Archie did stand by her in the morning , and her request was readily granted , as the lads were coming directly back . Off they went , and Rose waved her hand to the islanders with a somewhat pensive air , for an heroic purpose glowed within her , and the spirit of self-sacrifice was about to be illustrated in a new and touching manner . While the boys got the milk Rose ran to Phebe , ordered her to leave her dishes , to put on her hat , and take a note back to Uncle Alec , which would explain this somewhat mysterious performance . Phebe obeyed , and when she went to the boat Rose accompanied her , telling the boys she was not ready to go yet , but they could , some of them , come for her when she hung a white signal on her balcony . `` But why not come now ? What are you about , miss ? Uncle wo n't like it , '' protested Charlie , in great amazement . `` Just do as I tell you , little boy ; uncle will understand and explain . Obey , as Phebe does , and ask no questions . I can have secrets as well as other people '' ; and Rose walked off with an air of lofty independence that impressed her friends immensely . `` It 's some plot between uncle and herself , so we wo n't meddle . All right , Phebe ? Pull away , Prince '' ; and off they went to be received with much surprise by the islanders . This was the note Phebe bore : `` Dear Uncle , I am going to take Phebe 's place to-day , and let her have all the fun she can . Please do n't mind what she says , but keep her , and tell the boys to be very good to her for my sake . Do n't think it is easy to do this ; it is very hard to give up the best day of all , but I feel so selfish to have all the pleasure and Phebe none , that I wish to make this sacrifice . Do let me , and do n't laugh at it ; I truly do not wish to be praised , and I truly want to do it . Love to all from , `` Rose . '' `` Bless the little dear , what a generous heart she has ! Shall we go after her , Jessie , or let her have her way ? ''
said Dr. XXXXX , after the first mingled amusement and astonishment had subsided .
Alec Archie Charlie Jessie Phebe Prince Rose day morning right