It was a dreadful moment , for Rose could not run away she could only grasp her precious nose with one hand and extend the other , crying distractedly , `` O uncle , save me , save me ! '' Of course he saved her ; and when she was securely barricaded by his strong arm , she confessed her folly in such humiliation of spirit , that the lads , after a good laugh at her , decided to forgive her and lay all the blame on the tempter , Ariadne . Even Dr. Alec relented so far as to propose two gold rings for the ears instead of one copper one for the nose ; a proceeding which proved that if Rose had all the weakness of her sex for jewellery , he had all the inconsistency of his in giving a pretty penitent exactly what she wanted , spite of his better judgment . Chapter 16 -- Bread and Button-Holes `` What in the world is my girl thinking about all alone here , with such a solemn face ? '' asked Dr. Alec , coming into the study , one November day , to find Rose sitting there with folded hands and a very thoughtful aspect . `` Uncle , I want to have some serious conversation with you , if you have time , '' she said , coming out of a brown study , as if she had not heard his question . `` I 'm entirely at your service , and most happy to listen , '' he answered , in his politest manner , for when Rose put on her womanly little airs he always treated her with a playful sort of respect that pleased her very much . Now , as he sat down beside her , she said , very soberly , `` I 've been trying to decide what trade I would learn , and I want you to advise me . '' `` Trade , my dear ? '' and Dr. Alec looked so astonished that she hastened to explain . `` I forgot that you did n't hear the talk about it up at Cosey Corner . You see we used to sit under the pines and sew , and talk a great deal all the ladies , I mean and I liked it very much . Mother Atkinson thought that everyone should have a trade , or something to make a living out of , for rich people may grow poor , you know , and poor people have to work . Her girls were very clever , and could do ever so many things , and Aunt Jessie thought the old lady was right ; so when I saw how happy and independent those young ladies were , I wanted to have a trade , and then it would n't matter about money , though I like to have it well enough . '' Dr. Alec listened to this explanation with a curious mixture of surprise , pleasure , and amusement in his face , and looked at his little niece as if she had suddenly changed into a young woman . She had grown a good deal in the last six months , and an amount of thinking had gone on in that young head which would have astonished him greatly could he have known it all , for Rose was one of the children who observe and meditate much , and now and then nonplus their friends by a wise or curious remark . `` I quite agree with the ladies , and shall be glad to help you decide on something if I can , '' said the Doctor seriously . `` What do you incline to ? A natural taste or talent is a great help in choosing , you know . '' `` I have n't any talent , or any especial taste that I can see , and that is why I ca n't decide , uncle .
So , I think it would be a good plan to pick out some very useful business and learn it , because I do n't do it for pleasure , you see , but as a part of my education , and to be ready in case I 'm ever poor , '' answered XXXXX , looking as if she rather longed for a little poverty so that her useful gift might be exercised .
Alec Atkinson Button-Holes Corner Doctor Jessie Rose independent jewellery right