At this command, to Rose's great dismay, six more hands were offered, and it was evident that she was expected to shake them all. It was a trying moment to the bashful child; but, remembering that they were her kinsmen come to welcome her, she tried her best to return the greeting cordially.
This impressive ceremony being over, the Clan broke ranks, and both rooms instantly appeared to be pervaded with boys. Rose hastily retired to the shelter of a big chair and sat there watching the invaders and wondering when her aunt would come and rescue her.
As if bound to do their duty manfully, yet rather oppressed by it, each lad paused beside her chair in his wanderings, made a brief remark, received a still briefer answer, and then sheered off with a relieved expression.
Archie came first, and, leaning over the chair-back, observed in a paternal tone,
“I'm glad you've come, cousin, and I hope you'll find the Aunt-hill pretty jolly.”
“I think I shall.”
Mac shook his hair out of his eyes, stumbled over a stool, and asked abruptly,
“Did you bring any books with you?”
“Four boxes full. They are in the library.”
Mac vanished from the room, and Steve, striking an attitude which displayed his costume effectively, said with an affable smile,