`` 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. Alec 's eyed twinkled , but he said very soberly , `` Rose , are you vain ? '' `` I 'm afraid I am , '' answered a very meek voice from behind the veil of hair that hid the red face . `` That is a sad fault . '' And he sighed as if grieved at the confession . `` I know it is , and I try not to be ; but people praise me , and I ca n't help liking it , for I really do n't think I am repulsive . '' The last word and the funny tone in which it was uttered were too much for Dr. Alec , and he laughed in spite of himself , to Rose 's great relief . `` I quite agree with you ; and in order that you may be still less repulsive , I want you to grow as fine a girl as Phebe . '' `` Phebe ! '' and Rose looked so amazed that her uncle nearly went off again . `` Yes , Phebe ; for she has what you need health . If you dear little girls would only learn what real beauty is , and not pinch and starve and bleach yourselves out so , you 'd save an immense deal of time and money and pain . A happy soul in a healthy body makes the best sort of beauty for man or woman . Do you understand that , my dear ? '' `` Yes , sir , '' answered Rose , much taken down by this comparison with the girl from the poor-house .
It nettled her sadly , and she showed that it did by saying quickly , `` I suppose you would like to have me sweep and scrub , and wear an old brown dress , and go round with my sleeves rolled up , as XXXXX does ? ''
Alec Phebe Rose bleach girl harness liking poor-house sashes scarfs