Myra , you are enough to damp the ardour of a saint ! '' cried Dr. Alec , with a sudden spark in his eyes . `` Your croaking will worry that child out of her wits , for she is an imaginative puss , and will fret and fancy untold horrors . You have put it into her head that she has no constitution , and she rather likes the idea . If she had not had a pretty good one , she would have been ` marked for the tomb ' by this time , at the rate you have been going on with her . I will not have any interference please understand that ; so just wash your hands of her , and let me manage till I want help , then I 'll ask for it . '' `` Hear , hear ! '' came from the corner where Uncle Mac was apparently wrapt in slumber . `` You were appointed guardian , so we can do nothing . But I predict that the girl will be spoilt , utterly spoilt , '' answered Mrs. Jane , grimly . `` Thank you , sister . I have an idea that if a woman can bring up two boys as perfectly as you do yours , a man , if he devotes his whole mind to it , may at least attempt as much with one girl , '' replied Dr. Alec , with a humorous look that tickled the others immensely , for it was a well-known fact in the family that Jane 's boys were more indulged than all the other lads put together . `` I am quite easy , for I really do think that Alec will improve the child 's health ; and by the time his year is out , it will be quite soon enough for her to go to Madame Roccabella 's and be finished off , '' said Aunt Clara , settling her rings , and thinking , with languid satisfaction , of the time when she could bring out a pretty and accomplished niece . `` I suppose you will stay here in the old place , unless you think of marrying , and it 's high time you did , '' put in Mrs. Jane , much nettled at her brother 's last hit . `` No , thank you . Come and have a cigar , Mac , '' said Dr. Alec , abruptly . `` Do n't marry ; women enough in the family already , '' muttered Uncle Mac ; and then the gentlemen hastily fled . `` Aunt Peace would like to see you all , she says , '' was the message Rose brought before the ladies could begin again . `` Hectic , hectic ! dear me , dear me ! ''
murmured Aunt Myra , as the shadow of her gloomy bonnet fell upon XXXXX , and the stiff tips of a black glove touched the cheek where the colour deepened under so many eyes .
Alec Clara Jane Mac Myra Roccabella Rose ardour puss year