I only do it now and then for fun . '' `` You too ? '' and Rose looked up at the bonny Prince , who never looked less bonny than at that moment , for he had resumed his cigar just to torment her . Now Charlie cared as little as Archie about smoking , but it would not do to yield too soon : so he shook his head , gave a great puff , and said loftily , `` You women are always asking us to give up harmless little things just because you do n't approve of them . How would you like it if we did the same by you , miss ? '' `` If I did harmful or silly things , I 'd thank you for telling me of them , and I 'd try to mend my ways , '' answered Rose heartily . `` Well , now , we 'll see if you mean what you say . I 'll give up smoking to please you , if you will give up something to please me , '' said Prince , seeing a good chance to lord it over the weaker vessel at small cost to himself . `` I 'll agree if it is as foolish as cigars . '' `` Oh , it 's ever so much sillier . '' `` Then I promise ; what is it ? '' and Rose quite trembled with anxiety to know which of her pet habits or possessions she must lose . `` Give up your ear-rings , '' and Charlie laughed wickedly , sure that she would never hold to that bargain . Rose uttered a cry and clapped both hands to her ears where the gold rings hung . `` Oh , Charlie , would n't anything else do as well ? I 've been through so much teasing and trouble , I do want to enjoy my pretty ear-rings , for I can wear them now . '' `` Wear as many as you like , and I 'll smoke in peace , '' returned this bad boy . `` Will nothing else satisfy you ? '' imploringly . `` Nothing , '' sternly .
XXXXX stood silent for a minute , thinking of something Aunt Jessie once said `` You have more influence over the boys than you know ; use it for their good , and I shall thank you all my life . ''
Charlie Nothing Prince Rose bonny cigars ear-rings smoking teasing vessel