`` Oh , what is it ? '' cried Rose eagerly , charmed to be met in this helpful and cordial way . `` Housekeeping ! '' answered Dr. Alec . `` Is that an accomplishment ? '' asked Rose , while her face fell , for she had indulged in all sorts of vague , delightful dreams . `` Yes ; it is one of the most beautiful as well as useful of all the arts a woman can learn . Not so romantic , perhaps , as singing , painting , writing , or teaching , even ; but one that makes many happy and comfortable , and home the sweetest place in the world . Yes , you may open your big eyes ; but it is a fact that I had rather see you a good housekeeper than the greatest belle in the city . It need not interfere with any talent you may possess , but it is a necessary part of your training , and I hope that you will set about it at once , now that you are well and strong . '' `` Who is the lady ? '' asked Rose , rather impressed by her uncle 's earnest speech . `` Aunt Plenty . '' `` Is she accomplished ? '' began Rose in a wondering tone , for this great-aunt of hers had seemed the least cultivated of them all . `` In the good old-fashioned way she is very accomplished , and has made this house a happy home to us all , ever since we can remember . She is not elegant , but genuinely good , and so beloved and respected that there will be universal mourning for her when her place is empty . No one can fill it , for the solid , homely virtues of the dear soul have gone out of fashion , as I say , and nothing new can be half so satisfactory , to me at least . '' `` I should like to have people feel so about me . Can she teach me to do what she does , and to grow as good ? ''
asked XXXXX , with a little prick of remorse for even thinking that Aunt Plenty was a commonplace old lady .
Alec Dr. Rose great-aunt home nothing one people singing tone