Mary Mapes Dodge

“ Annie laughed, nodding gaily, and skated off at the top of her speed.
As Hans drew forth the wooden "runners" from his capricious pockets and fastened them on as best he could, he did not hear Annie murmur, "I wish I had not been so rude. Poor, brave Hans. What a noble boy he is!" And as Annie skated homeward, filled with pleasant thoughts, she did not hear Hans say, "I grumbled like a bear. But bless her! Some girls are like angels!"
Perhaps it was all for the best. One cannot be expected to know everything that is going on around the world. ”

“ She thanked her stars that her brothers were not like the Kolps, and he growled at his sister because she was not like the Boumans. His presence made her harsh and unfeeling, and the very sight of her made him gentle as a lamb. ”

“ Mother must have money at once. Before nightfall I shall certainly find a job somewhere."
"Sell your new skates, Hans?" cried Annie. "You, the best skater around Broek! Why, the race is coming off in five days!"
"I know it," he answered resolutely. "Good-bye! I shall skate home again on the old wooden ones."
Such a bright glance! So different from Janzoon's ugly grin--and Hans was off like an arrow.
"Hans, come back!" she called. ”