No one appeared , and all was so still she felt sure the company was upstairs . So she skipped boldly through the half-open folding-doors , to behold on the other side a sight that nearly took her breath away . Seven boys stood in a row all ages , all sizes , all yellow-haired and blue-eyed , all in full Scotch costume , and all smiling , nodding , and saying as with one voice , `` How are you , cousin ? '' Rose gave a little gasp , and looked wildly about her as if ready to fly , for fear magnified the seven and the room seemed full of boys . Before she could run , however , the tallest lad stepped out of the line , saying pleasantly , `` Do n't be frightened . This is the Clan come to welcome you ; and I 'm the chief , Archie , at your service . '' He held out his hand as he spoke , and Rose timidly put her own into a brown paw , which closed over the white morsel and held it as the chief continued his introductions . `` We came in full rig , for we always turn out in style on grand occasions . Hope you like it . Now I 'll tell you who these chaps are , and then we shall be all right . This big one is Prince Charlie , Aunt Clara 's boy . She has but one , so he is an extra good one . This old fellow is Mac , the bookworm , called Worm for short . This sweet creature is Steve the Dandy . Look at his gloves and top-knot , if you please . They are Aunt Jane 's lads , and a precious pair you 'd better believe . These are the Brats , my brothers , Geordie and Will , and Jamie the Baby . Now , my men , step out and show your manners . '' At this command , to Rose 's great dismay , six more hands were offered , and it was evident that she was expected to shake them all . It was a trying moment to the bashful child ; but , remembering that they were her kinsmen come to welcome her , she tried her best to return the greeting cordially .
This impressive ceremony being over , the XXXXX broke ranks , and both rooms instantly appeared to be pervaded with boys .
Archie Baby Brats Charlie Clan Geordie Mac Scotch bookworm right