How Dr. Alec laughed at that proposal , and how satisfied Rose was when he explained that Phebe was still to be her maid , with no duties except such as she could easily perform between school-hours . `` She is a proud creature , for all her humble ways , and even from us would not take a favour if she did not earn it somewhere . So this arrangement makes it all square and comfortable , you see , and she will pay for the schooling by curling these goldilocks a dozen times a day if you let her . '' `` Your plans are always so wise and kind ! That 's why they work so well , I suppose , and why people let you do what you like with them . I really do n't see how other girls get along without an Uncle Alec ! '' answered Rose , with a sigh of pity for those who had missed so great a blessing . When Phebe was told the splendid news , she did not `` stand on her head with rapture , '' as Charlie prophesied she would , but took it quietly , because it was such a happy thing she had no words `` big and beautiful enough to thank them in , '' she said ; but every hour of her day was brightened by this granted wish , and dedicated to the service of those who gave it . Her heart was so full of content that if overflowed in music , and the sweet voice singing all about the house gave thanks so blithely that no other words were needed . Her willing feet were never tired of taking steps for those who had smoothed her way ; her skilful hands were always busy in some labour of love for them , and on the face fast growing in comeliness there was an almost womanly expression of devotion , which proved how well Phebe had already learned one of life 's great lessons gratitude . Chapter 23 -- Peace-Making `` Steve , I want you to tell me something , '' said Rose to Dandy , who was making faces at himself in the glass , while he waited for an answer to the note he brought from his mother to Aunt Plenty . `` P'raps I will , and p ` raps I wo n't . What is it ? '' `` Have n't Arch and Charlie quarrelled ? '' `` Dare say ; we fellows are always having little rows , you know . I do believe a sty is coming on my star-board eye , '' and Steve affected to be absorbed in a survey of his yellow lashes . `` No , that wo n't do ; I want to know all about it ; for I 'm sure something more serious than a ` little row ' is the matter . Come , please tell me , Stenie , there 's a dear . '' `` Botheration ! you do n't want me to turn telltale , do you ? ''
growled XXXXX , pulling his top-knot , as he always did when perplexed .
Alec Charlie Dandy P'raps Phebe Rose Stenie Steve day school-hours