`` I think it would be fairer to call it a tie , Bab , for it really was , and I want you to wear this . I wanted the fun of beating , but I do n't care a bit for this girl 's thing and I 'd rather see it on you . '' As he spoke , Ben offered the rosette of green ribbon which held the silver arrow , and Bab 's eyes brightened as they fell upon the pretty ornament , for to her `` the girl 's thing '' was almost as good as the victory . `` Oh no ; you must wear it to show who won . Miss Celia would n't like it . I do n't mind not getting it ; I did better than all the rest , and I guess I should n't like to beat you , '' answered Bab , unconsciously putting into childish words the sweet generosity which makes so many sisters glad to see their brothers carry off the prizes of life , while they are content to know that they have earned them and can do without the praise . But if Bab was generous , Ben was just ; and though he could not explain the feeling , would not consent to take all the glory without giving his little friend a share . `` You must wear it ; I shall feel real mean if you do n't . You worked harder than I did , and it was only luck my getting this . Do , Bab , to please me , '' he persisted , awkwardly trying to fasten the ornament in the middle of Bab 's ' white apron . `` Then I will . Now do you forgive me for losing Sancho ? '' asked Bab , with a wistful look which made Ben say , heartily , -- `` I did that when he came home . '' `` And you do n't think I 'm horrid ? '' `` Not a bit of it ; you are first-rate , and I 'll stand by you like a man , for you are ` most as good as a boy ! '' cried Ben , anxious to deal handsomely with his feminine rival , whose skill had raised her immensely in his opinion . Feeling that he could not improve that last compliment , Bab was fully satisfied , and let him leave the prize upon her breast , conscious that she had some claim to it . `` That is where it should be , and Ben is a true knight , winning the prize that he may give it to his lady , while he is content with the victory , '' said Miss Celia , laughingly , to Teacher , as the children ran off to join in the riotous games which soon made the orchard ring . `` He learned that at the circus ` tunnyments , ' as he calls them . He is a nice boy , and I am much interested in him ; for he has the two things that do most toward making a man , patience and courage , '' answered Teacher , also as she watched the young knight play and the honored lady tearing about in a game of tag .
`` XXXXX is a nice child , too , '' said Miss Celia ; `` she is as quick as a flash to catch an idea and carry it out , though very often the ideas are wild ones .
Bab Ben Celia Sancho Teacher children rest ribbon rosette tunnyments