As Dr. Alec paused , Archie closed the door of the case as respectfully as if the mummy of an Egyptian king was inside ; Will and Geordie looked solemnly at one another , evidently much impressed , and Charlie pensively remarked from the coal-hod where he sat , `` I 've often heard of a skeleton in the house , but I think few people have one as useful and as interesting as ours . '' Chapter 20 -- Under The Mistletoe Rose made Phebe promise that she would bring her stocking into the `` Bower , '' as she called her pretty room , on Christmas morning , because that first delicious rummage loses half its charm if two little night-caps at least do not meet over the treasures , and two happy voices Oh and Ah together . So when Rose opened her eyes that day they fell upon faithful Phebe , rolled up in a shawl , sitting on the rug before a blazing fire , with her untouched stocking laid beside her . `` Merry Christmas ! '' cried the little mistress smiling gaily . `` Merry Christmas ! '' answered the little maid , so heartily that it did one good to hear her . `` Bring the stockings right away , Phebe , and let 's see what we 've got , '' said Rose , sitting up among the pillows , and looking as eager as a child . A pair of long knobby hose were laid out upon the coverlet , and their contents examined with delight , though each knew every blessed thing that had been put into the other 's stocking . Never mind what they were ; it is evident that they were quite satisfactory , for as Rose leaned back , she said , with a luxurious sigh of satisfaction , `` Now , I believe I 've got everything in the world that I want , '' and Phebe answered , smiling over a lapful of treasures , `` This is the most splendid Christmas I ever had since I was born . '' 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 used to wish for a pair of glass slippers like Cinderella 's , but as I ca n't have them , I really do n't know what to ask for . '' Phebe clapped her hands as she skipped off the bed and ran to the door , saying merrily , `` One of them is for your feet , anyway . I do n'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 . `` Uncle sent those ; I know he did ; and , now I see them , I remember that I did want to skate and coast . Is n't it a beauty ? See !
they fit nicely , '' and , sitting on the new sled , XXXXX tried a skate on her little bare foot , while Phebe stood by admiring the pretty tableau .
Charlie Geordie Rose fire first lapful morning right rummage sled