I really do n't see how other girls get along without an Uncle Alec ! '' answered Rose , with a sigh of pity for those who had missed so great a blessing . When Phebe was told the splendid news , she did not `` stand on her head with rapture , '' as Charlie prophesied she would , but took it quietly , because it was such a happy thing she had no words `` big and beautiful enough to thank them in , '' she said ; but every hour of her day was brightened by this granted wish , and dedicated to the service of those who gave it . Her heart was so full of content that if overflowed in music , and the sweet voice singing all about the house gave thanks so blithely that no other words were needed . Her willing feet were never tired of taking steps for those who had smoothed her way ; her skilful hands were always busy in some labour of love for them , and on the face fast growing in comeliness there was an almost womanly expression of devotion , which proved how well Phebe had already learned one of life 's great lessons gratitude . Chapter 23 -- Peace-Making `` Steve , I want you to tell me something , '' said Rose to Dandy , who was making faces at himself in the glass , while he waited for an answer to the note he brought from his mother to Aunt Plenty . `` P'raps I will , and p ` raps I wo n't . What is it ? '' `` Have n't Arch and Charlie quarrelled ? '' `` Dare say ; we fellows are always having little rows , you know . I do believe a sty is coming on my star-board eye , '' and Steve affected to be absorbed in a survey of his yellow lashes . `` No , that wo n't do ; I want to know all about it ; for I 'm sure something more serious than a ` little row ' is the matter . Come , please tell me , Stenie , there 's a dear . '' `` Botheration ! you do n't want me to turn telltale , do you ? '' growled Steve , pulling his top-knot , as he always did when perplexed . `` Yes , I do , '' was Rose 's decided answer for she saw from his manner that she was right , and determined to have the secret out of him if coaxing would do it . `` I do n't wish you to tell things to everyone , of course , but to me you may , and you must , because I have a right to know . You boys need somebody to look after you , and I 'm going to do it , for girls are nice peacemakers , and know how to manage people . Uncle said so , and he is never wrong . ''
XXXXX was about to indulge in a derisive hoot at the idea of her looking after them , but a sudden thought restrained him , and suggested a way in which he could satisfy Rose , and better himself at the same time .
Dandy Steve comeliness hour labour peacemakers raps right sty top-knot