"But I won't whistle to-night, so there!" she kept saying to herself, as if
she needed to keep her determination constantly before herself in order to
back it up.
Elsie rushed up the stairs at once, eager to enjoy the delights that an
English box always contained; but for once Dexie's interest was centred in
herself. Her nose could not be forgotten; in fact, she was trying to reduce
its proportions by pressing it between her thumb and finger. She wondered
if the rest of the family would notice it and make remarks thereon. Lancy
would be sure to know at once that something was wrong; but she would keep
out of sight, for she would _not_ whistle; no, indeed.
"Oh, Dexie, how you do poke along!" Elsie remarked from the top of the
stairs. "I declare, you are enough to try the patience of a Job. Come
along, or I'll rush into the room first, manners or no manners; then mother
will be displeased."
Dexie was up the few remaining steps before Elsie had finished speaking.
She was just as anxious to see the English presents as if half of them were
meant for herself. Her swelled nose was instantly forgotten, and she passed
through the door that Elsie held open for her, and was soon bending over
the treasures with the rest.
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