It takes a deal of pluck to hold out when you are told you are tied to an apron string , and all that sort of thing , '' sighed Charlie . `` I thought you had a ` deal of pluck , ' as you call it . The boys all say you are the bravest of the seven , '' said Rose . `` So I am about some things , but I can not bear to be laughed at . '' `` It is hard , but if one is right wo n't that make it easier ? '' `` Not to me ; it might to a pious parson like Arch . '' `` Please do n't call him names ! I guess he has what is called moral courage , and you physical courage . Uncle explained the difference to me , and moral is the best , though often it does n't look so , '' said Rose thoughtfully . Charlie did n't like that , and answered quickly , `` I do n't believe he 'd stand it any better than I do , if he had those fellows at him . '' `` Perhaps that 's why he keeps out of their way , and wants you to . '' Rose had him there , and Charlie felt it , but would not give in just yet , though he was going fast , for somehow , in the dark he seemed to see things clearer than in the light , and found it very easy to be confidential when it was `` only Rose . '' `` If he was my brother , now , he 'd have some right to interfere , '' began Charlie , in an injured tone . `` I wish he was ! '' cried Rose . `` So do I , '' answered Charlie , and then they both laughed at his inconsistency . The laugh did them good , and when Prince spoke again , it was in a different tone pensive , not proud nor perverse . `` You see , it 's hard upon me that I have no brothers and sisters . The others are better off and need n't go abroad for chums if they do n't like . I am all alone , and I 'd be thankful even for a little sister . ''
Rose XXXXX that very pathetic , and , overlooking the uncomplimentary word `` even '' in that last sentence , she said , with a timid sort of earnestness that conquered her cousin at once , `` Play I was a little sister .
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