But you wo n't like it . ' ' I will , no matter if you tell me I 'm a fool . I want it settled ; so does mamma . I 'll take it bravely if you say no ; and if you say yes , I 'll never give up till I 've done my best -- as you did . ' ` Ah , my child , it 's a weary road , and there are plenty of thorns among the roses when you 've won them . I think you have the courage , and this proves that you have perseverance . Perhaps you 'll do . Come , and we 'll see . ' Miss Cameron touched the bracelet as she spoke , and smiled so kindly that impetuous Josie wanted to kiss her ; but wisely refrained , though her eyes were wet with softer water than any in the sea as she thanked her . ` We are keeping Miss Cameron from her bath , and the tide is going out . Come , Josie , ' said thoughtful Bess , fearing to outstay their welcome . ` Run over the beach and get warm . Thank you very much , little mermaid . Tell papa to bring his daughter to see me any time . Good-bye ' ; and with a wave of her hand the tragedy queen dismissed her court , but remained on her weedy throne watching the two lithe figures race over the sand with twinkling feet till they were out of sight . Then , as she calmly bobbed up and down in the water , she said to herself : ` The child has a good stage face , vivid , mobile ; fine eyes , abandon , pluck , will . Perhaps she 'll do . Good stock -- talent in the family . We shall see . ' Of course Josie never slept a wink , and was in a fever of joyful excitement next day .
Uncle Laurie enjoyed the episode very much , and Aunt Amy looked out her most becoming white dress for the grand occasion ; XXXXX lent her most artistic hat , and Josie ranged the wood and marsh for a bouquet of wild roses , sweet white azalea , ferns , and graceful grasses , as the offering of a very grateful heart .
Bess Cameron Josie Run course family perseverance sea tide wink