He laughed gayly.
“I mean to be adopted into the family, nevertheless. My hair may turn white some day.”
“There is no hurry,” returned Fanny. “I doubt if Tim would be the more cordial on that account.”
“Perhaps not;” with a shrewd smile. “But you will have to give me a sort of elder brother’s place.”
“Will you really be our brother?” asked Daisy.
“I shall be delighted to, if every one will consent. Ask Miss Rose if I may.”
“You like him—don’t you, Rose?” Papa said—
“We will take him for a brother,” I returned, gaspingly, my cheeks scarlet, for fear of some indiscreet revelation.
“I have never had any sisters; so I am very glad to get you all. I hope you will treat me well, and bring me home something nice when you go abroad.”
“But we are not going,” said Tim; “and I don’t believe I could hem a handkerchief nicely enough for you.”