Page:Anna Chapin--Half a dozen boys.djvu/111

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WALKS AND TALKS.
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boys stood together, they made a strong contrast; Rob so delicately, nervously alive, quick, active, and full of quiet, happy fun; and Fred slower in his motions, now more than ever, and with a solid, sturdy strength that was little suggestive of his helplessness, while his face and manner were so sad and subdued. With a quick glance as she rose, Bess noted the difference in the faces, and rejoiced at the tact beyond his years that Rob showed as he guided his friend down the aisle and out into the starry night.

“How good the boys are for each other,” she thought. “I wish they might be together more than they are. Fred brings out all Rob’s chivalry and unselfishness, while Rob stirs him up and keeps him alive.”