"I think she's a perfect dear, and not a bit stuck up with all her money."
"A real little lady, and ever so pretty."
"She kissed me lots, and don't tell me to run away, so I love her."
The group of brothers and sisters standing1 round the fire laughed as little May finished the chorus of praise with these crowning virtues2.
Tall Alf asked the question, and seemed satisfied with the general approval of the new cousin just come from England to live with them. They had often heard of Kate, and rather prided themselves on the fact that she lived in a fine house, was very rich, and sent them charming presents. Now pity was added to the pride, for Kate was an orphan3, and all her money could not buy back the parents she had lost. They had watched impatiently for her arrival, had welcomed her cordially, and after a day spent in trying to make her feel at home they were comparing notes in the twilight4, while Kate was having a quiet talk with mamma.
"I hope she will choose to live with us. You know she can go to any of the uncles she likes best," said Alf.
"We are nearer her age than any of the other cousins, and papa is the oldest uncle, so I guess she will," added Milly, the fourteen-year-old daughter of the house.
"She said she liked America," said quiet Frank.
"Wonder if she will give us a lot of her money?" put in practical Fred, who was always in debt.
"Stop that!" commanded Alf. "Mind now, if you ever ask her for a penny I'll shake you out of your jacket."
"Hush6! she's coming," cried Milly, and a dead silence followed the lively chatter7.
A fresh-faced bright-eyed girl of fifteen came quietly in, glanced at the group on the rug, and paused as if doubtful whether she was wanted.
"Come on!" said Fred, encouragingly.
"Shall I be in the way?"
"Oh! dear, no, we were only talking," answered Milly, drawing her cousin nearer with an arm about her waist.
"It sounded like something pleasant," said Kate, not exactly knowing what to say.
"We were talking about you," began little May, when a poke8 from Frank made her stop to ask, "What's that for? We were talking about Kate, and we all said we liked her, so it's no matter if I do tell."
"You are very kind," and Kate looked so pleased that the children forgave May's awkward frankness.
"Yes, and we hoped you'd like us and stay with us," said Alf, in the lofty and polite manner which he thought became the young lord of the house.
"I am going to try all the uncles in turn, and then decide; papa wished it," answered Kate, with a sudden tremble of the lips, for her father was the only parent she could remember, and had been unusually dear for that reason.
"Can you play billiards9?" asked Fred, who had a horror of seeing girls cry.
"Yes, and I'll teach you."
"You had a pony-carriage at your house, didn't you?" added Frank, eager to help on the good work.
"At grandma's,—I had no other home, you know," answered Kate.
"What shall you buy first with your money?" asked May, who would ask improper10 questions.
"I'd buy a grandma if I could," and Kate both smiled and sighed.
"How funny! We've got one somewhere, but we don't care much about her," continued May, with the inconvenient12 candor13 of a child.
"Have you? Where is she?" and Kate turned quickly, looking full of interest.
"Papa's mother is very old, and lives ever so far away in the country, so of course we don't see much of her," explained Alf.
"But papa writes sometimes, and mamma sends her things every Christmas. We don't remember her much, because we never saw her but once, ever so long ago; but we do care for her, and May mustn't say such rude things," said Milly.
"I shall go and see her. I can't get on without a grandmother," and Kate smiled so brightly that the lads thought her prettier than ever. "Tell me more about her. Is she a dear old lady?"
"Don't know. She is lame14, and lives in the old house, and has a maid named Dolly, and—that's all I can tell you about her," and Milly looked a little vexed15 that she could say no more on the subject that seemed to interest her cousin so much.
Kate looked surprised, but said nothing, and stood looking at the fire as if turning the matter over in her mind, and trying to answer the question she was too polite to ask,—how could they live without a grandmother? Here the tea-bell rang, and the flock ran laughing downstairs; but, though she said no more, Kate remembered that conversation, and laid a plan in her resolute16 little mind which she carried out when the time came.
According to her father's wish she lived for a while in the family of each of the four uncles before she decided17 with which she would make her home. All were anxious to have her, one because of her money, another because her great-grandfather had been a lord, a third hoped to secure her for his son, while the fourth and best family loved her for herself alone. They were worthy18 people, as the world goes,—busy, ambitious, and prosperous; and every one, old and young, was fond of bright, pretty, generous Kate. Each family was anxious to keep her, a little jealous of the rest, and very eager to know which she would choose.
But Kate surprised them all by saying decidedly when the time came,—
"I must see grandma before I choose. Perhaps I ought to have visited her first, as she is the oldest. I think papa would wish me to do it. At any rate, I want to pay my duty to her before I settle anywhere, so please let me go."
Some of the young cousins laughed at the idea, and her old-fashioned, respectful way of putting it, which contrasted strongly with their free-and-easy American speech. The uncles were surprised, but agreed to humor her whim19, and Uncle George, the eldest20, said softly,—
"I ought to have remembered that poor Anna was mother's only daughter, and the old lady would naturally love to see the girl. But, my dear, it will be desperately21 dull. Only two old women and a quiet country town. No fun, no company, you won't stay long."
"I shall not mind the dulness if grandma likes to have me there. I lived very quietly in England, and was never tired of it. Nursey can take care of me, and I think the sight of me will do the dear old lady good, because they tell me I am like mamma."
Something in the earnest young face reminded Uncle George of the sister he had almost forgotten, and recalled his own youth so pleasantly that he said, with a caress22 of the curly head beside him,—
"So it would, I'm sure of it, and I've a great mind to go with you and 'pay my duty' to mother, as you prettily23 express it."
"Oh, no, please don't, sir; I want to surprise her, and have her all to myself for a little while. Would you mind if I went quite alone with Nursey? You can come later."
"Not a bit; you shall do as you like, and make sunshine for the old lady as you have for us. I haven't seen her for a year, but I know she is well and comfortable, and Dolly guards her like a dragon. Give her my love, Kitty, and tell her I send her something she will value a hundred times more than the very best tea, the finest cap, or the handsomest tabby that ever purred."
So, in spite of the lamentations of her cousins, Kate went gayly away to find the grandma whom no one else seemed to value as she did.
You see, grandpa had been a farmer, and lived contentedly24 on the old place until he died; but his four sons wanted to be something better, so they went away one after the other to make their way in the world. All worked hard, got rich, lived splendidly, and forgot as far as possible the old life and the dull old place they came from. They were good sons in their way, and had each offered his mother a home with him if she cared to come. But grandma clung to the old home, the simple ways, and quiet life, and, thanking them gratefully, she had remained in the big farm-house, empty, lonely, and plain though it was, compared to the fine homes of her sons.
Little by little the busy men forgot the quiet, uncomplaining old mother, who spent her years thinking of them, longing25 to see and know their children, hoping they would one day remember how she loved them all, and how solitary26 her life must be.
Now and then they wrote or paid her a hasty visit, and all sent gifts of far less value to her than one loving look, one hour of dutiful, affectionate companionship.
"If you ever want me, send and I'll come. Or, if you ever need a home, remember the old place is here always open, and you are always welcome," the good old lady said. But they never seemed to need her, and so seldom came that the old place evidently had no charm for them.
It was hard, but the sweet old woman bore it patiently, and lived her lonely life quietly and usefully, with her faithful maid Dolly to serve and love and support her.
Kate's mother, her one daughter, had married young, gone to England, and, dying early, had left the child to its father and his family. Among them little Kate had grown up, knowing scarcely any thing of her American relations until she was left an orphan and went back to her mother's people. She had been the pet of her English grandmother, and, finding all the aunts busy, fashionable women, had longed for the tender fostering she had known, and now felt as if only grandmothers could give.
With a flutter of hope and expectation, she approached the old house after the long journey was over. Leaving the luggage at the inn, and accompanied by faithful Nurse, Kate went up the village street, and, pausing at the gate, looked at the home where her mother had been born.
A large, old-fashioned farm-house, with a hospitable27 porch and tall trees in front, an orchard28 behind, and a capital hill for blackberries in summer, and coasting in winter, close by. All the upper windows were curtained, and made the house look as if it was half-asleep. At one of the lower windows sat a portly puss, blinking in the sun, and at the other appeared a cap, a regular grandmotherly old cap, with a little black bow perked29 up behind. Something in the lonely look of the house and the pensive30 droop31 of that cap made Katy hurry up the walk and tap eagerly at the antique knocker. A brisk little old woman peered out, as if startled at the sound, and Kate asked, smiling, "Does Madam Coverley live here?"
"She does, dear. Walk right in," and throwing wide the door, the maid trotted32 down a long, wide hall, and announced in a low tone to her mistress,—
"A nice, pretty little girl wants to see you, mum."
"I shall love to see a young face. Who is it, Dolly?" asked a pleasant voice.
"Don't know, mum."
"Grandma must guess," and Kate went straight up to the old lady with both hands out, for the first sight of that sweet old face won her heart.
Lifting her spectacles, grandma looked silently a minute, then opened her arms without a word, and in the long embrace that followed Kate felt assured that she was welcome to the home she wanted.
"So like my Anna! And this is her little girl? God bless you, my darling! So good to come and see me!" said the old lady when she could speak.
"Why, grandma, I couldn't get on without you, and as soon as I knew where to find you I was in a fidget to be off; but had to do my other visits first, because the uncles had planned it so. This is Dolly, I am sure, and that is my good nurse. Go and get my things, please, Nursey. I shall stay here until grandma sends me away."
"That will never be, deary. Now tell me every thing. It is like an angel coming to see me all of a sudden. Sit close, and let me feel sure it isn't one of the dreams I make to cheer myself when I'm lonesome."
Kate sat on a little stool at grandma's feet, and, leaning on her knee, told all her little story, while the old lady fed her hungry eyes with the sight of the fresh young face, listened to the music of a loving voice, and felt the happy certainty that some one had remembered her, as she longed to be remembered.
Such a happy day as Kate spent talking and listening, looking at her new home, which she found delightful33, and being petted by the two old women, who would hardly let Nursey do any thing for her. Kate's quick eyes read the truth of grandma's lonely life very soon; her warm heart was full of tender pity, and she resolved to devote herself to making the happiness of the dear old lady's few remaining years, for at eighty one should have the prop11 of loving children, if ever.
To Dolly and madam it really did seem as if an angel had come, a singing, smiling, chattering34 sprite, who danced all over the old house, making blithe35 echoes in the silent room, and brightening every corner she entered.
Kate opened all the shutters36 and let in the sun, saying she must see which room she liked best before she settled. She played on the old piano, that wheezed37 and jangled, all out of tune38; but no one minded, for the girlish voice was as sweet as a lark's. She invaded Dolly's sacred kitchen, and messed to her heart's content, delighting the old soul by praises of her skill, and petitions to be taught all she knew. She pranced39 to and fro in the long hall, and got acquainted with the lives of painted ancestors hanging there in big wigs41 or short-waisted gowns. She took possession of grandma's little parlor42, and made it so cosey the old lady felt as if she was bewitched, for cushioned arm-chairs, fur foot-stools, soft rugs, and delicate warm shawls appeared like magic. Flowers bloomed in the deep, sunny window-seats, pictures of lovely places seemed to break out on the oaken walls, a dainty work-basket took its place near grandma's quaint40 one, and, best of all, the little chair beside her own was seldom empty now.
The first thing in the morning a kiss waked her, and the beloved voice gave her a gay "Good-morning, grandma dear!" All day Anna's child hovered43 about her with willing hands and feet to serve her, loving heart to return her love, and the tender reverence44 which is the beautiful tribute the young should pay the old. In the twilight, the bright head always was at her knees; and, in either listening to the stories of the past or making lively plans for the future, Kate whiled away the time that used to be so sad.
Kate never found it lonely, seldom wished for other society, and grew every day more certain that here she could find the cherishing she needed, and do the good she hoped.
Dolly and Nurse got on capitally; each tried which could sing "Little Missy's" praises loudest, and spoil her quickest by unquestioning obedience45 to every whim or wish. A happy family, and the dull November days went by so fast that Christmas was at hand before they knew it.
All the uncles had written to ask Kate to pass the holidays with them, feeling sure she must be longing for a change. But she had refused them all, saying she should stay with grandma, who could not go anywhere to join other people's merry-makings, and must have one of her own at home. The uncles urged, the aunts advised, and the cousins teased; but Kate denied them all, yet offended no one, for she was inspired by a grand idea, and carried it out with help from Dolly and Nurse, unsuspected by grandma.
"We are going to have a little Christmas fun up here among ourselves, and you mustn't know about it until we are ready. So just sit all cosey in your corner, and let me riot about as I like. I know you won't mind, and I think you'll say it is splendid when I've carried out my plan," said Kate, when the old lady wondered what she was thinking about so deeply, with her brows knit and her lips smiling.
"Very well, dear, do any thing you like, and I shall enjoy it, only don't get tired, or try to do too much," and with that grandma became deaf and blind to the mysteries that went on about her.
She was lame, and seldom left her own rooms; so Kate, with her devoted46 helpers, turned the house topsy-turvy, trimmed up hall and parlors47 and great dining-room with shining holly48 and evergreen49, laid fires ready for kindling50 on the hearths52 that had been cold for years, and had beds made up all over the house.
What went on in the kitchen, only Dolly could tell; but such delicious odors as stole out made grandma sniff53 the air, and think of merry Christmas revels54 long ago. Up in her own room Kate wrote lots of letters, and sent orders to the city that made Nursey hold up her hands. More letters came in reply, and Kate had a rapture55 over every one. Big bundles were left by the express, who came so often that the gates were opened and the lawn soon full of sleigh-tracks. The shops in the village were ravaged56 by Mistress Kate, who laid in stores of gay ribbon, toys, nuts, and all manner of queer things.
"I really think she's lost her mind," said the post-master as she flew out of the office one day with a handful of letters.
"Pretty creter! I wouldn't say a word against her, not for a mint of money. She's so good to old Mrs. Coverley," answered his fat wife, smiling as she watched Kate ride up the village street on an ox-sled.
If grandma had thought the girl out of her wits, no one could have blamed her, for on Christmas day she really did behave in the most singular manner.
"You are going to church with me this morning, grandma. It's all arranged. A close carriage is coming for us, the sleighing is lovely, the church all trimmed up, and I must have you see it. I shall wrap you in fur, and we will go and say our prayers together, like good girls, won't we?" said Kate, who was in a queer flutter, while her eyes shone, her lips were all smiles, and her feet kept dancing in spite of her.
"Anywhere you like, my darling. I'd start for Australia to-morrow, if you wanted me to go with you," answered grandma, who obeyed Kate in all things, and seemed to think she could do no wrong.
So they went to church, and grandma did enjoy it; for she had many blessings57 to thank God for, chief among them the treasure of a dutiful, loving child. Kate tried to keep herself quiet, but the odd little flutter would not subside59, and seemed to get worse and worse as time went on. It increased rapidly as they drove home, and, when grandma was safe in her little parlor again, Kate's hands trembled go she could hardly tie the strings60 of the old lady's state and festival cap.
"We must take a look at the big parlor. It is all trimmed up, and I've got my presents in there. Is it ready, Doll?" asked Kate, as the old servant appeared, looking so excited that grandma said, laughing,—
"We have been quiet so long, poor Dolly don't know what to make of a little gayety."
"Lord bless us, my dear mum! It's all so beautiful and kinder surprisin', I feel as ef merrycles had come to pass agin," answered Dolly, actually wiping away tears with her best white apron61.
"Come, grandma," and Kate offered her arm. "Don't she look sweet and dear?" she added, smoothing the soft, silken shawl about the old lady's shoulders, and kissing the placid62 old face that beamed at her from under the new cap.
"I always said madam was the finest old lady a-goin', ef folks only knew it. Now, Missy, ef you don't make haste, that parlor-door will bust63 open, and spoil the surprise; for they are just bilin' over in there," with which mysterious remark Dolly vanished, giggling64.
Across the hall they went, but at the door Kate paused, and said with a look grandma never forgot,—
"I hope I have done right. I hope you'll like my present, and not find it too much for you. At any rate, remember I meant to please you and give you the thing you need and long for most, my dear old grandma."
"My good child, don't be afraid. I shall like any thing you do, and thank you for your thought of me. What a curious noise! I hope the fire hasn't fallen down."
Without another word, Kate threw open the door and led grandma in. Only a step or two—for the old lady stopped short and stared about her, as if she didn't know her own best parlor. No wonder she didn't, for it was full of people, and such people! All her sons, their wives and children, rose as she came in, and turned to greet her with smiling faces. Uncle George went up and kissed her, saying, with a choke in his voice, "A merry Christmas, mother!" and everybody echoed the words in a chorus of good-will that went straight to the heart.
Poor grandma could not bear it, and sat down in her big chair, trembling, and sobbing65 like a little child. Kate hung over her, fearing the surprise had been too much; but joy seldom kills, and presently the old lady was calm enough to look up and welcome them all by stretching out her feeble hands and saying, brokenly yet heartily,—
"God bless you, my children! This is a merry Christmas, indeed! Now tell me all about it, and who everybody is; for I don't know half the little ones."
Then Uncle George explained that it was Kate's plan, and told how she had made every one agree to it, pleading so eloquently66 for grandma that all other plans were given up. They had arrived while she was at church, and had been with difficulty kept from bursting out before the time.
"Do you like your present?" whispered Kate, quite calm and happy now that the grand surprise was safely over.
Grandma answered with a silent kiss that said more than the warmest words, and then Kate put every one at ease by leading up the children, one by one, and introducing each with some lively speech. Everybody enjoyed this and got acquainted quickly; for grandma thought the children the most remarkable67 she had ever seen, and the little people soon made up their minds that an old lady who had such a very nice, big house, and such a dinner waiting for them (of course they had peeped everywhere), was a most desirable and charming grandma.
By the time the first raptures68 were over Dolly and Nurse and Betsey Jane (a girl hired for the occasion) had got dinner on the table; and the procession, headed by Madam proudly escorted by her eldest son, filed into the dining-room where such a party had not met for years.
It would be quite impossible to do justice to that dinner: pen and ink are not equal to it. I can only say that every one partook copiously69 of every thing; that they laughed and talked, told stories, and sang songs; and when no one could do any more, Uncle George proposed grandma's health, which was drunk standing, and followed by three cheers. Then up got the old lady, quite rosy70 and young, excited and gay, and said in a clear strong voice,—
"I give you in return the best of grandchildren, little Kate."
I give you my word the cheer they gave grandma was nothing to the shout that followed these words; for the old lady led off with amazing vigor71, and the boys roared so tremendously that the sedate72 tabby in the kitchen flew off her cushion, nearly frightened into a fit.
After that, the elders sat with grandma in the parlor, while the younger part of the flock trooped after Kate all over the house. Fires burned every where, and the long unused toys of their fathers were brought out for their amusement. The big nursery was full of games, and here Nursey collected the little ones when the larger boys and girls were invited by Kate to go out and coast. Sleds had been provided, and until dusk they kept it up, the city girls getting as gay and rosy as Kate herself in this healthy sport, while the lads frolicked to their hearts' content, building snow forts, pelting73 one another, and carousing74 generally without any policeman to interfere75 or any stupid old ladies to get upset, as at home in the park.
A cosey tea and a dance in the long hall followed, and they were just thinking what they would do next when Kate's second surprise came.
There were two great fireplaces in the hall: up the chimney of one roared a jolly fire, but the other was closed by a tall fire-board. As they sat about, lasting76 after a brisk contra dance, a queer rustling77 and tapping was heard behind this fire-board.
"Rats!" suggested the girls, jumping up into the chairs.
"Let's have 'em out!" added the boys, making straight for the spot, intent on fun.
But before they got there, a muffled78 voice cried, "Stand from under!" and down went the board with a crash, out bounced Santa Claus, startling the lads as much as the rumor79 of rats had the girls.
A jolly old saint he was, all in fur, with sleigh-bells jingling80 from his waist and the point of his high cap, big boots, a white beard, and a nose as red as if Jack5 Frost had had a good tweak at it. Giving himself a shake that set all the bells ringing, he stepped out upon the hearth51, saying in a half-gruff, half-merry tone,—
"I call this a most inhospitable way to receive me! What do you mean by stopping up my favorite chimney? Never mind, I'll forgive you, for this is an unusual occasion. Here, some of you fellows, lend a hand and help me out with my sack."
A dozen pair of hands had the great bag out in a minute, and, lugging81 it to the middle of the hall, left it beside St. Nick, while the boys fell back into the eager, laughing crowd that surrounded the new-comer.
"Where's my girl? I want my Kate," said the saint, and when she went to him he took a base advantage of his years, and kissed her in spite of the beard.
"That's not fair," whispered Kate, as rosy as the holly-berries in her hair.
"Can't help it,—must have some reward for sticking in that horrid82 chimney so long," answered Santa Claus, looking as roguish as any boy. Then he added aloud, "I've got something for everybody, so make a big ring, and the good fairy will hand round the gifts."
With that he dived into his bag and brought out treasure after treasure, some fine, some funny, many useful, and all appropriate, for the good fairy seemed to have guessed what each one wanted. Shouts of laughter greeted the droll83 remarks of the jolly saint, for he had a joke about every thing, and people were quite exhausted84 by the time the bottom of the sack was reached.
"Now, then, a rousing good game of blind man's buff, and then this little family must go to bed, for it's past eleven."
As he spoke85, the saint cast off his cap and beard, fur coat, and big boots, and proceeded to dance a double shuffle86 with great vigor and skill; while the little ones, who had been thoroughly87 mystified, shouted, "Why, it's Alf!" and fell upon him en masse as the best way of expressing their delight at his successful performance of that immortal88 part.
The game of blind man's buff that followed was a "rouser" in every sense of the word, for the gentlemen joined, and the children flew about like a flock of chickens when hawks89 are abroad. Such peals90 of laughter, such shouts of fun, and such racing91 and scrambling92 that old hall had never seen before. Kate was so hunted that she finally took refuge behind grandma's chair, and stood there looking at the lively scene, her face full of happiness at she remembered that it was her work.
The going to bed that night was the best joke of all; for, though Kate's arrangements were peculiar93, every one voted that they were capital. There were many rooms, but not enough for all to have one apiece. So the uncles and aunts had the four big chambers94, all the boys were ordered into the great play-room, where beds were made on the floor, and a great fire blazing that the camping out might be as comfortable as possible. The nursery was devoted to the girls, and the little ones were sprinkled round wherever a snug95 corner was found.
How the riotous96 flock were ever got into their beds no one knows. The lads caroused97 until long past midnight, and no knocking on the walls of paternal98 boots, or whispered entreaties99 of maternal100 voices through key-holes, had any effect, for it was impossible to resist the present advantages for a grand Christmas rampage.
The girls giggled101 and gossiped, told secrets, and laid plans more quietly; while the small things tumbled into bed, and went to sleep at once, quite used up with the festivities of this remarkable day.
Grandma, down in her own cosey room, sat listening to the blithe noises with a smile on her face, for the past seemed to have come back again, and her own boys and girls to be frolicking above there, as they used to do forty years ago.
"It's all so beautiful I can't go to bed, Dolly, and lose any of it. They'll go away to-morrow, and I may never see them any more," she said, as Dolly tied on her night-cap and brought her slippers102.
"Yes, you will, mum. That dear child has made it so pleasant they can't keep away. You'll see plenty of 'em, if they carry out half the plans they have made. Mrs. George wants to come up and pass the summer here; Mr. Tom says he shall send his boys to school here, and every girl among them has promised Kate to make her a long visit. The thing is done, mum, and you'll never be lonely any more."
"Thank God for that!" and grandma bent103 her head as if she had received a great blessing58. "Dolly, I want to go and look at those children. It seems so like a dream to have them here, I must be sure of it," said grandma, folding her wrapper about her, and getting up with great decision.
"Massy on us, mum, you haven't been up them stairs for months. The dears are all right, warm as toasts, and sleepin' like dormice, I'll warrant," answered Dolly, taken aback at this new whim of old madam's.
But grandma would go, so Dolly gave her an arm, and together the two old friends hobbled up the wide stairs, and peeped in at the precious children. The lads looked like a camp of weary warriors104 reposing105 after a victory, and grandma went laughing away when she had taken a proud survey of this promising106 portion of the rising generation. The nursery was like a little convent full of rosy nuns107 sleeping peacefully; while a pictured Saint Agnes, with her lamb, smiled on them from the wall, and the firelight flickered108 over the white figures and sweet faces, as if the sight were too fair to be lost in darkness. The little ones lay about promiscuously109, looking like dissipated Cupids with sugar hearts and faded roses still clutched in their chubby110 hands.
"My darlings!" whispered grandma, lingering fondly over them to cover a pair of rosy feet, put back a pile of tumbled curls, or kiss a little mouth still smiling in its sleep.
But when she came to the coldest corner of the room, where Kate lay on the hardest mattress111, under the thinnest quilt, the old lady's eyes were full of tender tears; and, forgetting the stiff joints112 that bent so painfully, she knelt slowly down, and, putting her arms about the girl, blessed her in silence for the happiness she had given one old heart.
Kate woke at once, and started up, exclaiming with a smile,—
"Why, grandma, I was dreaming about an angel, and you look like one with your white gown and silvery hair!"
"No, dear, you are the angel in this house. How can I ever give you up?" answered madam, holding fast the treasure that came to her so late.
"You never need to, grandma, for I have made my choice."
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1
standing
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| n.持续，地位；adj.永久的，不动的，直立的，不流动的 | |
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virtues
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| 美德( virtue的名词复数 )； 德行； 优点； 长处 | |
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orphan
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| n.孤儿；adj.无父母的 | |
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4
twilight
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| n.暮光，黄昏；暮年，晚期，衰落时期 | |
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jack
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| n.插座，千斤顶，男人；v.抬起，提醒，扛举；n.（Jake）杰克 | |
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6
hush
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| int.嘘，别出声；n.沉默，静寂；v.使安静 | |
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chatter
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| vi.／n.喋喋不休；短促尖叫；(牙齿)打战 | |
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8
poke
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| n.刺，戳，袋；vt.拨开，刺，戳；vi.戳，刺，捅，搜索，伸出，行动散慢 | |
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9
billiards
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| n.台球 | |
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10
improper
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| adj.不适当的，不合适的，不正确的，不合礼仪的 | |
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prop
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| vt.支撑；n.支柱，支撑物；支持者，靠山 | |
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inconvenient
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| adj.不方便的，令人感到麻烦的 | |
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13
candor
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| n.坦白，率真 | |
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14
lame
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| adj.跛的，(辩解、论据等)无说服力的 | |
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vexed
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| adj.争论不休的；（指问题等）棘手的；争论不休的问题；烦恼的v.使烦恼( vex的过去式和过去分词 )；使苦恼；使生气；详细讨论 | |
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16
resolute
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| adj.坚决的，果敢的 | |
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decided
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| adj.决定了的，坚决的；明显的，明确的 | |
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18
worthy
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| adj.(of)值得的，配得上的；有价值的 | |
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19
whim
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| n.一时的兴致，突然的念头；奇想，幻想 | |
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20
eldest
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| adj.最年长的，最年老的 | |
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21
desperately
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| adv.极度渴望地，绝望地，孤注一掷地 | |
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22
caress
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| vt./n.爱抚，抚摸 | |
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23
prettily
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| adv.优美地；可爱地 | |
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24
contentedly
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| adv.心满意足地 | |
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25
longing
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| n.（for）渴望 | |
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26
solitary
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| adj.孤独的，独立的，荒凉的；n.隐士 | |
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hospitable
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| adj.好客的；宽容的；有利的，适宜的 | |
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28
orchard
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| n.果园，果园里的全部果树，(美俚)棒球场 | |
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29
perked
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| （使）活跃( perk的过去式和过去分词 )； （使）增值； 使更有趣 | |
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30
pensive
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| a.沉思的,哀思的,忧沉的 | |
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31
droop
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| v.低垂，下垂；凋萎，萎靡 | |
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32
trotted
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| 小跑，急走( trot的过去分词 )； 匆匆忙忙地走 | |
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33
delightful
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| adj.令人高兴的，使人快乐的 | |
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34
chattering
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| n. （机器振动发出的）咔嗒声，(鸟等)鸣，啁啾 adj. 喋喋不休的，啾啾声的 动词chatter的现在分词形式 | |
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35
blithe
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| adj.快乐的，无忧无虑的 | |
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36
shutters
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| 百叶窗( shutter的名词复数 )； （照相机的）快门 | |
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37
wheezed
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| v.喘息，发出呼哧呼哧的喘息声( wheeze的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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38
tune
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| n.调子；和谐，协调；v.调音，调节，调整 | |
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39
pranced
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| v.（马）腾跃( prance的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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40
quaint
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| adj.古雅的，离奇有趣的，奇怪的 | |
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41
wigs
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| n.假发，法官帽( wig的名词复数 ) | |
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42
parlor
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| n.店铺，营业室；会客室，客厅 | |
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43
hovered
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| 鸟( hover的过去式和过去分词 )； 靠近（某事物）； （人）徘徊； 犹豫 | |
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44
reverence
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| n.敬畏，尊敬，尊严；Reverence:对某些基督教神职人员的尊称；v.尊敬，敬畏，崇敬 | |
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45
obedience
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| n.服从，顺从 | |
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46
devoted
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| adj.忠诚的，忠实的，热心的，献身于...的 | |
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47
parlors
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| 客厅( parlor的名词复数 )； 起居室； （旅馆中的）休息室； （通常用来构成合成词）店 | |
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48
holly
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| n.[植]冬青属灌木 | |
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49
evergreen
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| n.常青树；adj.四季常青的 | |
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50
kindling
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| n. 点火, 可燃物 动词kindle的现在分词形式 | |
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51
hearth
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| n.壁炉炉床，壁炉地面 | |
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52
hearths
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| 壁炉前的地板，炉床，壁炉边( hearth的名词复数 ) | |
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53
sniff
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| vi.嗅…味道；抽鼻涕；对嗤之以鼻，蔑视 | |
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54
revels
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| n.作乐( revel的名词复数 )；狂欢；着迷；陶醉v.作乐( revel的第三人称单数 )；狂欢；着迷；陶醉 | |
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55
rapture
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| n.狂喜；全神贯注；着迷；v.使狂喜 | |
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56
ravaged
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| 毁坏( ravage的过去式和过去分词 )； 蹂躏； 劫掠； 抢劫 | |
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57
blessings
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| n.（上帝的）祝福( blessing的名词复数 )；好事；福分；因祸得福 | |
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58
blessing
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| n.祈神赐福；祷告；祝福，祝愿 | |
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59
subside
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| vi.平静，平息；下沉，塌陷，沉降 | |
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60
strings
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| n.弦 | |
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61
apron
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| n.围裙；工作裙 | |
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62
placid
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| adj.安静的，平和的 | |
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63
bust
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| vt.打破；vi.爆裂；n.半身像；胸部 | |
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64
giggling
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| v.咯咯地笑( giggle的现在分词 ) | |
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65
sobbing
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| <主方>Ⅰ adj.湿透的 | |
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66
eloquently
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| adv. 雄辩地(有口才地, 富于表情地) | |
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67
remarkable
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| adj.显著的，异常的，非凡的，值得注意的 | |
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68
raptures
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| 极度欢喜( rapture的名词复数 ) | |
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69
copiously
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| adv.丰富地，充裕地 | |
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70
rosy
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| adj.美好的，乐观的，玫瑰色的 | |
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71
vigor
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| n.活力，精力，元气 | |
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72
sedate
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| adj.沉着的，镇静的，安静的 | |
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73
pelting
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| 微不足道的，无价值的，盛怒的 | |
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74
carousing
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| v.痛饮，闹饮欢宴( carouse的现在分词 ) | |
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75
interfere
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| v.(in)干涉，干预；(with)妨碍，打扰 | |
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76
lasting
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| adj.永久的，永恒的；vbl.持续，维持 | |
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77
rustling
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| n. 瑟瑟声，沙沙声 adj. 发沙沙声的 | |
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78
muffled
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| adj.（声音）被隔的；听不太清的；（衣服）裹严的；蒙住的v.压抑，捂住( muffle的过去式和过去分词 )；用厚厚的衣帽包着（自己） | |
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79
rumor
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| n.谣言，谣传，传说 | |
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80
jingling
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| 叮当声 | |
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81
lugging
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| 超载运转能力 | |
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82
horrid
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| adj.可怕的；令人惊恐的；恐怖的；极讨厌的 | |
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83
droll
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| adj.古怪的，好笑的 | |
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84
exhausted
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| adj.极其疲惫的，精疲力尽的 | |
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85
spoke
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| n.（车轮的）辐条；轮辐；破坏某人的计划；阻挠某人的行动 v.讲，谈（speak的过去式）；说；演说；从某种观点来说 | |
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86
shuffle
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| n.拖著脚走，洗纸牌；v.拖曳，慢吞吞地走 | |
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87
thoroughly
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| adv.完全地，彻底地，十足地 | |
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88
immortal
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| adj.不朽的；永生的，不死的；神的 | |
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89
hawks
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| 鹰( hawk的名词复数 )； 鹰派人物，主战派人物 | |
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90
peals
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| n.（声音大而持续或重复的）洪亮的响声( peal的名词复数 )；隆隆声；洪亮的钟声；钟乐v.（使）（钟等）鸣响，（雷等）发出隆隆声( peal的第三人称单数 ) | |
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91
racing
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| n.竞赛，赛马；adj.竞赛用的，赛马用的 | |
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92
scrambling
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| v.快速爬行( scramble的现在分词 )；攀登；争夺；（军事飞机）紧急起飞 | |
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93
peculiar
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| adj.古怪的，异常的；特殊的，特有的 | |
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94
chambers
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| n.房间( chamber的名词复数 )；（议会的）议院；卧室；会议厅 | |
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95
snug
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| adj.温暖舒适的，合身的，安全的；v.使整洁干净，舒适地依靠，紧贴；n.（英）酒吧里的私房 | |
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96
riotous
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| adj.骚乱的；狂欢的 | |
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97
caroused
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| v.痛饮，闹饮欢宴( carouse的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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98
paternal
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| adj.父亲的，像父亲的，父系的，父方的 | |
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99
entreaties
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| n.恳求，乞求( entreaty的名词复数 ) | |
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100
maternal
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| adj.母亲的，母亲般的，母系的，母方的 | |
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101
giggled
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| v.咯咯地笑( giggle的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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102
slippers
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| n. 拖鞋 | |
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103
bent
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| n.爱好，癖好；adj.弯的；决心的，一心的 | |
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104
warriors
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| 武士，勇士，战士( warrior的名词复数 ) | |
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105
reposing
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| v.将（手臂等）靠在某人（某物）上( repose的现在分词 ) | |
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106
promising
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| adj.有希望的，有前途的 | |
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107
nuns
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| n.（通常指基督教的）修女， （佛教的）尼姑( nun的名词复数 ) | |
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108
flickered
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| （通常指灯光）闪烁，摇曳( flicker的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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109
promiscuously
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| adv.杂乱地，混杂地 | |
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110
chubby
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| adj.丰满的，圆胖的 | |
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111
mattress
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| n.床垫，床褥 | |
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112
joints
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| 接头( joint的名词复数 )； 关节； 公共场所（尤指价格低廉的饮食和娱乐场所） （非正式）； 一块烤肉 （英式英语） | |
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