`` I know what it is ! The boys are going to have fireworks on the fourth , and have got some surprise for me . Have n't they ? '' `` That 's telling . '' `` Well , I can wait ; only tell me one thing is uncle in it ? '' `` Of course he is ; there 's never any fun without him . '' `` Then it 's all right , and sure to be nice . '' Rose went out on the balcony to shake the rugs , and , having given them a vigorous beating , hung them on the balustrade to air , while she took a look at her plants . Several tall vases and jars stood there , and a month of June sun and rain had worked wonders with the seeds and slips she had planted . Morning-glories and nasturtiums ran all over the bars , making haste to bloom . Scarlet beans and honeysuckles were climbing up from below to meet their pretty neighbours , and the woodbine was hanging its green festoons wherever it could cling . The waters of the bay were dancing in the sunshine , a fresh wind stirred the chestnut-trees with a pleasant sound , and the garden below was full of roses , butterflies and bees . A great chirping and twittering went on among the birds , busy with their summer house-keeping , and , far away , the white-winged gulls were dipping and diving in the sea , where ships , like larger birds , went sailing to and fro . `` Oh , Phebe , it 's such a lovely day , I do wish your fine secret was going to happen right away ! I feel just like having a good time ; do n't you ? '' said Rose , waving her arms as if she was going to fly . `` I often feel that way , but I have to wait for my good times , and do n't stop working to wish for 'em . There , now you can finish as soon as the dust settles ; I must go do my stairs , '' and Phebe trudged away with the broom , singing as she went . Rose leaned where she was , and fell to thinking how many good times she had had lately , for the gardening had prospered finely , and she was learning to swim and row , and there were drives and walks , and quiet hours of reading and talk with Uncle Alec , and , best of all , the old pain and ennui seldom troubled her now . She could work and play all day , sleep sweetly all night , and enjoy life with the zest of a healthy , happy child .
She was far from being as strong and hearty as XXXXX , but she was getting on ; the once pale cheeks had colour in them now , the hands were growing plump and brown , and the belt was not much too loose .
Phebe chestnut-trees day ennui fro gulls hours night right woodbine