`` We must tear ourselves away , Rose , because I want to get you home before sunset . Will you come for a drive , Jessie ? '' said Dr. Alec , as the music died away in the distance . `` No , thank you ; but I see the boys want a scamper , so , if you do n't mind , they may escort you home , but not go in . That is only allowed on holidays . '' The words were hardly out of Aunt Jessie 's mouth when Archie said , in a tone of command , `` Pass the word , lads . Boot and saddle , and be quick about it . '' `` All right ! '' And in a moment not a vestige of boy remained but the litter on the floor . The cavalcade went down the hill at a pace that made Rose cling to her uncle 's arm , for the fat old horses got excited by the antics of the ponies careering all about them , and went as fast as they could pelt , with the gay dog-cart rattling in front , for Archie and Charlie scorned shelties since this magnificent equipage had been set up . Ben enjoyed the fun , and the lads cut up capers till Rose declared that `` circus '' was the proper name for them after all . When they reached the house they dismounted , and stood , three on each side the steps , in martial attitudes , while her ladyship was handed out with great elegance by Uncle Alec . Then the Clan saluted , mounted at word of command , and with a wild whoop tore down the avenue in what they considered the true Arab style . `` That was splendid , now it is safely ended , '' said Rose , skipping up the steps with her head over her shoulder to watch the dear tassels bob about . `` I shall get you a pony as soon as you are a little stronger , '' said Dr. Alec , watching her with a smile . `` Oh , I could n't ride one of those horrid , frisky little beasts ! They roll their eyes and bounce about so , I should die of fright , '' cried Rose , clasping her hands tragically . `` Are you a coward ? '' `` About horses I am . '' `` Never mind , then ; come and see my new room '' ; and he led the way upstairs without another word .
As XXXXX followed she remembered her promise to Aunt Jessie , and was sorry she had objected so decidedly .
Arab Archie Ben Clan Jessie Rose cavalcade equipage ladyship shelties