Eight cousins : or, The aunt-hill

"PHEBE'S SECRET. 105"Mum is mighty particular; toe just give 'em ascrub with sand, and dust 'em off with a bit of j^aper.It 'smuch the best way, I think," replied Geordie, whoreposed in another boat alongside." How Phebe would Uke this ! I wonder uncle didnot have her come."" I believe he tried to, but Dolly was as cross as twosticks, and said she could n't spare her. I 'm sorry, forwe all like the Phebe bird, and she 'd chirp like a goodone out here, would n't she ? "It 's" She ought to have a holiday like the rest of us.too bad to leave her out.This thought came back to Rose several times thatevening, for Phebe would have added much to thelittle concert they had in the moonlight, would haveenjoyed the stories told, been quick at guessing theconundrums, and laughed with all her heart at the fun.Tlie merry going to bed would have been best ofall,for Rose wanted some one to cuddle under the blueblanket with her, there to whisper and giggle and tellsecrets, as girls delight to do.Long after the rest were asleep, Rose lay wideawake, excited by the novelty of all about her, and athought that had come into her mind. Far away sheheard a city clock strike twelve ; a large star like amild eye peeped in at the opening of the tent, and thesoft plash of the waves seemed calling her to come out.Aunt Jessie lay fa«t asleep, with Jamie rolled up likea kitten at her feet, and neither stirred as Rose inherwrapper crept out to see how the world looked atmidnight.She found it very lovely, and sat down on a cracker5*