` What are you at here , Mischief ? ' asked Demi , with an Irvingesque start , as he felt rather than saw a disturbing influence in his day-dream . ` Getting flowers for `` our brides '' . Do n't you wish you had one ? ' answered Josie , to whom the word ` mischief ' suggested her favourite amusement . ' A bride or a flower ? ' asked Demi calmly , though he eyed the blooming bush as if it had a sudden and unusual interest for him . ` Both ; you get the one , and I 'll give you the other . ' ` Wish I could ! ' and Demi picked a little bud , with a sigh that went to Josie 's warm heart . ` Why do n't you , then ? It 's lovely to see people so happy . Now 's a good time to do it if you ever mean to . She will be going away for ever soon . ' ` Who ? ' and Demi pulled a half-opened bud , with a sudden colour in his own face ; which sign of confusion delighted little Jo . ` Do n't be a hypocrite . You know I mean Alice . Now , Jack , I 'm fond of you , and want to help ; it 's so interesting -- all these lovers and weddings and things , and we ought to have our share . So you take my advice and speak up like a man , and make sure of Alice before she goes . '
XXXXX laughed at the seriousness of the small girl 's advice ; but he liked it , and showed that it suited him by saying blandly , instead of snubbing her as usual : ` You are very kind , child .
Alice Demi Irvingesque Jack Jo Josie brides colour day-dream influence