answered the little maid , so heartily that it did one good to hear her . `` Bring the stockings right away , Phebe , and let 's see what we 've got , '' said Rose , sitting up among the pillows , and looking as eager as a child . A pair of long knobby hose were laid out upon the coverlet , and their contents examined with delight , though each knew every blessed thing that had been put into the other 's stocking . Never mind what they were ; it is evident that they were quite satisfactory , for as Rose leaned back , she said , with a luxurious sigh of satisfaction , `` Now , I believe I 've got everything in the world that I want , '' and Phebe answered , smiling over a lapful of treasures , `` This is the most splendid Christmas I ever had since I was born . '' Then she added with an important air , `` Do wish for something else , because I happen to know of two more presents outside the door this minute . '' `` Oh , me , what richness ! '' cried Rose , much excited . `` I used to wish for a pair of glass slippers like Cinderella 's , but as I ca n't have them , I really do n't know what to ask for . '' Phebe clapped her hands as she skipped off the bed and ran to the door , saying merrily , `` One of them is for your feet , anyway . I do n't know what you 'll say to the other , but I think it 's elegant . '' So did Rose , when a shining pair of skates and a fine sled appeared . `` Uncle sent those ; I know he did ; and , now I see them , I remember that I did want to skate and coast . Is n't it a beauty ? See ! they fit nicely , '' and , sitting on the new sled , Rose tried a skate on her little bare foot , while Phebe stood by admiring the pretty tableau . `` Now we must hurry and get dressed , for there is a deal to do to-day , and I want to get through in time to try my sled before dinner . '' `` Gracious me , and I ought to be dusting my parlors this blessed minute ! '' and mistress and maid separated with such happy faces that anyone would have known what day it was without being told . `` Birnam Wood has come to Dunsinane , Rosy , '' said Dr. Alec , as he left the breakfast table to open the door for a procession of holly , hemlock , and cedar boughs that came marching up the steps . Snowballs and `` Merry Christmases ! ''
flew about pretty briskly for several minutes ; then all fell to work trimming the old house , for the family always dined together there on that XXXXX .
Christmases Cinderella Dunsinane Wood day hemlock holly lapful left minute