It would be far easier to see you dead if it could be said of you as of Sumner ` No man dared offer him a bribe . ' '' Mrs. Jessie was so earnest in her motherly anxiety that her voice faltered over the last words , and she hugged the yellow heads closer in her arms , as if she feared to let them leave that safe harbour for the great sea where so many little boats go down . The younger lads nestled closer to her , and Archie said , in his quiet , resolute way , `` I can not promise to be an Agassiz or a Sumner , mother ; but I do promise to be an honest man , please God . '' `` Then I 'm satisfied ! '' and holding fast the hand he gave her , she sealed his promise with a kiss that had all a mother 's hope and faith in it . `` I do n't see how they ever can be bad , she is so fond and proud of them , '' whispered Rose , quite touched by the little scene . `` You must help her make them what they should be . You have begun already , and when I see those rings where they are , my girl is prettier in my sight than if the biggest diamonds that ever twinkled shone in her ears , '' answered Dr. Alec , looking at her with approving eyes . `` I 'm so glad you think I can do anything , for I perfectly ache to be useful ; everyone is so good to me , especially Aunt Jessie . '' `` I think you are in a fair way to pay your debts , Rosy , for when girls give up their little vanities , and boys their small vices , and try to strengthen each other in well-doing , matters are going as they ought . Work away , my dear , and help their mother keep these sons fit friends for an innocent creature like yourself ; they will be the manlier men for it , I can assure you . '' Chapter 18 -- Fashion and Physiology `` Please , sir , I guess you 'd better step up right away , or it will be too late , for I heard Miss Rose say she knew you would n't like it , and she 'd never dare to let you see her . '' Phebe said this as she popped her head into the study , where Dr. Alec sat reading a new book . `` They are at it , are they ? '' he said , looking up quickly , and giving himself a shake , as if ready for a battle of some sort . `` Yes , sir , as hard as they can talk , and Miss Rose do n't seem to know what to do , for the things are ever so stylish , and she looks elegant in 'em ; though I like her best in the old ones , '' answered Phebe . `` You are a girl of sense . I 'll settle matters for Rosy , and you 'll lend a hand . Is everything ready in her room , and are you sure you understand how they go ? '' `` Oh , yes , sir ; but they are so funny !
I know Miss XXXXX will think it 's a joke , '' and Phebe laughed as if something tickled her immensely .
Agassiz Alec Archie Jessie Phebe Rose Rosy Sumner harbour right