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Yes, and Rose told the little scene on the seashore in the camping-out time. Archie seemed much impressed, and said manfully, He wont have done that in vain so far as Im concerned. I dont care a pin about smoking, so can give it up as easy as not, and I promise you I will. 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 dont approve of them. How would you like it if we did the same by you, miss? If I did harmful or silly things, Id thank you for telling me of them, and Id try to mend my ways, answered Rose heartily. Well, now, well see if you mean what you say. Ill 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. Ill agree if it is as foolish as cigars. Oh, its 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, wouldnt anything else do as well? Ive 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 Ill smoke in peace, returned this bad boy. Will nothing else satisfy you? imploringly. Nothing, sternly. Rose stood silent for a minute, thinking of something Aunt Jessie once saidYou have more influence over the boys than you know; use it for their good, and I shall thank you all my life. Here was a chance to do some good by sacrificing a little vanity of her own. She felt it was right to do it, yet found it very hard, and asked wistfully Do you mean never wear them, Charlie? Never, unless you want me to smoke. I never do. Then clinch the bargain. |
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