said Leslie , laughing . She had an exquisite laugh ; it bubbled up suddenly and unexpectedly with something of the delicious quality of a baby 's . Anne laughed , too . `` Oh , yes . She has been down to my house of dreams several times . '' `` Your house of dreams ? '' `` Oh , that 's a dear , foolish little name Gilbert and I have for our home . We just call it that between ourselves . It slipped out before I thought . '' `` So Miss Russell 's little white house is YOUR house of dreams , '' said Leslie wonderingly . '' I had a house of dreams once -- but it was a palace , '' she added , with a laugh , the sweetness of which was marred by a little note of derision . `` Oh , I once dreamed of a palace , too , '' said Anne . `` I suppose all girls do . And then we settle down contentedly in eight-room houses that seem to fulfill all the desires of our hearts -- because our prince is there . YOU should have had your palace really , though -- you are so beautiful . You MUST let me say it -- it has to be said -- I 'm nearly bursting with admiration . You are the loveliest thing I ever saw , Mrs. Moore . '' `` If we are to be friends you must call me Leslie , '' said the other with an odd passion . `` Of course I will . And MY friends call me Anne . ''
`` I suppose I am beautiful , '' XXXXX went on , looking stormily out to sea .
Anne Gilbert Leslie Moore Russell admiration desires hearts name palace