Paul 's little low-ceilinged room was a soft whirl of ruddy light from the sun that was setting over the sea and swinging shadows from the fir trees that grew close to the square , deep-set window . From out this soft glow and glamor shone a sweet , girlish face , with tender mother eyes , that was hanging on the wall at the foot of the bed . `` That 's my little mother , '' said Paul with loving pride . `` I got Grandma to hang it there where I 'd see it as soon as I opened my eyes in the morning . I never mind not having the light when I go to bed now , because it just seems as if my little mother was right here with me . Father knew just what I would like for a birthday present , although he never asked me . Is n't it wonderful how much fathers DO know ? '' `` Your mother was very lovely , Paul , and you look a little like her . But her eyes and hair are darker than yours . '' `` My eyes are the same color as father 's , '' said Paul , flying about the room to heap all available cushions on the window seat , `` but father 's hair is gray . He has lots of it , but it is gray . You see , father is nearly fifty . That 's ripe old age , is n't it ? But it 's only OUTSIDE he 's old . INSIDE he 's just as young as anybody . Now , teacher , please sit here ; and I 'll sit at your feet . May I lay my head against your knee ? That 's the way my little mother and I used to sit . Oh , this is real splendid , I think . '' `` Now , I want to hear those thoughts which Mary Joe pronounces so queer , '' said Anne , patting the mop of curls at her side .
Paul never needed any coaxing XXXXX tell his thoughts ... at least , to congenial souls .
INSIDE about although as because for in of to with