I wonder if he owes those fellows money , and so does n't like to break off till he can pay it . I hope not , but do n't dare to ask ; though , perhaps , Steve knows , he 's always after Prince , more 's the pity , '' and Archie looked anxious . `` I think Steve does know , for he talked about debts of honour the day I gave him -- '' There Rose stopped short and turned scarlet . 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 would n't borrow a penny of a girl , do n't think it . But that 's the harm he does Steve , who adores him , and tries to be like him in all things . Do n't say a word ; I 'll make it all right , and no one shall blame you . '' `` Oh me ! I always make trouble by trying to help , and then letting out the wrong thing , '' sighed Rose , much depressed by her slip of the tongue . Archie comforted her with the novel remark that it was always best to tell the truth , and made her quite cheerful by promising to heal the breach with Charlie as soon as possible . He kept his word so well that the very next afternoon , as Rose looked out of the window , she beheld the joyful spectacle of Archie and Prince coming up the avenue , arm-in-arm , as of old , talking away as if to make up for the unhappy silence of the past weeks . Rose dropped her work , hurried to the door , and , opening it wide , stood there smiling down upon them so happily , that the faces of the lads brightened as they ran up the steps eager to show that all was well with them . `` 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 24 -- Which ? `` Uncle , I have discovered what girls are made for , '' said Rose , the day after the reconciliation of Archie and the Prince . `` Well , my dear , what is it ? '' asked Dr. Alec , who was `` planking the deck , '' as he called his daily promenade up and down the hall .
`` To take care of boys , '' answered XXXXX , quite beaming with satisfaction as she spoke .
Alec Charlie Prince Rose Steve arm-in-arm daily minutes peace-maker vigour