It _is_ neat, but so bare and ugly I hate to be there.

I do so love something pretty to look at!" and Merry gave a little shiver of disgust as she turned her eyes away from the large greasy boot Dick was holding up to be sure it was well lubricated all round.
"So do I, and that's a fact.

I couldn't get on without my pretty girl here, any way.

Why, she touches up the old place better than a dozen flower-pots in full blow," said the farmer, as his eye went from the scarlet geranium to the bright young face so near his own.
"I wish I had a dozen in the sitting-room window.

Mother says they are not tidy, but I'd keep them neat, and I know you'd like it," broke in Merry, glad of the chance to get one of the long-desired wishes of her heart fulfilled.
"I'll fetch you some next time I go over to Ballad's.