One of the ladies was very thin, one very stout1, and the youngest very pretty. The eldest2 put on her glasses, the stout one dropped her sewing, and the pretty one exclaimed,—
“Why, it must be little Rosamond!”
“Yes, I've come; the man is taking my trunk upstairs, and I've got a letter for Cousin Penelope,” said the child, with the sweet composure of one always sure of a welcome.
The stout lady held out her hand for the letter; but the little girl, after a keen look at the three faces, went to the old lady, who received her with a kiss, saying,—
“That's right; but how did you know, dear?”
“Oh, Papa said Cousin Penny is old, Cousin Henny fat, and Cousin Cicely rather pretty; so I knew in one minute,” replied Rosamond, in a tone of innocent satisfaction at her own cleverness, and quite unconscious of the effect of her speech.
Miss Penelope hastily retired3 behind the letter. Miss Henrietta frowned so heavily that the gold-rimmed eye-glasses flew off her nose with a clash, and Cicely laughed outright4, as she exclaimed,—
“I'm afraid we have got an enfant terrible among us, though I can't complain of my share of the compliments.”
“I never expected to find Clara's child well mannered, and I see I was quite right. Take your hat off, Rosamond, and sit down. It tires Sister to lean on her in that way,” said Miss Henny in a severe tone, with no offer of any warmer welcome.
Seeing that something was amiss, the child quietly obeyed, and perching herself in an ancient arm-chair crossed her short legs, folded her plump hands over the diminutive6 travelling-bag she carried, and sat looking about the room with a pair of very large blue eyes, quite unabashed, though rather pensive7, as if the memory of some tender parting were still fresh in her little heart.
While Miss Penny slowly reads the letter, Miss Henny works daisies on a bit of canvas with pettish8 jerks of her silk, and Miss Cicely leans in the sofa-corner, staring at the newcomer, we will briefly9 introduce our small heroine. Her father was cousin to the elder ladies, and being called suddenly across the water on business, took his wife with him, leaving the little girl to the care of these relatives, thinking her too young for so long a journey. Cicely, an orphan10 niece who lived with the old ladies, was to have the care of Rosy11; and a summer in the quiet country town would do her good, while change of scene would console her for this first separation from her mother. How she fared remains12 to be seen; and we need only add that the child had been well trained, made the companion of a sweet and tender woman, and was very anxious to please the parents whom she passionately13 loved, by keeping the promises she had made them, and being “as brave as Papa, as patient and kind as dear Mamma.”
“Well, what do you think of it, Missy?” asked Cicely, as the blue eyes came back to her, after roving round the spacious15, old-fashioned, and rather gloomy room.
“It's a pretty large, dark place for a little girl to be all alone in;” and there was a suspicious quiver in the childish voice, as Rosy opened her bag to produce a very small handkerchief, evidently feeling that she might have sudden need of it if some one did not speak to her very soon.
“We keep it dark on account of Sister's eyes. When I was a little girl, it wasn't considered polite to say rude things about other people's houses, especially if they were very handsome ones,” said Miss Henny, with a stern glance over the eye-glasses at the young offender16, whose second remark was even more unfortunate than her first.
“I didn't mean to be rude, but I MUST tell the truth. Little girls like bright places. I'm sorry about Cousin Penny's eyes. I will read to her; I do to Mamma, and she says it is very well for a child only eight years old.”
The gentle answer and the full eyes seemed to calm Miss Henny's wrath17, for her size was her tender point, and the old house her especial pride; so she dropped the awe-inspiring glasses, and said more kindly18,—
“There is a nice little room ready for you upstairs, and a garden to play in. Cicely will hear you read every day, and I will teach you to sew, for of course that MOST useful part of your education has been neglected.”
“No, ma'am, I sew my four patches every day, and make little wee stitches, and I can hem14 Papa's hank'chifs, and I was learning to darn his socks with a big needle when—when they went away.”
Rosy paused with a sudden choke; but too proud to break down, she only wiped two drops off her cheek with the long ends of her little gray silk glove, set her lips, and remained mistress of herself, privately19 planning to cry all she liked when she was safely in the “nice little room” promised her.
Cicely, though a lazy, selfish young lady, was touched by the child's pathetic face, and said in a friendly tone, as she patted the couch where she lay,—
“Come here, dear, and sit by me, and tell me what kind of a kitten you'd like best. I know of a sweet yellow one, and two grays. Our Tabby is too old to play with you; so you will want a kitty, I'm sure.”
“Oh yes, if I may!” and Rosy skipped to the new seat with a smile which plainly proved that this sort of welcome was just what she liked.
“Now, Cicely, why will you put such an idea into Rosamond's head when you know we can't have kittens round the house for Sister to stumble over, not to mention the mischief20 the horrid21 things always do? Tabby is all the child needs, with her doll. Of course you have a doll?” and Miss Henny asked the question as solemnly as if she had said, “Have you a soul?”
“Oh yes, I have nine in my trunk, and two little ones in my bag, and Mamma is going to send me a big, big one from London, as soon as she gets there, to sleep with me and be my little comfort,” cried Rosy, rapidly producing from her bag a tiny bride and groom22, three seed-cakes, a smelling-bottle, and a purse out of which fell a shower of bright cents, also crumbs23 all over the immaculate carpet.
“Mercy on us, what a mess! Pick it all up, child, and don't unpack24 any more in the parlor25. One doll is quite enough for me,” said Miss Henny, with a sigh of resignation as if asking patience to bear this new calamity26.
Rosy echoed the sigh as she crept about reclaiming27 her precious pennies, and eating the crumbs as the only way of disposing of them.
“Never mind, it's only her way; the heat makes her a little cross, you see,” whispered Cicely, bending down to hold the bag, into which Rosy bundled her treasures in hot haste.
“I thought fat people were always pleasant. I'm glad YOU ain't fat,” answered the little girl, in a tone which was perfectly28 audible.
What would have happened I tremble to think, if Miss Penny had not finished the letter at that moment and handed it to her sister, saying as she held out her arms to the child,—
“Now I know all about it, and you are to be my baby; so come and give me some sweet kisses, darling.”
Down dropped the bag, and with a little sob29 of joy the child nestled close to the kind old heart that welcomed her so tenderly at last.
“Papa calls me his button-rose, 'cause I'm so small and pink and sweet, and thorny30 too sometimes,” she said, looking up brightly, after a few moments of the fond and foolish cuddling all little creatures love and need so much when they leave the nest, and miss the brooding of motherly wings.
“We'll call you anything you like, darling; but Rosamond is a pretty old name, and I'm fond of it, for it was your grandmamma's, and a sweeter woman never lived,” said Miss Penny, stroking the fresh cheeks, where the tears shone like dew on pink rose-leaves.
“I shall call you Chicken Little, because we have Henny and Penny; and the girls and Tab downstairs can be Goosey-Loosey, Turkey-Lurkey, and Cocky-Locky. I'll be Ducky-Lucky, and I'm sure Foxy-Loxy lives next door,” said Cicely, laughing at her own wit, while Miss Henny looked up, saying, with the first smile Rosy had seen,—
“That's true enough! and I hope Chicken Little will keep out of his way, no matter if the sky does fall.”
“Who is it? A truly fox? I never saw one. Could I peep at him sometimes?” cried the child, much interested at once.
“No, dear; it's only a neighbor of ours who has treated us badly, at least we think so, and we don't speak, though we used to be good friends some years ago. It's sad to live so, but we don't quite see how to help it yet. We are ready to do our part; but Mr. Dover should take the first step, as he was in the wrong.”
“Please tell about it. I have horrid quarrels with Mamie Parsons sometimes, but we always kiss and make up, and feel all happy again. Can't you, Cousin Penny?” asked the child, softly touching31 the little white curls under the lace cap.
“Well, no, dear; grown people cannot settle differences in that pretty way. We must wait till he apologizes, and then we shall gladly be friends again. You see Mr. Dover was a missionary32 in India for many years, and we were very intimate with his mother. Our gardens join, and a gate in our fence led across their field to the back street, and was most convenient when we wanted to walk by the river or send the maids on errands in a hurry. The old lady was very neighborly, and we were quite comfortable till Thomas came home and made trouble. He'd lost his wife and children, poor man, and his liver was out of order, and living among the heathen so long had made him melancholy33 and queer; so he tried to amuse himself with gardening and keeping hens.”
“I'm glad! I love flowers and biddies,” murmured Rosy, listening with deep interest to this delightful34 mixture of quarrels and heathen, sorrow, poultry35, mysterious diseases, and gardens.
“He had no right to shut up our gate and forbid our crossing that little field, and no GENTLEMAN would have DARED to do it after all our kindness to his mother,” exclaimed Miss Henny, so suddenly and violently that Rosamond nearly fell off the old lady's lap with the start she gave.
“No, sister, I don't agree there. Mr. Thomas had a perfect RIGHT to do as he liked with his own land; but I think we should have had no trouble if you had been willing to sell him the corner of our garden where the old summer-house is, for his hens,” began Miss Penny in a mild tone.
“Sister! you know the tender memories connected with that bower36, and how terrible it would have been to ME to see it torn down, and noisy fowls38 clucking and pecking where I and my poor Calvin once sat together,” cried Miss Henny, trying to look sentimental39, which was an impossible feat40 for a stout lady in a flowery muslin gown, and a fly-away cap full of blue ribbons, on a head once flaxen and now gray.
“We won't discuss the point, Henrietta,” said the elder lady with dignity; whereupon the other returned to the letter, bridling41 and tossing her head in a way which caused Rosy to stare, and resolve to imitate it when she played being a proud princess with her dolls.
“Well, dear, that was the beginning of the trouble,” continued Miss Penny; “and now we don't speak, and the old lady misses us, I'm sure, and I often long to run in and see her, and I'm so sorry you can't enjoy the wonders of that house, for it's full of beautiful and curious things, most instructive for children to observe. Mr. Thomas has been a great traveller, and has a tiger skin in the parlor so natural it's quite startling to behold42; also spears, and bows and arrows, and necklaces of shark's teeth, from the Cannibal Islands, and the loveliest stuffed birds, my dear, all over the place, and pretty shells and baskets, and ivory toys, and odd dresses, and no end of wonderful treasures. Such a sad pity you can't see them!” and Miss Penny looked quite distressed43 at the child's loss.
“Oh, but I guess I will see 'em! Every one is good to me, and old gentlemen like little girls. Papa says so, and HE always does what I want when I say 'Please' with my wheedulin smile, as he calls it,” said Rosy, giving them a sample of the most engaging sort.
“You funny little thing, do try it, and soften44 the heart of that tiresome45 man! He has the finest roses in town and the most delicious fruit, and we never get any, though he sends quantities everywhere else. Such a fuss over an old ear-wiggy arbor46! It is perfectly provoking, when we might enjoy so much over there; and who knows what might happen!”
As Cicely spoke47, she smoothed her brown curls and glanced at the mirror, quite conscious that a very pretty young lady of twenty was wasting her sweetness in the great gloomy house, with two elderly spinsters.
“I'll get some for you,” answered Rosy, with a nod of such calm conviction of her own power, that Cicely laughed again, and proposed that she should go at once and view the battle-field.
“Could I RUN in the garden? I'd love to, after riding so long,” asked Rosy, eager to be off; for her active legs ached for exercise, and the close, shady room oppressed her.
“Yes, dear; but don't get into mischief, or worry Tabby, or pick the flowers. Of course you wouldn't touch green fruit, or climb trees, or soil your little frock. I'll ring the bell for you to come in and be dressed for tea when it is time.”
With these directions and a kiss, Miss Penny, as Cicely did not stir, let the child out at the back door of the long hall, and watched her walk demurely48 down the main path of the prim49 old garden, where no child had played for years, and even the toads50 and fat robins51 behaved in the most decorous manner.
“It's pretty dull, but it's better than the parlor with all the staring pictures,” said Rosy to herself, after a voyage of discovery had shown her the few charms of the place. The sight of a large yellow cat reposing52 in the sun cheered her eyes at that moment, and she hastened to scrape acquaintance with the stately animal; for the snails54 were not social, and the toads stared even more fixedly56 at her than the painted eyes of her respected ancestors.
But Tabby disliked children as much as her mistress, and after submitting ungraciously to a few caresses57 from the eager little hands, she rose and retired majestically59 to a safer perch5 on the top of the high wall which enclosed the garden. Being too lazy to jump, she walked up the shelves of an old flower-stand moulding in a corner, and by so doing, gave Rosy a brilliant idea, which she at once put into action by following Tabby's example. Up this new sort of ladder she went, and peeped over the wall, delighted at this unexpected chance to behold the enemy's territory.
“Oh, what a pretty place!” she cried, clasping her grubby little hands with rapture60, as the beauties of the forbidden land burst upon her view.
It was indeed a paradise to a child's eyes,—for flowers bloomed along the winding61 paths; ripening62 fruit lay rosy and tempting63 in the beds below; behind the wire walls that confined them clucked and strutted64 various sorts of poultry; cages of gay birds hung on the piazza65; and through the open windows of the house one caught glimpses of curious curtains, bright weapons, and mysterious objects in the rooms beyond.
A gray-headed gentleman in a queer nankeen coat lay asleep on a bamboo lounge under the great cherry-tree, with a purple silk handkerchief half over his face.
“That's the missionary man, I s'pose. He doesn't look cross at all. If I could only get down there, I'd go and wake him with a softly kiss, as I do Papa, and ask to see his pretty things.”
Being quite unconscious of fear, Rosy certainly would have carried out her daring plan, had it been possible; but no way of descending66 on the other side appeared, so she sighed and sat gazing wistfully, till Cousin Henny appeared for a breath of fresh air, and ordered her down at once.
“Come and see if my balsam-seeds have started yet. I keep planting them, but they WON'T come up,” she said, pointing out a mound67 of earth newly dug and watered.
Rosy obediently scrambled68 up, and was trying to decide whether some green sprouts69 were chickweed or the dilatory70 balsams when a sudden uproar71 in the next garden made her stop to listen, while Miss Henny said in a tone of great satisfaction, as the cackle of hens arose,—
“Some trouble with those horrid fowls of his. I detest72 them, crowing in the night, and waking us at dawn with their noise. I wish some thief would steal every one of them. Nobody has a right to annoy their neighbors with troublesome pets.”
Before Rosy could describe the beauties of the white bantams or the size of the big golden cock, a loud voice cried,—
“You rascal73! I'll hang you if I catch you here again. Go home quicker than you came, and tell your mistress to teach you better manners, if she values your life.”
“It's that man! Such language! I wonder who he's caught? That bad boy who steals our plums, perhaps.”
The words were hardly out of Miss Henny's mouth when her question was answered in a sudden and dreadful way; for over the wall, hurled75 by a strong arm, flew Tabby, high in the air, to fall with a thump76 directly in the middle of the bed where they stood. Miss Henny uttered a shrill77 scream, caught up her stunned78 treasure, and rushed into the house as fast as her size and flounces permitted, leaving Rosy breathless with surprise and indignation.
Burning to resent this terrible outrage79, she climbed quickly up the steps, and astonished the irate80 old gentleman on the other side by the sudden apparition81 of a golden head, a red childish face, and a dirty little finger pointed82 sternly at him, as this small avenging83 angel demanded,—
“Missionary man, how COULD you kill my cousin's cat?”
“Bless my soul! who are you?” said the old gentleman, staring at this unexpected actor on the field of battle.
“I'm Button-Rose, and I hate cruel people! Tabby's dead, and now there isn't any one to play with over here.”
This sad prospect84 made the blue eyes fill with sudden tears; and the application of the dirty fingers added streaks85 of mud to the red cheeks, which much damaged the appearance of the angel, thought it added pathos86 to the child's reproach.
“Cats have nine lives, and Tabby's used to being chucked over the wall. I've done it several times, and it seems to agree with her, for she comes back to kill my chicks as bold as brass87. See that!” and the old gentleman held up a downy dead chicken, as proof of Tabby's sin.
“Poor little chicky!” groaned88 Rosy, yearning89 to mourn over the dear departed and bury it with tender care. “It WAS very naughty of Tab; but, sir, you know cats are made to catch things, and they can't help it.”
“They will have to help it, or I'll drown the lot. This is a rare breed, and I've but two left after all my trouble, thanks to that rascal of yours! What are you going to do about it?” demanded Mr. Dover, in a tone that made Rosy feel as if she had committed the murder herself.
“I'll talk to Tabby and try to make her good, and I'll shut her up in the old rabbit-house over here; then I hope she will be sorry and never do it any more,” she said, in such a remorseful91 tone that the old gentleman relented at once, ashamed to afflict92 such a tender little soul.
“Try it,” he said, with a smile that made his yellow face pleasant all at once. Then, as if ready to change the subject, he asked, looking curiously93 at the little figure perched on the wall,—
“Where did you come from? Never saw any children over there before. They don't allow 'em.”
Rosy introduced herself in a few words, and seeing that her new acquaintance seemed interested, she added with the wheedling94 smile Papa found so engaging,—
“It's pretty lonely here, I guess; so p'r'aps you'll let me peep at your nice garden sometimes if it doesn't trouble you, sir?”
“Poor little soul! it must be desperately95 dull with those three tabbies,” he said to himself, as he stroked the dead chicken in his hand, and watched the little face bent96 toward him.
“Peep as much as you like, child; or, better still, come over and run about. I like little girls,” he added aloud, with a nod and a wave of welcome.
“I told 'em I was sure you did! I'd love to come, but they wouldn't let me, I know. I'm so sorry about the fight. Couldn't you make it up, and be pleasant again?” asked Rosy, clasping her hands with a beseeching97 gesture as her bright face grew sad and serious remembering the feud98.
“So they've told you that nonsense already, have they? Nice neighbors THEY are,” said the old gentleman, frowning as if ill pleased at the news.
“I'm glad I know; p'r'aps I can be a peace-maker. Mamma says they are good to have in families, and I'd like to be one if I could. Would you mind if I tried to peace-make a little, so I could come over? I do want to see the red birds and the tiger skin awfully99, if you please.”
“What do you know about 'em?” asked the old gentleman, sitting down on a garden chair, as if he didn't mind continuing the chat with this new neighbor.
Nearly tumbling off the wall in her earnestness, Rosy repeated all that Cousin Penny had said; and something in the reasonable words, the flattering description of his treasures, and the sincere regret of the old lady seemed to have a good effect upon Mr. Dover, for when Rosy paused out of breath, he said in such an altered tone that it was evident the peacemaking had already begun,—
“Miss Carey is a gentlewoman! I always thought so. You tell her, with my compliments, that I'd be glad to see you any time if she has no objection. I'll put my step-ladder there, and you can come over instead of the cat. But mind you don't meddle100, or I might give you a toss like Tabby.”
“I'm not afraid,” laughed Rosy. “I'll go and ask right away, and I won't touch a thing, and I know you'll like me for a friend. Papa says I'm a dear little one. Thank you very much, sir. Good-by till I come again;” and with a kiss of the hand, the yellow head sunk out of sight like the sun going down, leaving a sense of darkness behind when the beaming little face disappeared, though fresh stains of green mould from the wall made it rather like the tattooed101 countenances102 Mr. Dover used to see among his cannibal friends in Africa.
He sat musing103 with the dead chicken in his hand, forgetful of time, till a ring of his own door-bell called him in to receive a note from Miss Penelope, thanking him for his invitation to little Rosamond, but declining it in the most polite and formal words.
“I expected it! Bless the silly old souls! why can't they be reasonable, and accept the olive branch when I offer it? I'll be hanged if I do again! The fat one is at the bottom of this. Miss Pen would give in if that absurd Henrietta didn't hold her back. Well, I'm sorry for the child, but that's not my fault;” and throwing down the note, he went out to water his roses.
For a week or two, Button-Rose hardly dared glance toward the forbidden spot from her window, as she was ordered to play in the front garden, and sent to take sober walks with Cicely, who loved to stop and gossip with her friends, while the poor child waited patiently till the long tales were told.
Nursing Tabby was her chief consolation104; and so kind was she, that the heart of the old cat softened105 to her, and she actually purred her thanks at last, for all the saucers of cream, bits of chicken, soft pats, and tender words bestowed106 upon her by the little girl.
“Well, I declare! Tab won't do that even for me,” said Miss Henny, one day when she came upon the child sitting alone in the hall with a picture-book and the cat comfortably asleep in her lap.
“Ammals always love me, if people don't,” answered Button-Rose, soberly; for she had not yet forgiven the stout lady for denying her the delights offered by the “missionary man.”
“That's because AN-I-MALS can't see how naughty you are sometimes,” said Miss Henny tartly107, not having recovered her temper even after many days.
“I shall make EVERY one love me before I go away. Mamma told me to, and I shall. I know how;” and Button smiled with a wise little nod that was pretty to see, as she proudly cuddled her first conquest.
“We shall see;” and Miss Henny ponderously108 departed, wondering what odd fancy the little thing would take into her head next.
It was soon evident; for when she came down from her long nap, later in the afternoon, Miss Henny found Rosamond reading aloud to her sister in the great dim parlor. They made a curious contrast,—the pale, white-haired, feeble old lady, with her prim dress, high cap, knitting, and shaded eyes; and the child, rosy and round, quaint53 and sweet, a pretty little ornament109 for the old-fashioned room, as she sat among the tea-poys and samplers, ancient china and furniture, with the portraits of great grandfathers and grandmothers simpering and staring at her, as if pleased and surprised to see such a charming little descendant among them.
“I'm reading to Cousin Penny, 'cause no one else does, and her poor eyes hurt her, and she likes stories, and so do I,” answered Button, with one chubby111 finger on the place in her book, and eyes full of pride at the grown-up employment she had found for herself.
“So kind of the little dear! She found me alone and wanted to amuse me; so I proposed a story to suit us both, and she does very well with a little help now and then. I haven't read 'Simple Susan' for years, and really enjoy it. Maria Edgeworth was always a favorite of mine, and I still think her far superior to any modern writer for the young,” said Miss Penny, looking quite animated112 and happy in the new entertainment provided for her.
“Go on, child; let me hear how well you can read;” and Miss Henny settled herself in the sofa-corner with her embroidery113.
So Button started bravely on, and tried so hard that she was soon out of breath. As she paused, she said with a gasp,—
“Isn't Susan a dear girl? She gives ALL the best things to other people, and is kind to the old harper. She didn't send him away, as you did the music-man to-day, and tell him to be still.”
“Organs are a nuisance, and I never allow them here. Go on, and don't criticise114 your elders, Rosamond.”
“Mamma and I always talk over stories, and pick out the morals of 'em. SHE likes it;” with which remark, made sweetly not pertly, Button went on to the end, with an occasional lift over a long word; and the old ladies were interested, in spite of themselves, in the simple tale read in that childish voice.
“Thank you, dear, it is very nice, and we will have one every day. Now, what can I do for you?” asked Miss Penny, as the little girl pushed the curls off her forehead, with a sigh of mingled115 weariness and satisfaction.
“Let me go in the back garden and peep through the knot-hole at the pretty roses. I do long to see if the moss116 ones are out, and the cherries ripe,” said Rosy, clasping her hands imploringly117.
“It can do no harm, Henrietta. Yes, dear, run away and get some catnip for Tabby, and see if the balsams are up yet.”
That last suggestion won Miss Henny's consent; and Button was off at once, skipping like a young colt all over the garden, which now seemed delightful to her.
At the back of the summer-house was a narrow space between it and the fence where certain plump toads lived; peeping in to watch them, Rosy had spied a large knot-hole in the old boards, and through it found she could get a fine view of several rose-bushes, a tree, and one window of the “missionary man's” house. She had longed for another peep since the flower-stand was gone, and climbing trees forbidden; now with joy she slipped into the damp nook, regardless of the speckled gentlemen who stared at her with dismay, and took a good look at the forbidden paradise beyond.
Yes, the “moss ones” were in bloom, the cherries quite red, and at the window was the gray head of Mr. Dover, as he sat reading in his queer yellow dressing-gown.
Button yearned118 to get in, and leaned so hard against the hateful fence that the rotten board cracked, a long bit fell out, and she nearly went after it, as it dropped upon the green bank below. Now the full splendor119 of the roses burst upon her, and a delightful gooseberry bush stood close by with purplish berries temptingly bobbing within reach. This obliging bush hid the hole, but left fine openings to see through; so the child popped her curly head out, and gazed delightedly at the chickens, the flowers, the fruit, and the unconscious old gentleman not far away.
“I'll have it for my secret; or maybe I'll tell Cousin Penny, and beg her to let me peep if I truly promise never to go in,” thought Button, knowing well who her best friend was.
At bedtime, when the dear old lady came to give the good-night kiss, which the others forgot, Rosy, as Miss Penny called her, made her request; and it was granted, for Miss Penny had a feeling that the little peacemaker would sooner or later heal the breach120 with her pretty magic, and so she was very ready to lend a hand in a quiet way.
Next day at play-time, Button was hurrying down her last bit of gingerbread, which she was obliged to eat properly in the dining-room, instead of enjoying out-of-doors, when she heard a sudden flurry in the garden, and running to the window saw Roxy the maid chasing a chicken to and fro, while Miss Henny stood flapping her skirts on the steps, and crying, “Shoo!” till she was red in the face.
“It's the white banty, and it must have come in my hole! Oh dear, I hope they won't catch it! Cousin Henny said she'd wring121 the neck of the first one that flied over the wall.”
Away went Rosy, to join in the hunt; for Miss Henny was too fat to run, and Roxy found the lively fowl37 too much for her. It was a long and hard chase; feathers flew, the maid lost her breath, Rosy tumbled down, and Miss Henny screamed and scolded till she was forced to sit down and watch in silence.
At last poor, hunted Banty ran into the arbor, for its clipped wings would not lift it over the wall. Button rushed after it, and dismal122 squalls plainly proclaimed that the naughty chicken was caught.
Miss Henny waddled123 down the path, declaring that she WOULD wring its neck; and Roxy went puffing124 after her, glad to rest. But the old summer-house was empty. No little girl, no ruffled125 bantam, appeared. Both had vanished like magic; and mistress and maid stared at each other in amazement126, till they saw that the long-disused window was open, and a gleam of light came in from the narrow opening behind.
“My patience! if that child hasn't crept out there, and bolted through that hole in the fence! Did you ever, Miss?” exclaimed Roxy, trying not to look pleased at being spared the distasteful task of killing127 the poor chicken.
“Naughty girl!” began Miss Henny, when the sound of voices made both listen. “Slip in there, and see what is going on,” said the mistress, well knowing that her stout person never could be squeezed into the small space between house and fence.
Roxy, being thin, easily obeyed, and in a whisper telephoned what went on beyond the hole, causing Miss Henny much vexation, surprise, and at last real pleasure, as the child performed her little part in the mission she had undertaken.
“Oh, please, it's all my fault! I kept the hole open, Mr. Thomas, and so Banty flied in. But it isn't hurt a bit, and I've brought it home all safe, 'cause I know you love your chickies, and Tabby ate lots of 'em,” said the childish voice in its most conciliatory tone.
“Why didn't you fling it over the wall, as I did the cat?” asked Mr. Dover, smiling, as he shut up the truant128 fowl, and turned to look at the rosy, breathless child, whose pink frock bore the marks of many a tumble on grass and gravel129.
“It would hurt Banty's feelings, and yours too, and not be polite. So I came myself, to make some pollygies, and say it was my fault. But, please, could I keep the hole to peep through, if I always put up a board when I go away? It is so dull in there, and SO sweet in here!”
“Don't you think a little gate would be nicer,—one just big enough for you, with a hook to fasten it? We'll call it a button-hole,” laughed Mr. Dover. “Then you could peep; or perhaps the ladies will think better of it, and show that they pardon my ill treatment of Tabby by letting you come in and pick some cherries and roses now and then.”
This charming proposal caused the little girl to clasp her hands and cry aloud,—
“That would be perfully sp'endid! I know Cousin Penny would like it, and let me. P'r'aps she'd come herself; she's so thin, she could, and she loves your mother and wants to see her. Only, Cousin Henny won't let us be nice and friendly. S'pose you send HER some cherries; she loves good things to eat, and maybe she will say yes, if you send lots.”
Mr. Dover laughed at this artless proposal, and Miss Henny smiled at the prospect of a gift of the luscious130 black-heart cherries she had been longing131 for. Roxy wisely repeated only the agreeable parts of the conversation; so nothing ruffled the lady's temper. Now, whether Mr. Dover's sharp eye caught a glimpse of the face among the gooseberry bushes, and suspected eavesdroppers, or whether the child's earnest desire to make peace touched him, who shall say? Certain it is that his eyes twinkled like a boy's, as he said rather loudly, in his most affable tone,—
“I shall be most happy to send Miss Henrietta a basket of fruit. She used to be a charming young woman. It's a pity she shuts herself up so much; but that sad little romance of hers has darkened her life, I suppose. Ah, well, I can sympathize with her!”
Rosy stared at the sudden change in his manner, and was rather bewildered by his grown-up way of talking to her. But being intent on securing something nice to carry home, she stuck to the cherries, which she DID understand, and pointing to the piazza said with a business-like air,—
“There's a basket; so we might pick 'em right away. I love to go up in trees and throw 'em down; and I know Cousin Henny will like cherries ever so much, and not scold a bit when I take some to her.”
“Then come on,” cried Mr. Thomas, relapsing into the hearty132 manner she liked so much; and away he went, quite briskly, down the path, with his yellow skirts waving in the wind, and Button skipping after him in great glee.
“They actually ARE a-picking cherries, Miss, up in the tree like a couple of robins a-chirpin' and laughin' as gay as can be,” reported Roxy, from her peep-hole.
“Rip off the rest of that board, then I can see,” whispered Miss Henny, quivering with interest now; for she had heard Mr. Dover's words, and her wrath was appeased133 by that flattering allusion134 to herself.
Off came the rest of the board, and from the window, half hidden in woodbine, she could now see over the bushes into the next garden. The peep-hole commanded the tree, and she watched with eager eyes the filling of the basket to be sent her, planning the while a charming note of thanks.
“Do look, Miss; they are resting now, and she's on his knee. Ain't it a pretty picter?” whispered Roxy, unmindful of the earwigs, ants, and daddy-long-legs promenading135 over her as she crouched136 in her mouldy corner, intent on the view beyond.
“Very pretty! He lost several children in India and I suppose Rosy reminds him of them. Ah, poor man! I can sympathize with him, for I too have loved and lost,” sighed Miss Henny, pensively137 surveying the group on the rustic138 seat.
They were playing cherry-bob; and the child's laughter made pleasant music in the usually quiet place, while the man's face lost its sad, stern look, and was both gay and tender, as he held the little creature close, and popped the ripe fruit into the red, laughing mouth.
“It's ALMOST as good as having Papa to play with. I do hope the cousins WILL let me come again! If they don't, I think my heart will break, 'cause I get so homesick over there, and have so many trials, and no one but Cousin Penny ever cuddles me.”
“Bless her heart! We'll send her some flowers for that. You tell her that Mrs. Dover is poorly, and would like very much to see her; and so would Mr. Thomas, who enjoys her little niece immensely. Can you remember that?”
“Every word! SHE is very nice to me, and I love her, and I guess she will be glad to come. She likes MOSS-roses, and so do I,” added the unblushing little beggar, as Mr. Dover took out his knife and began to make the bouquet140 which was to be Miss Penny's bribe141. He could not bear to give up his little playmate, and was quite ready to try again, with this persistent142 and charming ally to help him heal the breach.
“Shall you send anything to Cis? You needn't mind about it, 'cause she can't keep me at home, but it might please her, and make her stop rapping my head with her thimble when I ask questions, and slapping my fingers when I touch any of her pretty things,” suggested Button, as the flowers were added to the fruit, making a fine display.
“I never send presents to YOUNG ladies,” said Mr. Thomas shortly, adding, with both hands out, and his most inviting143 smile, “But I ALWAYS kiss nice little girls if they will allow me?”
Button threw both arms about his neck and gave him a shower of grateful kisses, which were sweeter to the lonely old man than all the cherries that ever grew, or the finest flowers in his garden. Then Miss Rosamond proudly marched home, finding no trace of the watchers, for both had fled while the “cuddling” went on. Roxy was soberly setting the dinner-table, and Miss Henny in the parlor breathing hard behind a newspaper. Miss Penny and Cicely were spending the day out, so the roses had to wait; but the basket was most graciously received, also the carefully delivered message, and the child's heart was rejoiced by free permission to go and see “our kind neighbor now and then, if Sister does not object.”
Rosy was in great spirits, and prattled144 away as they sat at dinner, emboldened145 by the lady's unusual amiability146 to ask all sorts of questions, some of which proved rather embarrassing to Miss Henny, and very amusing to Roxy, listening in the china-closet.
“I wish I had 'spepsia,” was the abrupt147 remark of the small person as her plate of drum-sticks was removed and the pudding appeared, accompanied by the cherries.
“Why, dear?” asked Miss Henny, busily arranging the small dish of delicate tidbits, which left little but the skeleton of the roast fowl for the kitchen.
“Then I could have the nicest bits of chicken, and heaps of sauce on my pudding, and the butteryest slices of toast, and ALL the cream for my tea, as you do. It isn't a VERY bad pain, is it?” asked Rosy, in such perfect good faith that Miss Henny's sudden flush and Roxy's hasty dive into the closet never suggested to her that this innocent speech was bringing the old lady's besetting148 sin to light in the most open manner.
“Yes, child, it is VERY bad, and you may thank your stars that I try to keep you from it by feeding you on plain food. At my age, and suffering as I do, the best of everything is needed to keep up my strength,” said Miss Henny, tartly. But the largest plate of pudding, with “heaps of sauce,” went to the child this day, and when the fruit was served, an unusually small portion was put away for the invalid149, who was obliged to sustain nature with frequent lunches through the day and evening.
“I'm s'prised that you suffer much, Cousin Henny. How brave you must be, not to cry about it, and go round in horrid pain, as you do, and dress so nicely, and see people, and work 'broidering, and make calls! I hope I shall be brave if I ever DO have 'spepsia; but I guess I shan't, you take such care to give me small pieces every time.”
With which cheerful remark Rosy closed that part of the conversation and returned to the delights of her new friend's garden. But from that day, among other changes which began about this time, the child's cup and plate were well filled, and the dread74 of adding to her own sufferings seemed to curb150 the dyspeptic's voracious151 appetite. “A cheild was amang them takin' notes,” and every one involuntarily dreaded152 those clear eyes and that frank tongue, so innocently observing and criticising all that went on. Cicely had already been reminded of a neglected duty by Rosy's reading to Miss Penny, and tried to be more faithful in that, as in other services which she owed the old lady. So the little missionary was evidently getting on, though quite unconscious of her work at home, so absorbed was she in her foreign mission; for, like many another missionary, the savage153 over the way was more interesting than the selfish, slothful, or neglected souls at home.
Miss Penny was charmed with her flowers and the friendly message sent her, and to Rosy's great delight went next day, in best bonnet154 and gown, to make a call upon the old lady “who was poorly,” for that appeal could not be resisted. Rosy also, in honor of the great occasion, wore HER best hat, and a white frock so stiff that she looked like a little opera dancer as the long black legs skipped along the street; for it was far too grand a visit to be paid through a hole in the wall.
In the basket were certain delicacies155 for the old lady, and a card had been prepared, with the names of Miss Carey and Miss Rosamond Carey beautifully written on it by Cis, who was dying to go, but dared not after Rosy had told her Mr. Dover's remark about young ladies.
As the procession of two paused at the door, both the young and the old heart fluttered a little, for this was the first decided156 step toward reconciliation157, and any check might spoil it all. The maid stared, but civilly led these unexpected guests in and departed with the card. Miss Penny settled herself in a large chair and looked about with pensive interest at the familiar room. But Rosy made a bee-line for the great tiger-skin, and regardless of her clean frock lay down on it to examine the head, which glared at her with yellow eyes, showing all its sharp teeth in the most delightfully158 natural manner.
Mr. Dover came in with a formal bow, but Miss Penny put out both hands, and said in her sweet old voice,—
“Let us be friends again for the sake of your mother.”
That settled the matter at once, and Mr. Thomas was so eager to do his part that he not only shook the hands heartily159, but kept them in his as he said like an honest man,—
“My dear neighbor, I beg your pardon! I was wrong, but I'm not too proud to own it and say I'm glad to let by-gones be by-gones for the sake of all. Now come and see my mother; she is longing for you.”
What went on in the next room Rosy never knew or cared, for Mr. Thomas soon returned, and amused her so well, showing his treasures, that she forgot where she was till the maid came to say tea was ready.
“Are we going to stay?” cried the little girl, beaming from under a Feejee crown of feathers, which produced as comical an effect upon her curly head as did the collar of shark's teeth round her plump neck or the great Japanese war-fan in her hand.
“Yes, we have tea at five; come and turn it out. I've ordered the little cups especially for you,” said her host, as he changed the small Amazon to a pretty child again and led her away to preside at the table, where the quaint china and silver, and the dainty cake and bread and butter proved much more attractive than the little old lady in a big cap who patted her head and smiled at her.
Never had Rosy enjoyed such a delicious meal; for the rapture of pouring real tea out of a pot shaped like a silver melon, into cups as thin as egg-shells, and putting in sugar with tongs160 like claws, not to mention much thick cream, also spicy161, plummy cakes that melted in one's mouth, was too great for words.
The little maid was so absorbed in her new duties that she never minded what the elders talked about, till the plates were empty, the pot ran dry, and no one could be prevailed on to have any more tea. Then she leaned back in her chair and remarked with an air of calm satisfaction, as she looked from one to the other, and smiled that engaging smile of hers,—
“Isn't being friends a great deal nicer than fighting and throwing cats over walls and calling bad names?”
It was impossible not to laugh, and that cheerful sound seemed to tune162 every one to the sweetest harmony, while the little peacemaker was passed round as if a last course of kisses was absolutely necessary.
Then the party broke up, and Mr. Dover escorted his guests to their own gate, to the great amazement of the neighbors and the very visible pride of Miss Button-Rose, who went up the walk with her head as high as if the wreath of daisies on her little hat had been a conqueror's crown.
Now that the first step had been taken, all would have gone smoothly163 if Cicely, offended because Mr. Thomas took no notice of HER, had not put it into Miss Henny's head that as the original quarrel began between her and their neighbor, it would not be dignified164 to give in till Mr. Dover had come and begged pardon of HER as well as of Miss Penny. This suited the foolish old lady, who never could forget certain plain words spoken in the heat of battle, though the kindly ones lately heard had much softened her heart toward the offender.
“No, I shall not forget my dignity nor humble165 myself by going over there to apologize as Penelope has. SHE can do as she likes; and now that he has asked to be forgiven, there is perhaps no harm in HER seeing the old lady. But with me it is different. I was insulted, and till Thomas Dover comes here and solemnly asks my pardon I will NOT cross his threshold, no matter what bribes166 he sends,” said Miss Henny, with an air of heroic firmness.
But it did cost her a pang167 when her sister went every now and then to take tea with the old lady and came home full of pleasant news; while Rosy prattled of the fine things she saw, the nice things she had to eat, and never failed to bring some gift to share, or to display to the exiles from Paradise. They ate the “bribes,” however, as they called the fruit, admired the pretty trinkets and toys, and longed to share in the mild festivities of the pleasant house over the way, but stood firm in spite of all Rosy's wiles169, till something unexpected happened to touch their hearts, conquer their foolish pride, and crown the little peacemaker's efforts with success.
One August afternoon Cicely was discontentedly looking over her small store of ornaments170 as she made ready for a party. She loved gayety, and went about a great deal, leaving many duties undone172, or asking the little girl to attend to them for her, neglecting, however, to show any gratitude173 for these small services so cheerfully done.
As she sat tossing over her boxes, Button-Rose came in looking tired and listless, for it was a hot day, and she had been out twice to do errands for Cicely, besides trotting174 busily up and down to wait on the old ladies while the young one put fresh ribbons on her dress and curled her hair for the evening.
“Could I lie on your sofa, please, Cis? My head aches, and my legs are SO tired,” said little Button, when her tap had been answered by a sharp “What do you want, child?”
“No, I'm going to lie there myself and have a nap as soon as I'm done here. It's cooler than the bed, and I must be fresh for to-night,” said Cicely, too intent on her own affairs to see how used up Rosy looked.
“Then could I look at your pretty things if I don't touch 'em?” asked the child, longing to peep into the interesting boxes scattered175 on the table.
“No, you can't! I'm busy, and don't want you asking questions and meddling176. Go away and let me alone.”
Cicely spoke crossly, and waved her hand with a warning gesture, thereby177 upsetting the tray which held the beads179 of the necklace she had decided to wear for want of something better.
“There, now see what you've done! Pick up every one, and be quick, for I'm in a hurry.”
“But I didn't touch 'em,” began poor Button, as she crept about hunting for the black and white beads that looked like very ugly marbles.
“Don't talk; pick them up and then scamper180; you are always in mischief!” scolded Cis, vexed181 with herself, and the heat, and the accident, and the whole world just then.
Rosy said no more, but several great tears dropped on the carpet as she groped in corners, under the bed, and behind the chairs for the run-aways; and when the last was found she put it in her tyrant's hand, saying, with a wistful look,—
“I'm very sorry I troubled you. Seems to me if I had a little cousin, I'd love to have her play with my things, and I wouldn't be cross to her. Now I'll go and try to AMOOSE myself with Bella; SHE is always good to me.”
“Run along then. Thank goodness that doll came when it did, for I'm tired of 'amoosing' small girls as well as old ladies,” said Cis, busy with her beads, yet sorry she had been so petulant182 with patient little Button, who seldom reproached her, being a cheery child, and blessed with a sweet temper.
Rosy felt too languid to play; so when she had told Bella, the London doll, her trials, and comforted herself with some kisses on the waxen cheeks, she roamed away to the summer-house, which was cool and quiet, longing for some one to caress58 her; for the little heart was homesick and the little head ached badly.
The “button-hole” had been made, the alley183 swept out, to the great dismay of the spiders, earwigs, and toads, who had fled to quieter quarters, and Rosy had leave to go and come when she liked if Mr. Dover did not object. He never did; and it was her greatest delight to walk in the pretty garden at her own sweet will, always with the hope of meeting its kindly owner, for now they were firm friends. She had been too busy for a run there that day; and now, as she peeped in, it looked so shady and inviting, and it seemed so natural to turn to her dear “missionary man” for entertainment, that she went straight up to his study window and peeped in.
He too seemed out of sorts that hot afternoon, for he sat leaning his head on both hands at the desk strewn with piles of old letters. Button-Rose's tender heart yearned over him at once, and stepping quietly in at the long open window she went to him, saying in her tenderest tone,—
“Does your head ache, sir? Let me soft it as I do Papa's; he says that always makes it more better. Please let me? I'd love to dearly.”
“Ah, my darling, I wish you could. But the pain is in my heart, and nothing will ever cure it,” sighed Mr. Thomas, as he drew her close and put his wrinkled yellow cheek to her soft one, which looked more like a damask rose than usual.
“You have trials too, I s'pose. Mine trouble me to-day, so I came over to see you. Shall I go away?” asked Rosy with a sigh and the wistful look again.
“No, stay, and we will comfort each other. Tell me your troubles, Button, and perhaps I can help them,” the kind old gentleman said as he took her on his knee and stroked the curly head with a paternal184 touch.
So Rosy told her latest grief, and never saw the smile that crept about the lips that asked in a tone of deep interest,—
“Well, what do you mean to do to that unkind Cicely?”
“For a minute I wanted to slap her back when she tried to spat185 my hands. Then I 'membered that Mamma said a kiss for a blow was a good thing, so I picked up the beads and planned to do it; but Cis looked SO cross I couldn't. If I had a pretty necklace I'd go and give it to her, and then maybe she'd love me better.”
“My dear little missionary, you SHALL have beads to win the heart of YOUR heathen, if that is all you need. See here; take anything you like, and give it with the kiss.”
As he spoke, Mr. Dover pulled open a drawer in the desk and displayed a delightful collection of pretty, quaint, and curious trinkets picked up in foreign lands, and kept for keepsakes, since no little daughters of his own lived to wear them.
“How perf'ly dorgeous!” cried Rosy, who often fell into baby talk when excited; and plunging186 in her hands, she revelled187 for some minutes in sandal-wood cases, carved ivory fans, silver bangles, barbaric brooches, and necklaces of coral, shells, amber188, and golden coins, that jingled189 musically.
“What SHALL I take for her?” cried the little maid, bewildered by such a mine of wealth. “You pick out one, Mr. Thomas, that will please her so much, 'cause you never send her anything, and she don't like it,” said Rosy, fearing that her own taste was not to be trusted, as she liked the shells and shark's teeth ornaments best.
“No, I'll give YOU one, and you shall do as you like about giving it to her. This, now, is really valuable and pretty, and any young lady would like to wear it. It makes me think of you, my Button, for it is like sunshine, and the word cut on the little heart means peace.”
Mr. Dover held up a string of amber beads with its carved amulet190, and swung it to and fro where the light shone through it till each bead178 looked like a drop of golden wine.
“Yes, that is lovely, and it smells nice, too. She will be so s'prised and pleased; I'll go and take it to her right away,” cried Rosy, forgetting to ask anything for herself, in her delight at this fine gift for Cis.
But as she lifted her head after he had fastened the clasp about her neck, something in his face recalled the look it wore when she first came in, and putting both hands upon his shoulders, she said in her sweet little way,—
“You've made my troubles go away, can't I make yours? You are SO kind to me, I'd love to help you if I could.”
“You do, my child, more than you know; for when I get you in my arms it seems as if one of my poor babies had come back to me, and for a minute I forget the three little graves far away in India.”
“Three!” cried Button, like a sad, soft echo; and she clung to the poor man as if trying to fill the empty arms with the love and pity that over-flowed the childish soul in her small body.
This was the comfort Mr. Thomas wanted, and for a few moments he just cradled her on his hungry heart, crooning a Hindostanee lullaby, while a few slow tears came dropping down upon the yellow head, so like those hidden for years under the Indian flowers. Presently he seemed to come back from the happy past to which the old letters had carried him. He wiped his eyes, and Rosy's also, with the big purple silk handkerchief, and pressing some very grateful kisses on the hot cheeks, said cheerfully again,—
“God bless you, child, that's done me good! But don't let it sadden you, dear; forget all about it, and tell no one what a sentimental old fool I am.”
“I never truly will! Only when you feel sorry about the poor little babies, let me come and give you cuddlings. They always make people feel more better, and I love 'em, and don't get any now my dear people are away.”
So the two made a tender little plan to comfort each other when hearts were heavy with longings191 for the absent, and parted at the small gate, both much cheered, and faster friends than ever.
Rosy hastened in with her peace-offering, forgetful now of headache or loneliness as she sat patiently in the wide entry window-seat listening till some sound in Cicely's room should show that she was awake. Before that happened, however, poor Button fell asleep herself, lulled192 by the quiet of the house,—for every one was napping,—and dreamed that Mr. Dover stood waving a rainbow over his head, while several Indian gods and three little girls were dancing round him, hand in hand, to the tune of “Ring around a rosy.”
A loud yawn roused her, and there was Cis peeping out of her door to see what time it was by the old-fashioned clock on the landing. Up scrambled the child, feeling dizzy and heavy-eyed, but so eager to give pleasure that she lost no time in saying, as she swung the necklace in the sunshine,—
“See! this is for you, if you like it more better than the thunder-and-lightning marbles, as Cousin Penny calls the one you were going to wear.”
“How lovely! Where DID you get it, child?” cried Cis, wide awake at once, as she ran to the glass to try the effect of the new ornament on her white neck.
“My dear Mr. Thomas gave it to me; but he said I could give it away if I liked, and I want you to have it, 'cause it's ever so much prettier than any you've got.”
“That's very kind of you, Chicken, but why not keep it yourself? You like nice things as well as I do,” said Cicely, much impressed by the value of the gift, for it was real amber, and the clasp of gold.
“Well, I've talked with Mr. Thomas about missionarying a great deal, and he told me how he made the savinges good by giving them beads, and things to eat, and being patient and kind to them. So I thought I'd play be a missionary, and call this house Africa, and try to make the people here behave more better,” answered Rosy, with such engaging earnestness, as well as frankness, that Cis laughed, and exclaimed,—
“You impertinent monkey, to call us heathen and try to convert us! How do you expect to do it?”
“Oh, I'm getting on pretty well, only you don't CONVERT as quick as some of the savinges did. I'll tell you about it;” and Button went on eagerly. “Cousin Penny is the good old one, but rather fussy193 and slow, so I'm kind and patient, and now she loves me and lets me do things I like. She is my best one. Cousin Henny is my cannybel, 'cause she eats so much, and I please HER by bringing nice things and getting her cushions ready. You are my baddest one, who is cross to me, and fights, and raps my head, and slaps my hands; so I thought some beads would be nice for you, and I bringed these beauties. Mr. Thomas gave 'em to me when I told him my trials.”
Cicely looked angry, amused, and ashamed, as she listened to the funny yet rather pathetic little play with which the lonely child had tried to cheer herself and win the hearts of those about her. She had the grace to blush, and offer back the necklace, saying in a self-reproachful tone,—
“Keep your beads, little missionary, I'll be converted without them, and try to be kinder to you. I AM a selfish wretch194, but you shall play be my little sister, and not have to go to strangers for comfort in your trials any more. Come, kiss me, dear, and we'll begin now.”
Rosy was in her arms at once, and clung there, saying with a face all smiles,—
“That's what I wanted! I thought I'd make a good savinge of you if I tried VERY hard. Please be kind to me just till Mamma comes back, and I'll be the best little sister that ever was.”
“Why didn't you tell me all about it before?” asked Cicely, smoothing the tired head on her shoulder with a new gentleness; for this last innocent confession195 had touched her heart as well as her conscience.
“You never seemed to care about my plays, and always said, 'Don't chatter196, child; run away and take care of yourself.' So I did; but it was pretty dull, with only Tabby to tell secrets to and Bella to kiss. Mr. Thomas said people over here didn't like children very well, and I found they didn't. HE does, dearly, so I went to him; but I like you now, you are so soft and kind to me.”
“How hot your cheeks are! Come and let me cool them, and brush your hair for tea,” said Cis, as she touched the child's feverish197 skin, and saw how heavy her eyes were.
“I'm all burning up, and my head is SO funny. I don't want any tea. I want to lie on your sofa and go to sleep again. Can I?” asked Rosy, with a dizzy look about the room, and a shiver at the idea of eating.
“Yes, dear, I'll put on your little wrapper, and make you all comfortable, and bring you some ice-water, for your lips are very dry.”
As she spoke, Cicely bustled198 about the room, and soon had Rosy nicely settled with her best cologne-bottle and a fan; then she hastened down to report that something was wrong, with a fear in her own heart that if any harm did come to the child it would be her fault. Some days before Cicely had sent Button-Rose with a note to a friend's house where she knew some of the younger children were ill. Since then she had heard that it was scarlet199 fever; but though Rosy had waited some time for an answer to the note, and seen one of the invalids200, Cis had never mentioned the fact, being ashamed to confess her carelessness, hoping no harm was done. Now she felt that it HAD come, and went to tell gentle Cousin Penny with tears of vain regret.
Great was the lamentation201 when the doctor, who was sent for in hot haste, pronounced it scarlet fever; and deep was the self-reproach of the two older women for their blindness in not before remarking the languid air and want of appetite in the child. But Cicely was full of remorse90; for every quick word, every rap of the hateful thimble, every service accepted without thanks, weighed heavily on her conscience now, as such things have an inconvenient202 way of doing when it is too late to undo171 them. Every one was devoted203 to the child, even lazy Miss Henny gave up her naps to sit by her at all hours, Miss Penny hovered204 over the little bed like a grandmother, and Cicely refused to think of pleasure till the danger was over.
For soon Button-Rose was very ill, and the old house haunted by the dreadful fear that death would rob them of the little creature who grew so precious when the thought of losing her made their hearts stand still. How could they live without the sound of that sweet voice chirping205 about the house, the busy feet tripping up and down, the willing hands trying to help, the sunny face smiling at every one, and going away into corners to hide the tears that sometimes came to dim its brightness? What would comfort the absent mother for such a loss as this, and how could they answer to the father for the carelessness that risked the child's life for a girl's errand? No one dared to think, and all prayed heartily for Rosy's life, as they watched and waited by the little bed where she lay so patiently, till the fever grew high and she began to babble206 about many things. Her childish trials were all told, her longings for Mamma, whose place no one could fill, her quaint little criticisms upon those about her, and her plans for making peace. These innocent revelations caused many tears, and wrought207 some changes in those who heard; for Miss Penny quite forgot her infirmities to live in the sick-room as the most experienced nurse and tenderest watcher. Miss Henny cooked her daintiest gruel208, brewed209 her coolest drinks, and lost many pounds in weight by her indefatigable210 trotting up and down to minister to the invalid's least caprice. Cicely was kept away for fear of infection, but HER penance211 was to wander about the great house, more silent than ever now, to answer the inquiries212 and listen to the sad forebodings of the neighbors, who came to offer help and sympathy; for all loved little Button-Rose, and grieved to think of any blight213 falling on the pretty blossom. To wile168 away the long hours, Cicely fell to dusting the empty rooms, setting closets and drawers to rights, and keeping all fresh and clean, to the great relief of the old cousins, who felt that everything would go to destruction in their absence. She read and sewed now, having no heart for jaunting about; and as she made the long neglected white pinafores, for Rosy, she thought much of the little girl who might never live to wear them.
Meantime the fever took its course, and came at last to the fateful day when a few hours would settle the question of life or death. The hot flush died out of the cheeks that had lost their soft roundness now, the lips were parched214, the half-shut eyes looked like sick violets, and all the pretty curls were tangled215 on the pillow. Rosy no longer sung to Bella, talked of “three dear little girls” and Mr. Thomas, tigers and bangles, Cis and necklaces, hens and gates. She ceased to call for Mamma, asked no more why her “missionary man” never came, and took no notice of the anxious old faces bending over her. She lay in a stupor216, and the doctor held the little wasted hand, and tried to see the face of his watch with dim eyes as he counted the faint pulse, whispering solemnly,—
“We can only hope and wait now. Sleep alone can save her.”
As the sisters sat, one on either side the narrow bed that day, and Cicely walked restlessly up and down the long hall below, where both doors stood open to let in the cool evening air, as the sun went down, a quick but quiet step came up the steps, and Mr. Dover walked in without ringing. He had been away, and coming home an hour ago, heard the sad news. Losing not a moment, he hurried to ask about his little Button, and his face showed how great his love and fear were, as he said in a broken whisper,—
“Will she live? My mother never told me how serious it was, or I should have returned at once.”
“My dear girl, don't give way. Keep up your heart, hope, pray, will that the darling SHALL live, and that may do some good. We can't let her go! we won't let her go! Let me see her; I know much of fevers far worse than this, and might be able to suggest something,” begged Mr. Dover, throwing down his hat, and waving an immense fan with such an air of resolution and cheery good-will that tired Cis felt comforted at once, and led the way upstairs entirely218 forgetting the great feud, as he did.
At the threshold of the door he paused, till the girl had whispered his name. Miss Penny, always a gentlewoman, rose at once and went to meet him, but Miss Henny did not even seem to see him, for just then, as if dimly feeling that her friend was near, Rosy stirred, and gave a long sigh.
Silently the three stood and looked at the beloved little creature lying there in the mysterious shadow of death, and they so helpless to keep her if the hour for departure had come.
“Drifting away, I fear;” and Miss Henny's plump face looked almost beautiful, with the tears on it, as she leaned nearer to listen to the faint breath at the child's lips.
“No; we will keep her, please the Lord! If we can make her sleep quietly for the next few hours she is safe. Let me try. Fan slowly with this, Miss Henrietta, and you, dear lady, pray that the precious little life may be given us.”
As he spoke, Mr. Dover gave the great fan to Miss Henny, took the small cold hands in his, and sitting on the bedside held them close in his large warm ones, as if trying to pour life and strength into the frail220 body, as his eyes, fixed55 on the half-opened ones, seemed to call back the innocent soul hovering221 on the threshold of its prison, like the butterfly poised222 upon the chrysalis before it soars away.
Miss Penny knelt down near by, and laying her white head on the other pillow, again besought223 God to spare this treasure to the father and mother over the sea. How long they remained so none of them ever knew, silent and motionless but for the slow waving of the noiseless fan, which went to and fro like the wing of a great white bird, as if Miss Henny's stout arm could never tire. Miss Penny was so still she seemed to be asleep. Mr. Dover never stirred, but grew paler as the minutes passed; and Cicely, creeping now and then to look in and steal away, saw strange power in the black eyes that seemed to hold the fluttering spirit of the little child by the love and longing that made them both tender and commanding.
A level ray of sunlight stole through the curtain at last and turned the tangles224 of bright hair to pure gold. Miss Henny rose to shut it out, and as if her movement broke the spell, Rosy took a long full breath, turned on the pillow, and putting one hand under her cheek, seemed to fall asleep as naturally as she used to do when well. Miss Penny looked up, touched the child's forehead, and whispered, with a look of gratitude as bright as if the sunshine had touched her also,—
“It is moist! this is real sleep! Oh, my baby! oh, my baby!” And the old head went down again with a stifled225 sob, for her experienced eye told her that the danger was passing by and Rosy would live.
“The prayers of the righteous avail much,” murmured Mr. Dover, turning to the other lady, who stood beside her sister looking down at the little figure now lying so restfully between them.
“How can we thank you?” she whispered, offering her hand, with the smile which had once made her pretty, and still touched the old face with something better than beauty.
“Let not the sun go down upon our wrath. Forgive me and be friends again, for her sake.”
“I will!” And the plump hands gave the thin ones a hearty shake as the great feud ended forever over the bed of the little peacemaker whose childish play had turned to happy earnest.
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2
eldest
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| adj.最年长的，最年老的 | |
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3
retired
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| adj.隐退的，退休的，退役的 | |
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outright
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| adv.坦率地；彻底地；立即；adj.无疑的；彻底的 | |
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perch
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| n.栖木，高位，杆；v.栖息，就位，位于 | |
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diminutive
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| adj.小巧可爱的，小的 | |
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7
pensive
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| a.沉思的,哀思的,忧沉的 | |
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pettish
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| adj.易怒的，使性子的 | |
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9
briefly
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| adv.简单地，简短地 | |
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10
orphan
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| n.孤儿；adj.无父母的 | |
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rosy
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| adj.美好的，乐观的，玫瑰色的 | |
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12
remains
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| n.剩余物，残留物；遗体，遗迹 | |
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13
passionately
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| ad.热烈地，激烈地 | |
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14
hem
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| n.贴边，镶边；vt.缝贴边；(in)包围，限制 | |
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15
spacious
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| adj.广阔的，宽敞的 | |
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16
offender
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| n.冒犯者，违反者，犯罪者 | |
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17
wrath
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| n.愤怒，愤慨，暴怒 | |
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18
kindly
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| adj.和蔼的，温和的，爽快的；adv.温和地，亲切地 | |
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19
privately
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| adv.以私人的身份，悄悄地，私下地 | |
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20
mischief
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| n.损害，伤害，危害；恶作剧，捣蛋，胡闹 | |
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21
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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groom
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| vt.给（马、狗等）梳毛，照料，使...整洁 | |
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23
crumbs
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| int. (表示惊讶)哎呀 n. 碎屑 名词crumb的复数形式 | |
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24
unpack
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| vt.打开包裹（或行李），卸货 | |
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25
parlor
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| n.店铺，营业室；会客室，客厅 | |
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26
calamity
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| n.灾害，祸患，不幸事件 | |
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27
reclaiming
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| v.开拓( reclaim的现在分词 )；要求收回；从废料中回收（有用的材料）；挽救 | |
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28
perfectly
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| adv.完美地，无可非议地，彻底地 | |
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29
sob
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| n.空间轨道的轰炸机；呜咽，哭泣 | |
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30
thorny
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| adj.多刺的，棘手的 | |
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31
touching
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| adj.动人的，使人感伤的 | |
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32
missionary
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| adj.教会的，传教(士)的；n.传教士 | |
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melancholy
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| n.忧郁，愁思；adj.令人感伤（沮丧）的，忧郁的 | |
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34
delightful
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| adj.令人高兴的，使人快乐的 | |
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35
poultry
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| n.家禽，禽肉 | |
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bower
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| n.凉亭，树荫下凉快之处；闺房；v.荫蔽 | |
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fowl
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| n.家禽，鸡，禽肉 | |
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fowls
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| 鸟( fowl的名词复数 )； 禽肉； 既不是这； 非驴非马 | |
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39
sentimental
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| adj.多愁善感的，感伤的 | |
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feat
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| n.功绩；武艺，技艺；adj.灵巧的，漂亮的，合适的 | |
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41
bridling
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| 给…套龙头( bridle的现在分词 )； 控制； 昂首表示轻蔑（或怨忿等）； 动怒，生气 | |
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42
behold
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| v.看，注视，看到 | |
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43
distressed
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| 痛苦的 | |
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44
soften
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| v.(使)变柔软；(使)变柔和 | |
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45
tiresome
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| adj.令人疲劳的，令人厌倦的 | |
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46
arbor
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| n.凉亭；树木 | |
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47
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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48
demurely
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| adv.装成端庄地，认真地 | |
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49
prim
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| adj.拘泥形式的，一本正经的；n.循规蹈矩，整洁；adv.循规蹈矩地，整洁地 | |
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50
toads
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| n.蟾蜍，癞蛤蟆( toad的名词复数 ) | |
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51
robins
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| n.知更鸟，鸫( robin的名词复数 )；（签名者不分先后，以避免受责的）圆形签名抗议书（或请愿书） | |
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52
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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53
quaint
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| adj.古雅的，离奇有趣的，奇怪的 | |
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54
snails
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| n.蜗牛；迟钝的人；蜗牛( snail的名词复数 ) | |
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55
fixed
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| adj.固定的，不变的，准备好的；(计算机)固定的 | |
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56
fixedly
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| adv.固定地；不屈地，坚定不移地 | |
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57
caresses
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| 爱抚，抚摸( caress的名词复数 ) | |
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58
caress
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| vt./n.爱抚，抚摸 | |
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59
majestically
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| 雄伟地； 庄重地； 威严地； 崇高地 | |
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60
rapture
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| n.狂喜；全神贯注；着迷；v.使狂喜 | |
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61
winding
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| n.绕，缠，绕组，线圈 | |
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62
ripening
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| v.成熟，使熟( ripen的现在分词 )；熟化；熟成 | |
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63
tempting
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| a.诱人的, 吸引人的 | |
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64
strutted
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| 趾高气扬地走，高视阔步( strut的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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65
piazza
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| n.广场；走廊 | |
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66
descending
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| n. 下行 adj. 下降的 | |
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67
mound
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| n.土墩，堤，小山；v.筑堤，用土堆防卫 | |
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68
scrambled
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| v.快速爬行( scramble的过去式和过去分词 )；攀登；争夺；（军事飞机）紧急起飞 | |
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69
sprouts
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| n.新芽，嫩枝( sprout的名词复数 )v.发芽( sprout的第三人称单数 )；抽芽；出现；（使）涌现出 | |
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70
dilatory
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| adj.迟缓的，不慌不忙的 | |
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71
uproar
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| n.骚动，喧嚣，鼎沸 | |
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72
detest
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| vt.痛恨，憎恶 | |
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73
rascal
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| n.流氓；不诚实的人 | |
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74
dread
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| vt.担忧，忧虑；惧怕，不敢；n.担忧，畏惧 | |
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75
hurled
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| v.猛投，用力掷( hurl的过去式和过去分词 )；大声叫骂 | |
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76
thump
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| v.重击，砰然地响；n.重击，重击声 | |
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shrill
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| adj.尖声的；刺耳的；v尖叫 | |
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78
stunned
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| adj. 震惊的，惊讶的 动词stun的过去式和过去分词 | |
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79
outrage
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| n.暴行，侮辱，愤怒；vt.凌辱，激怒 | |
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80
irate
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| adj.发怒的，生气 | |
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81
apparition
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| n.幽灵，神奇的现象 | |
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82
pointed
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| adj.尖的，直截了当的 | |
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83
avenging
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| adj.报仇的，复仇的v.为…复仇，报…之仇( avenge的现在分词 )；为…报复 | |
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84
prospect
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| n.前景，前途；景色，视野 | |
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85
streaks
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| n.（与周围有所不同的）条纹( streak的名词复数 )；（通常指不好的）特征（倾向）；（不断经历成功或失败的）一段时期v.快速移动( streak的第三人称单数 )；使布满条纹 | |
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86
pathos
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| n.哀婉，悲怆 | |
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87
brass
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| n.黄铜；黄铜器，铜管乐器 | |
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88
groaned
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| v.呻吟( groan的过去式和过去分词 )；发牢骚；抱怨；受苦 | |
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89
yearning
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| a.渴望的；向往的；怀念的 | |
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remorse
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| n.痛恨，悔恨，自责 | |
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91
remorseful
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| adj.悔恨的 | |
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92
afflict
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| vt.使身体或精神受痛苦，折磨 | |
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93
curiously
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| adv.有求知欲地；好问地；奇特地 | |
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94
wheedling
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| v.骗取（某物），哄骗（某人干某事）( wheedle的现在分词 ) | |
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95
desperately
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| adv.极度渴望地，绝望地，孤注一掷地 | |
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bent
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| n.爱好，癖好；adj.弯的；决心的，一心的 | |
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beseeching
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| adj.恳求似的v.恳求，乞求（某事物）( beseech的现在分词 ) | |
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feud
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| n.长期不和；世仇；v.长期争斗；世代结仇 | |
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awfully
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| adv.可怕地，非常地，极端地 | |
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100
meddle
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| v.干预，干涉，插手 | |
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101
tattooed
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| v.刺青，文身( tattoo的过去式和过去分词 )；连续有节奏地敲击；作连续有节奏的敲击 | |
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102
countenances
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| n.面容( countenance的名词复数 )；表情；镇静；道义支持 | |
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103
musing
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| n. 沉思，冥想 adj. 沉思的, 冥想的 动词muse的现在分词形式 | |
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104
consolation
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| n.安慰，慰问 | |
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105
softened
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| （使）变软( soften的过去式和过去分词 )； 缓解打击； 缓和； 安慰 | |
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106
bestowed
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| 赠给，授予( bestow的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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107
tartly
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| adv.辛辣地，刻薄地 | |
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108
ponderously
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109
ornament
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| v.装饰，美化；n.装饰，装饰物 | |
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110
amiable
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| adj.和蔼可亲的，友善的，亲切的 | |
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111
chubby
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| adj.丰满的，圆胖的 | |
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112
animated
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| adj.生气勃勃的，活跃的，愉快的 | |
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113
embroidery
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| n.绣花，刺绣；绣制品 | |
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114
criticise
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| v.批评，评论；非难 | |
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115
mingled
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| 混合，混入( mingle的过去式和过去分词 )； 混进，与…交往[联系] | |
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116
moss
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| n.苔，藓，地衣 | |
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117
imploringly
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| adv. 恳求地, 哀求地 | |
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118
yearned
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| 渴望，切盼，向往( yearn的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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119
splendor
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| n.光彩；壮丽，华丽；显赫，辉煌 | |
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120
breach
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| n.违反，不履行；破裂；vt.冲破，攻破 | |
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121
wring
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| n.扭绞；v.拧，绞出，扭 | |
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122
dismal
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| adj.阴沉的，凄凉的，令人忧郁的，差劲的 | |
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123
waddled
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| v.（像鸭子一样）摇摇摆摆地走( waddle的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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124
puffing
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| v.使喷出( puff的现在分词 )；喷着汽（或烟）移动；吹嘘；吹捧 | |
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125
ruffled
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| adj. 有褶饰边的, 起皱的 动词ruffle的过去式和过去分词 | |
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126
amazement
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| n.惊奇，惊讶 | |
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127
killing
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| n.巨额利润；突然赚大钱，发大财 | |
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128
truant
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| n.懒惰鬼，旷课者；adj.偷懒的，旷课的，游荡的；v.偷懒，旷课 | |
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129
gravel
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| n.砂跞；砂砾层；结石 | |
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130
luscious
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| adj.美味的；芬芳的；肉感的，引与性欲的 | |
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131
longing
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| n.（for）渴望 | |
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132
hearty
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| adj.热情友好的；衷心的；尽情的，纵情的 | |
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133
appeased
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| 安抚，抚慰( appease的过去式和过去分词 )； 绥靖（满足另一国的要求以避免战争） | |
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134
allusion
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| n.暗示，间接提示 | |
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135
promenading
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| v.兜风( promenade的现在分词 ) | |
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136
crouched
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| v.屈膝，蹲伏( crouch的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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137
pensively
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| adv.沉思地，焦虑地 | |
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138
rustic
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| adj.乡村的，有乡村特色的；n.乡下人，乡巴佬 | |
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139
morsel
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| n.一口，一点点 | |
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140
bouquet
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| n.花束，酒香 | |
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141
bribe
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| n.贿赂；v.向…行贿，买通 | |
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142
persistent
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| adj.坚持不懈的，执意的；持续的 | |
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143
inviting
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| adj.诱人的，引人注目的 | |
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144
prattled
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| v.（小孩般）天真无邪地说话( prattle的过去式和过去分词 )；发出连续而无意义的声音；闲扯；东拉西扯 | |
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145
emboldened
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| v.鼓励，使有胆量( embolden的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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146
amiability
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| n.和蔼可亲的，亲切的，友善的 | |
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147
abrupt
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| adj.突然的，意外的；唐突的，鲁莽的 | |
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148
besetting
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| adj.不断攻击的v.困扰( beset的现在分词 )；不断围攻；镶；嵌 | |
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149
invalid
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| n.病人，伤残人；adj.有病的，伤残的；无效的 | |
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150
curb
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| n.场外证券市场，场外交易；vt.制止，抑制 | |
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151
voracious
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| adj.狼吞虎咽的，贪婪的 | |
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152
dreaded
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| adj.令人畏惧的；害怕的v.害怕，恐惧，担心( dread的过去式和过去分词) | |
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153
savage
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| adj.野蛮的；凶恶的，残暴的；n.未开化的人 | |
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154
bonnet
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| n.无边女帽；童帽 | |
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155
delicacies
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| n.棘手( delicacy的名词复数 )；精致；精美的食物；周到 | |
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156
decided
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| adj.决定了的，坚决的；明显的，明确的 | |
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157
reconciliation
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| n.和解，和谐，一致 | |
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158
delightfully
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| 大喜，欣然 | |
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159
heartily
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| adv.衷心地，诚恳地，十分，很 | |
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160
tongs
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| n.钳；夹子 | |
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161
spicy
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| adj.加香料的；辛辣的，有风味的 | |
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162
tune
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| n.调子；和谐，协调；v.调音，调节，调整 | |
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163
smoothly
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| adv.平滑地，顺利地，流利地，流畅地 | |
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164
dignified
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| a.可敬的，高贵的 | |
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165
humble
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| adj.谦卑的，恭顺的；地位低下的；v.降低，贬低 | |
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166
bribes
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| n.贿赂( bribe的名词复数 )；向（某人）行贿，贿赂v.贿赂( bribe的第三人称单数 )；向（某人）行贿，贿赂 | |
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167
pang
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| n.剧痛，悲痛，苦闷 | |
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168
wile
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| v.诡计，引诱；n.欺骗，欺诈 | |
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169
wiles
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| n.（旨在欺骗或吸引人的）诡计，花招；欺骗，欺诈( wile的名词复数 ) | |
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170
ornaments
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| n.装饰( ornament的名词复数 )；点缀；装饰品；首饰v.装饰，点缀，美化( ornament的第三人称单数 ) | |
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171
undo
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| vt.解开，松开；取消，撤销 | |
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172
undone
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| a.未做完的，未完成的 | |
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173
gratitude
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| adj.感激，感谢 | |
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174
trotting
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| 小跑，急走( trot的现在分词 )； 匆匆忙忙地走 | |
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175
scattered
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| adj.分散的，稀疏的；散步的；疏疏落落的 | |
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176
meddling
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| v.干涉，干预（他人事务）( meddle的现在分词 ) | |
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177
thereby
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| adv.因此，从而 | |
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178
bead
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| n.念珠；(pl.)珠子项链；水珠 | |
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179
beads
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| n.（空心）小珠子( bead的名词复数 )；水珠；珠子项链 | |
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180
scamper
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| v.奔跑，快跑 | |
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181
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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182
petulant
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| adj.性急的，暴躁的 | |
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183
alley
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| n.小巷，胡同；小径，小路 | |
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184
paternal
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| adj.父亲的，像父亲的，父系的，父方的 | |
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185
spat
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| n.口角，掌击；v.发出呼噜呼噜声 | |
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186
plunging
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| adj.跳进的，突进的v.颠簸( plunge的现在分词 )；暴跌；骤降；突降 | |
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187
revelled
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| v.作乐( revel的过去式和过去分词 )；狂欢；着迷；陶醉 | |
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188
amber
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| n.琥珀；琥珀色；adj.琥珀制的 | |
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189
jingled
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| 喝醉的 | |
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190
amulet
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| n.护身符 | |
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191
longings
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| 渴望，盼望( longing的名词复数 ) | |
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192
lulled
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| vt.使镇静，使安静（lull的过去式与过去分词形式） | |
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193
fussy
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| adj.为琐事担忧的，过分装饰的，爱挑剔的 | |
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194
wretch
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| n.可怜的人，不幸的人；卑鄙的人 | |
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195
confession
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| n.自白，供认，承认 | |
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196
chatter
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| vi.／n.喋喋不休；短促尖叫；(牙齿)打战 | |
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197
feverish
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| adj.发烧的，狂热的，兴奋的 | |
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198
bustled
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| 闹哄哄地忙乱，奔忙( bustle的过去式和过去分词 )； 催促 | |
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199
scarlet
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| n.深红色，绯红色，红衣；adj.绯红色的 | |
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200
invalids
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| 病人，残疾者( invalid的名词复数 ) | |
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201
lamentation
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| n.悲叹，哀悼 | |
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202
inconvenient
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| adj.不方便的，令人感到麻烦的 | |
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203
devoted
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| adj.忠诚的，忠实的，热心的，献身于...的 | |
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204
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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205
chirping
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| 鸟叫，虫鸣( chirp的现在分词 ) | |
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206
babble
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| v.含糊不清地说，胡言乱语地说，儿语 | |
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207
wrought
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| v.引起；以…原料制作；运转；adj.制造的 | |
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208
gruel
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| n.稀饭，粥 | |
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209
brewed
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| 调制( brew的过去式和过去分词 )； 酝酿； 沏（茶）； 煮（咖啡） | |
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210
indefatigable
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| adj.不知疲倦的，不屈不挠的 | |
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211
penance
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| n.（赎罪的）惩罪 | |
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212
inquiries
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| n.调查( inquiry的名词复数 )；疑问；探究；打听 | |
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213
blight
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| n.枯萎病；造成破坏的因素；vt.破坏，摧残 | |
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214
parched
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| adj.焦干的；极渴的；v.（使）焦干 | |
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215
tangled
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| adj. 纠缠的，紊乱的 动词tangle的过去式和过去分词 | |
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216
stupor
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| v.昏迷；不省人事 | |
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217
sobbed
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| 哭泣，啜泣( sob的过去式和过去分词 )； 哭诉，呜咽地说 | |
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218
entirely
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| ad.全部地，完整地；完全地，彻底地 | |
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219
pious
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| adj.虔诚的；道貌岸然的 | |
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220
frail
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| adj.身体虚弱的；易损坏的 | |
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221
hovering
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| 鸟( hover的现在分词 )； 靠近（某事物）； （人）徘徊； 犹豫 | |
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222
poised
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| a.摆好姿势不动的 | |
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223
besought
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| v.恳求，乞求（某事物）( beseech的过去式和过去分词 )；(beseech的过去式与过去分词) | |
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224
tangles
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| （使）缠结， （使）乱作一团( tangle的第三人称单数 ) | |
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225
stifled
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| （使）窒息， （使）窒闷( stifle的过去式和过去分词 )； 镇压，遏制； 堵 | |
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226
eloquent
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| adj.雄辩的，口才流利的；明白显示出的 | |
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