I 'll see that they do no harm . '' `` Whalebones , indeed ! A regular fence of them , and metal gate-posts in front . As if our own bones were not enough , if we 'd give them a chance to do their duty , '' growled the Doctor , yielding up the bone of contention with a last shake of contempt . Then his face cleared suddenly , and he held up his finger , saying , with a smile , `` Hear those girls laugh ; cramped lungs could not make hearty music like that . '' Peals of laughter issued from Rose 's room , and smiles involuntarily touched the lips of those who listened to the happy sound . `` Some new prank of yours , Alec ? '' asked Aunt Plenty , indulgently , for she had come to believe in most of her nephew 's odd notions , because they seemed to work so well . `` Yes , ma'am , my last , and I hope you will like it . I discovered what Clara was at , and got my rival suit ready for to-day . I 'm not going to ` afflict ' Rose , but let her choose , and if I 'm not entirely mistaken , she will like my rig best . While we wait I 'll explain , and then you will appreciate the general effect better . I got hold of this little book , and was struck with its good sense and good taste , for it suggests a way to clothe women both healthfully and handsomely , and that is a great point . It begins at the foundations , as you will see if you will look at these pictures , and I should think women would rejoice at this lightening of their burdens . '' As he spoke , the Doctor laid the book before Aunt Plenty , who obediently brought her spectacles to bear upon the illustrations , and after a long look exclaimed , with a scandalised face , `` Mercy on us , these things are like the night-drawers Jamie wears ! You do n't mean to say you want Rose to come out in this costume ? It 's not proper , and I wo n't consent to it ! '' `` I do mean it , and I 'm sure my sensible aunt will consent when she understands that these well I 'll call them by an Indian name , and say pajamas are for underwear , and Rose can have as pretty frocks as she likes outside . These two suits of flannel , each in one piece from head to foot , with a skirt or so hung on this easily-fitting waist , will keep the child warm without burdening her with belts , and gathers , and buckles , and bunches round the waist , and leave free the muscles that need plenty of room to work in . She shall never have the back-ache if I can help it , nor the long list of ills you dear women think you can not escape . ''
`` I do n't consider it modest , and I 'm sure XXXXX will be shocked at it , '' began Mrs. Clara , but stopped suddenly , as Rose appeared in the doorway , not looking shocked a bit .
Alec Clara Doctor Jamie Rose back-ache bunches escape frocks gate-posts