There was only a hair 's - breadth difference , and Bab could honestly have disputed the decision ; but she did not , though for an instant she could not help wishing that the cry had been `` Bab 's beat ! Hurrah ! '' it sounded so pleasant . Then she saw Ben 's beaming face , Thorny 's intense relief , and caught the look Miss Celia sent her over the heads of the boys , and decided , with a sudden warm glow all over her little face , that losing a prize did sometimes make one happier than winning it . Up went her best hat , and she burst out in a shrill , `` Rah , rah , rah ! '' that sounded very funny coming all alone after the general clamor had subsided . `` Good for you , Bab ! you are an honor to the club , and I 'm proud of you '' , said Prince Thorny , with a hearty handshake ; for , as his man had won , he could afford to praise the rival who had put him on his mettle , though she was a girl . Bab was much uplifted by the royal commendation , but a few minutes later felt pleased as well as proud when Ben , having received the prize , came to her , as she stood behind a tree sucking her blistered thumb , while Betty braided up her dishevelled locks . `` I think it would be fairer to call it a tie , Bab , for it really was , and I want you to wear this . I wanted the fun of beating , but I do n't care a bit for this girl 's thing and I 'd rather see it on you . '' As he spoke , Ben offered the rosette of green ribbon which held the silver arrow , and Bab 's eyes brightened as they fell upon the pretty ornament , for to her `` the girl 's thing '' was almost as good as the victory . `` Oh no ; you must wear it to show who won . Miss Celia would n't like it . I do n't mind not getting it ; I did better than all the rest , and I guess I should n't like to beat you , '' answered Bab , unconsciously putting into childish words the sweet generosity which makes so many sisters glad to see their brothers carry off the prizes of life , while they are content to know that they have earned them and can do without the praise . But if Bab was generous , Ben was just ; and though he could not explain the feeling , would not consent to take all the glory without giving his little friend a share . `` You must wear it ; I shall feel real mean if you do n't . You worked harder than I did , and it was only luck my getting this . Do , Bab , to please me , '' he persisted , awkwardly trying to fasten the ornament in the middle of Bab 's ' white apron . `` Then I will .
Now do you forgive me for XXXXX Sancho ? ''
beaming felt getting held losing mind offered uplifted wear winning