`` Bless me , so it is ! '' cried Aunt Plenty , dropping a stitch in her surprise . `` Beautifully , dear , '' answered Aunt Peace , smiling entire approval . `` She certainly has improved , but appearances are deceitful , and she had no constitution to build upon , '' croaked Aunt Myra . `` I am willing to allow that , as far as mere health goes , the experiment is a success , '' graciously observed Aunt Jane , unable to forget Rose 's kindness to her Mac . `` So am I ; and I 'll go farther , for I really do believe Alec has done wonders for the child ; she will be a beauty in two or three years , '' added Aunt Clara , feeling that she could say nothing better than that . `` I always knew he would succeed , and I 'm so glad you all allow it , for he deserves more credit than you know , and more praise than he will ever get , '' cried Aunt Jessie , clapping her hands with an enthusiasm that caused Jamie 's little red stocking to wave like a triumphal banner in the air . Dr. Alec made them a splendid bow , looking much gratified , and then said soberly , `` Thank you ; now the question is , shall I go on ? for this is only the beginning . None of you know the hindrances I 've had , the mistakes I 've made , the study I 've given the case , and the anxiety I 've often felt . Sister Myra is right is one thing Rose is a delicate creature , quick to flourish in the sunshine , and as quick to droop without it . She has no special weakness , but inherits her mother 's sensitive nature , and needs the wisest , tenderest care , to keep a very ardent little soul from wearing out a finely organised little body . I think I have found the right treatment , and ; with you to help me , I believe we may build up a lovely and a noble woman , who will be a pride and comfort to us all . '' There Dr. Alec stopped to get his breath , for he had spoken very earnestly , and his voice got a little husky over the last words . A gentle murmur from the aunts seemed to encourage him , and he went on with an engaging smile , for the good man was slyly trying to win all the ladies to vote for him when the time came . `` Now , I do n't wish to be selfish or arbitrary , because I am her guardian , and I shall leave Rose free to choose for herself . We all want her , and if she likes to make her home with any of you rather than with me , she shall do so . In fact , I encouraged her visits last winter , that she might see what we can all offer her , and judge where she will be happiest . Is not that the fairest way ? Will you agree to abide by her choice , as I do ? ''
`` Yes , we will , '' said all the XXXXX , in quite a flutter of excitement at the prospect of having Rose for a whole year .
Aunt aunts guardian kindness murmur question time voice winter wonders