Something in the droop of the brown head , and the quick motion of the busy hand with a little burn on it , made it difficult for Mrs. Grant to keep Merry at work that day , and her eye watched the clock almost as impatiently as the girl 's , for she liked to see the young face brighten when the hour of release came . `` What next ? '' asked Merry , as the last stitch was set , and she stifled a sigh on hearing the clock strike four , for the sun was getting low , and the lovely afternoon going fast . `` One more job , if you are not too tired for it . I want the receipt for diet drink Miss Dawes promised me ; would you like to run down and get it for me , dear ? '' `` Yes , mother ! '' and that answer was as blithe as a robin 's chirp , for that was just where Merry wanted to go . Away went thimble and scissors , and in five minutes away went Merry , skipping down the hill without a care in the world , for a happy heart sat singing within , and everything seemed full of beauty . She had a capital time with Molly , called on Jill , did her shopping in the village , and had just turned to walk up the hill , when Ralph Evans came tramping along behind her , looking so pleased and proud about something that she could not help asking what it was , for they were great friends , and Merry thought that to be an artist was the most glorious career a man could choose . `` I know you 've got some good news , '' she said , looking up at him as he touched his hat and fell into step with her , seeming more contented than before . `` I have , and was just coming up to tell you , for I was sure you would be glad . It is only a hope , a chance , but it is so splendid I feel as if I must shout and dance , or fly over a fence or two , to let off steam . '' `` Do tell me , quick ; have you got an order ? '' asked Merry , full of interest at once , for artistic vicissitudes were very romantic , and she liked to hear about them . `` I may go abroad in the autumn . '' `` Oh , how lovely ! '' `` Is n't it ? David German is going to spend a year in Rome , to finish a statue , and wants me to go along . Grandma is willing , as cousin Maria wants her for a long visit , so everything looks promising and I really think I may go . '' `` Wo n't it cost a great deal ? ''
asked XXXXX , who , in spite of her little elegancies , had a good deal of her thrifty mother 's common sense .
Dawes Evans Grant Jill Maria Merry Rome afternoon chirp day