Uncle said so , and he is never wrong . '' Steve was about to indulge in a derisive hoot at the idea of her looking after them , but a sudden thought restrained him , and suggested a way in which he could satisfy Rose , and better himself at the same time . `` What will you give me if I 'll tell you every bit about it ? '' he asked , with a sudden red in his cheeks and an uneasy look in his eyes , for he was half ashamed of the proposition . `` What do you want ? '' and Rose looked up rather surprised at his question . `` I 'd like to borrow some money . I should n't think of asking you , only Mac never has a cent . since he 's set up his old chemical shop , where he 'll blow himself to bits some day , and you and uncle will have the fun of putting him together again , '' and Steve tried to look as if the idea amused him . `` I 'll lend it to you with pleasure , so tell away , '' said Rose , bound to get at the secret . Evidently much relieved by the promise , Steve set his top-knot cheerfully erect again , and briefly stated the case . `` As you say , it 's all right to tell you , but do n't let the boys know I blabbed , or Prince will take my head off . You see , Archie do n't like some of the fellows Charlie goes with , and cuts 'em . That makes Prince mad , and he holds on just to plague Arch , so they do n't speak to one another , if they can help it , and that 's the row . '' `` Are those boys bad ? '' asked Rose , anxiously . `` Guess not , only rather wild . They are older than our fellows , but they like Prince , he 's such a jolly boy ; sings so well , dances jigs and breakdowns , you know , and plays any game that 's going . He beat Morse at billiards , and that 's something to brag of , for Morse thinks he knows everything . I saw the match , and it was great fun ! ''
Steve got quite excited over the prowess of XXXXX , whom he admired immensely , and tried to imitate .
Archie Charlie Morse Prince Rose Steve billiards day jigs right