from behind the small hands pressed tightly over pokey 's red face .

" it was so nice and wound , and she wanted it deffly , " answered the little voice .

" well , i 'm glad she had such a good conscience .

the moral is that people who steal don't enjoy what they take , and are not happy till they put it back .

what makes that little girl hide her face ? " asked rose , as she concluded .

" me 's so ' shamed of pokey , " sobbed the small culprit , quite overcome by remorse and confusion at this awful disclosure .

" i know something bad that you did , and i 'm going to tell right out .

jamie 's somewhat incoherent explosion produced such an effect that pokey 's small sin was instantly forgotten , and rose felt that her hour had come .

" what shall you do about it , sir ? " inquired geordie , wondering what punishment would be inflicted on a feminine culprit .

" as she is fond of ornaments , perhaps we had better give her a nose-ring also .

" good ! good !

we 'll do it right away !

" o uncle , save me , save me ! "

chapter @number@ bread and button-holes

now , as he sat down beside her , she said , very soberly ,

" i 've been trying to decide what trade i would learn , and i want you to advise me . "

" trade , my dear ? " and dr alec looked so astonished that she hastened to explain .

" i forgot that you didn't hear the talk about it up at cosey corner .

" what do you incline to ?

a natural taste or talent is a great help in choosing , you know . "

" i haven't any talent , or any especial taste that i can see , and that is why i can't decide , uncle .

" oh , what is it ? " cried rose eagerly , charmed to be met in this helpful and cordial way .

" housekeeping ! " answered dr alec .

" yes ; it is one of the most beautiful as well as useful of all the arts a woman can learn .

" who is the lady ? " asked rose , rather impressed by her uncle 's earnest speech .

" aunt plenty . "

" i should like to have people feel so about me .

" yes , if you don't despise such simple lessons as she can give .

" i will , uncle .

but how shall i begin ? "

" so it is !

" then we 'll cook in the parlour .

i fancy aunt plenty will manage her , so don't be troubled .

only mind this , i 'd rather you learned how to make good bread than the best pies ever baked .

" it 's a bargain ! it 's a bargain !

" i made that , uncle , and i 'm glad you like it . "

" ain't it just lovely , sir ? "

" it is a regularly splendid loaf !

did my girl make it all herself ? " he asked , surveying the shapely , sweet-smelling object with real interest and pleasure .

" i 've had so many failures and troubles that i really thought i never should be able to do it alone .

dolly let one splendid batch burn up because i forgot it .

wasn't it hard ?

she might have called me at least , " said rose , recollecting , with a sigh , the anguish of that moment .

" she meant you should learn by experience , as rosamond did in that little affair of the purple jar , you remember . "

ugh !

i always want to shake that hateful woman , though she was a moral mamma . "

everything went right this time , and it came out a nice , round , crusty loaf , as you see .

now taste it , and tell me if it is good as well as handsome . "

" must i cut it ?

" what an idea , uncle !

it would mould and be spoilt .

besides , people would laugh at us , and make fun of my old-fashioned accomplishment .

" my dear , it is perfect bread , and you are an honour to your teacher .

when we have our model school i shall offer a prize for the best bread , and you will get it . "

but dr alec saw it , guessed how it came there , and after tea insisted on easing the pain which she would hardly confess .

" more little confidences ?

i like them immensely , so tell away , my dear . "

you know she can't go about like aunty plen , and we are so busy nowadays that she is rather lonely , i 'm afraid .

so i want to take lessons in sewing of her .

so , do you devote your mind to button-holes ; make ' em all over my clothes if you want something to practice on .

i 'll wear any quantity . "

rose laughed at this reckless offer , but promised to attend to that important branch , though she confessed that darning was her weak point .

" there !

i 've made you a new set of warm night-gowns with four button-holes in each .

see if they are not neatly done , " said rose , one day , some weeks after the new lessons began .

" even to a thread , and nice little bars across the end so i can't tear them when i twitch the buttons out .

" you sew them on ? " cried rose , with her eyes wide open in amazement .

" wait a bit till i get my sewing tackle , and then you shall see what i can do . "

" can he , really ? " asked rose of aunt peace , as uncle alec marched off with a comical air of importance .

" i wonder if there is anything in the world that you cannot do , " she said , in a tone of respectful admiration .

" i should like to know what ? "

" bread and button-holes , ma'am . "

chapter @number@ good bargains

will and geordie were sprawling on the sofa , deep in the adventures of the scapegraces and ragamuffins whose histories are now the fashion .

" read and improve your mind , my son , " answered archie , peering solemnly over the paper behind which he had been dozing .

" no , thank you , tramps in an easterly storm don't strike me as amusing . "

there archie stopped and held up his hand , for a pleasant voice was heard saying outside ,

" are the boys in the library , auntie ? "

" yes , dear , and longing for sunshine ; so run in and make it for them , " answered mrs jessie .

" it 's rose , " and archie threw his cigar into the fire .

" what 's that for ? " asked charlie .

" gentlemen don't smoke before ladies . "

as rose bent to warm her hands , one end of archie 's cigar stuck out of the ashes , smoking furiously and smelling strongly .

" oh , you bad boys , how could you do it , to-day of all days ? " she said reproachfully .

" where 's the harm ? " asked archie .

" fiddlesticks ! every man smokes , even uncle alec , whom you think so perfect , " began charlie , in his teasing way .

" no , he doesn't !

he has given it up , and i know why , " cried rose eagerly .

" now i think of it , i haven't seen the old meerschaum since he came home .

did he stop it on our account ? " asked archie .

" yes , " and rose told the little scene on the seashore in the camping-out time .

archie seemed much impressed , and said manfully , " he won't have done that in vain so far as i 'm concerned .

i don't care a pin about smoking , so can give it up as easy as not , and i promise you i will .

i only do it now and then for fun . "

" you women are always asking us to give up harmless little things just because you don't approve of them .

how would you like it if we did the same by you , miss ? "

" well , now , we 'll see if you mean what you say .

" i 'll agree if it is as foolish as cigars . "

" oh , it 's ever so much sillier . "

" give up your ear-rings , " and charlie laughed wickedly , sure that she would never hold to that bargain .

rose uttered a cry and clapped both hands to her ears where the gold rings hung .

" oh , charlie , wouldn't anything else do as well ?

i 've been through so much teasing and trouble , i do want to enjoy my pretty ear-rings , for i can wear them now . "

" wear as many as you like , and i 'll smoke in peace , " returned this bad boy .

" will nothing else satisfy you ? " imploringly .

" nothing , " sternly .

here was a chance to do some good by sacrificing a little vanity of her own .

she felt it was right to do it , yet found it very hard , and asked wistfully ,

" do you mean never wear them , charlie ? "

" never , unless you want me to smoke . "

" i never do . "

" then clinch the bargain . "

" i care more for my cousins than for my ear-rings , so i promise , and i 'll keep my word . "

but rose was bent on showing her aunt that she could use her influence for the boys ' good , and said steadily ,

" it is fair , and i want it to be so , then you will believe i 'm in earnest .

here , each of you wear one of these on your watch-guard to remind you .

i shall not forget , because very soon i cannot wear ear-rings if i want to . "

as she spoke , rose offered a little ring to each cousin , and the boys , seeing how sincere she was , obeyed her .

just at that moment dr alec and mrs jessie came in .

" what 's this ?

dancing ladies ' triumph on sunday ? " exclaimed uncle alec , surveying the trio with surprise .

" no , sir , it is the anti-tobacco league .

will you join ? " said charlie , while rose slipped away to her aunt , and archie buried both cigars behind the back log .

" i thought they were all the fashion , " answered dr alec , settling in the big chair with rose .

" so is smoking , but it is harmful .

" now , mum , that 's too bad !

i like ' em tip-top .

this one is a regular screamer , " cried will .

" they 're bully books , and i 'd like to know where 's the harm , " added geordie .

" you have just shown us one of the chief evils , and that is slang , " answered their mother quickly .

" must have it , ma'am .

if these chaps talked all right , there 'd be no fun in ' em , " protested will .

in fact , i fail to see the advantage of writing books about such people unless it is done in a very different way .

isn't it so , boys ? "

" ' in this place we saw a tooth of john the baptist .

ben said he could see locust and wild honey sticking to it .

i couldn't .

perhaps john used a piece of the true cross for a tooth-pick . ' "

" and those descriptions , taken mostly from guidebooks , i fancy , are the only parts of any real worth .

as she luffs up we shall man the fore and main sheets , slack on the weather , and haul on the lee braces . "

" i guess i could , if i wasn't afraid of uncle .

he knows so much more than i do , he 'd laugh , " began geordie , evidently puzzled by the question .

" ho , you know you can't , so why make believe ?

i once made a rule that i would have no slang in the house .

" yes , right behind the back log , " she continued , energetically .

" oh , mother , not a single one ? " cried will .

" couldn't we just finish those ? " pleaded geordie .

" the boys threw away half-smoked cigars ; and your books must go after them .

" course not !

come on , geordie , " and will took the vow like a hero .

his brother sighed and obeyed , but privately resolved to finish his story the minute the month was over .

" do you want us to be poor , mother ? " asked archie , wondering .

o , my boys !

the younger lads nestled closer to her , and archie said , in his quiet , resolute way ,

" you must help her make them what they should be .

chapter @number@ fashion and physiology

phebe said this as she popped her head into the study , where dr alec sat reading a new book .

" you are a girl of sense .

i 'll settle matters for rosy , and you 'll lend a hand .

is everything ready in her room , and are you sure you understand how they go ? "

" oh , yes , sir ; but they are so funny !

i know miss rose will think it 's a joke , " and phebe laughed as if something tickled her immensely .

" never mind what she thinks so long as she obeys .

tell her to do it for my sake , and she will find it the best joke she ever saw .

the suit was of two peculiar shades of blue , so arranged that patches of light and dark distracted the eye .

a bunch of folds was gathered up just below the waist behind , and a great bow rode a-top .

" things have changed since your day , aunt , and it takes time to get used to new ways .

but you , jessie , surely like this costume better than the dowdy things rose has been wearing all summer .

now , be honest , and own you do , " said mrs clara , bent on being praised for her work .

therefore , i have taken the liberty of providing a pretty street suit for rose .

" it is a street costume , is it ? " asked the doctor , mildly .

" do you know , i never should have guessed that it was meant for winter weather and brisk locomotion .

take a turn , rosy , and let me see all its beauties and advantages . "

" don't think i could , but i 'll try , " and rose made a rush across the room .

" no beauty ! " cried mrs clara , warmly , " now , that is just a man 's blindness .

this is the best of silk and camel 's hair , real ostrich feathers , and an expensive ermine muff .

what could be in better taste , or more proper for a young girl ? "

" alec , if it is a bloomer , i shall protest .

i 've been expecting it , but i know i cannot bear to see that pretty child sacrificed to your wild ideas of health .

tell me it isn't a bloomer ! " and mrs clara clasped her hands imploringly .

" it is not . "

" after all i have said , were you really going to tempt my girl with those abominable things ? "

" growing stout !

" don't be absurd , alec .

there is no torture about it , for tight lacing is out of fashion , and we have nice , sensible things nowadays .

" i know it , and so the poor little souls have weak backs all their days , as their mothers had before them .

give them to me .

i 'll see that they do no harm . "

" whalebones , indeed !

a regular fence of them , and metal gate-posts in front .

peals of laughter issued from rose 's room , and smiles involuntarily touched the lips of those who listened to the happy sound .

" yes , ma'am , my last , and i hope you will like it .

i discovered what clara was at , and got my rival suit ready for to-day .

while we wait i 'll explain , and then you will appreciate the general effect better .

" mercy on us , these things are like the night-drawers jamie wears !

you don't mean to say you want rose to come out in this costume ?

it 's not proper , and i won't consent to it ! "

" well , i don't see anything remarkable .

" exactly what i want , " answered the provoking doctor , rubbing his hands with a satisfied air .

" rosy looks now like what she is , a modest little girl , who does not want to be stared at .

i think she would get a glance of approval , though , from people who like sense and simplicity rather than fuss and feathers .

revolve , my hebe , and let me refresh my eyes by the sight of you . "

" there ! you see how it will be ; dress her in that boyish way and she will act like a boy .

i do hate all these inventions of strong-minded women ! " exclaimed mrs clara , as rose came back at a run .

mrs van tassel has been to madame stone , and is wearing a full suit of this sort .

" you don't say so !

" i thought that would settle it , " he said with a nod .

meantime aunt plenty was examining rose 's costume , for the hat and sack were off , and the girl was eagerly explaining the new under-garments .

" see , auntie , all nice scarlet flannel , and a gay little petticoat , and long stockings , oh , so warm !

phebe and i nearly died laughing when i put this rig on , but i like it ever so much .

do say you like it .

" i don't ask that , rose , but i wish you 'd weigh and compare the two suits , and then choose which seems best .

i leave it to your own commonsense , " answered dr alec , feeling pretty sure he had won .

" why , i take this one , of course , uncle .

i 'm much obliged to auntie , but i 'll keep this , please . "

aunt clara sighed ; uncle alec smiled , and said heartily ,

" thank you , dear ; now read this book and you will understand why i ask it of you .

" oh , what ? " and rose caught up the book which mrs clara had thrown down with a disgusted look .

if you agree , i 'll hunt up my old skeleton to-morrow . "

chapter @number@ brother bones

rose accepted her uncle 's offer , as aunt myra discovered two or three days later .

the doctor appeared in a moment , and begged to know what the matter was .

" what are you doing , child ? " demanded aunt myra , dropping into a chair and staring about her .

" oh , i 'm learning bones to-day , and i like it so much .

" do you think that is a good sort of thing for her to be poking over ?

" and she really likes it ? "

" very much , auntie !

it 's all so wonderful , and so nicely planned , you can hardly believe what you see .

" well , i don't know but you may be right , alec , only i wouldn't carry it too far .

women don't need much of this sort of knowledge , and are not fit for it .

" perhaps it 's as well to let her do what she likes the little while she is with us .

but pray be careful of her , alec , and not allow her to overwork , " she whispered as she went out .

half an hour later came another interruption in the shape of mac , who announced his arrival by the brief but elegant remark ,

" hullo ! what new game is this ? "

rose explained , mac gave a long whistle of surprise , and then took a promenade round the skeleton , observing gravely ,

" brother bones looks very jolly , but i can't say much for his beauty . "

" i dare say , so i 'll keep my flesh on , thank you .

" don't you want to come and join my class ?

uncle explains it all to us , and you can take a look at the plates as they come along .

" he 's blue to-day , and we must amuse him ; give a little lecture on eyes , and it will do him good .

no matter about me , uncle . "

" very well ; the class will please be seated , " and the doctor gave a sounding rap on the table .

telling him after he 's down isn't much use , for then he 's found it out himself and won't thank you . "

" ah , mac , that 's just what i keep lecturing about , and people won't listen .

you lads need that sort of knowledge so much , and fathers and mothers ought to be able to give it to you .

few of them are able , and so we all go blundering , as you say .

less greek and latin and more knowledge of the laws of health for my boys , if i had them .

poor mac was right there , and expressed a want that many a boy and girl feels .

so the young hearts hide trouble or temptation till the harm is done , and mutual regret comes too late .

they certainly get great comfort out of it , and receive much innocent affection that otherwise would be lost .

that is what i 'm here for , i believe , and it will be a great happiness to me if you can trust me . "

" we can , uncle , and we will ! " both answered , with a heartiness that gratified him much .

" we 'll come , sir , much obliged , " and the class in physiology went out to walk .

of course , the other lads made great fun of the whole thing , and plagued dr alec 's students half out of their lives .

but they kept on persistently , and one day something happened which made the other fellows behave themselves for ever after .

she was lounging over the table looking at a map when an odd noise caught her ear .

she paused an instant to collect herself , and then went softly toward the bony beckoner .

" i told him not to do it , because it might give you a start , " explained archie , emerging from the closet .

" i had a smelling bottle all ready if she fainted away , " added steve , popping up from behind the great chair .

" i 'm used to your pranks now , so i 'm always on the watch and prepared .

but i won't have brother bones made fun of .

" hear how i got that skeleton , and then i 'm sure you will treat it with respect . "

the boys settled down at once on any article of furniture that was nearest and listened dutifully .

" years ago , when i was in the hospital , a poor fellow was brought there with a rare and very painful disease .

it did do good , and his brave patience made us remember him long after he was gone .

chapter @number@ under the mistletoe

" merry christmas ! " cried the little mistress smiling gaily .

" merry christmas ! " answered the little maid , so heartily that it did one good to hear her .

then she added with an important air ,

" do wish for something else , because i happen to know of two more presents outside the door this minute . "

" oh , me , what richness ! " cried rose , much excited .

i don't know what you 'll say to the other , but i think it 's elegant . "

so did rose , when a shining pair of skates and a fine sled appeared .

isn't it a beauty ?

" it isn't very pretty , " said rose , who was trimming the chimney-piece with glossy holly sprays .

" never mind that , it 's mistletoe , and anyone who stands under it will get kissed whether they like it or not .

" you won't catch me , " said rose , with great dignity .

" see if i don't ! "

" i 've got my eye on phebe , " observed will , in a patronising tone that made them all laugh .

" oh , the mistletoe bough , " sang rose .

will called him the " typhoon , " meaning tycoon , and the name stuck to him to his great disgust .

but that only made it all the jollier in the warm , bright rooms , full of happy souls .

that allusion to the captain , now on his return trip , made mrs jessie sob in her napkin , and set the boys cheering .

then , as if that was not sensation enough , archie suddenly dashed out of the room , as if he had lost his wits .

" too bashful to stay and be praised , " began charlie , excusing the peculiarities of his chief as in duty bound .

" phebe beckoned to him ; i saw her , " cried rose , staring hard at the door .

" is it more presents coming ? " asked jamie , just as his brother re-appeared , looking more excited than ever .

" where 's my little woman ?

the first kiss for her , then the rest may come on as fast as they like . "

it was good to see bluff uncle jem look proudly at his tall son , and fondly hug the little ones .

that really was , as charlie said , " a landscape to do one 's heart good . "

" all but rose , " answered loyal little jamie , remembering the absent .

" faith , i forgot the child !

where is george 's little girl ? " asked the captain , who had not seen her since she was a baby .

" you 'd better say alec 's great girl , " said uncle mac , who professed to be madly jealous of his brother .

" here i am , sir , " and rose appeared from behind the curtains , looking as if she had rather have stayed there .

so steve droned out a highland reel as softly as he could , and the boys danced it to a circle of admiring relations .

that was a grand beginning , and they had many another dance before anyone would own they were tired .

how they all laughed at her astonishment , and how fun 's little black eyes twinkled over this exploit !

but rose was wide-awake , and escaped all his snares , professing great contempt for such foolish customs .

charlie alone failed to catch his shy bird , and the oftener she escaped the more determined he was to ensnare her .

when every other wile had been tried in vain , he got archie to propose a game with forfeits .

" now let us redeem them and play something else , " said will , quite unconscious of the deeply-laid plots all about him .

" one more round and then we will , " answered the prince , who had now baited his trap anew .

" now i 've got her , " thought the young rascal , exulting in his fun-loving soul .

in fact , it made even him think twice , and resolve to " let rose off easy , " she had been so clever .

" fine or superfine ? "

" super . "

" hum , well , she shall take old mac under the mistletoe , and kiss him prettily .

won't he be mad , though ? " and this bad boy chuckled over the discomfort he had caused two harmless beings .

" thank you , my dear , " said the innocent gentleman , looking much pleased at the unexpected honour .

" oh , come ; that 's not fair , " began charlie .

but rose cut him short by saying , as she made him a fine courtesy ,

" you said ' old mac , ' and though it was very disrespectful , i did it .

that was your last chance , sir , and you 've lost it . "

" what 's the joke ? " asked young mac , waked out of a brown study by the laughter , in which the elders joined .

chapter @number@ a scare

" why not ?

" but you have no idea how sharp the wind is .

" i don't doubt it , ma'am , if you will wear crape and silk instead of fur and flannel .

rosy goes out in all weathers , and will be none the worse for an hour 's brisk skating . "

" mark my words , you will repent it , " and with that awful prophecy , aunt myra departed like a black shadow .

aunt myra was an especial trial , and he always turned contrary the moment she began to talk .

he could not help it , and often laughed about it with comic frankness .

but aunt myra spoke , and he could not resist the temptation to make light of her advice , and let rose brave the cold .

" of course , your uncle won't let her go out such a day as this .

" i wish steve would just cut up and see if she 's there , since i can't go , " began mac , anxiously .

" steve won't stir a peg , thank you .

so mac resigned himself , and rose waited dutifully till dinner-time assured her that her waiting was in vain .

" my darling , what is it ? " and uncle alec had her in his arms in a minute .

full of remorseful tenderness , uncle alec worked over his new patient till she declared she was all right again .

" please , could i go to bed ? "

" the best place for you , deary .

" are you in pain , darling ? " asked uncle alec , as he carried her up .

" pleurisy , " sighed aunt plenty , from the depths of the bath-tub .

" pewmonia ! " groaned dolly , burrowing among the bedclothes with the long-handled pan , as if bent on fishing up that treacherous disease .

" hush ! " ordered the doctor , in a tone that silenced all further predictions , and made everyone work with a will .

" i thought it would be too good luck to get through the year without a downfall .

confound my perversity !

why couldn't i take myra 's advice and keep rose at home .

it 's not fair that the poor child should suffer for my sinful over-confidence .

she shall not suffer for it !

pneumonia , indeed !

" what the dickens is the matter ?

you look as dismal as a tombstone , " he said , as she held up her hand to stop his lively whistling .

" miss rose is dreadful sick . "

" the deuce she is ! "

" oh , but she is though .

the doctor don't say much , but he don't call it a ' chill ' any more .

charlie exploded into a stifled laugh at the new pronunciation of pneumonia , to phebe 's great indignation .

" how can you have the heart to do it , and she in such horrid pain ?

charlie listened and heard little moans that went to his heart and made his face as sober as phebe 's .

" o uncle , please stop the pain , and let me rest a minute !

don't tell the boys i wasn't brave .

i try to bear it , but it 's so sharp i can't help crying . "

" don't hold that confounded thing right under my nose ; the mustard makes my eyes smart . "

" don't see how it can , when it hasn't any more strength in it than meal .

a tap on the window startled phebe , and , looking up , she saw a face peering in .

" and she will be all right again to-morrow ? "

" oh , dear no !

down went mac 's face , and remorse began to gnaw at him again as he gave a great sigh and said doubtfully ,

" i suppose i couldn't see her ? "

" of course not at this time of night , when we want her to go to sleep ! "

" why didn't you stop it ? " said phebe reproachfully .

" i dare say you 've waked her up . "

" didn't know it was coming .

just my luck ! " groaned mac , turning to go before his unfortunate presence did more harm .

but a voice from the stair-head called softly , " mac , come up ; rose wants to see you . "

up he went , and found his uncle waiting for him .

" what brings you here at this hour , my boy ? " asked the doctor in a whisper .

" charlie said it was all my fault , and if she died i 'd killed her .

" i knew your funny sneeze , and i guessed that you came to see how i did , though it is very late .

" i don't think i shall die ; uncle won't let me ; but if i do , remember i forgave you . "

chapter @number@ something to do

" i 'll go and hunt up phebe , she is always nice and busy , and likes to have me help her .

she took the precaution to peep through the slide before she entered the kitchen , for dolly allowed no messing when she was round .

but the coast was clear , and no one but phebe appeared , sitting at the table with her head on her arms apparently asleep .

" phebe , i want something to do .

can't you let me help you about anything , or shall i be in the way ? "

" oh , dear no , miss ; i always love to have you round when things are tidy .

" let me see !

what is it ?

i won't tell if you 'd rather not have dolly know . "

" laugh at you !

why didn't you come and ask me , and not go struggling along alone in this way ?

" o you proud thing ! just as if it wasn't fun to give away , and i had the best of it .

now , see here , i 've got a plan and you mustn't say no , or i shall scold .

it will take time , and maybe the doctor wouldn't like it . "

" the way into my parlour is up a winding stair , and many are the curious things i 'll show you when you're there .

will you , will you walk in , phebe dear ? "

" bless my heart , what is going on now ? "

" school , aunty .

i 'm teaching phebe , and it 's great fun ! " cried rose , looking up with a bright face .

but phebe 's was brighter , though she added with a wistful look ,

" maybe i ought to have asked leave first ; only when miss rose proposed this , i was so happy i forgot to .

shall i stop , ma'am ? "

" of course not , child ; i 'm glad to see you fond of your book , and to find rose helping you along .

only don't neglect your work , dear , or let the books interfere with the duties . "

" please , can i go ?

i 'll clear up after i 've done my chores . "

" school is dismissed , " answered rose , and with a grateful " thank you , heaps and heaps ! "

phebe ran away singing the multiplication table as she set the tea ditto .

" o uncle !

i 'm so glad ! and so sorry !

why didn't you let us know what time you 'd be here , or call out the minute you came ?

" have you had a good time ?

did you save the poor lady ?

aren't you glad to be home again with your girl to torment you ? "

" yes , to all those questions .

now tell me what you 've been at , little sinner ?

aunty plen says you want to consult me about some new and remarkable project which you have dared to start in my absence . "

" she didn't tell you , i hope ? "

now , then , own up and take the consequences . "

that 's what i was reading up when you came , and to-morrow i shall tell her all about it , and indigo too .

" you artful little baggage ! that 's the way you expect to get round me , is it ?

that 's not studying , i suppose ? "

" no , sir , it 's teaching ; and please , i like it much better than having a good time by myself .

" i haven't the slightest objection in the world .

" i think she has found some already , " began rose eagerly .

" bless your dear heart , i haven't begun to do anything yet , more shame to me !

how will that do for a beginning ? "

all of a sudden she stopped and asked soberly ,

" if phebe goes to school who will do her work ?

i 'm willing , if i can . "

" come here and i 'll tell you a secret .

" oh , me ! how can i ever get on without phebe ?

couldn't she stay , just so i could see her ?

i 'd pay her board rather than have her go , i 'm so fond of her . "

" your plans are always so wise and kind !

that 's why they work so well , i suppose , and why people let you do what you like with them .

chapter @number@ peace-making

" p'raps i will , and p'raps i won't .

what is it ? "

" haven't arch and charlie quarrelled ? "

" dare say ; we fellows are always having little rows , you know .

come , please tell me , stenie , there 's a dear . "

uncle said so , and he is never wrong . "

" what do you want ? " and rose looked up rather surprised at his question .

" i 'd like to borrow some money .

" i 'll lend it to you with pleasure , so tell away , " said rose , bound to get at the secret .

evidently much relieved by the promise , steve set his top-knot cheerfully erect again , and briefly stated the case .

you see , archie don't like some of the fellows charlie goes with , and cuts ' em .

" are those boys bad ? " asked rose , anxiously .

" guess not , only rather wild .

he beat morse at billiards , and that 's something to brag of , for morse thinks he knows everything .

i saw the match , and it was great fun ! "

steve got quite excited over the prowess of charlie , whom he admired immensely , and tried to imitate .

" if prince likes any billiard-playing boy better than archie , i don't think much of his sense , " she said severely .

" that 's the trouble ; arch preaches , and prince won't stand it .

he told arch he was a prig and a parson , and arch told him he wasn't a gentleman .

my boots ! weren't they both mad , though !

i thought for a minute they 'd pitch into one another and have it out .

wish they had , and not gone stalking round stiff and glum ever since .

mac and i settle our rows with a bat or so over the head , and then we are all right . "

i 've told , now you pay up . "

" of course i will !

how much do you want ? " and rose pulled out her purse .

" could you spare five dollars ?

" aren't all debts honourable ? " asked innocent rose .

" oh , don't bet , it 's not right , and i know your father wouldn't like it .

promise you won't do so again ; please promise ! " and rose held fast the hand into which she had just put the money .

" well , i won't .

it 's worried me a good deal , but i was joked into it .

much obliged , cousin , i 'm all right now , " and steve departed hastily .

having decided to be a peace-maker , rose waited for an opportunity , and very soon it came .

dinner was over , and everyone had gone .

aunt clara was resting before going out to an evening party , and rose was waiting for charlie to come and take her home .

presently charlie came lounging in , looking rather sleepy and queer , rose thought .

on seeing her , however , he roused up and said with a smile that ended in a gape ,

" i thought you were with mother , so i took forty winks after i got those girls off .

now , i 'm at your service , rosamunda , whenever you like . "

" you look as if your head ached .

if it does , don't mind me .

" i think i see myself letting you do it .

champagne always makes my headache , but the air will set me up . "

" why do you drink it , then ? " asked rose , anxiously .

" can't help it , when i'm host .

now , don't you begin to lecture ; i 've had enough of archie 's old-fashioned notions , and i don't want any more . "

" i wasn't going to lecture , only when people like other people , they can't bear to see them suffer pain . "

" i wish you 'd beg archie 's too , and be good friends again .

" you 'd better not meddle with what you don't understand , cousin . "

" but i do understand , and it troubles me very much to see you so cold and stiff to one another .

you always used to be together , and now you hardly speak .

you are so ready to beg my pardon i don't see why you can't beg archie 's , if you are in the wrong . "

" i 've broken my word , so i want to give this back and free you from the bargain .

i 'm sorry , but i think it a foolish promise , and don't intend to keep it .

choose a pair of ear-rings to suit yourself , as my forfeit .

you have a right to wear them now . "

" no , i can only wear one , and that is no use , for archie will keep his word i 'm sure ! "

" you are not at all the boy i thought you were , and i don't respect you one bit .

i 've tried to help you be good , but you won't let me , and i shall not try any more .

i don't wish you to go home with me .

i 'd rather have mary .

good-night . "

a hasty good-night to aunt clara now under the hands of the hairdresser and then she crept down to find mary the maid .

" you needn't speak to me if you don't choose , but i must see you safely home , cousin . "

she turned at once , put out her hand , and answered heartily ,

" i was the cross one .

please forgive me , and let's be friends again . "

" look here , rosy , i 've put the ring back , and i 'm going to try again .

but you don't know how hard it is to stand being laughed at . "

" yes , i do !

ariadne plagues me every time i see her , because i don't wear ear-rings after all the trouble i had getting ready for them . "

" ah , but her twaddle isn't half as bad as the chaffing i get .

" i thought you had a ' deal of pluck , ' as you call it .

the boys all say you are the bravest of the seven , " said rose .

" so i am about some things , but i cannot bear to be laughed at . "

" it is hard , but if one is right won't that make it easier ? "

" not to me ; it might to a pious parson like arch . "

" please don't call him names !

i guess he has what is called moral courage , and you physical courage .

uncle explained the difference to me , and moral is the best , though often it doesn't look so , " said rose thoughtfully .

" perhaps that 's why he keeps out of their way , and wants you to . "

" if he was my brother , now , he 'd have some right to interfere , " began charlie , in an injured tone .

" i wish he was ! " cried rose .

" so do i , " answered charlie , and then they both laughed at his inconsistency .

the laugh did them good , and when prince spoke again , it was in a different tone pensive , not proud nor perverse .

" you see , it 's hard upon me that i have no brothers and sisters .

the others are better off and needn't go abroad for chums if they don't like .

i am all alone , and i 'd be thankful even for a little sister . "

" play i was a little sister .

i know i 'm silly , but perhaps i 'm better than nothing , and i 'd dearly love to do it . "

there , now ! " and charlie looked down at the curly head bobbing along beside him with real affection in his face .

rose gave a skip of pleasure , and laid one seal-skin mitten over the other on his arm , as she said happily ,

" that 's so nice of you !

" i 've been thinking that perhaps i ought to , though i am in the right .

" while father was home , i was very busy with him , so prince got into a set i don't like .

" i don't care for that ; if he 'll just drop those row-dies and come back , i 'll hold my tongue and not preach .

i wonder if he owes those fellows money , and so doesn't like to break off till he can pay it .

but archie ordered her to " fess , " and had the whole story in five minutes , for none dared disobey the chief .

he completed her affliction by putting a five-dollar bill into her pocket by main force , looking both indignant and resolute as he said ,

" never do so again ; but send steve to me , if he is afraid to go to his father .

charlie had nothing to do with that ; he wouldn't borrow a penny of a girl , don't think it .

but that 's the harm he does steve , who adores him , and tries to be like him in all things .

don't say a word ; i 'll make it all right , and no one shall blame you . "

" oh me !

" here 's our little peace-maker ! " said archie , shaking hands with vigour .

but charlie added , with a look that made rose very proud and happy , " and my little sister . "

chapter @number@ which ?

" to take care of boys , " answered rose , quite beaming with satisfaction as she spoke .

" phebe laughed when i told her , and said she thought girls had better learn to take care of themselves first .

but that 's because she hasn't got seven boy-cousins as i have . "

" am i ?

only i don't always know what to do , and i 'm going to consult you privately and then surprise them with my wisdom . "

" all right , my dear ; what 's the first worry ?

i see you have something on your little mind , so come and tell uncle . "

" could you make up your mind to go and stay with aunt clara a month ? " asked the doctor , when she ended .

" yes , sir ; but i shouldn't like it .

do you really want me to go ? "

" exactly . "

" but could i make it pleasant ?

he would want the boys . "

" no danger but he 'd have the boys , for they swarm after you like bees after their queen .

haven't you found that out ? "

" i 'll go , uncle , right away !

aunt clara is always asking me , and will be glad to get me .

fortunately , she was very near home , and dr alec dropped in so often that her visit was far less dismal than she expected .

so the winter flew rapidly away , and it was may before rose was fairly settled again at home .

" do you remember that ? " he said , showing one to aunt clara , who happened to be nearest .

" yes , indeed ; it is very like her when she came .

quite her sad , unchildlike expression , and thin little face , with the big dark eyes . "

the picture was passed round , and all agreed that " it was very like rose a year ago . "

" time is up ; how do you think my experiment has succeeded , ladies ? "

" bless me , so it is ! " cried aunt plenty , dropping a stitch in her surprise .

" beautifully , dear , " answered aunt peace , smiling entire approval .

" she certainly has improved , but appearances are deceitful , and she had no constitution to build upon , " croaked aunt myra .

dr alec made them a splendid bow , looking much gratified , and then said soberly ,

" thank you ; now the question is , shall i go on ? for this is only the beginning .

is not that the fairest way ?

will you agree to abide by her choice , as i do ? "

" good ! she will be here directly , and then we will settle the question for another year .

just then a pleasant sound of happy voices came up from the garden , and smiles broke out on all serious faces .

dr alec turned at once , saying , as he threw back his head , " there she is ; now for it ! "

the cousins had been a-maying , and soon came flocking in laden with the spoils .

" of course , we choose to stay !

mac peered wistfully over his goggles , saying in an unusually wide-awake and earnest way ,

" do , cousin , then we can study chemistry together .

my experiments don't blow up very often now , and the gases aren't at all bad when you get used to them . "

" ah ! yes , " she thought , " he wants me most !

i 've often longed to give him something that he wished for very much , and now i can . "

" i don't want any time !

i know who i love best , who i 'm happiest with , and i choose uncle .

so they took hands and began to prance about uncle and niece , singing , with sudden inspiration , the nursery rhyme ,

" ring around a rosy ! "

that tickled the boys , and they set up a shout of ,

" uncle had a little lamb ! "

end of the project gutenberg ebook of eight cousins , by louisa m alcott