Her uncle 's only answer was to lift her up and unhook the new belt of which she was so proud . The moment the clasp was open the belt flew apart several inches , for it was impossible to restrain the involuntary sigh of relief that flatly contradicted her words . `` Why , I did n't know it was tight ! it did n't feel so a bit . Of course it would open if I puff like this , but I never do , because I hardly ever run , '' explained Rose , rather discomfited by this discovery . `` I see you do n't half fill your lungs , and so you can wear this absurd thing without feeling it . The idea of cramping a tender little waist in a stiff band of leather and steel just when it ought to be growing , '' said Dr. Alec , surveying the belt with great disfavour as he put the clasp forward several holes , to Rose 's secret dismay , for she was proud of her slender figure , and daily rejoiced that she was n't as stout as Luly Miller , a former schoolmate , who vainly tried to repress her plumpness . `` It will fall off if it is so loose , '' she said anxiously , as she stood watching him pull her precious belt about . `` Not if you keep taking long breaths to hold it on . That is what I want you to do , and when you have filled this out we will go on enlarging it till your waist is more like that of Hebe , goddess of health , and less like that of a fashion-plate the ugliest thing imaginable . '' `` How it does look ! '' and Rose gave a glance of scorn at the loose belt hanging round her trim little waist . `` It will be lost , and then I shall feel badly , for it cost ever so much , and is real steel and Russia leather . Just smell how nice . '' `` If it is lost I 'll give you a better one . A soft silken sash is much fitter for a pretty child like you than a plated harness like this ; and I 've got no end of Italian scarfs and Turkish sashes among my traps . Ah ! that makes you feel better , does n't it ? '' and he pinched the cheek that had suddenly dimpled with a smile . `` It is very silly of me , but I ca n't help liking to know that '' here she stopped and blushed and held down her head , ashamed to add , `` you think I am pretty . ''
Dr. XXXXX 's eyed twinkled , but he said very soberly , `` Rose , are you vain ? ''
Alec Hebe Miller Rose Russia clasp disfavour fall sashes scarfs