`` I did n't mean to be naughty , Sy , but mother is asleep , and the boys all gone , so I just came to be near you ; it 's so lonely everywhere , '' she said , apologetically , as she lifted up the heavy head that always ached . `` The boys are very thoughtless . Come in and stay with me ; you are such a mouse you wo n't disturb me . Would n't you like to play be a model and let me draw your arm , and tell you all about the nice little bones and muscles ? '' asked Psyche , who had the fever very strong upon her just then . May did n't look as if the proposed amusement overwhelmed her with delight , but meekly consented to be perched upon a high stool with one arm propped up by a dropsical plaster cherub , while Psyche drew busily , feeling that duty and pleasure were being delightfully combined . `` Ca n't you hold your arm still , child ? It shakes so I ca n't get it right , '' she said , rather impatiently . `` No , it will tremble 'cause it 's weak . I try hard , Sy , but there does n't seem to be much strongness in me lately . '' `` That 's better ; keep it so a few minutes and I 'll be done , '' cried the artist , forgetting that a few minutes may seem ages . `` My arm is so thin you can see the bunches nicely , -- ca n't you ? '' `` Yes , dear . '' Psyche glanced up at the wasted limb , and when she drew again there was a blur before her eyes for a minute . `` I wish I was as fat as this white boy ; but I get thinner every day somehow , and pretty soon there wo n't be any of me left but my little bones , '' said the child , looking at the winged cherub with sorrowful envy . `` Do n't , my darling ; do n't say that , '' cried Psyche , dropping her work with a sudden pang at her heart . `` I 'm a sinful , selfish girl to keep you here ! you 're weak for want of air ; come out and see the chickens , and pick dandelions , and have a good romp with the boys . '' The weak arms were strong enough to clasp Psyche 's neck , and the tired face brightened beautifully as the child exclaimed , with grateful delight , -- `` Oh , I 'd like it very much ! I wanted to go dreadfully ; but everybody is so busy all the time .
I do n't want to play , XXXXX ; but just to lie on the grass with my head in your lap while you tell stories and draw me pretty things as you used to . ''
Psyche Sy cherub dandelions day minute minutes pang right strongness