histled for an object,
and that was respect and honor from those present in the face of her
"tomboy accomplishment."
It is not everyone who can whistle for a thing and get their wishes
gratified; but, to the honor and respect which Dexie desired, was added the
praise and approval of the delighted listeners. She felt proud to receive
it, for it would forever silence Gussie as to how her "bad manners" were
regarded.
Dexie was satisfied with her victory, and would not be persuaded into
repeating the piece, though, at the close of the rehearsal, she consented
to accompany Lancy in giving an exhibition of a bird-song.
It was the same chorus that had delighted the listeners the morning after
the adventure in the snow-drifts, and the rendering of it was greatly
enhanced by the better instrument before them.
Lancy played the accompaniment and whistled with her, and their voices
seemed transformed into veritable song-birds, as they joined or answered
each other's call.
"We must have that at our concert, Miss Sherwood," said Mr. Ross. "We
cannot afford to miss it. How is it that I never had the pleasure of
listening to this sort of music before, Mr. Gurney? You should have told us
of this new accomplishment, Miss Sherwood."
"Indeed! you never would have heard it at all, if I had not forgotten
myself so completely," said Dexie, smiling; "but as to whistling at the
concert, that is out of the question. It is distressing enough to show my
tomboyism before the members here."
"Nonsense! there is nothing of the 'tomboy' about that kind of whistling,"
said one of the members. "It is an accomplishment few possess."
"Well, it is fortunate for us that you made us aware of this talent of
yours, even though it was unintentional on your part, Miss Sherwood," said
Mr. Ross. "We must persuade you to give others the pleasure of hearing you.
It would add much to the attraction of our concert."
"You are most kind, and your remarks most flattering, but I must be
excused," said Dexie, turning with a smile to those who had addressed her.
"I do not forget that 'whistling girls' are generally frowned down."
"But there is no comparison between the usual tomboy whistle of girls, and
those bobolink, canary-bird notes that come from your lips," said an
enthusiastic member.
"Miss Sherwood, I am going to place that piece third on the programme, and
will call around to-morrow and see you and arrange for these extra pieces.
We can leave
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