Uncle explained the difference to me , and moral is the best , though often it does n't look so , '' said Rose thoughtfully . Charlie did n't like that , and answered quickly , `` I do n't believe he 'd stand it any better than I do , if he had those fellows at him . '' `` Perhaps that 's why he keeps out of their way , and wants you to . '' Rose had him there , and Charlie felt it , but would not give in just yet , though he was going fast , for somehow , in the dark he seemed to see things clearer than in the light , and found it very easy to be confidential when it was `` only Rose . '' `` If he was my brother , now , he 'd have some right to interfere , '' began Charlie , in an injured tone . `` I wish he was ! '' cried Rose . `` So do I , '' answered Charlie , and then they both laughed at his inconsistency . The laugh did them good , and when Prince spoke again , it was in a different tone pensive , not proud nor perverse . `` You see , it 's hard upon me that I have no brothers and sisters . The others are better off and need n't go abroad for chums if they do n't like . I am all alone , and I 'd be thankful even for a little sister . '' Rose thought that very pathetic , and , overlooking the uncomplimentary word `` even '' in that last sentence , she said , with a timid sort of earnestness that conquered her cousin at once , `` Play I was a little sister . I know I 'm silly , but perhaps I 'm better than nothing , and I 'd dearly love to do it . '' `` So should I ! and we will , for you are not silly , my dear , but a very sensible girl , we all think , and I 'm proud to have you for a sister . There , now ! '' and Charlie looked down at the curly head bobbing along beside him with real affection in his face . Rose gave a skip of pleasure , and laid one seal-skin mitten over the other on his arm , as she said happily , `` That 's so nice of you ! Now , you need n't be lonely any more , and I 'll try to fill Archie 's place till he comes back , for I know he will , as soon as you let him . ''
`` Well , I do n't mind telling you that while he was my mate I never missed XXXXX and sisters , or wanted anyone else ; but since he cast me off , I 'll be hanged if I do n't feel as forlorn as old Crusoe before Friday turned up . ''
brothers face fellows girl laugh nothing place sister sisters things