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Yes, I dont know the boy lately; but hell be as bad as ever when hes well, returned Fanny, who hadnt much faith in sick-bed repentances. Much you know about it, growled Tom, lying down again, for he had sat bolt upright when Polly made the astounding declaration that he was like the well-beloved Jimmy. That simple little history had made a deep impression on Tom, and the tearful ending touched the tender spot that most boys hide so carefully. It is very pleasant to be loved and admired, very sweet to think we shall be missed and mourned when we go; and Tom was seized with a sudden desire to imitate this boy, who hadnt done anything wonderful, yet was so dear to his sister, that she cried for him a whole year after he was dead; so studious and clever, that people called him a fine fellow; and so anxious to be good, that he kept on trying, till he was better even than Polly, whom Tom privately considered a model of virtue, as girls go. I just wish I had a sister like you, he broke out, all of a sudden. And I just wish I had a brother like Jim, cried Fanny, for she felt the reproach in Toms words, and knew she deserved it. I shouldnt think youd envy anybody, for youve got one another, said Polly, with such a wistful look, that it suddenly set Tom and Fanny to wondering why they didnt have better times together, and enjoy themselves, as Polly and Jim did. Fan dont care for anybody but herself, said Tom. Tom is such a bear, retorted Fanny. I wouldnt say such things, for if anything should happen to either of you, the other one would feel so sorry. Every cross word I ever said to Jimmy comes back now, and makes me wish I hadnt: Two great tears rolled down Pollys cheeks, and were quietly wiped away; but I think they watered that sweet sentiment called fraternal love, which till now had been neglected in the hearts of this brother and sister. They didnt say anything then, or make any plans, or confess any faults; but when they parted for the night, Fanny gave the wounded head a gentle pat (Tom never would have for-given her if she had kissed him), and said, in a whisper, I hope youll have a good sleep, Tommy, dear. And Tom nodded back at her, with a hearty Same to you, Fan. That was all; but it meant a good deal, for the voices were kind, and the eyes met full of that affection which makes words of little consequence. Polly saw it; and though she didnt know that she had made the sunshine, it shone back upon her so pleasantly, that she fell happily asleep, though her Jimmy wasnt there to say good-night. |
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