little women

by

louisa may alcott

contents

part @number@

part @number@

chapter one

playing pilgrims

" christmas won't be christmas without any presents , " grumbled jo , lying on the rug .

" it 's so dreadful to be poor ! " sighed meg , looking down at her old dress .

" we 've got father and mother , and each other , " said beth contentedly from her corner .

she didn't say " perhaps never , " but each silently added it , thinking of father far away , where the fighting was .

we can't do much , but we can make our little sacrifices , and ought to do it gladly .

but i am afraid i don't , " and meg shook her head , as she thought regretfully of all the pretty things she wanted .

" but i don't think the little we should spend would do any good .

we 've each got a dollar , and the army wouldn't be much helped by our giving that .

i agree not to expect anything from mother or you , but i do want to buy undine and sintran for myself .

i 've wanted it so long , " said jo , who was a bookworm .

" i shall get a nice box of faber 's drawing pencils ; i really need them , " said amy decidedly .

" mother didn't say anything about our money , and she won't wish us to give up everything .

" you don't have half such a hard time as i do , " said jo .

" it 's naughty to fret , but i do think washing dishes and keeping things tidy is the worst work in the world .

it makes me cross , and my hands get so stiff , i can't practice well at all . "

and beth looked at her rough hands with a sigh that any one could hear that time .

" i know what i mean , and you needn't be statirical about it .

it 's proper to use good words , and improve your vocabilary , " returned amy , with dignity .

" don't peck at one another , children .

don't you wish we had the money papa lost when we were little , jo ?

dear me !

how happy and good we 'd be , if we had no worries ! " said meg , who could remember better times .

" so i did , beth .

well , i think we are .

" jo does use such slang words ! " observed amy , with a reproving look at the long figure stretched on the rug .

jo immediately sat up , put her hands in her pockets , and began to whistle .

" don't , jo .

it 's so boyish ! "

" that 's why i do it . "

" i detest rude , unladylike girls ! "

" i hate affected , niminy-piminy chits ! "

" really , girls , you are both to be blamed , " said meg , beginning to lecture in her elder-sisterly fashion .

" you are old enough to leave off boyish tricks , and to behave better , josephine .

" i'm not !

it 's bad enough to be a girl , anyway , when i like boy 's games and work and manners !

i can't get over my disappointment in not being a boy .

and it 's worse than ever now , for i 'm dying to go and fight with papa .

and i can only stay home and knit , like a poky old woman ! "

and jo shook the blue army sock till the needles rattled like castanets , and her ball bounded across the room .

" poor jo !

it 's too bad , but it can't be helped .

" as for you , amy , " continued meg , " you are altogether too particular and prim .

your airs are funny now , but you 'll grow up an affected little goose , if you don't take care .

i like your nice manners and refined ways of speaking , when you don't try to be elegant .

but your absurd words are as bad as jo 's slang . "

her long , thick hair was her one beauty , but it was usually bundled into a net , to be out of her way .

amy , though the youngest , was a most important person , in her own opinion at least .

what the characters of the four sisters were we will leave to be found out .

the clock struck six and , having swept up the hearth , beth put a pair of slippers down to warm .

" they are quite worn out .

marmee must have a new pair . "

" i thought i 'd get her some with my dollar , " said beth .

" no , i shall ! " cried amy .

" that 's like you , dear !

what will we get ? " exclaimed jo .

" army shoes , best to be had , " cried jo .

" some handkerchiefs , all hemmed , " said beth .

" i 'll get a little bottle of cologne .

she likes it , and it won't cost much , so i 'll have some left to buy my pencils , " added amy .

" how will we give the things ? " asked meg .

" put them on the table , and bring her in and see her open the bundles .

don't you remember how we used to do on our birthdays ? " answered jo .

" let marmee think we are getting things for ourselves , and then surprise her .

we must go shopping tomorrow afternoon , meg .

" i don't mean to act any more after this time .

i 'm getting too old for such things , " observed meg , who was as much a child as ever about ' dressing-up ' frolics .

you are the best actress we 've got , and there 'll be an end of everything if you quit the boards , " said jo .

" we ought to rehearse tonight .

come here , amy , and do the fainting scene , for you are as stiff as a poker in that . "

" i can't help it .

i never saw anyone faint , and i don't choose to make myself all black and blue , tumbling flat as you do .

if i can go down easily , i 'll drop .

if i can't , i shall fall into a chair and be graceful .

" do it this way .

clasp your hands so , and stagger across the room , crying frantically , ' roderigo !

save me !

save me ! ' " and away went jo , with a melodramatic scream which was truly thrilling .

jo gave a despairing groan , and meg laughed outright , while beth let her bread burn as she watched the fun with interest .

" it 's no use !

do the best you can when the time comes , and if the audience laughs , don't blame me .

come on , meg . "

then things went smoothly , for don pedro defied the world in a speech of two pages without a single break .

hagar , the witch , chanted an awful incantation over her kettleful of simmering toads , with weird effect .

roderigo rent his chains asunder manfully , and hugo died in agonies of remorse and arsenic , with a wild , " ha !

ha ! "

" it 's the best we 've had yet , " said meg , as the dead villain sat up and rubbed his elbows .

" i don't see how you can write and act such splendid things , jo .

you 're a regular shakespeare ! " exclaimed beth , who firmly believed that her sisters were gifted with wonderful genius in all things .

" not quite , " replied jo modestly .

i always wanted to do the killing part .

" no , it 's the toasting fork , with mother 's shoe on it instead of the bread .

beth 's stage-struck ! " cried meg , and the rehearsal ended in a general burst of laughter .

" well , dearies , how have you got on today ?

there was so much to do , getting the boxes ready to go tomorrow , that i didn't come home to dinner .

has anyone called , beth ?

how is your cold , meg ?

jo , you look tired to death .

come and kiss me , baby . "

the girls flew about , trying to make things comfortable , each in her own way .

meg arranged the tea table , jo brought wood and set chairs , dropping , over-turning , and clattering everything she touched .

a quick , bright smile went round like a streak of sunshine .

beth clapped her hands , regardless of the biscuit she held , and jo tossed up her napkin , crying , " a letter !

a letter !

three cheers for father ! "

" yes , a nice long letter .

he is well , and thinks he shall get through the cold season better than we feared .

" hurry and get done !

" don't i wish i could go as a drummer , a vivan what 's its name ?

or a nurse , so i could be near him and help him , " exclaimed jo , with a groan .

" when will he come home , marmee ? " asked beth , with a little quiver in her voice .

" not for many months , dear , unless he is sick .

now come and hear the letter . "

very few letters were written in those hard times that were not touching , especially those which fathers sent home .

in this one little was said of the hardships endured , the dangers faced , or the homesickness conquered .

" give them all of my dear love and a kiss .

everybody sniffed when they came to that part .

but i 'll truly try to be better , so he mayn't be disappointed in me by-and-by . "

" we all will , " cried meg .

" i think too much of my looks and hate to work , but won't any more , if i can help it . "

" i liked the place where the bundles fell off and tumbled downstairs , " said meg .

" really , mother ?

where are our bundles ? " asked amy , who was a very literal young lady .

" each of you told what your burden was just now , except beth .

i rather think she hasn't got any , " said her mother .

" yes , i have .

mine is dishes and dusters , and envying girls with nice pianos , and being afraid of people . "

" let us do it , " said meg thoughtfully .

" we were in the slough of despond tonight , and mother came and pulled us out as help did in the book .

we ought to have our roll of directions , like christian .

" look under your pillows christmas morning , and you will find your guidebook , " replied mrs . march .

it was uninteresting sewing , but tonight no one grumbled .

at nine they stopped work , and sang , as usual , before they went to bed .

meg had a voice like a flute , and she and her mother led the little choir .

they had always done this from the time they could lisp ....y

crinkle , crinkle , ' ittle ' tar ,

and it had become a household custom , for the mother was a born singer .

chapter two

a merry christmas

jo was the first to wake in the gray dawn of christmas morning .

then she remembered her mother 's promise and , slipping her hand under her pillow , drew out a little crimson-covered book .

she woke meg with a " merry christmas , " and bade her see what was under her pillow .

then she opened her new book and began to read .

" how good meg is !

come , amy , let's do as they do .

" goodness only knows .

some poor creeter came a-beggin ' , and your ma went straight off to see what was needed .

" why , where is amy 's bottle of cologne ? " she added , as the little flask did not appear .

" how nice my handkerchiefs look , don't they ?

" bless the child !

she 's gone and put ' mother ' on them instead of ' m . march ' .

how funny ! " cried jo , taking one up .

" isn't that right ?

" it 's all right , dear , and a very pretty idea , quite sensible too , for no one can ever mistake now .

it will please her very much , i know , " said meg , with a frown for jo and a smile for beth .

" there 's mother .

hide the basket , quick ! " cried jo , as a door slammed and steps sounded in the hall .

amy came in hastily , and looked rather abashed when she saw her sisters all waiting for her .

" don't laugh at me , jo !

i didn't mean anyone should know till the time came .

another bang of the street door sent the basket under the sofa , and the girls to the table , eager for breakfast .

" merry christmas , marmee !

many of them !

thank you for our books .

we read some , and mean to every day , " they all cried in chorus .

" merry christmas , little daughters !

i 'm glad you began at once , and hope you will keep on .

but i want to say one word before we sit down .

not far away from here lies a poor woman with a little newborn baby .

six children are huddled into one bed to keep from freezing , for they have no fire .

there is nothing to eat over there , and the oldest boy came to tell me they were suffering hunger and cold .

my girls , will you give them your breakfast as a christmas present ? "

" may i go and help carry the things to the poor little children ? " asked beth eagerly .

" i shall take the cream and the muffings , " added amy , heroically giving up the article she most liked .

meg was already covering the buckwheats , and piling the bread into one big plate .

" i thought you 'd do it , " said mrs. march , smiling as if satisfied .

they were soon ready , and the procession set out .

how the big eyes stared and the blue lips smiled as the girls went in .

" ach , mein gott !

it is good angels come to us ! " said the poor woman , crying for joy .

" funny angels in hoods and mittens , " said jo , and set them to laughing .

in a few minutes it really did seem as if kind spirits had been at work there .

hannah , who had carried wood , made a fire , and stopped up the broken panes with old hats and her own cloak .

" das ist gut ! "

" die engel-kinder ! " cried the poor things as they ate and warmed their purple hands at the comfortable blaze .

that was a very happy breakfast , though they didn't get any of it .

" she 's coming !

strike up , beth !

open the door , amy !

three cheers for marmee ! " cried jo , prancing about while meg went to conduct mother to the seat of honor .

beth played her gayest march , amy threw open the door , and meg enacted escort with great dignity .

the morning charities and ceremonies took so much time that the rest of the day was devoted to preparations for the evening festivities .

the big chamber was the scene of many innocent revels .

presently a bell sounded , the curtains flew apart , and the operatic tragedy began .

i need thee ! "

hugo demanded a potion to make zara adore him , and one to destroy roderigo .

hagar , in a fine dramatic melody , promised both , and proceeded to call up the spirit who would bring the love philter .

hither , hither , from thy home , airy sprite , i bid thee come !

born of roses , fed on dew , charms and potions canst thou brew ?

bring me here , with elfin speed , the fragrant philter which i need .

make it sweet and swift and strong , spirit , answer now my song !

waving a wand , it sang ....y

hither i come , from my airy home , afar in the silver moon .

take the magic spell , and use it well , or its power will vanish soon !

and dropping a small , gilded bottle at the witch 's feet , the spirit vanished .

then the curtain fell , and the audience reposed and ate candy while discussing the merits of the play .

it was truly superb .

he came in gorgeous array , with plumed cap , red cloak , chestnut lovelocks , a guitar , and the boots , of course .

kneeling at the foot of the tower , he sang a serenade in melting tones .

zara replied and , after a musical dialogue , consented to fly .

then came the grand effect of the play .

roderigo produced a rope ladder , with five steps to it , threw up one end , and invited zara to descend .

timidly she crept from her lattice , put her hand on roderigo 's shoulder , and was about to leap gracefully down when " alas !

alas for zara ! " she forgot her train .

i told you so ! "

with wonderful presence of mind , don pedro , the cruel sire , rushed in , dragged out his daughter , with a hasty aside ....y

" don't laugh !

act as if it was all right ! " and , ordering roderigo up , banished him from the kingdom with wrath and scorn .

though decidedly shaken by the fall from the tower upon him , roderigo defied the old gentleman and refused to stir .

this dauntless example fired zara .

she also defied her sire , and he ordered them both to the deepest dungeons of the castle .

act third was the castle hall , and here hagar appeared , having come to free the lovers and finish hugo .

the servant takes hugo aside to tell him something , and hagar changes the cups for two others which are harmless .

ferdinando , the ' minion ' , carries them away , and hagar puts back the cup which holds the poison meant for roderigo .

act fourth displayed the despairing roderigo on the point of stabbing himself because he has been told that zara has deserted him .

act fifth opened with a stormy scene between zara and don pedro .

don pedro refuses , because he is not rich .

the bag is opened , and several quarts of tin money shower down upon the stage till it is quite glorified with the glitter .

this entirely softens the stern sire .

roderigo and don pedro flew to the rescue , and all were taken out unhurt , though many were speechless with laughter .

the excitement had hardly subsided when hannah appeared , with " mrs. march 's compliments , and would the ladies walk down to supper . "

this was a surprise even to the actors , and when they saw the table , they looked at one another in rapturous amazement .

" is it fairies ? " asked amy .

" santa claus , " said beth .

" mother did it . "

and meg smiled her sweetest , in spite of her gray beard and white eyebrows .

" aunt march had a good fit and sent the supper , " cried jo , with a sudden inspiration .

" all wrong .

old mr laurence sent it , " replied mrs . march .

" the laurence boy 's grandfather !

what in the world put such a thing into his head ?

we don't know him ! " exclaimed meg .

" hannah told one of his servants about your breakfast party .

he is an odd old gentleman , but that pleased him .

i could not refuse , and so you have a little feast at night to make up for the bread-and-milk breakfast . "

" that boy put it into his head , i know he did !

he 's a capital fellow , and i wish we could get acquainted .

" you mean the people who live in the big house next door , don't you ? " asked one of the girls .

" my mother knows old mr laurence , but says he 's very proud and doesn't like to mix with his neighbors .

he keeps his grandson shut up , when he isn't riding or walking with his tutor , and makes him study very hard .

we invited him to our party , but he didn't come .

mother says he 's very nice , though he never speaks to us girls . "

i mean to know him some day , for he needs fun , i 'm sure he does , " said jo decidedly .

he brought the flowers himself , and i should have asked him in , if i had been sure what was going on upstairs .

he looked so wistful as he went away , hearing the frolic and evidently having none of his own . "

" it 's a mercy you didn't , mother ! " laughed jo , looking at her boots .

" but we 'll have another play sometime that he can see .

perhaps he 'll help act .

wouldn't that be jolly ? "

" i never had such a fine bouquet before !

how pretty it is ! "

and meg examined her flowers with great interest .

" they are lovely .

but beth 's roses are sweeter to me , " said mrs. march , smelling the half-dead posy in her belt .

beth nestled up to her , and whispered softly , " i wish i could send my bunch to father .

i 'm afraid he isn't having such a merry christmas as we are . "

chapter three

the laurence boy

" jo !

jo !

where are you ? " cried meg at the foot of the garret stairs .

as meg appeared , scrabble whisked into his hole .

jo shook the tears off her cheeks and waited to hear the news .

" such fun !

only see !

" ' mrs gardiner would be happy to see miss march and miss josephine at a little dance on new year 's eve . '

marmee is willing we should go , now what shall we wear ? "

" if i only had a silk ! " sighed meg .

" mother says i may when i 'm eighteen perhaps , but two years is an everlasting time to wait . "

" i 'm sure our pops look like silk , and they are nice enough for us .

yours is as good as new , but i forgot the burn and the tear in mine .

whatever shall i do ?

the burn shows badly , and i can't take any out . "

" you must sit still all you can and keep your back out of sight .

the front is all right .

" you must have gloves , or i won't go , " cried meg decidedly .

" gloves are more important than anything else .

you can't dance without them , and if you don't i should be so mortified . "

" then i 'll stay still .

i don't care much for company dancing .

it 's no fun to go sailing round .

i like to fly about and cut capers . "

" you can't ask mother for new ones , they are so expensive , and you are so careless .

she said when you spoiled the others that she shouldn't get you any more this winter .

can't you make them do ? "

" i can hold them crumpled up in my hand , so no one will know how stained they are .

that 's all i can do .

no !

i 'll tell you how we can manage , each wear one good one and carry a bad one .

don't you see ? "

" then i 'll go without .

i don't care what people say ! " cried jo , taking up her book .

" you may have it , you may !

only don't stain it , and do behave nicely .

don't put your hands behind you , or stare , or say ' christopher columbus ! ' will you ? "

" don't worry about me .

i 'll be as prim as i can and not get into any scrapes , if i can help it .

now go and answer your note , and let me finish this splendid story . "

meg wanted a few curls about her face , and jo undertook to pinch the papered locks with a pair of hot tongs .

" ought they to smoke like that ? " asked beth from her perch on the bed .

" it 's the dampness drying , " replied jo .

" what a queer smell !

it 's like burned feathers , " observed amy , smoothing her own pretty curls with a superior air .

" oh , oh , oh !

what have you done ?

i 'm spoiled !

i can't go !

my hair , oh , my hair ! " wailed meg , looking with despair at the uneven frizzle on her forehead .

" just my luck !

you shouldn't have asked me to do it .

i always spoil everything .

" it isn't spoiled .

i 've seen many girls do it so , " said amy consolingly .

" serves me right for trying to be fine .

i wish i 'd let my hair alone , " cried meg petulantly .

" so do i , it was so smooth and pretty .

but it will soon grow out again , " said beth , coming to kiss and comfort the shorn sheep .

jo in maroon , with a stiff , gentlemanly linen collar , and a white chrysanthemum or two for her only ornament .

each put on one nice light glove , and carried one soiled one , and all pronounced the effect " quite easy and fine " .

" have a good time , dearies ! " said mrs. march , as the sisters went daintily down the walk .

" don't eat much supper , and come away at eleven when i send hannah for you . "

as the gate clashed behind them , a voice cried from a window ....y

" girls , girls !

have you you both got nice pocket handkerchiefs ? "

" now don't forget to keep the bad breadth out of sight , jo .

is my sash right ?

" i know i shall forget .

" no , winking isn't ladylike .

i 'll lift my eyebrows if any thing is wrong , and nod if you are all right .

now hold your shoulder straight , and take short steps , and don't shake hands if you are introduced to anyone .

it isn't the thing . "

" how do you learn all the proper ways ?

i never can .

isn't that music gay ? "

mrs gardiner , a stately old lady , greeted them kindly and handed them over to the eldest of her six daughters .

she telegraphed her wish to meg , but the eyebrows went up so alarmingly that she dared not stir .

no one came to talk to her , and one by one the group dwindled away till she was left alone .

meg was asked at once , and the tight slippers tripped about so briskly that none would have guessed the pain their wearer suffered smilingly .

but the boy laughed and said pleasantly , though he looked a little startled , " don't mind me , stay if you like . "

" shan't i disturb you ? "

" not a bit .

i only came here because i don't know many people and felt rather strange at first , you know . "

" so did i . don't go away , please , unless you 'd rather . "

you live near us , don't you ? "

" next door . "

" grandpa sent it . "

" but you put it into his head , didn't you , now ? "

" how is your cat , miss march ? " asked the boy , trying to look sober while his black eyes shone with fun .

" nicely , thank you , mr laurence .

but i am not miss march , i 'm only jo , " returned the young lady .

" i 'm not mr laurence , i 'm only laurie . "

" laurie laurence , what an odd name . "

" i hate my name , too , so sentimental !

i wish every one would say jo instead of josephine .

how did you make the boys stop calling you dora ? "

" i thrashed ' em . "

" i can't thrash aunt march , so i suppose i shall have to bear it . "

and jo resigned herself with a sigh .

" don't you like to dance , miss jo ? " asked laurie , looking as if he thought the name suited her .

" i like it well enough if there is plenty of room , and everyone is lively .

don't you dance ? "

" sometimes .

you see i 've been abroad a good many years , and haven't been into company enough yet to know how you do things here . "

" abroad ! " cried jo .

" oh , tell me about it !

i love dearly to hear people describe their travels . "

" don't i wish i 'd been there ! " cried jo .

" did you go to paris ? "

" we spent last winter there . "

" can you talk french ? "

" we were not allowed to speak anything else at vevay . "

" do say some !

i can read it , but can't pronounce . "

" quel nom a cette jeune demoiselle en les pantoufles jolis ? "

" how nicely you do it !

let me see ....y you said , ' who is the young lady in the pretty slippers ' , didn't you ? "

" oui , mademoiselle . "

" it 's my sister margaret , and you knew it was !

do you think she is pretty ? "

" yes , she makes me think of the german girls , she looks so fresh and quiet , and dances like a lady . "

jo quite glowed with pleasure at this boyish praise of her sister , and stored it up to repeat to meg .

both peeped and criticized and chatted till they felt like old acquaintances .

wonder how old he is ? "

" i suppose you are going to college soon ?

i see you pegging away at your books , no , i mean studying hard . "

and jo blushed at the dreadful ' pegging ' which had escaped her .

laurie smiled but didn't seem shocked , and answered with a shrug .

" not for a year or two .

i won't go before seventeen , anyway . "

" aren't you but fifteen ? " asked jo , looking at the tall lad , whom she had imagined seventeen already .

" sixteen , next month . "

" how i wish i was going to college !

you don't look as if you liked it . "

" i hate it !

nothing but grinding or skylarking .

and i don't like the way fellows do either , in this country . "

" what do you like ? "

" to live in italy , and to enjoy myself in my own way . "

why don't you go and try it ? "

" if you will come too , " he answered , with a gallant little bow .

" i can't , for i told meg i wouldn't , because ....v "

there jo stopped , and looked undecided whether to tell or to laugh .

" because , what ? "

" you won't tell ? "

" never ! "

you may laugh , if you want to .

it is funny , i know . "

but laurie didn't laugh .

he only looked down a minute , and the expression of his face puzzled jo when he said very gently , " never mind that .

i 'll tell you how we can manage .

there 's a long hall out there , and we can dance grandly , and no one will see us .

please come . "

jo thanked him and gladly went , wishing she had two neat gloves when she saw the nice , pearl-colored ones her partner wore .

" i 've sprained my ankle .

that stupid high heel turned and gave me a sad wrench .

" i knew you 'd hurt your feet with those silly shoes .

i 'm sorry .

" i can't have a carriage without its costing ever so much .

" i 'll go . "

" no , indeed !

it 's past nine , and dark as egypt .

i can't stop here , for the house is full .

sallie has some girls staying with her .

i 'll rest till hannah comes , and then do the best i can . "

" i 'll ask laurie .

he will go , " said jo , looking relieved as the idea occurred to her .

" mercy , no !

don't ask or tell anyone .

get me my rubbers , and put these slippers with our things .

i can't dance anymore , but as soon as supper is over , watch for hannah and tell me the minute she comes . "

" they are going out to supper now .

i 'll stay with you .

i'd rather . "

" no , dear , run along , and bring me some coffee .

i 'm so tired i can't stir . "

" oh , dear , what a blunderbuss i am ! " exclaimed jo , finishing meg 's glove by scrubbing her gown with it .

" can i help you ? " said a friendly voice .

and there was laurie , with a full cup in one hand and a plate of ice in the other .

" too bad !

i was looking for someone to give this to .

may i take it to your sister ? "

" oh , thank you !

i 'll show you where she is .

i don't offer to take it myself , for i should only get into another scrape if i did . "

meg forgot her foot and rose so quickly that she was forced to catch hold of jo , with an exclamation of pain .

" hush !

don't say anything , " she whispered , adding aloud , " it 's nothing .

i turned my foot a little , that 's all , " and limped upstairs to put her things on .

hannah scolded , meg cried , and jo was at her wits ' end , till she decided to take things into her own hands .

slipping out , she ran down and , finding a servant , asked if he could get her a carriage .

" it 's so early !

you can't mean to go yet ? " began jo , looking relieved but hesitating to accept the offer .

" i always go early , i do , truly !

please let me take you home .

it 's all on my way , you know , and it rains , they say . "

that settled it , and telling him of meg 's mishap , jo gratefully accepted and rushed up to bring down the rest of the party .

laurie went on the box so meg could keep her foot up , and the girls talked over their party in freedom .

" i had a capital time .

did you ? " asked jo , rumpling up her hair , and making herself comfortable .

" yes , till i hurt myself .

" i saw you dancing with the red headed man i ran away from .

was he nice ? "

" oh , very !

his hair is auburn , not red , and he was very polite , and i had a delicious redowa with him . "

" he looked like a grasshopper in a fit when he did the new step .

laurie and i couldn't help laughing .

did you hear us ? "

" no , but it was very rude .

what were you about all that time , hidden away there ? "

jo told her adventures , and by the time she had finished they were at home .

" tell about the party !

tell about the party ! "

and i think jo was quite right .

chapter four

burdens

" i wish it was christmas or new year 's all the time .

wouldn't it be fun ? " answered jo , yawning dismally .

" we shouldn't enjoy ourselves half so much as we do now .

" well , we can't have it , so don't let us grumble but shoulder our bundles and trudge along as cheerfully as marmee does .

it 's a shame ! "

so meg went down , wearing an injured look , and wasn't at all agreeable at breakfast time .

everyone seemed rather out of sorts and inclined to croak .

beth had a headache and lay on the sofa , trying to comfort herself with the cat and three kittens .

amy was fretting because her lessons were not learned , and she couldn't find her rubbers .

jo would whistle and make a great racket getting ready .

jo laughed , meg scolded , beth implored , and amy wailed because she couldn't remember how much nine times twelve was .

" girls , girls , do be quiet one minute !

hannah never forgot to make them , no matter how busy or grumpy she might be , for the walk was long and bleak .

the poor things got no other lunch and were seldom home before two .

" cuddle your cats and get over your headache , bethy .

goodbye , marmee .

we are a set of rascals this morning , but we 'll come home regular angels .

now then , meg ! "

and jo tramped away , feeling that the pilgrims were not setting out as they ought to do .

" you 're a blighted being , and decidedly cross today because you can't sit in the lap of luxury all the time .

" how ridiculous you are , jo ! "

but meg laughed at the nonsense and felt better in spite of herself .

thank goodness , i can always find something funny to keep me up .

don't croak any more , but come home jolly , there 's a dear . "

margaret found a place as nursery governess and felt rich with her small salary .

as she said , she was ' fond of luxury ' , and her chief trouble was poverty .

jo happened to suit aunt march , who was lame and needed an active person to wait upon her .

" we can't give up our girls for a dozen fortunes .

rich or poor , we will keep together and be happy in one another . "

i suspect that the real attraction was a large library of fine books , which was left to dust and spiders since uncle march died .

jo 's ambition was to do something very splendid .

beth was too bashful to go to school .

beth cherished them all the more tenderly for that very reason , and set up a hospital for infirm dolls .

if anyone had known the care lavished on that dolly , i think it would have touched their hearts , even while they laughed .

if anybody had asked amy what the greatest trial of her life was , she would have answered at once , " my nose . "

she got through her lessons as well as she could , and managed to escape reprimands by being a model of deportment .

she was a great favorite with her mates , being good-tempered and possessing the happy art of pleasing without effort .

amy was in a fair way to be spoiled , for everyone petted her , and her small vanities and selfishnesses were growing nicely .

one thing , however , rather quenched the vanities .

she had to wear her cousin 's clothes .

meg was amy 's confidant and monitor , and by some strange attraction of opposites jo was gentle beth 's .

" has anybody got anything to tell ?

it 's been such a dismal day i 'm really dying for some amusement , " said meg , as they sat sewing together that evening .

" i wish i could , and be done with it , " said i , trying not to be saucy .

i 'd just got to where they all tumbled into the water when i forgot and laughed out loud .

i did my very best , and she liked it , though she only said ....y

" ' i don't understand what it 's all about .

go back and begin it , child . ' "

" back i went , and made the primroses as interesting as ever i could .

once i was wicked enough to stop in a thrilling place , and say meekly , ' i 'm afraid it tires you , ma'am .

shan't i stop now ? ' "

" did she own she liked it ? " asked meg .

" oh , bless you , no !

what a pleasant life she might have if only she chose !

" that reminds me , " said meg , " that i 've got something to tell .

it isn't funny , like jo 's story , but i thought about it a good deal as i came home .

" susie perkins came to school today with a lovely red carnelian ring .

i wanted it dreadfully , and wished i was her with all my might .

we were laughing over it when all of a sudden his eye was on us , and he ordered susie to bring up her slate .

she was parry lized with fright , but she went , and oh , what do you think he did ?

he took her by the ear the ear !

" didn't the girls laugh at the picture ? " asked jo , who relished the scrape .

" laugh ?

not one !

they sat still as mice , and susie cried quarts , i know she did .

i didn't envy her then , for i felt that millions of carnelian rings wouldn't have made me happy after that .

i never , never should have got over such a agonizing mortification . "

and amy went on with her work , in the proud consciousness of virtue and the successful utterance of two long words in a breath .

she was so glad and surprised she took it right into her arms , and thanked him over and over .

he told her to ' go along and cook it ' , and she hurried off , so happy !

wasn't it good of him ?

he sat down near me , and i began to talk to him , for he looked poor and tired and anxious .

" ' have you sons in the army ? '

i asked , for the note he brought was not to me . "

" yes , ma'am .

" ' you have done a great deal for your country , sir , ' i said , feeling respect now , instead of pity . "

" ' not a mite more than i ought , ma'am .

i 'd go myself , if i was any use .

as i ain't , i give my boys , and give ' em free . ' "

" he spoke so cheerfully , looked so sincere , and seemed so glad to give his all , that i was ashamed of myself .

i 'd given one man and thought it too much , while he gave four without grudging them .

" tell another story , mother , one with a moral to it , like this .

i like to think about them afterward , if they are real and not too preachy , " said jo , after a minute 's silence .

( here the listeners stole sly looks at one another , and began to sew diligently . )

" being sensible girls , they decided to try her advice , and soon were surprised to see how well off they were .

" i like that kind of sermon .

it 's the sort father used to tell us , " said beth thoughtfully , putting the needles straight on jo 's cushion .

" we needed that lesson , and we won't forget it .

chapter five

being neighborly

" going out for exercise , " answered jo with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes .

" i should think two long walks this morning would have been enough !

" never take advice !

can't keep still all day , and not being a pussycat , i don't like to doze by the fire .

i like adventures , and i 'm going to find some . "

meg went back to toast her feet and read ivanhoe , and jo began to dig paths with great energy .

now , the garden separated the marches ' house from that of mr laurence .

both stood in a suburb of the city , which was still country-like , with groves and lawns , large gardens , and quiet streets .

a low hedge parted the two estates .

to jo 's lively fancy , this fine house seemed a kind of enchanted palace , full of splendors and delights which no one enjoyed .

" that boy is suffering for society and fun , " she said to herself .

" his grandpa does not know what 's good for him , and keeps him shut up all alone .

he needs a party of jolly boys to play with , or somebody young and lively .

i 've a great mind to go over and tell the old gentleman so ! "

the idea amused jo , who liked to do daring things and was always scandalizing meg by her queer performances .

the plan of ' going over ' was not forgotten .

and when the snowy afternoon came , jo resolved to try what could be done .

" there he is , " thought jo , " poor boy !

all alone and sick this dismal day .

it 's a shame !

i 'll toss up a snowball and make him look out , and then say a kind word to him . "

jo nodded and laughed , and flourished her broom as she called out ....y

" how do you do ?

are you sick ? "

laurie opened the window , and croaked out as hoarsely as a raven ....v

" better , thank you .

i 've had a bad cold , and been shut up a week . "

" i 'm sorry .

what do you amuse yourself with ? "

" nothing .

it 's dull as tombs up here . "

" don't you read ? "

" not much .

they won't let me . "

" can't somebody read to you ? "

" grandpa does sometimes , but my books don't interest him , and i hate to ask brooke all the time . "

" have someone come and see you then . "

" there isn't anyone i 'd like to see .

boys make such a row , and my head is weak . "

" isn't there some nice girl who 'd read and amuse you ?

girls are quiet and like to play nurse . "

" don't know any . "

" you know us , " began jo , then laughed and stopped .

" so i do !

will you come , please ? " cried laurie .

" i 'm not quiet and nice , but i 'll come , if mother will let me .

i 'll go ask her .

shut the window , like a good boy , and wait till i come . "

with that , jo shouldered her broom and marched into the house , wondering what they would all say to her .

" here i am , bag and baggage , " she said briskly .

" mother sent her love , and was glad if i could do anything for you .

meg wanted me to bring some of her blanc mange , she makes it very nicely , and beth thought her cats would be comforting .

i knew you 'd laugh at them , but i couldn't refuse , she was so anxious to do something . "

" it isn't anything , only they all felt kindly and wanted to show it .

tell the girl to put it away for your tea .

it 's so simple you can eat it , and being soft , it will slip down without hurting your sore throat .

what a cozy room this is ! "

" it might be if it was kept nice , but the maids are lazy , and i don't know how to make them mind .

it worries me though . "

now then , you 're fixed . "

" how kind you are !

yes , that 's what it wanted .

now please take the big chair and let me do something to amuse my company . "

" no , i came to amuse you .

shall i read aloud ? " and jo looked affectionately toward some inviting books near by .

" thank you !

i 've read all those , and if you don't mind , i 'd rather talk , " answered laurie .

" not a bit .

i 'll talk all day if you 'll only set me going .

beth says i never know when to stop . "

" yes , that 's beth .

she 's my girl , and a regular good one she is , too . "

" the pretty one is meg , and the curly-haired one is amy , i believe ? "

" how did you find that out ? "

i beg your pardon for being so rude , but sometimes you forget to put down the curtain at the window where the flowers are .

her face is right opposite , and it looks so sweet behind the flowers , i can't help watching it .

i haven't got any mother , you know . "

and laurie poked the fire to hide a little twitching of the lips that he could not control .

the solitary , hungry look in his eyes went straight to jo 's warm heart .

laurie was sick and lonely , and feeling how rich she was in home and happiness , she gladly tried to share it with him .

her face was very friendly and her sharp voice unusually gentle as she said ....v

" we 'll never draw that curtain any more , and i give you leave to look as much as you like .

i just wish , though , instead of peeping , you 'd come over and see us .

meg and i would make you laugh over our funny stage properties , and we 'd have jolly times .

wouldn't your grandpa let you ? "

" i think he would , if your mother asked him .

" we are not strangers , we are neighbors , and you needn't think you 'd be a bother .

we want to know you , and i 've been trying to do it this ever so long .

we haven't been here a great while , you know , but we have got acquainted with all our neighbors but you . "

" you see , grandpa lives among his books , and doesn't mind much what happens outside .

" that 's bad .

never mind being bashful .

it won't last long if you keep going . "

" don't go to school , i 'm a businessman girl , i mean .

i go to wait on my great-aunt , and a dear , cross old soul she is , too , " answered jo .

" oh !

that does me no end of good .

tell on , please , " he said , taking his face out of the sofa cushion , red and shining with merriment .

" if you like them so much , come down and see ours .

grandfather is out , so you needn't be afraid , " said laurie , getting up .

" i 'm not afraid of anything , " returned jo , with a toss of the head .

" theodore laurence , you ought to be the happiest boy in the world , " she added impressively .

" a fellow can't live on books , " said laurie , shaking his head as he perched on a table opposite .

before he could more , a bell rang , and jo flew up , exclaiming with alarm , " mercy me !

it 's your grandpa ! "

" well , what if it is ?

you are not afraid of anything , you know , " returned the boy , looking wicked .

" i think i am a little bit afraid of him , but i don't know why i should be .

" i 'm a great deal better for it , and ever so much obliged .

i 'm only afraid you are very tired of talking to me .

it was so pleasant , i couldn't bear to stop , " said laurie gratefully .

" the doctor to see you , sir , " and the maid beckoned as she spoke .

" would you mind if i left you for a minute ?

i suppose i must see him , " said laurie .

" don't mind me .

i 'm happy as a cricket here , " answered jo .

laurie went away , and his guest amused herself in her own way .

he isn't as handsome as my grandfather , but i like him . "

poor jo blushed till she couldn't blush any redder , and her heart began to beat uncomfortably fast as she thought what she had said .

" not much , sir . "

" and you don't think me as handsome as your grandfather ? "

" not quite , sir . "

" and i 've got a tremendous will , have i ? "

" i only said i thought so . "

" but you like me in spite of it ? "

" yes , i do , sir . "

that answer pleased the old gentleman .

" thank you , sir , " and jo was quite comfortable after that , for it suited her exactly .

" what have you been doing to this boy of mine , hey ? " was the next question , sharply put .

" only trying to be neighborly , sir . "

and jo told how her visit came about .

" you think he needs cheering up a bit , do you ? "

" yes , sir , he seems a little lonely , and young folks would do him good perhaps .

" tut , tut , tut !

that was the boy 's affair .

how is the poor woman ? "

" doing nicely , sir . "

" just her father 's way of doing good .

i shall come and see your mother some fine day .

tell her so .

there 's the tea bell , we have it early on the boy 's account .

come down and go on being neighborly . "

" if you 'd like to have me , sir . "

" shouldn't ask you , if i didn't . "

and mr laurence offered her his arm with old-fashioned courtesy .

" hey !

" i didn't know you 'd come , sir , " he began , as jo gave him a triumphant little glance .

" that 's evident , by the way you racket downstairs .

come to your tea , sir , and behave like a gentleman . "

there was color , light , and life in the boy 's face now , vivacity in his manner , and genuine merriment in his laugh .

" she 's right , the lad is lonely .

i 'll see what these little girls can do for him , " thought mr laurence , as he looked and listened .

but finding them free and easy , she was so herself , and made a good impression .

" do you play ? " she asked , turning to laurie with a respectful expression .

" sometimes , " he answered modestly .

" please do now .

i want to hear it , so i can tell beth . "

" won't you first ? "

" don't know how .

too stupid to learn , but i love music dearly . "

so laurie played and jo listened , with her nose luxuriously buried in heliotrope and tea roses .

her respect and regard for the ' laurence ' boy increased very much , for he played remarkably well and didn't put on any airs .

" that will do , that will do , young lady .

too many sugarplums are not good for him .

his music isn't bad , but i hope he will do as well in more important things .

going ? well , i 'm much obliged to you , and i hope you 'll come again .

my respects to your mother .

good night , doctor jo . "

he shook hands kindly , but looked as if something did not please him .

when they got into the hall , jo asked laurie if she had said something amiss .

he shook his head .

" no , it was me .

he doesn't like to hear me play . "

" why not ? "

" i 'll tell you some day .

john is going home with you , as i can't . "

" no need of that .

i am not a young lady , and it 's only a step .

take care of yourself , won't you ? "

" yes , but you will come again , i hope ? "

" if you promise to come and see us after you are well . "

" i will . "

" good night , laurie ! "

" good night , jo , good night ! "

" mother , why didn't mr laurence like to have laurie play ? " asked jo , who was of an inquiring disposition .

the lady was good and lovely and accomplished , but he did not like her , and never saw his son after he married .

they both died when laurie was a little child , and then his grandfather took him home .

" dear me , how romantic ! " exclaimed meg .

" how silly ! " said jo .

" that 's why he has such handsome black eyes and pretty manners , i suppose .

italians are always nice , " said meg , who was a little sentimental .

" what do you know about his eyes and his manners ?

you never spoke to him , hardly , " cried jo , who was not sentimental .

" i saw him at the party , and what you tell shows that he knows how to behave .

that was a nice little speech about the medicine mother sent him . "

" he meant the blanc mange , i suppose . "

" how stupid you are , child !

he meant you , of course . "

" did he ? "

and jo opened her eyes as if it had never occurred to her before .

" i never saw such a girl !

" i think they are great nonsense , and i 'll thank you not to be silly and spoil my fun .

laurie 's a nice boy and i like him , and i won't have any sentimental stuff about compliments and such rubbish .

" i don't call myself a child , and i 'm not in my teens yet , " observed amy .

" what do you say , beth ? "

" i was thinking about our ' pilgrim 's progress ' , " answered beth , who had not heard a word .

" we have got to get by the lions first , " said jo , as if she rather liked the prospect .

chapter six

beth finds the palace beautiful

so they soon forgot their pride and interchanged kindnesses without stopping to think which was the greater .

all sorts of pleasant things happened about that time , for the new friendship flourished like grass in spring .

every one liked laurie , and he privately informed his tutor that " the marches were regularly splendid girls . "

" never mind , let him take a holiday , and make it up afterward , " said the old gentleman .

" the good lady next door says he is studying too hard and needs young society , amusement , and exercise .

i suspect she is right , and that i 've been coddling the fellow as if i 'd been his grandmother .

let him do what he likes , as long as he is happy .

he can't get into mischief in that little nunnery over there , and mrs. march is doing more for him than we can . "

what good times they had , to be sure .

taking no more notice of her than if she had been a fly , mr laurence talked on about laurie 's lessons and teachers .

and presently , as if the idea had just occurred to him , he said to mrs. march ....y

" the boy neglects his music now , and i 'm glad of it , for he was getting too fond of it .

but the piano suffers for want of use .

before mrs. march could reply , mr laurence went on with an odd little nod and smile ....y

" they needn't see or speak to anyone , but run in at any time .

" please , tell the young ladies what i say , and if they don't care to come , why , never mind . "

" oh sir , they do care , very very much ! "

" i 'm beth .

" not a soul , my dear .

" how kind you are , sir ! "

" i had a little girl once , with eyes like these .

god bless you , my dear !

good day , madam . "

and away he went , in a great hurry .

she never knew that mr laurence opened his study door to hear the old-fashioned airs he liked .

she never saw laurie mount guard in the hall to warn the servants away .

so she enjoyed herself heartily , and found , what isn't always the case , that her granted wish was all she had hoped .

perhaps it was because she was so grateful for this blessing that a greater was given her .

at any rate she deserved both .

" mother , i 'm going to work mr laurence a pair of slippers .

he is so kind to me , i must thank him , and i don't know any other way .

can i do it ? " asked beth , a few weeks after that eventful call of his .

" yes , dear .

it will please him very much , and be a nice way of thanking him .

after many serious discussions with meg and jo , the pattern was chosen , the materials bought , and the slippers begun .

she was a nimble little needlewoman , and they were finished before anyone got tired of them .

when this excitement was over , beth waited to see what would happen .

" here 's a letter from the old gentleman !

come quick , and read it ! "

beth hurried on in a flutter of suspense .

look there ! "

" yes , all for you , my precious !

isn't it splendid of him ?

don't you think he 's the dearest old man in the world ?

here 's the key in the letter .

" you read it !

i can't , i feel so queer !

oh , it is too lovely ! " and beth hid her face in jo 's apron , quite upset by her present .

jo opened the paper and began to laugh , for the first words she saw were ....y

" miss march : " dear madam "

" how nice it sounds !

i wish someone would write to me so ! " said amy , who thought the old-fashioned address very elegant .

" 'heart's-ease is my favorite flower , and these will always remind me of the gentle giver .

with hearty thanks and best wishes , i remain " ' your grateful friend and humble servant , ' james laurence ' . "

" there , beth , that 's an honor to be proud of , i 'm sure !

laurie told me how fond mr laurence used to be of the child who died , and how he kept all her little things carefully .

just think , he 's given you her piano .

" ' your humble servant , james laurence ' .

only think of his writing that to you .

i 'll tell the girls .

they 'll think it 's splendid , " said amy , much impressed by the note .

" try it , honey .

let's hear the sound of the baby pianny , " said hannah , who always took a share in the family joys and sorrows .

so beth tried it , and everyone pronounced it the most remarkable piano ever heard .

" yes , i mean to .

i guess i 'll go now , before i get frightened thinking about it . "

" well , i wish i may die if it ain't the queerest thing i ever see !

the pianny has turned her head !

they would have been still more amazed if they had seen what beth did afterward .

if the roof of the house had suddenly flown off , the old gentleman wouldn't have been more astonished .

but he liked it .

oh , dear , yes , he liked it amazingly !

chapter seven

amy's valley of humiliation

" how dare you say so , when he 's got both his eyes ?

and very handsome ones they are , too , " cried jo , who resented any slighting remarks about her friend .

" i didn't say anything about his eyes , and i don't see why you need fire up when i admire his riding . "

" oh , my goodness !

that little goose means a centaur , and she called him a cyclops , " exclaimed jo , with a burst of laughter .

" why ? " asked meg kindly , for jo had gone off in another laugh at amy 's second blunder .

" i need it so much .

i 'm dreadfully in debt , and it won't be my turn to have the rag money for a month . "

" in debt , amy ?

what do you mean ? "

and meg looked sober .

" tell me all about it .

are limes the fashion now ?

it used to be pricking bits of rubber to make balls . "

and meg tried to keep her countenance , amy looked so grave and important .

if one girl likes another , she gives her a lime .

if she 's mad with her , she eats one before her face , and doesn't offer even a suck .

" how much will pay them off and restore your credit ? " asked meg , taking out her purse .

" a quarter would more than do it , and leave a few cents over for a treat for you .

don't you like limes ? "

" not much .

you may have my share .

here's the money .

make it last as long as you can , for it isn't very plenty , you know . "

" oh , thank you !

it must be so nice to have pocket money !

i 'll have a grand feast , for i haven't tasted a lime this week .

i felt delicate about taking any , as i couldn't return them , and i 'm actually suffering for one . "

katy brown invited her to her next party on the spot .

but , alas , alas !

pride goes before a fall , and the revengeful snow turned the tables with disastrous success .

now mr davis had declared limes a contraband article , and solemnly vowed to publicly ferrule the first person who was found breaking the law .

it was a most unfortunate moment for denouncing amy , and jenny knew it .

" young ladies , attention , if you please ! "

" miss march , come to the desk . "

amy rose to comply with outward composure , but a secret fear oppressed her , for the limes weighed upon her conscience .

" don't take all . " whispered her neighbor , a young lady of great presence of mind .

unfortunately , mr davis particularly detested the odor of the fashionable pickle , and disgust added to his wrath .

" is that all ? "

" not quite , " stammered amy .

" bring the rest immediately . "

with a despairing glance at her set , she obeyed .

" you are sure there are no more ? "

" i never lie , sir . "

" so i see .

now take these disgusting things two by two , and throw them out of the window . "

this this was too much .

all flashed indignant or appealing glances at the inexorable davis , and one passionate lime lover burst into tears .

as amy returned from her last trip , mr davis gave a portentous " hem ! " and said , in his most impressive manner ....v

" young ladies , you remember what i said to you a week ago .

i am sorry this has happened , but i never allow my rules to be infringed , and i never break my word .

miss march , hold out your hand . "

that hiss , faint as it was , irritated the irascible gentleman , and sealed the culprit 's fate .

they were neither many nor heavy , but that made no difference to her .

that was dreadful .

during the fifteen minutes that followed , the proud and sensitive little girl suffered a shame and pain which she never forgot .

" you can go , miss march , " said mr davis , looking , as he felt , uncomfortable .

mrs. march did not say much but looked disturbed , and comforted her afflicted little daughter in her tenderest manner .

" i don't approve of corporal punishment , especially for girls .

" that 's good !

i wish all the girls would leave , and spoil his old school .

it 's perfectly maddening to think of those lovely limes , " sighed amy , with the air of a martyr .

" do you mean you are glad i was disgraced before the whole school ? " cried amy .

you are getting to be rather conceited , my dear , and it is quite time you set about correcting it .

you have a good many little gifts and virtues , but there is no need of parading them , for conceit spoils the finest genius .

" so it is ! " cried laurie , who was playing chess in a corner with jo .

" i wish i 'd known that nice girl .

maybe she would have helped me , i 'm so stupid , " said beth , who stood beside him , listening eagerly .

" yes , he has had an excellent education , and has much talent .

he will make a fine man , if not spoiled by petting , " replied her mother .

" and he isn't conceited , is he ? " asked amy .

" not in the least .

that is why he is so charming and we all like him so much . "

" i see .

it 's nice to have accomplishments and be elegant , but not to show off or get perked up , " said amy thoughtfully .

chapter eight

jo meets apollyon

" never mind .

little girls shouldn't ask questions , " returned jo sharply .

amy bridled up at this insult , and determined to find out the secret , if she teased for an hour .

turning to meg , who never refused her anything very long , she said coaxingly , " do tell me !

you can't go , amy , so don't be a baby and whine about it . "

" you are going somewhere with laurie , i know you are .

you were whispering and laughing together on the sofa last night , and you stopped when i came in .

aren't you going with him ? "

" yes , we are .

now do be still , and stop bothering . "

amy held her tongue , but used her eyes , and saw meg slip a fan into her pocket .

" i know !

i know !

" just listen to me a minute , and be a good child , " said meg soothingly .

next week you can go with beth and hannah , and have a nice time . "

" i don't like that half as well as going with you and laurie .

please let me .

i 've been sick with this cold so long , and shut up , i 'm dying for some fun .

do , meg !

i 'll be ever so good , " pleaded amy , looking as pathetic as she could .

" suppose we take her .

i don't believe mother would mind , if we bundle her up well , " began meg .

meg says i may , and if i pay for myself , laurie hasn't anything to do with it . "

or he 'll get another seat for you , and that isn't proper when you weren't asked .

for now and then she forgot her grown-up ways and acted like a spoiled child .

" fiddlesticks ! " returned jo , slamming the door .

they had a charming time , for the seven castles of the diamond lake was as brilliant and wonderful as heart could wish .

amy teased jo , and jo irritated amy , and semioccasional explosions occurred , of which both were much ashamed afterward .

her anger never lasted long , and having humbly confessed her fault , she sincerely repented and tried to do better .

her sisters used to say that they rather liked to get jo into a fury because she was such an angel afterward .

when they got home , they found amy reading in the parlor .

she assumed an injured air as they came in , never lifted her eyes from her book , or asked a single question .

perhaps curiosity might have conquered resentment , if beth had not been there to inquire and receive a glowing description of the play .

there jo was mistaken , for next day she made a discovery which produced a tempest .

meg and beth said , " no . " at once , and looked surprised .

amy poked the fire and said nothing .

jo saw her color rise and was down upon her in a minute .

" amy , you 've got it ! "

" no , i haven't . "

" you know where it is , then ! "

" no , i don't . "

" it isn't .

i haven't got it , don't know where it is now , and don't care . "

" you know something about it , and you 'd better tell at once , or i 'll make you . "

and jo gave her a slight shake .

" why not ? "

" i burned it up . "

" what !

my little book i was so fond of , and worked over , and meant to finish before father got home ?

have you really burned it ? " said jo , turning very pale , while her eyes kindled and her hands clutched amy nervously .

" yes , i did !

i told you i 'd make you pay for being so cross yesterday , and i have , so ....v "

" you wicked , wicked girl !

i never can write it again , and i 'll never forgive you as long as i live . "

jo 's book was the pride of her heart , and was regarded by her family as a literary sprout of great promise .

beth mourned as for a departed kitten , and meg refused to defend her pet .

when the tea bell rang , jo appeared , looking so grim and unapproachable that it took all amy 's courage to say meekly ....v

" please forgive me , jo .

i 'm very , very sorry . "

" i never shall forgive you , " was jo 's stern answer , and from that moment she ignored amy entirely .

as jo received her good-night kiss , mrs. march whispered gently , " my dear , don't let the sun go down upon your anger .

forgive each other , help each other , and begin again tomorrow . "

with that she marched off to bed , and there was no merry or confidential gossip that night .

jo still looked like a thunder cloud , and nothing went well all day .

" everybody is so hateful , i 'll ask laurie to go skating .

amy heard the clash of skates , and looked out with an impatient exclamation .

" there !

she promised i should go next time , for this is the last ice we shall have .

but it 's no use to ask such a crosspatch to take me . "

" don't say that .

" go after them .

it was not far to the river , but both were ready before amy reached them .

jo saw her coming , and turned her back .

as laurie turned the bend , he shouted back ....y

" keep near the shore .

it isn't safe in the middle . "

jo heard , but amy was struggling to her feet and did not catch a word .

jo glanced over her shoulder , and the little demon she was harboring said in her ear ....y

" no matter whether she heard or not , let her take care of herself . "

she tried to call laurie , but her voice was gone .

something rushed swiftly by her , and laurie 's voice cried out ....y

" bring a rail .

quick , quick ! "

" now then , we must walk her home as fast as we can .

" quite safe , dear .

" laurie did it all .

i only let her go .

mother , if she should die , it would be my fault . "

" it 's my dreadful temper !

i try to cure it , i think i have , and then it breaks out worse than ever .

oh , mother , what shall i do ?

what shall i do ? " cried poor jo , in despair .

" you don't know , you can't guess how bad it is !

it seems as if i could do anything when i 'm in a passion .

i get so savage , i could hurt anyone and enjoy it .

i 'm afraid i shall do something dreadful some day , and spoil my life , and make everybody hate me .

oh , mother , help me , do help me ! "

" i will , my child , i will .

don't cry so bitterly , but remember this day , and resolve with all your soul that you will never know another like it .

you think your temper is the worst in the world , but mine used to be just like it . "

" yours , mother ?

why , you are never angry ! "

and for the moment jo forgot remorse in surprise .

" i 've been trying to cure it for forty years , and have only succeeded in controlling it .

she felt comforted at once by the sympathy and confidence given her .

" how did you learn to keep still ?

tell me how you do it , marmee dear . "

" my good mother used to help me ....v "

" as you do us ....y " interrupted jo , with a grateful kiss .

then your father came , and i was so happy that i found it easy to be good .

" poor mother !

what helped you then ? "

" your father , jo .

it was easier to try for your sakes than for my own .

" oh , mother , if i 'm ever half as good as you , i shall be satisfied , " cried jo , much touched .

you have had a warning .

" i will try , mother , i truly will .

but you must help me , remind me , and keep me from flying out .

was he reminding you then ? " asked jo softly .

" yes .

" i thought i 'd grieved you . "

" i gave my best to the country i love , and kept my tears till he was gone .

why should i complain , when we both have merely done our duty and will surely be the happier for it in the end ?

" i let the sun go down on my anger .

i wouldn't forgive her , and today , if it hadn't been for laurie , it might have been too late !

as if she heard , amy opened her eyes , and held out her arms , with a smile that went straight to jo 's heart .

chapter nine

meg goes to vanity fair

" and so nice of annie moffat not to forget her promise .

" i wish you were all going , but as you can't , i shall keep my adventures to tell you when i come back .

" a pair of silk stockings , that pretty carved fan , and a lovely blue sash .

i wanted the violet silk , but there isn't time to make it over , so i must be contented with my old tarlaton . "

" it will look nice over my new muslin skirt , and the sash will set it off beautifully .

the violet silk would be so nice .

oh , dear ! "

" it isn't low-necked , and it doesn't sweep enough , but it will have to do .

my blue housedress looks so well , turned and freshly trimmed , that i feel as if i 'd got a new one .

my silk sacque isn't a bit the fashion , and my bonnet doesn't look like sallie 's .

i didn't like to say anything , but i was sadly disappointed in my umbrella .

i told mother black with a white handle , but she forgot and bought a green one with a yellowish handle .

" change it , " advised jo .

" i won't be so silly , or hurt marmee 's feelings , when she took so much pains to get my things .

it 's a nonsensical notion of mine , and i 'm not going to give up to it .

my silk stockings and two pairs of new gloves are my comfort .

you are a dear to lend me yours , jo .

i feel so rich and sort of elegant , with two new pairs , and the old ones cleaned up for common . "

and meg took a refreshing peep at her glove box .

" annie moffat has blue and pink bows on her nightcaps .

would you put some on mine ? " she asked , as beth brought up a pile of snowy muslins , fresh from hannah 's hands .

" no , i wouldn't , for the smart caps won't match the plain gowns without any trimming on them .

poor folks shouldn't rig , " said jo decidedly .

" so i did !

the next day was fine , and meg departed in style for a fortnight of novelty and pleasure .

mrs. march had consented to the visit rather reluctantly , fearing that margaret would come back more discontented than she went .

but they were kindly people , in spite of the frivolous life they led , and soon put their guest at her ease .

the more she saw of annie moffat 's pretty things , the more she envied her and sighed to be rich .

she had not much time for repining , however , for the three young girls were busily employed in ' having a good time ' .

her older sisters were very fine young ladies , and one was engaged , which was extremely interesting and romantic , meg thought .

everyone petted her , and ' daisey ' , as they called her , was in a fair way to have her head turned .

so out came the tarlatan , looking older , limper , and shabbier than ever beside sallie 's crisp new one .

the hard , bitter feeling was getting pretty bad , when the maid brought in a box of flowers .

before she could speak , annie had the cover off , and all were exclaiming at the lovely roses , heath , and fern within .

" they are for miss march , the man said .

and here 's a note , " put in the maid , holding it to meg .

" what fun !

who are they from ?

didn't know you had a lover , " cried the girls , fluttering about meg in a high state of curiosity and surprise .

she enjoyed herself very much that evening , for she danced to her heart 's content .

everyone was very kind , and she had three compliments .

annie made her sing , and some one said she had a remarkably fine voice .

so altogether she had a very nice time , till she overheard a bit of conversation , which disturbed her extremely .

" how old is he ? "

" sixteen or seventeen , i should say , " replied another voice .

" it would be a grand thing for one of those girls , wouldn't it ?

sallie says they are very intimate now , and the old man quite dotes on them . "

" mrs. m . has made her plans , i dare say , and will play her cards well , early as it is .

the girl evidently doesn't think of it yet , " said mrs moffat .

" she told that fib about her momma , as if she did know , and colored up when the flowers came quite prettily .

poor thing !

she 'd be so nice if she was only got up in style .

do you think she 'd be offended if we offered to lend her a dress for thursday ? " asked another voice .

" she 's proud , but i don't believe she 'd mind , for that dowdy tarlaton is all she has got .

she may tear it tonight , and that will be a good excuse for offering a decent one . "

here meg 's partner appeared , to find her looking much flushed and rather agitated .

for , innocent and unsuspicious as she was , she could not help understanding the gossip of her friends .

her innocent friendship with laurie was spoiled by the silly speeches she had overheard .

everybody dawdled that morning , and it was noon before the girls found energy enough even to take up their worsted work .

something in the manner of her friends struck meg at once .

" daisy , dear , i 've sent an invitation to your friend , mr laurence , for thursday .

we should like to know him , and it 's only a proper compliment to you . "

" why not , cherie ? " asked miss belle .

" he 's too old . "

" my child , what do you mean ?

what is his age , i beg to know ! " cried miss clara .

" nearly seventy , i believe , " answered meg , counting stitches to hide the merriment in her eyes .

" you sly creature !

of course we meant the young man , " exclaimed miss belle , laughing .

" there isn't any , laurie is only a little boy . "

and meg laughed also at the queer look which the sisters exchanged as she thus described her supposed lover .

" about your age , " nan said .

" nearer my sister jo 's ; i am seventeen in august , " returned meg , tossing her head .

" it 's very nice of him to send you flowers , isn't it ? " said annie , looking wise about nothing .

" yes , he often does , to all of us , for their house is full , and we are so fond of them .

" it 's evident daisy isn't out yet , " said miss clara to belle with a nod .

" quite a pastoral state of innocence all round , " returned miss belle with a shrug .

" i 'm going out to get some little matters for my girls .

can i do anything for you , young ladies ? " asked mrs moffat , lumbering in like an elephant in silk and lace .

" no , thank you , ma'am , " replied sallie .

" i 've got my new pink silk for thursday and don't want a thing . "

" nor i ....x " began meg , but stopped because it occurred to her that she did want several things and could not have them .

" what shall you wear ? " asked sallie .

" why don't you send home for another ? " said sallie , who was not an observing young lady .

" i haven't got any other . "

it cost meg an effort to say that , but sallie did not see it and exclaimed in amiable surprise , " only that ?

how funny ....y "

she did not finish her speech , for belle shook her head at her and broke in , saying kindly ....y

" not at all .

where is the use of having a lot of dresses when she isn't out yet ?

" now do let me please myself by dressing you up in style .

i admire to do it , and you 'd be a regular little beauty with a touch here and there .

on the thursday evening , belle shut herself up with her maid , and between them they turned meg into a fine lady .

" mademoiselle is charmante , tres jolie , is she not ? " cried hortense , clasping her hands in an affected rapture .

" come and show yourself , " said miss belle , leading the way to the room where the others were waiting .

" you don't look a bit like yourself , but you are very nice .

i 'm nowhere beside you , for belle has heaps of taste , and you 're quite french , i assure you .

she very soon discovered that there is a charm about fine clothes which attracts a certain class of people and secures their respect .

several young ladies , who had taken no notice of her before , were very affectionate all of a sudden .

she heard mrs moffat reply to one of them ....y

" silly creatures , to put such thoughts into my head .

" i 'm glad you came , i was afraid you wouldn't . " she said , with her most grown-up air .

" how absurd of you !

the girls dressed me up for fun , and i rather like it .

wouldn't jo stare if she saw me ? " said meg , bent on making him say whether he thought her improved or not .

" yes , i think she would , " returned laurie gravely .

" don't you like me so ? " asked meg .

" no , i don't , " was the blunt reply .

" why not ? " in an anxious tone .

" i don't like fuss and feathers . "

as she stood there , major lincoln passed by , and a minute after she heard him saying to his mother ....v

" they are making a fool of that little girl .

i wanted you to see her , but they have spoiled her entirely .

she 's nothing but a doll tonight . "

" oh , dear ! " sighed meg .

" please forgive my rudeness , and come and dance with me . "

" i 'm afraid it will be too disagreeable to you , " said meg , trying to look offended and failing entirely .

" not a bit of it , i 'm dying to do it .

come , i 'll be good .

i don't like your gown , but i do think you are just splendid . "

and he waved his hands , as if words failed to express his admiration .

meg smiled and relented , and whispered as they stood waiting to catch the time , " take care my skirt doesn't trip you up .

it 's the plague of my life and i was a goose to wear it . "

" won't i ! " said laurie , with alacrity .

" please don't tell them at home about my dress tonight .

they won't understand the joke , and it will worry mother . "

" then why did you do it ? " said laurie 's eyes , so plainly that meg hastily added ....y

" i shall tell them myself all about it , and ' fess ' to mother how silly i 've been .

but i 'd rather do it myself .

so you 'll not tell , will you ? "

" i give you my word i won't , only what shall i say when they ask me ? "

" just say i looked pretty well and was having a good time . "

" i 'll say the first with all my heart , but how about the other ?

you don't look as if you were having a good time .

are you ? "

and laurie looked at her with an expression which made her answer in a whisper ....y

" no , not just now .

don't think i 'm horrid .

i only wanted a little fun , but this sort doesn't pay , i find , and i 'm getting tired of it . "

" here comes ned moffat .

" he put his name down for three dances , and i suppose he 's coming for them .

what a bore ! " said meg , assuming a languid air which amused laurie immensely .

" you 'll have a splitting headache tomorrow , if you drink much of that .

" i 'm not meg tonight , i 'm ' a doll ' who does all sorts of crazy things .

tomorrow i shall put away my ' fuss and feathers ' and be desperately good again , " she answered with an affected little laugh .

" wish tomorrow was here , then , " muttered laurie , walking off , ill-pleased at the change he saw in her .

meg danced and flirted , chattered and giggled , as the other girls did .

but he got no chance to deliver it , for meg kept away from him till he came to say good night .

" remember ! " she said , trying to smile , for the splitting headache had already begun .

" silence a la mort , " replied laurie , with a melodramatic flourish , as he went away .

" it does seem pleasant to be quiet , and not have company manners on all the time .

for motherly eyes are quick to see any change in children 's faces .

" marmee , i want to ' fess ' . "

" i thought so .

what is it , dear ? "

" shall i go away ? " asked jo discreetly .

" of course not .

don't i always tell you everything ?

" we are prepared , " said mrs. march , smiling but looking a little anxious .

laurie thought i wasn't proper .

i know he did , though he didn't say so , and one man called me ' a doll ' .

" no , i drank champagne and romped and tried to flirt , and was altogether abominable , " said meg self-reproachfully .

" there is something more , i think . "

and mrs. march smoothed the soft cheek , which suddenly grew rosy as meg answered slowly ....y

" yes .

" well , if that isn't the greatest rubbish i ever heard , " cried jo indignantly .

" why didn't you pop out and tell them so on the spot ? "

" i couldn't , it was so embarrassing for me .

" just wait till i see annie moffat , and i 'll show you how to settle such ridiculous stuff .

the idea of having ' plans ' and being kind to laurie because he 's rich and may marry us by-and-by !

won't he shout when i tell him what those silly things say about us poor children ? "

and jo laughed , as if on second thoughts the thing struck her as a good joke .

" if you tell laurie , i 'll never forgive you !

she mustn't , must she , mother ? " said meg , looking distressed .

" no , never repeat that foolish gossip , and forget it as soon as you can , " said mrs . march gravely .

i am more sorry than i can express for the mischief this visit may have done you , meg . "

" don't be sorry , i won't let it hurt me .

i 'll not be sentimental or dissatisfied , mother .

i know i 'm a silly little girl , and i 'll stay with you till i 'm fit to take care of myself .

" mother , do you have ' plans ' , as mrs moffat said ? " asked meg bashfully .

holding a hand of each , and watching the two young faces wistfully , mrs. march said , in her serious yet cheery way ....v

" i want my daughters to be beautiful , accomplished , and good .

to be admired , loved , and respected .

" poor girls don't stand any chance , belle says , unless they put themselves forward , " sighed meg .

" then we 'll be old maids , " said jo stoutly .

" right , jo .

better be happy old maids than unhappy wives , or unmaidenly girls , running about to find husbands , " said mrs. march decidedly .

" don't be troubled , meg , poverty seldom daunts a sincere lover .

leave these things to time .

one thing remember , my girls .

" we will , marmee , we will ! " cried both , with all their hearts , as she bade them good night .

chapter ten

the p.c. and p.o .

the garden had to be put in order , and each sister had a quarter of the little plot to do what she liked with .

meg 's had roses and heliotrope , myrtle , and a little orange tree in it .

jo 's bed was never alike two seasons , for she was always trying experiments .

" the pickwick portfolio "

@date@

poet's corner

anniversary ode

again we meet to celebrate with badge and solemn rite , our fifty-second anniversary , in pickwick hall , tonight .

our pickwick , always at his post , with reverence we greet , as , spectacles on nose , he reads our well-filled weekly sheet .

old six-foot snodgrass looms on high , with elephantine grace , and beams upon the company , with brown and jovial face .

poetic fire lights up his eye , he struggles ' gainst his lot .

behold ambition on his brow , and on his nose , a blot .

prim little winkle too is here , with every hair in place , a model of propriety , though he hates to wash his face .

a snodgrass

the masked marriage ( a tale of venice )

knights and ladies , elves and pages , monks and flower girls , all mingled gaily in the dance .

sweet voices and rich melody filled the air , and so with mirth and music the masquerade went on .

" yes , is she not lovely , though so sad !

her dress is well chosen , too , for in a week she weds count antonio , whom she passionately hates . "

" by my faith , i envy him .

yonder he comes , arrayed like a bridegroom , except the black mask .

" my lords and ladies , pardon the ruse by which i have gathered you here to witness the marriage of my daughter .

father , we wait your services . "

curiosity and wonder possessed all hearts , but respect restrained all tongues till the holy rite was over .

then the eager spectators gathered round the count , demanding an explanation .

now , my children , let the play end .

unmask and receive my blessing . "

s pickwick

why is the p . c ..y like the tower of babel ?

it is full of unruly members .

the history of a squash

one day in october , when they were ripe , he picked one and took it to market .

a grocerman bought and put it in his shop .

t tupman

yours respectably , n winkle

[ the above is a manly and handsome acknowledgment of past misdemeanors .

if our young friend studied punctuation , it would be well . ]

a sad accident

on friday last , we were startled by a violent shock in our basement , followed by cries of distress .

ed .

the public bereavement

it is our painful duty to record the sudden and mysterious disappearance of our cherished friend , mrs snowball pat paw .

a sympathizing friend sends the following gem :

a lament ( for s b pat paw )

the little grave where her infant sleeps is ' neath the chestnut tree .

but o'er her grave we may not weep , we know not where it may be .

a.s.

advertisements

a weekly meeting will be held at kitchen place , to teach young ladies how to cook .

hannah brown will preside , and all are invited to attend .

the dustpan society will meet on wednesday next , and parade in the upper story of the club house .

all members to appear in uniform and shoulder their brooms at nine precisely .

mrs beth bouncer will open her new assortment of doll 's millinery next week .

the latest paris fashions have arrived , and orders are respectfully solicited .

" the greek slave , or constantine the avenger , " is the name of this thrilling drama ! ! !

hints

if s.p. didn't use so much soap on his hands , he wouldn't always be late at breakfast .

a.s. is requested not to whistle in the street .

t.t . please don't forget amy 's napkin .

n.w. must not fret because his dress has not nine tucks .

weekly report

meg good .

jo bad .

beth very good .

amy middling .

i propose mr theodore laurence as an honorary member of the p . c ..y come now , do have him . "

" we 'll put it to a vote , " said the president .

" all in favor of this motion please to manifest it by saying , ' aye ' . "

a loud response from snodgrass , followed , to everybody 's surprise , by a timid one from beth .

" contrary-minded say , ' no ' . "

this is a ladies ' club , and we wish to be private and proper . "

up rose snodgrass , very much in earnest .

" sir , i give you my word as a gentleman , laurie won't do anything of the sort .

he likes to write , and he 'll give a tone to our contributions and keep us from being sentimental , don't you see ?

this artful allusion to benefits conferred brought tupman to his feet , looking as if he had quite made up his mind .

" yes ; we ought to do it , even if we are afraid .

i say he may come , and his grandpa , too , if he likes . "

this spirited burst from beth electrified the club , and jo left her seat to shake hands approvingly .

" now then , vote again .

everybody remember it 's our laurie , and say , ' aye ! ' " cried snodgrass excitedly .

" aye !

aye !

aye ! " replied three voices at once .

" good !

bless you !

" you rogue !

you traitor !

" good !

good ! " cried jo , pounding with the handle of the old warming pan on which she leaned .

i planned it , and she only gave in after lots of teasing . "

" come now , don't lay it all on yourself .

you know i proposed the cupboard , " broke in snodgrass , who was enjoying the joke amazingly .

" never mind what she says .

i 'm the wretch that did it , sir , " said the new member , with a welleresque nod to mr pickwick .

" but on my honor , i never will do so again , and henceforth devote myself to the interest of this immortal club . "

" hear !

hear ! " cried jo , clashing the lid of the warming pan like a cymbal .

" go on , go on ! " added winkle and tupman , while the president bowed benignly .

allow me to present the club key , and with many thanks for your favor , take my seat . "

a long discussion followed , and everyone came out surprising , for everyone did her best .

no one ever regretted the admittance of sam weller , for a more devoted , well-behaved , and jovial member no club could have .

jo regarded them as worthy of bacon , milton , or shakespeare , and remodeled her own works with good effect , she thought .

chapter eleven

experiments

" the first of june !

the kings are off to the seashore tomorrow , and i 'm free .

" aunt march went today , for which , oh , be joyful ! " said jo .

" i was mortally afraid she 'd ask me to go with her .

i didn't hear any more , for i basely turned and fled .

i did actually run , and whisked round the corner where i felt safe . "

" poor old jo !

she came in looking as if bears were after her , " said beth , as she cuddled her sister 's feet with a motherly air .

" aunt march is a regular samphire , is she not ? " observed amy , tasting her mixture critically .

" she means vampire , not seaweed , but it doesn't matter .

it 's too warm to be particular about one 's parts of speech , " murmured jo .

" what shall you do all your vacation ? " asked amy , changing the subject with tact .

" i shall lie abed late , and do nothing , " replied meg , from the depths of the rocking chair .

" no , " said jo , " that dozy way wouldn't suit me .

" don't say ' larks ! ' " implored amy , as a return snub for the ' samphire ' correction .

" i 'll say ' nightingales ' then , with laurie .

that 's proper and appropriate , since he 's a warbler . "

" well , i will , if mother doesn't mind .

i want to learn some new songs , and my children need fitting up for the summer .

they are dreadfully out of order and really suffering for clothes . "

" may we , mother ? " asked meg , turning to mrs. march , who sat sewing in what they called ' marmee 's corner ' .

" you may try your experiment for a week and see how you like it .

i think by saturday night you will find that all play and no work is as bad as all work and no play . "

" oh , dear , no !

it will be delicious , i 'm sure , " said meg complacently .

" i now propose a toast , as my ' friend and pardner , sairy gamp ' , says .

fun forever , and no grubbing ! " cried jo , rising , glass in hand , as the lemonade went round .

they all drank it merrily , and began the experiment by lounging for the rest of the day .

next morning , meg did not appear till ten o'clock .

nothing was neat and pleasant but ' marmee 's corner ' , which looked as usual .

at teatime they compared notes , and all agreed that it had been a delightful , though unusually long day .

jo had burned the skin off her nose boating , and got a raging headache by reading too long .

but these were mere trifles , and they assured their mother that the experiment was working finely .

she smiled , said nothing , and with hannah 's help did their neglected work , keeping home pleasant and the domestic machinery running smoothly .

it was astonishing what a peculiar and uncomfortable state of things was produced by the ' resting and reveling ' process .

she didn't like dolls , fairy tales were childish , and one couldn't draw all the time .

tea parties didn't amount to much , neither did picnics , unless very well conducted .

" mercy on us !

what has happened ? " cried jo , staring about her in dismay .

meg ran upstairs and soon came back again , looking relieved but rather bewildered , and a little ashamed .

it 's a very queer thing for her to do , she doesn't act a bit like herself .

but she says it has been a hard week for her , so we mustn't grumble but take care of ourselves . "

so a tray was fitted out before anyone began , and taken up with the cook 's compliments .

many were the complaints below , and great the chagrin of the head cook at her failures .

we 'll have lettuce and make a salad .

i don't know how , but the book tells .

i 'll have blanc mange and strawberries for dessert , and coffee too , if you want to be elegant . "

" don't try too many messes , jo , for you can't make anything but gingerbread and molasses candy fit to eat .

" i don't want you to do anything but be civil to him and help to the pudding .

you 'll give me your advice if i get in a muddle , won't you ? " asked jo , rather hurt .

" yes , but i don't know much , except about bread and a few trifles .

you had better ask mother 's leave before you order anything , " returned meg prudently .

" of course i shall .

i 'm not a fool . "

and jo went off in a huff at the doubts expressed of her powers .

" get what you like , and don't disturb me .

i 'm going out to dinner and can't worry about things at home , " said mrs. march , when jo spoke to her .

" everything is out of sorts , somehow , " she said to herself , going downstairs .

" there 's beth crying , that 's a sure sign that something is wrong in this family .

if amy is bothering , i 'll shake her . "

" it 's all my fault , i forgot him , there isn't a seed or a drop left .

oh , pip !

oh , pip !

how could i be so cruel to you ? " cried beth , taking the poor thing in her hands and trying to restore him .

" put him in the oven , and maybe he will get warm and revive , " said amy hopefully .

" he 's been starved , and he shan't be baked now he 's dead .

" the funeral shall be this afternoon , and we will all go .

now , don't cry , bethy .

it 's a pity , but nothing goes right this week , and pip has had the worst of the experiment .

leaving the others to console beth , she departed to the kitchen , which was in a most discouraging state of confusion .

" here 's a sweet prospect ! " muttered jo , slamming the stove door open , and poking vigorously among the cinders .

having rekindled the fire , she thought she would go to market while the water heated .

by the time she got cleared up , the dinner arrived and the stove was red-hot .

" i say , isn't bread ' riz ' enough when it runs over the pans ? "

they disliked her , but had been taught to be kind to her , simply because she was old and poor and had few friends .

she boiled the asparagus for an hour and was grieved to find the heads cooked off and the stalks harder than ever .

the bread burned black ; for the salad dressing so aggravated her that she could not make it fit to eat .

the potatoes had to be hurried , not to keep the asparagus waiting , and were not done at the last .

the blanc mange was lumpy , and the strawberries not as ripe as they looked , having been skilfully ' deaconed ' .

miss crocker tasted first , made a wry face , and drank some water hastily .

" oh , what is it ? " exclaimed jo , trembling .

" salt instead of sugar , and the cream is sour , " replied meg with a tragic gesture .

the comical side of the affair suddenly struck her , and she laughed till the tears ran down her cheeks .

they did sober themselves for beth 's sake .

here lies pip march , who died the 7th of june ; loved and lamented sore , and not forgotten soon .

before the housewives could rest , several people called , and there was a scramble to get ready to see them .

then tea must be got , errands done , and one or two necessary bits of sewing neglected until the last minute .

" what a dreadful day this has been ! " began jo , usually the first to speak .

" it has seemed shorter than usual , but so uncomfortable , " said meg .

" not a bit like home , " added amy .

" here's mother , dear , and you shall have another bird tomorrow , if you want it . "

" i don't ! " cried jo decidedly .

" nor i , " echoed the others .

" you think then , that it is better to have a few duties and live a little for others , do you ? "

" lounging and larking doesn't pay , " observed jo , shaking her head .

" i 'm tired of it and mean to go to work at something right off . "

" suppose you learn plain cooking .

" yes , i wanted you to see how the comfort of all depends on each doing her share faithfully .

while hannah and i did your work , you got on pretty well , though i don't think you were very happy or amiable .

so i thought , as a little lesson , i would show you what happens when everyone thinks only of herself .

" we do , mother , we do ! " cried the girls .

work is wholesome , and there is plenty for everyone .

" we 'll work like bees , and love it too , see if we don't , " said jo .

" i 'll learn plain cooking for my holiday task , and the next dinner party i have shall be a success . "

" i 'll make the set of shirts for father , instead of letting you do it , marmee .

i can and i will , though i 'm not fond of sewing .

that will be better than fussing over my own things , which are plenty nice enough as they are . " said meg .

" i 'll do my lessons every day , and not spend so much time with my music and dolls .

" very good !

then youth will be delightful , old age will bring few regrets , and life become a beautiful success , in spite of poverty . "

" we 'll remember , mother ! " and they did .

chapter twelve

camp laurence

one july day she came in with her hands full , and went about the house leaving letters and parcels like the penny post .

" here 's your posy , mother !

" didn't you drop the other in the garden ? "

" no , i 'm sure i didn't , for there was only one in the office . "

" i hate to have odd gloves !

never mind , the other may be found .

my letter is only a translation of the german song i wanted .

i think mr brooke did it , for this isn't laurie 's writing . "

" what a sly fellow laurie is !

i said i wished bigger hats were the fashion , because i burn my face every hot day .

he said , ' why mind the fashion ?

wear a big hat , and be comfortable ! '

i said i would if i had one , and he has sent me this , to try me .

i 'll wear it for fun , and show him i don't care for the fashion . "

and hanging the antique broad-brim on a bust of plato , jo read her letters .

one from her mother made her cheeks glow and her eyes fill , for it said to her ....y

my dear :

i write a little word to tell you with how much satisfaction i watch your efforts to control your temper .

i , too , have seen them all , and heartily believe in the sincerity of your resolution , since it begins to bear fruit .

go on , dear , patiently and bravely , and always believe that no one sympathizes more tenderly with you than your loving ....v

mother

" that does me good !

that 's worth millions of money and pecks of praise .

oh , marmee , i do try !

i will keep on trying , and not get tired , since i have you to help me . "

in a big , dashing hand , laurie wrote ....y

dear jo , what ho !

some english girls and boys are coming to see me tomorrow and i want to have a jolly time .

they are nice people , and like such things .

brooke will go to keep us boys steady , and kate vaughn will play propriety for the girls .

i want you all to come , can't let beth off at any price , and nobody shall worry her .

don't bother about rations , i 'll see to that and everything else , only do come , there 's a good fellow !

in a tearing hurry , yours ever , laurie .

" here's richness ! " cried jo , flying in to tell the news to meg .

" of course we can go , mother ?

" i hope the vaughns are not fine grown-up people .

do you know anything about them , jo ? " asked meg .

" only that there are four of them .

laurie knew them abroad , and liked the boys .

i fancied , from the way he primmed up his mouth in speaking of her , that he didn't admire kate much . "

" i 'm so glad my french print is clean , it 's just the thing and so becoming ! " observed meg complacently .

" have you anything decent , jo ? "

" scarlet and gray boating suit , good enough for me .

i shall row and tramp about , so i don't want any starch to think of .

you 'll come , betty ? "

" if you won't let any boys talk to me . "

" not a boy ! "

" i like to please laurie , and i 'm not afraid of mr brooke , he is so kind .

but i don't want to play , or sing , or say anything .

i 'll work hard and not trouble anyone , and you 'll take care of me , jo , so i 'll go . "

" that 's my good girl .

you do try to fight off your shyness , and i love you for it .

fighting faults isn't easy , as i know , and a cheery word kind of gives a lift .

" i had a box of chocolate drops , and the picture i wanted to copy , " said amy , showing her mail .

when the sun peeped into the girls ' room early next morning to promise them a fine day , he saw a comical sight .

each had made such preparation for the fete as seemed necessary and proper .

sunshine and laughter were good omens for a pleasure party , and soon a lively bustle began in both houses .

" there goes the man with the tent !

i see mrs barker doing up the lunch in a hamper and a great basket .

now mr laurence is looking up at the sky and the weathercock .

i wish he would go too .

there 's laurie , looking like a sailor , nice boy !

oh , mercy me !

here 's a carriage full of people , a tall lady , a little girl , and two dreadful boys .

one is lame , poor thing , he 's got a crutch .

laurie didn't tell us that .

be quick , girls !

it 's getting late .

why , there is ned moffat , i do declare .

meg , isn't that the man who bowed to you one day when we were shopping ? "

" so it is .

how queer that he should come .

i thought he was at the mountains .

there is sallie .

i 'm glad she got back in time .

am i all right , jo ? " cried meg in a flutter .

" a regular daisy .

hold up your dress and put your hat on straight , it looks sentimental tipped that way and will fly off at the first puff .

now then , come on ! "

" oh , jo , you are not going to wear that awful hat ?

it 's too absurd !

" i just will , though , for it 's capital , so shady , light , and big .

it will make fun , and i don't mind being a guy if i 'm comfortable . "

laurie ran to meet and present them to his friends in the most cordial manner .

the lawn was the reception room , and for several minutes a lively scene was enacted there .

jo 's funny hat deserved a vote of thanks , for it was of general utility .

miss kate decided that she was ' odd ' , but rather clever , and smiled upon her from afar .

mr brooke was a grave , silent young man , with handsome brown eyes and a pleasant voice .

meg liked his quiet manners and considered him a walking encyclopedia of useful knowledge .

ned , being in college , of course put on all the airs which freshmen think it their bounden duty to assume .

he was not very wise , but very good-natured , and altogether an excellent person to carry on a picnic .

it was not far to longmeadow , but the tent was pitched and the wickets down by the time they arrived .

a pleasant green field , with three wide-spreading oaks in the middle and a smooth strip of turf for croquet .

" welcome to camp laurence ! " said the young host , as they landed with exclamations of delight .

now , let's have a game before it gets hot , and then we 'll see about dinner . "

frank , beth , amy , and grace sat down to watch the game played by the other eight .

mr brooke chose meg , kate , and fred .

laurie took sallie , jo , and ned .

jo and fred had several skirmishes and once narrowly escaped high words .

jo was through the last wicket and had missed the stroke , which failure ruffled her a good deal .

fred was close behind her and his turn came before hers .

he gave a stroke , his ball hit the wicket , and stopped an inch on the wrong side .

" i 'm through !

" you pushed it .

i saw you .

it 's my turn now , " said jo sharply .

" upon my word , i didn't move it .

it rolled a bit , perhaps , but that is allowed .

so , stand off please , and let me have a go at the stake . "

" we don't cheat in america , but you can , if you choose , " said jo angrily .

" yankees are a deal the most tricky , everybody knows .

there you go ! " returned fred , croqueting her ball far away .

" by george , it 's all up with us !

goodbye , kate .

miss jo owes me one , so you are finished , " cried fred excitedly , as they all drew near to see the finish .

he did cheat , i saw him .

we can't tell him so , but he won't do it again , take my word for it . "

" don't praise me , meg , for i could box his ears this minute .

i should certainly have boiled over if i hadn't stayed among the nettles till i got my rage under control enough to hold my tongue .

" time for lunch , " said mr brooke , looking at his watch .

who can make good coffee ? "

" jo can , " said meg , glad to recommend her sister .

miss kate sketched and frank talked to beth , who was making little mats of braided rushes to serve as plates .

the commander in chief and his aides soon spread the tablecloth with an inviting array of eatables and drinkables , prettily decorated with green leaves .

" there 's salt here , " said laurie , as he handed jo a saucer of berries .

" thank you , i prefer spiders , " she replied , fishing up two unwary little ones who had gone to a creamy death .

" i had an uncommonly good time that day , and haven't got over it yet .

this is no credit to me , you know , i don't do anything .

it 's you and meg and brooke who make it all go , and i 'm no end obliged to you .

" have games till it 's cooler .

i brought authors , and i dare say miss kate knows something new and nice .

go and ask her .

she 's company , and you ought to stay with her more . "

" aren't you company too ?

i thought she 'd suit brooke , but he keeps talking to meg , and kate just stares at them through that ridiculous glass of hers .

i 'm going , so you needn't try to preach propriety , for you can't do it , jo . "

it 's very funny when well done , and makes a perfect jumble of tragical comical stuff to laugh over .

one day , as he went prancing down a quiet street , he saw at the window of a ruinous castle the lovely face .

at last he resolved to get into the castle and ask how he could help them .

he went and knocked .

the great door flew open , and he beheld ....y "

" a ravishingly lovely lady , who exclaimed , with a cry of rapture , ' at last !

at last ! ' " continued kate , who had read french novels , and admired the style .

" ' tis she ! ' cried count gustave , and fell at her feet in an ecstasy of joy .

' oh , rise ! ' she said , extending a hand of marble fairness .

' never !

till you tell me how i may rescue you , ' swore the knight , still kneeling .

' alas , my cruel fate condemns me to remain here till my tyrant is destroyed . '

' where is the villain ? '

' in the mauve salon .

go , brave heart , and save me from despair . '

' i obey , and return victorious or dead ! '

" a stunning blow from the big greek lexicon , which an old fellow in a black gown fired at him , " said ned .

at the top of these steps he came plump upon a sight that took his breath away and chilled his blood ....y "

" it beckoned , gliding noiselessly before him down a corridor as dark and cold as any tomb .

they reached a curtained door , behind which sounded lovely music .

he sprang forward to enter , but the specter plucked him back , and waved threateningly before him a ....y "

" snuffbox , " said jo , in a sepulchral tone , which convulsed the audience .

" ' thankee , ' said the knight politely , as he took a pinch and sneezed seven times so violently that his head fell off .

' ha !

' go in and win , my hearties ! ' says the captain , and a tremendous fight began .

of course the british beat they always do . "

" no , they don't ! " cried jo , aside .

the portuguese held his tongue like a brick , and walked the plank , while the jolly tars cheered like mad .

" oh , gracious !

so the diver hoisted it up , and was much disappointed on opening it to find no pearls .

he left it in a great lonely field , where it was found by a ....y "

" little goose girl , who kept a hundred fat geese in the field , " said amy , when sallie 's invention gave out .

" the little girl was sorry for them , and asked an old woman what she should do to help them .

' your geese will tell you , they know everything . ' said the old woman .

" ' cabbages ! ' " continued laurie promptly .

" ' just the thing , ' said the girl , and ran to get twelve fine ones from her garden .

peeping over the hedge , he saw the queen of his affections picking flowers in her garden .

' will you give me a rose ? ' said he .

' you must come and get it .

i can't come to you , it isn't proper , ' said she , as sweet as honey .

he tried to climb over the hedge , but it seemed to grow higher and higher .

then he tried to push through , but it grew thicker and thicker , and he was in despair .

let me in ! '

but the pretty princess did not seem to understand , for she picked her roses quietly , and left him to fight his way in .

whether he did or not , frank will tell you . "

" i can't .

beth had disappeared behind jo , and grace was asleep .

" what a piece of nonsense we have made !

with practice we might do something quite clever .

do you know truth ? "

" i hope so , " said meg soberly .

" the game , i mean ? "

" what is it ? " said fred .

it 's great fun . "

" let's try it , " said jo , who liked new experiments .

" who are your heroes ? " asked jo .

" grandfather and napoleon . "

" which lady here do you think prettiest ? " said sallie .

" margaret . "

" which do you like best ? " from fred .

" jo , of course . "

" what silly questions you ask ! "

and jo gave a disdainful shrug as the rest laughed at laurie 's matter-of-fact tone .

" try again .

truth isn't a bad game , " said fred .

" it 's a very good one for you , " retorted jo in a low voice .

her turn came next .

" what is your greatest fault ? " asked fred , by way of testing in her the virtue he lacked himself .

" a quick temper . "

" what do you most wish for ? " said laurie .

" a pair of boot lacings , " returned jo , guessing and defeating his purpose .

" not a true answer .

you must say what you really do want most . "

" genius .

don't you wish you could give it to me , laurie ? "

and she slyly smiled in his disappointed face .

" what virtues do you most admire in a man ? " asked sallie .

" courage and honesty . "

" now my turn , " said fred , as his hand came last .

" let's give it to him , " whispered laurie to jo , who nodded and asked at once ....y

" didn't you cheat at croquet ? "

" well , yes , a little bit . "

" good !

didn't you take your story out of the sea lion ? " said laurie .

" rather . "

" don't you think the english nation perfect in every respect ? " asked sallie .

" i should be ashamed of myself if i didn't . "

" he 's a true john bull .

now , miss sallie , you shall have a chance without waiting to draw .

" you impertinent boy !

of course i'm not , " exclaimed sallie , with an air that proved the contrary .

" what do you hate most ? " asked fred .

" spiders and rice pudding . "

" what do you like best ? " asked jo .

" dancing and french gloves . "

" well , i think truth is a very silly play .

let's have a sensible game of authors to refresh our minds , " proposed jo .

ned , frank , and the little girls joined in this , and while it went on , the three elders sat apart , talking .

" how beautifully you do it !

i wish i could draw , " said meg , with mingled admiration and regret in her voice .

" why don't you learn ?

i should think you had taste and talent for it , " replied miss kate graciously .

" i haven't time . "

" your mamma prefers other accomplishments , i fancy .

can't you do the same with your governess ? "

" i have none . "

" i forgot young ladies in america go to school more than with us .

very fine schools they are , too , papa says .

you go to a private one , i suppose ? "

" i don't go at all .

i am a governess myself . "

" oh , yes , of course it 's very nice and proper in them to do so .

" did the german song suit , miss march ? " inquired mr brooke , breaking an awkward pause .

" oh , yes !

it was very sweet , and i 'm much obliged to whoever translated it for me . "

and meg 's downcast face brightened as she spoke .

" don't you read german ? " asked miss kate with a look of surprise .

" not very well .

" try a little now .

here is schiller 's mary stuart and a tutor who loves to teach . "

and mr brooke laid his book on her lap with an inviting smile .

" i 'll read a bit to encourage you . "

and miss kate read one of the most beautiful passages in a perfectly correct but perfectly expressionless manner .

mr brooke made no comment as she returned the book to meg , who said innocently , " i thought it was poetry . "

" some of it is .

try this passage . "

there was a queer smile about mr brooke 's mouth as he opened at poor mary 's lament .

i advise you to learn , for german is a valuable accomplishment to teachers .

i must look after grace , she is romping . "

what odd people these yankees are .

i 'm afraid laurie will be quite spoiled among them . "

" tutors also have rather a hard time of it there , as i know to my sorrow .

there 's no place like america for us workers , miss margaret . "

and mr brooke looked so contented and cheerful that meg was ashamed to lament her hard lot .

" i 'm glad i live in it then .

i don't like my work , but i get a good deal of satisfaction out of it after all , so i won't complain .

i only wished i liked teaching as you do . "

" i think you would if you had laurie for a pupil .

i shall be very sorry to lose him next year , " said mr brooke , busily punching holes in the turf .

" going to college , i suppose ? "

meg 's lips asked the question , but her eyes added , " and what becomes of you ? "

i am needed . "

" i am glad of that ! " exclaimed meg .

" i dote upon it .

" tell me about ellen tree .

is it a donkey ? " asked grace curiously .

" how funny ! " laughed grace .

" i have a pony at home , and ride nearly every day in the park with fred and kate .

it 's very nice , for my friends go too , and the row is full of ladies and gentlemen . "

" dear , how charming !

can i do anything for you ? "

" talk to me , please .

it 's dull , sitting by myself , " answered frank , who had evidently been used to being made much of at home .

my heart !

what shall i do ?

" bless her heart !

she pities him , so she is good to him , " said jo , beaming at her from the croquet ground .

" i always said she was a little saint , " added meg , as if there could be no further doubt of it .

" my sister beth is a very fastidious girl , when she likes to be , " said amy , well pleased at beth 's success .

she meant ' facinating ' , but as grace didn't know the exact meaning of either word , fastidious sounded well and made a good impression .

an impromptu circus , fox and geese , and an amicable game of croquet finished the afternoon .

ned , getting sentimental , warbled a serenade with the pensive refrain ....y

alone , alone , ah !

woe , alone ,

and at the lines ....y

we each are young , we each have a heart , oh , why should we stand thus coldly apart ?

he looked at meg with such a lackadiasical expression that she laughed outright and spoiled his song .

" how can you be so cruel to me ? " he whispered , under cover of a lively chorus .

" you 've kept close to that starched-up englishwoman all day , and now you snub me . "

" not a particle , but she 's a dear , " returned sallie , defending her friend even while confessing her shortcomings .

" i quite agree with you , " said mr brooke .

chapter thirteen

castles in the air

peeping through the meshes of the hammock , he saw the marches coming out , as if bound on some expedition .

each wore a large , flapping hat , a brown linen pouch slung over one shoulder , and carried a long staff .

meg had a cushion , jo a book , beth a basket , and amy a portfolio .

" well , that 's cool , " said laurie to himself , " to have a picnic and never ask me !

they can't be going in the boat , for they haven't got the key .

perhaps they forgot it .

i 'll take it to them , and see what 's going on . "

" here 's a landscape ! " thought laurie , peeping through the bushes , and looking wide-awake and good-natured already .

beth was sorting the cones that lay thick under the hemlock near by , for she made pretty things with them .

amy was sketching a group of ferns , and jo was knitting as she read aloud .

" may i come in , please ?

or shall i be a bother ? " he asked , advancing slowly .

meg lifted her eyebrows , but jo scowled at her defiantly and said at once , " of course you may .

we should have asked you before , only we thought you wouldn't care for such a girl 's game as this . "

" i always like your games , but if meg doesn't want me , i 'll go away . "

" i 've no objection , if you do something .

it 's against the rules to be idle here , " replied meg gravely but graciously .

" much obliged .

i 'll do anything if you 'll let me stop a bit , for it 's as dull as the desert of sahara down there .

shall i sew , read , cone , draw , or do all at once ?

bring on your bears .

i 'm ready . "

and laurie sat down with a submissive expression delightful to behold .

" finish this story while i set my heel , " said jo , handing him the book .

" please , ma'am , could i inquire if this highly instructive and charming institution is a new one ? "

" would you tell him ? " asked meg of her sisters .

" he 'll laugh , " said amy warningly .

" who cares ? " said jo .

" i guess he 'll like it , " added beth .

" of course i shall !

i give you my word i won't laugh .

tell away , jo , and don't be afraid . "

" the idea of being afraid of you !

" yes , i know , " said laurie , nodding wisely .

" who told you ? " demanded jo .

" spirits . "

" no , i did .

i wanted to amuse him one night when you were all away , and he was rather dismal .

he did like it , so don't scold , jo , " said beth meekly .

" you can't keep a secret .

never mind , it saves trouble now . "

" go on , please , " said laurie , as jo became absorbed in her work , looking a trifle displeased .

" oh , didn't she tell you about this new plan of ours ?

well , we have tried not to waste our holiday , but each has had a task and worked at it with a will .

the vacation is nearly over , the stints are all done , and we are ever so glad that we didn't dawdle . "

" yes , i should think so , " and laurie thought regretfully of his own idle days .

" mother likes to have us out-of-doors as much as possible , so we bring our work here and have nice times .

the sun was low , and the heavens glowed with the splendor of an autumn sunset .

" how beautiful that is ! " said laurie softly , for he was quick to see and feel beauty of any kind .

" jo talks about the country where we hope to live sometime the real country , she means , with pigs and chickens and haymaking .

" it seems so long to wait , so hard to do .

i want to fly away at once , as those swallows fly , and go in at that splendid gate . "

" you 'll get there , beth , sooner or later , no fear of that , " said jo .

" i 'm the one that will have to fight and work , and climb and wait , and maybe never get in after all . "

" you 'll have me for company , if that 's any comfort .

i shall have to do a deal of traveling before i come in sight of your celestial city .

if i arrive late , you 'll say a good word for me , won't you , beth ? "

" you 'd have to take your favorite one .

what is it ? " asked meg .

" if i tell mine , will you tell yours ? "

" yes , if the girls will too . "

" we will .

now , laurie . "

i 'm to be a famous musician myself , and all creation is to rush to hear me .

and i 'm never to be bothered about money or business , but just enjoy myself and live for what i like .

that 's my favorite castle .

what 's yours , meg ? "

how i should enjoy it !

for i wouldn't be idle , but do good , and make everyone love me dearly . "

" wouldn't you have a master for your castle in the air ? " asked laurie slyly .

" why don't you say you 'd have a splendid , wise , good husband and some angelic little children ?

" you 'd have nothing but horses , inkstands , and novels in yours , " answered meg petulantly .

" wouldn't i though ?

i want to do something splendid before i go into my castle , something heroic or wonderful that won't be forgotten after i 'm dead .

i don't know what , but i 'm on the watch for it , and mean to astonish you all some day .

i think i shall write books , and get rich and famous , that would suit me , so that is my favorite dream . "

" mine is to stay at home safe with father and mother , and help take care of the family , " said beth contentedly .

" don't you wish for anything else ? " asked laurie .

" since i had my little piano , i am perfectly satisfied .

i only wish we may all keep well and be together , nothing else . "

" we 're an ambitious set , aren't we ?

every one of us , but beth , wants to be rich and famous , and gorgeous in every respect .

i do wonder if any of us will ever get our wishes , " said laurie , chewing grass like a meditative calf .

" i 've got the key to mine , but i 'm not allowed to try it .

hang college ! " muttered laurie with an impatient sigh .

" here 's mine ! " and amy waved her pencil .

" i haven't got any , " said meg forlornly .

" yes , you have , " said laurie at once .

" where ? "

" in your face . "

" nonsense , that 's of no use . "

" bless me !

how old i shall be , twenty-seven ! " exclaimed meg , who felt grown up already , having just reached seventeen .

" you and i will be twenty-six , teddy , beth twenty-four , and amy twenty-two .

what a venerable party ! " said jo .

" you need a motive , mother says , and when you get it , she is sure you 'll work splendidly . "

" is she ?

by jupiter , i will , if i only get the chance ! " cried laurie , sitting up with sudden energy .

he wants me to be an india merchant , as he was , and i 'd rather be shot .

going to college ought to satisfy him , for if i give him four years he ought to let me off from the business .

if there was anyone left to stay with the old gentleman , i 'd do it tomorrow . "

" that 's not right , jo .

you mustn't talk in that way , and laurie mustn't take your bad advice .

you should do just what your grandfather wishes , my dear boy , " said meg in her most maternal tone .

" so he is , dear old fellow ! " said laurie heartily , as meg paused , looking flushed and earnest with her story .

brooke couldn't understand why your mother was so kind to him , asking him over with me and treating him in her beautiful friendly way .

he thought she was just perfect , and talked about it for days and days , and went on about you all in flaming style .

if ever i do get my wish , you see what i 'll do for brooke . "

" begin to do something now by not plaguing his life out , " said meg sharply .

" how do you know i do , miss ? "

" i can always tell by his face when he goes away .

if you have been good , he looks satisfied and walks briskly .

if you have plagued him , he 's sober and walks slowly , as if he wanted to go back and do his work better . "

" well , i like that ?

so you keep an account of my good and bad marks in brooke 's face , do you ?

i see him bow and smile as he passes your window , but i didn't know you 'd got up a telegraph . "

" we haven't .

don't be angry , and oh , don't tell him i said anything !

" only if brooke is going to be a thermometer , i must mind and have fair weather for him to report . "

" please don't be offended .

i didn't mean to preach or tell tales or be silly .

i only thought jo was encouraging you in a feeling which you 'd be sorry for by-and-by .

you are so kind to us , we feel as if you were our brother and say just what we think .

forgive me , i meant it kindly . "

and meg offered her hand with a gesture both affectionate and timid .

ashamed of his momentary pique , laurie squeezed the kind little hand , and said frankly , " i 'm the one to be forgiven .

i 'm cross and have been out of sorts all day .

i like to have you tell me my faults and be sisterly , so don't mind if i am grumpy sometimes .

i thank you all the same . "

" may i come again ? " asked laurie .

" i 'll try . "

" then you may come , and i 'll teach you to knit as the scotchmen do .

chapter fourteen

secrets

jo was very busy in the garret , for the october days began to grow chilly , and the afternoons were short .

" there , i 've done my best !

if this won't suit i shall have to wait till i can do better . "

jo 's desk up here was an old tin kitchen which hung against the wall .

once there , she composed herself , hailed a passing omnibus , and rolled away to town , looking very merry and mysterious .

this maneuver she repeated several times , to the great amusement of a black-eyed young gentleman lounging in the window of a building opposite .

when she saw the young gentleman she looked anything but pleased , and passed him with a nod .

but he followed , asking with an air of sympathy , " did you have a bad time ? "

" not very . "

" you got through quickly . "

" yes , thank goodness ! "

" why did you go alone ? "

" didn't want anyone to know . "

" you 're the oddest fellow i ever saw .

how many did you have out ? "

jo looked at her friend as if she did not understand him , then began to laugh as if mightily amused at something .

" there are two which i want to have come out , but i must wait a week . "

" what are you laughing at ?

you are up to some mischief , jo , " said laurie , looking mystified .

" so are you .

what were you doing , sir , up in that billiard saloon ? "

" i 'm glad of that . "

" why ? "

laurie burst out with a hearty boy 's laugh , which made several passers-by smile in spite of themselves .

" i 'll teach you whether we play hamlet or not .

it 's grand fun and will straighten you up capitally .

but i don't believe that was your only reason for saying ' i 'm glad ' in that decided way , was it now ? "

" no , i was glad that you were not in the saloon , because i hope you never go to such places .

do you ? "

" not often . "

" i wish you wouldn't . "

" it 's no harm , jo .

i did hope you 'd stay respectable and be a satisfaction to your friends , " said jo , shaking her head .

" can't a fellow take a little innocent amusement now and then without losing his respectability ? " asked laurie , looking nettled .

" that depends upon how and where he takes it .

i don't like ned and his set , and wish you 'd keep out of it .

mother won't let us have him at our house , though he wants to come .

and if you grow like him she won't be willing to have us frolic together as we do now . "

" won't she ? " asked laurie anxiously .

" well , she needn't get out her bandboxes yet .

i 'm not a fashionable party and don't mean to be , but i do like harmless larks now and then , don't you ? "

" yes , nobody minds them , so lark away , but don't get wild , will you ?

or there will be an end of all our good times . "

" i 'll be a double distilled saint . "

" i can't bear saints .

just be a simple , honest , respectable boy , and we 'll never desert you .

i don't know what i should do if you acted like mr king 's son .

" you think i 'm likely to do the same ?

much obliged . "

i shouldn't worry then . "

" do you worry about me , jo ? "

" are you going to deliver lectures all the way home ? " he asked presently .

" of course not .

why ? "

" because if you are , i 'll take a bus .

if you 're not , i 'd like to walk with you and tell you something very interesting . "

" i won't preach any more , and i 'd like to hear the news immensely . "

" very well , then , come on .

it 's a secret , and if i tell you , you must tell me yours . "

" i haven't got any , " began jo , but stopped suddenly , remembering that she had .

" you know you have you can't hide anything , so up and ' fess , or i won't tell , " cried laurie .

" is your secret a nice one ? "

" oh , isn't it !

all about people you know , and such fun !

you ought to hear it , and i 've been aching to tell it this long time .

come , you begin . "

" you 'll not say anything about it at home , will you ? "

" not a word . "

" and you won't tease me in private ? "

" i never tease . "

" yes , you do .

you get everything you want out of people .

i don't know how you do it , but you are a born wheedler . "

" thank you .

fire away . "

" hush !

" it won't fail .

why , jo , your stories are works of shakespeare compared to half the rubbish that is published every day .

won't it be fun to see them in print , and shan't we feel proud of our authoress ? "

" where 's your secret ?

i know where meg 's glove is . "

" is that all ? " said jo , looking disappointed , as laurie nodded and twinkled with a face full of mysterious intelligence .

" it 's quite enough for the present , as you 'll agree when i tell you where it is . "

" tell , then . "

laurie bent , and whispered three words in jo 's ear , which produced a comical change .

" saw it . "

" where ? "

" pocket . "

" all this time ? "

" yes , isn't that romantic ? "

" no , it 's horrid . "

" don't you like it ? "

" of course i don't .

it 's ridiculous , it won't be allowed .

my patience !

what would meg say ? "

" you are not to tell anyone .

mind that . "

" i didn't promise . "

" that was understood , and i trusted you . "

" well , i won't for the present , anyway , but i'm disgusted , and wish you hadn't told me . "

" i thought you 'd be pleased . "

" at the idea of anybody coming to take meg away ?

no , thank you . "

" you 'll feel better about it when somebody comes to take you away . "

" i 'd like to see anyone try it , " cried jo fiercely .

" so should i ! " and laurie chuckled at the idea .

" race down this hill with me , and you 'll be all right , " suggested laurie .

" i wish i was a horse , then i could run for miles in this splendid air , and not lose my breath .

it was capital , but see what a guy it 's made me .

" what in the world are you doing here ? " she asked , regarding her disheveled sister with well-bred surprise .

" getting leaves , " meekly answered jo , sorting the rosy handful she had just swept up .

" and hairpins , " added laurie , throwing half a dozen into jo 's lap .

" they grow on this road , meg , so do combs and brown straw hats . "

" you have been running , jo .

how could you ?

" never till i 'm stiff and old and have to use a crutch .

don't try to make me grow up before my time , meg .

it 's hard enough to have you change all of a sudden .

let me be a little girl as long as i can . "

" at the gardiners ' , and sallie has been telling me all about belle moffat 's wedding .

it was very splendid , and they have gone to spend the winter in paris .

just think how delightful that must be ! "

" do you envy her , meg ? " said laurie .

" i 'm afraid i do . "

" i 'm glad of it ! " muttered jo , tying on her hat with a jerk .

" why ? " asked meg , looking surprised .

for a week or two , jo behaved so queerly that her sisters were quite bewildered .

" what shall we do with that girl ?

she never will behave like a young lady , " sighed meg , as she watched the race with a disapproving face .

" i hope she won't .

in a few minutes jo bounced in , laid herself on the sofa , and affected to read .

" have you anything interesting there ? " asked meg , with condescension .

" you 'd better read it aloud .

that will amuse us and keep you out of mischief , " said amy in her most grown-up tone .

" what 's the name ? " asked beth , wondering why jo kept her face behind the sheet .

" the rival painters . "

" that sounds well .

read it , " said meg .

with a loud " hem ! " and a long breath , jo began to read very fast .

the girls listened with interest , for the tale was romantic , and somewhat pathetic , as most of the characters died in the end .

" i like that about the splendid picture , " was amy 's approving remark , as jo paused .

" i prefer the lovering part .

" who wrote it ? " asked beth , who had caught a glimpse of jo 's face .

" you ? " cried meg , dropping her work .

" it 's very good , " said amy critically .

" i knew it !

i knew it !

oh , my jo , i am so proud ! " and beth ran to hug her sister and exult over this splendid success .

dear me , how delighted they all were , to be sure !

how meg wouldn't believe it till she saw the words .

" miss josephine march , " actually printed in the paper .

how beth got excited , and skipped and sang with joy .

how hannah came in to exclaim , " sakes alive , well i never ! " in great astonishment at ' that jo 's doin 's ' .

how proud mrs . march was when she knew it .

" tell us about it . "

" when did it come ? "

" how much did you get for it ? "

" what will father say ? "

it was good practice , he said , and when the beginners improved , anyone would pay .

chapter fifteen

a telegram

" that 's the reason i was born in it , " observed jo pensively , quite unconscious of the blot on her nose .

" i dare say , but nothing pleasant ever does happen in this family , " said meg , who was out of sorts .

" we go grubbing along day after day , without a bit of change , and very little fun .

we might as well be in a treadmill . "

" my patience , how blue we are ! " cried jo .

oh , don't i wish i could manage things for you as i do for my heroines !

you 're pretty enough and good enough already , so i 'd have some rich relation leave you a fortune unexpectedly .

" people don't have fortunes left them in that style nowadays , men have to work and women marry for money .

it 's a dreadfully unjust world , " said meg bitterly .

" jo and i are going to make fortunes for you all .

" can't wait , and i 'm afraid i haven't much faith in ink and dirt , though i 'm grateful for your good intentions . "

meg sighed , and turned to the frostbitten garden again .

marmee is coming down the street , and laurie is tramping through the garden as if he had something nice to tell . "

i 've been working away at mathematics till my head is in a muddle , and i 'm going to freshen my wits by a brisk turn .

come , jo , you and beth will go , won't you ? "

" of course we will . "

" much obliged , but i 'm busy . "

" we three will be ready in a minute , " cried amy , running away to wash her hands .

" no , thank you , except call at the office , if you 'll be so kind , dear .

it 's our day for a letter , and the postman hasn't been .

father is as regular as the sun , but there 's some delay on the way , perhaps . "

a sharp ring interrupted her , and a minute after hannah came in with a letter .

laurie dashed downstairs for water , while meg and hannah supported her , and jo read aloud , in a frightened voice ....y

mrs. march : your husband is very ill .

come at once .

s hale blank hospital , washington .

oh , children , children , help me to bear it ! "

" the lord keep the dear man !

" she 's right , there 's no time for tears now .

be calm , girls , and let me think . "

" where 's laurie ? " she asked presently , when she had collected her thoughts and decided on the first duties to be done .

" here , ma'am .

" send a telegram saying i will come at once .

the next train goes early in the morning .

i 'll take that . "

" what else ?

the horses are ready .

i can go anywhere , do anything , " he said , looking ready to fly to the ends of the earth .

" leave a note at aunt march 's .

jo , give me that pen and paper . "

" now go , dear , but don't kill yourself driving at a desperate pace .

there is no need of that . "

" jo , run to the rooms , and tell mrs king that i can't come .

on the way get these things .

i 'll put them down , they 'll be needed and i must go prepared for nursing .

hospital stores are not always good .

beth , go and ask mr laurence for a couple of bottles of old wine .

i 'm not too proud to beg for father .

he shall have the best of everything .

there was nothing he didn't offer , from his own dressing gown to himself as escort .

but the last was impossible .

he saw the look , knit his heavy eyebrows , rubbed his hands , and marched abruptly away , saying he 'd be back directly .

" i came to offer myself as escort to your mother .

mr laurence has commissions for me in washington , and it will give me real satisfaction to be of service to her there . "

" how kind you all are !

mother will accept , i 'm sure , and it will be such a relief to know that she has someone to take care of her .

thank you very , very much ! "

the short afternoon wore away .

" my dear , where did you get it ?

twenty-five dollars !

jo , i hope you haven't done anything rash ? "

" no , it 's mine honestly .

i didn't beg , borrow , or steal it .

i earned it , and i don't think you 'll blame me , for i only sold what was my own . "

as she spoke , jo took off her bonnet , and a general outcry arose , for all her abundant hair was cut short .

" your hair !

your beautiful hair ! "

" oh , jo , how could you ?

your one beauty . "

" my dear girl , there was no need of this . "

" she doesn't look like my jo any more , but i love her dearly for it ! "

it will be good for my vanity , i was getting too proud of my wig .

it will do my brains good to have that mop taken off .

i 'm satisfied , so please take the money and let's have supper . "

" tell me all about it , jo .

" no , i won't ! " returned jo stoutly , feeling much relieved that her prank was not entirely condemned .

" you needn't feel wicked , my child !

" i don't see how you dared to do it , " said beth in a tone of awe .

" oh , he was a little man who looked as if he merely lived to oil his hair .

he rather stared at first , as if he wasn't used to having girls bounce into his shop and ask him to buy their hair .

he said he didn't care about mine , it wasn't the fashionable color , and he never paid much for it in the first place .

the work put into it made it dear , and so on .

so i begged him to take it , and told him why i was in such a hurry .

i 'd do as much for our jimmy any day if i had a spire of hair worth selling . "

" who was jimmy ? " asked amy , who liked to have things explained as they went along .

" her son , she said , who was in the army .

how friendly such things make strangers feel , don't they ?

she talked away all the time the man clipped , and diverted my mind nicely . "

" didn't you feel dreadfully when the first cut came ? " asked meg , with a shiver .

" i took a last look at my hair while the man got his things , and that was the end of it .

i never snivel over trifles like that .

it almost seemed as if i 'd an arm or leg off .

the woman saw me look at it , and picked out a long lock for me to keep .

mrs. march folded the wavy chestnut lock , and laid it away with a short gray one in her desk .

beth went to the piano and played the father 's favorite hymn .

" go to bed and don't talk , for we must be up early and shall need all the sleep we can get .

good night , my darlings , " said mrs. march , as the hymn ended , for no one cared to try another .

they kissed her quietly , and went to bed as silently as if the dear invalid lay in the next room .

" jo , dear , what is it ?

are you crying about father ? "

" no , not now . "

" what then ? "

" my ....y

my hair ! " burst out poor jo , trying vainly to smother her emotion in the pillow .

it did not seem at all comical to meg , who kissed and caressed the afflicted heroine in the tenderest manner .

" i 'm not sorry , " protested jo , with a choke .

" i 'd do it again tomorrow , if i could .

it 's only the vain part of me that goes and cries in this silly way .

don't tell anyone , it 's all over now .

i thought you were asleep , so i just made a little private moan for my one beauty .

how came you to be awake ? "

" i can't sleep , i 'm so anxious , " said meg .

" think about something pleasant , and you 'll soon drop off . "

" i tried it , but felt wider awake than ever . "

" what did you think of ? "

" handsome faces eyes particularly , " answered meg , smiling to herself in the dark .

" what color do you like best ? "

" brown , that is , sometimes .

blue are lovely . "

there is always light behind the clouds . "

chapter sixteen

letters

in the cold gray dawn the sisters lit their lamp and read their chapter with an earnestness never felt before .

everything seemed very strange when they went down , so dim and still outside , so full of light and bustle within .

breakfast at that early hour seemed odd , and even hannah 's familiar face looked unnatural as she flew about her kitchen with her nightcap on .

" children , i leave you to hannah 's care and mr laurence 's protection .

hannah is faithfulness itself , and our good neighbor will guard you as if you were his own .

i have no fears for you , yet i am anxious that you should take this trouble rightly .

go on with your work as usual , for work is a blessed solace .

hope and keep busy , and whatever happens , remember that you never can be fatherless . "

" yes , mother . "

" meg , dear , be prudent , watch over your sisters , consult hannah , and in any perplexity , go to mr laurence .

" we will , mother !

we will ! "

the rattle of an approaching carriage made them all start and listen .

that was the hard minute , but the girls stood it well .

they kissed their mother quietly , clung about her tenderly , and tried to wave their hands cheerfully when she drove away .

" good-by , my darlings !

" i don't see how they can help it , " returned mr brooke , laughing so infectiously that mrs. march could not help smiling .

and so the journey began with the good omens of sunshine , smiles , and cheerful words .

" it seems as if half the house was gone , " added meg forlornly .

" now , my dear young ladies , remember what your ma said , and don't fret .

come and have a cup of coffee all round , and then let 's fall to work and be a credit to the family . "

coffee was a treat , and hannah showed great tact in making it that morning .

no one could resist her persuasive nods , or the fragrant invitation issuing from the nose of the coffee pot .

they drew up to the table , exchanged their handkerchiefs for napkins , and in ten minutes were all right again .

" ' hope and keep busy ' , that 's the motto for us , so let's see who will remember it best .

i shall go to aunt march , as usual .

oh , won't she lecture though ! " said jo , as she sipped with returning spirit .

" no need of that .

beth and i can keep house perfectly well , " put in amy , with an important air .

" i think anxiety is very interesting , " observed amy , eating sugar pensively .

" that 's so like my beth ! " said jo , waving her hat , with a grateful face .

" goodbye , meggy , i hope the kings won't strain today .

don't fret about father , dear , " she added , as they parted .

" and i hope aunt march won't croak .

" that 's my only comfort . "

and , touching her hat a la laurie , away went jo , feeling like a shorn sheep on a wintry day .

as one of these packets contained characteristic notes from the party , we will rob an imaginary mail , and read them .

my dearest mother :

the girls are all as good as gold .

jo helps me with the sewing , and insists on doing all sorts of hard jobs .

i should be afraid she might overdo , if i didn't know her ' moral fit ' wouldn't last long .

beth is as regular about her tasks as a clock , and never forgets what you told her .

she grieves about father , and looks sober except when she is at her little piano .

amy minds me nicely , and i take great care of her .

she does her own hair , and i am teaching her to make buttonholes and mend her stockings .

she tries very hard , and i know you will be pleased with her improvement when you come .

mr laurence watches over us like a motherly old hen , as jo says , and laurie is very kind and neighborly .

he and jo keep us merry , for we get pretty blue sometimes , and feel like orphans , with you so far away .

hannah is a perfect saint .

we are all well and busy , but we long , day and night , to have you back .

give my dearest love to father , and believe me , ever your own ....y

meg

my precious marmee :

three cheers for dear father !

brooke was a trump to telegraph right off , and let us know the minute he was better .

i 'm glad ! "

didn't that do as well as a regular prayer ?

for i felt a great many in my heart .

you 'd laugh to see meg head the table and try to be motherish .

she gets prettier every day , and i 'm in love with her sometimes .

the children are regular archangels , and i well , i 'm jo , and never shall be anything else .

oh , i must tell you that i came near having a quarrel with laurie .

i freed my mind about a silly little thing , and he was offended .

i was right , but didn't speak as i ought , and he marched home , saying he wouldn't come again till i begged pardon .

i declared i wouldn't and got mad .

it lasted all day .

i felt bad and wanted you very much .

laurie and i are both so proud , it 's hard to beg pardon .

but i thought he 'd come to it , for i was in the right .

he didn't come , and just at night i remembered what you said when amy fell into the river .

i met him at the gate , coming for the same thing .

we both laughed , begged each other 's pardon , and felt all good and comfortable again .

give him my lovingest hug that ever was , and kiss yourself a dozen times for your ....y

topsy-turvy jo

a song from the suds

then out in the free fresh air they swing , under the sunny sky .

then on the earth there would be indeed , a glorious washing day !

along the path of a useful life , will heart's-ease ever bloom .

the busy mind has no time to think of sorrow or care or gloom .

and anxious thoughts may be swept away , as we bravely wield a broom .

dear mother ,

i read every morning , try to be good all day , and sing myself to sleep with father 's tune .

i can't sing ' land of the leal ' now , it makes me cry .

everyone is very kind , and we are as happy as we can be without you .

amy wants the rest of the page , so i must stop .

i didn't forget to cover the holders , and i wind the clock and air the rooms every day .

kiss dear father on the cheek he calls mine .

oh , do come soon to your loving ....y

little beth

ma chere mamma ,

can't she ?

didn't i make that interrigation point nice ?

adieu , i send heaps of love to papa .

your affectionate daughter ....y

amy curtis march

dear mis march ,

i jes drop a line to say we git on fust rate .

the girls is clever and fly round right smart .

miss meg is going to make a proper good housekeeper .

she hes the liking for it , and gits the hang of things surprisin quick .

beth is the best of little creeters , and a sight of help to me , bein so forehanded and dependable .

she tries to learn everything , and really goes to market beyond her years , likewise keeps accounts , with my help , quite wonderful .

we have got on very economical so fur .

i don't let the girls hev coffee only once a week , accordin to your wish , and keep em on plain wholesome vittles .

amy does well without frettin , wearin her best clothes and eatin sweet stuff .

the old gentleman sends heaps of things , and is rather wearin , but means wal , and it aint my place to say nothin .

my bread is riz , so no more at this time .

i send my duty to mr. march , and hope he 's seen the last of his pewmonia .

yours respectful ,

hannah mullet

head nurse of ward no . @number@

a salute of twenty-four guns was fired on receipt of good news from washington , and a dress parade took place at headquarters .

commander in chief sends best wishes , in which he is heartily joined by ....v

colonel teddy

dear madam :

the little girls are all well .

beth and my boy report daily .

hannah is a model servant , and guards pretty meg like a dragon .

glad the fine weather holds .

pray make brooke useful , and draw on me for funds if expenses exceed your estimate .

don't let your husband want anything .

thank god he is mending .

your sincere friend and servant , james laurence

chapter seventeen

little faithful

for a week the amount of virtue in the old house would have supplied the neighborhood .

it was really amazing , for everyone seemed in a heavenly frame of mind , and self-denial was all the fashion .

amy found that housework and art did not go well together , and returned to her mud pies .

beth kept on , with only slight relapses into idleness or grieving .

so they did , but their mistake was in ceasing to do well , and they learned this lesson through much anxiety and regret .

" meg , i wish you 'd go and see the hummels .

you know mother told us not to forget them . " said beth , ten days after mrs. march 's departure .

" i 'm too tired to go this afternoon , " replied meg , rocking comfortably as she sewed .

" can't you , jo ? " asked beth .

" too stormy for me with my cold . "

" i thought it was almost well . "

" why don't you go yourself ? " asked meg .

" i have been every day , but the baby is sick , and i don't know what to do for it .

mrs hummel goes away to work , and lottchen takes care of it .

but it gets sicker and sicker , and i think you or hannah ought to go . "

beth spoke earnestly , and meg promised she would go tomorrow .

" my head aches and i 'm tired , so i thought maybe some of you would go , " said beth .

" amy will be in presently , and she will run down for us , " suggested meg .

so beth lay down on the sofa , the others returned to their work , and the hummels were forgotten .

an hour passed .

it was late when she came back , and no one saw her creep upstairs and shut herself into her mother 's room .

" christopher columbus !

" you 've had the scarlet fever , haven't you ? "

" years ago , when meg did .

why ? "

" then i 'll tell you .

oh , jo , the baby 's dead ! "

" what baby ? "

" mrs hummel 's .

it died in my lap before she got home , " cried beth with a sob .

" my poor dear , how dreadful for you !

" it wasn't dreadful , jo , only so sad !

it seemed asleep , but all of a sudden if gave a little cry and trembled , and then lay very still .

" don't cry , dear !

what did you do ? "

" i just sat and held it softly till mrs hummel came with the doctor .

he said it was dead , and looked at heinrich and minna , who have sore throats .

' scarlet fever , ma'am .

ought to have called me before , ' he said crossly .

" no , you won't ! " cried jo , hugging her close , with a frightened look .

" oh , beth , if you should be sick i never could forgive myself !

what shall we do ? "

" don't be frightened , i guess i shan't have it badly .

" if mother was only at home ! " exclaimed jo , seizing the book , and feeling that washington was an immense way off .

i 'll call hannah , she knows all about sickness . "

" don't let amy come .

she never had it , and i should hate to give it to her .

can't you and meg have it over again ? " asked beth , anxiously .

" i guess not .

don't care if i do .

" i shall stay , of course , i'm oldest , " began meg , looking anxious and self-reproachful .

" i shall , because it 's my fault she is sick .

i told mother i 'd do the errands , and i haven't , " said jo decidedly .

" which will you have , beth ?

there ain't no need of but one , " aid hannah .

" jo , please . "

and beth leaned her head against her sister with a contented look , which effectually settled that point .

amy rebelled outright , and passionately declared that she had rather have the fever than go to aunt march .

meg reasoned , pleaded , and commanded , all in vain .

amy protested that she would not go , and meg left her in despair to ask hannah what should be done .

before she came back , laurie walked into the parlor to find amy sobbing , with her head in the sofa cushions .

no , don't cry , but hear what a jolly plan i 've got .

you go to aunt march 's , and i 'll come and take you out every day , driving or walking , and we 'll have capital times .

won't that be better than moping here ? "

" i don't wish to be sent off as if i was in the way , " began amy , in an injured voice .

" bless your heart , child , it 's to keep you well .

you don't want to be sick , do you ? "

" no , i 'm sure i don't , but i dare say i shall be , for i 've been with beth all the time . "

" that 's the very reason you ought to go away at once , so that you may escape it .

i advise you to be off as soon as you can , for scarlet fever is no joke , miss . "

" but it 's dull at aunt march 's , and she is so cross , " said amy , looking rather frightened .

" it won't be dull with me popping in every day to tell you how beth is , and take you out gallivanting .

" will you take me out in the trotting wagon with puck ? "

" on my honor as a gentleman . "

" and come every single day ? "

" see if i don't ! "

" and bring me back the minute beth is well ? "

" the identical minute . "

" and go to the theater , truly ? "

" a dozen theaters , if we may . "

" well i guess i will , " said amy slowly .

" good girl !

" she is lying down on mother's bed , and feels better .

the baby 's death troubled her , but i dare say she has only got cold .

hannah says she thinks so , but she looks worried , and that makes me fidgety , " answered meg .

" what a trying world it is ! " said jo , rumpling up her hair in a fretful way .

" no sooner do we get out of one trouble than down comes another .

there doesn't seem to be anything to hold on to when mother 's gone , so i 'm all at sea . "

" well , don't make a porcupine of yourself , it isn't becoming .

" that is what troubles me , " said meg .

" hum , well , i can't say .

suppose you ask grandfather after the doctor has been . "

" we will .

jo , go and get dr bangs at once , " commanded meg .

" we can't decide anything till he has been . "

" stay where you are , jo .

i 'm errand boy to this establishment , " said laurie , taking up his cap .

" i 'm afraid you are busy , " began meg .

" no , i 've done my lessons for the day . "

" do you study in vacation time ? " asked jo .

" i follow the good example my neighbors set me , " was laurie 's answer , as he swung himself out of the room .

" i have great hopes for my boy , " observed jo , watching him fly over the fence with an approving smile .

" he does very well , for a boy , " was meg 's somewhat ungracious answer , for the subject did not interest her .

aunt march received them with her usual hospitality .

" go away .

no boys allowed here . "

laurie retired to the window , and jo told her story .

" no more than i expected , if you are allowed to go poking about among poor folks .

amy can stay and make herself useful if she isn't sick , which i 've no doubt she will be , looks like it now .

don't cry , child , it worries me to hear people sniff . "

" what do you hear from your mother ? " asked the old lady gruffly .

" father is much better , " replied jo , trying to keep sober .

" oh , is he ?

well , that won't last long , i fancy .

march never had any stamina , " was the cheerful reply .

" ha , ha !

" hold your tongue , you disrespectful old bird !

and , jo , you 'd better go at once .

it isn't proper to be gadding about so late with a rattlepated boy like ....y "

" i don't think i can bear it , but i 'll try , " thought amy , as she was left alone with aunt march .

" get along , you fright ! " screamed polly , and at that rude speech amy could not restrain a sniff .

chapter eighteen

dark days

beth did have the fever , and was much sicker than anyone but hannah and the doctor suspected .

everyone missed beth .

meanwhile she lay on her bed with old joanna at her side , for even in her wanderings she did not forget her forlorn protege .

is beth worse ? "

" i 've sent for mother , " said jo , tugging at her rubber boots with a tragic expression .

" good for you , jo !

" no .

the doctor told us to . "

" oh , jo , it 's not so bad as that ? " cried laurie , with a startled face .

" yes , it is .

she doesn't know us , she doesn't even talk about the flocks of green doves , as she calls the vine leaves on the wall .

she doesn't look like my beth , and there 's nobody to help us bear it .

mother and father both gone , and god seems so far away i can't find him . "

hold on to me , jo , dear ! "

soon she dried the tears which had relieved her , and looked up with a grateful face .

" thank you , teddy , i 'm better now .

i don't feel so forlorn , and will try to bear it if it comes . "

" keep hoping for the best , that will help you , jo .

soon your mother will be here , and then everything will be all right . "

" i 'm so glad father is better .

now she won't feel so bad about leaving him .

oh , me !

" doesn't meg pull fair ? " asked laurie , looking indignant .

beth is my conscience , and i can't give her up .

i can't !

i can't ! "

it might be unmanly , but he couldn't help it , and i am glad of it .

presently , as jo 's sobs quieted , he said hopefully , " i don't think she will die .

she 's so good , and we all love her so much , i don't believe god will take her away yet . "

" poor girl , you 're worn out .

it isn't like you to be forlorn .

stop a bit .

i 'll hearten you up in a jiffy . "

you are a good doctor , teddy , and such a comfortable friend .

" what is it ? " cried jo , forgetting her woes for a minute in her wonder .

aren't you glad i did it ? "

oh , mother !

i am so glad ! "

laurie , though decidedly amazed , behaved with great presence of mind .

holding on to the banisters , she put him gently away , saying breathlessly , " oh , don't !

tell me all about it , and don't give me wine again , it makes me act so . "

" i don't mind , " laughed laurie , as he settled his tie .

" why , you see i got fidgety , and so did grandpa .

we thought hannah was overdoing the authority business , and your mother ought to know .

she 'd never forgive us if beth ....v

well , if anything happened , you know .

i never can bear to be ' lorded over ' , so that settled my mind , and i did it .

" laurie , you 're an angel !

how shall i ever thank you ? "

" fly at me again .

i rather liked it , " said laurie , looking mischievous , a thing he had not done for a fortnight .

" no , thank you .

i 'll do it by proxy , when your grandpa comes .

don't tease , but go home and rest , for you 'll be up half the night .

bless you , teddy , bless you ! "

a breath of fresh air seemed to blow through the house , and something better than sunshine brightened the quiet rooms .

everything appeared to feel the hopeful change .

beth 's bird began to chirp again , and a half-blown rose was discovered on amy 's bush in the window .

mother 's coming ! "

every one rejoiced but beth .

she lay in that heavy stupor , alike unconscious of hope and joy , doubt and danger .

" if god spares beth , i never will complain again , " whispered meg earnestly .

" if god spares beth , i 'll try to love and serve him all my life , " answered jo , with equal fervor .

" i wish i had no heart , it aches so , " sighed meg , after a pause .

here the clock struck twelve , and both forgot themselves in watching beth , for they fancied a change passed over her wan face .

the house was still as death , and nothing but the wailing of the wind broke the deep hush .

weary hannah slept on , and no one but the sisters saw the pale shadow which seemed to fall upon the little bed .

an hour went by , and nothing happened except laurie 's quiet departure for the station .

a dreadful fear passed coldly over jo , as she thought , " beth is dead , and meg is afraid to tell me . "

she was back at her post in an instant , and to her excited eyes a great change seemed to have taken place .

good-by ! "

praise be given !

oh , my goodness me ! "

before the girls could believe the happy truth , the doctor came to confirm it .

keep the house quiet , let her sleep , and when she wakes , give her ....y "

" if mother would only come now ! " said jo , as the winter night began to wane .

" hark ! " cried jo , starting to her feet .

she 's come ! "

chapter nineteen

amy's will

while these things were happening at home , amy was having hard times at aunt march 's .

she felt her exile deeply , and for the first time in her life , realized how much she was beloved and petted at home .

she really did her best to make amy happy , but , dear me , what mistakes she made .

then she must dust the room , and what a trying job that was .

not a speck escaped aunt march 's eye , and all the furniture had claw legs and much carving , which was never dusted to suit .

after these tiresome labors , she must do her lessons , which was a daily trial of every virtue she possessed .

then she was allowed one hour for exercise or play , and didn't she enjoy it ?

the cook was bad-tempered , the old coachman was deaf , and esther the only one who ever took any notice of the young lady .

" i like the diamonds best , but there is no necklace among them , and i 'm fond of necklaces , they are so becoming .

" i , too , covet that , but not as a necklace .

ah , no !

" is it meant to use as you use the string of good-smelling wooden beads hanging over your glass ? " asked amy .

" truly , yes , to pray with .

" you seem to take a great deal of comfort in your prayers , esther , and always come down looking quiet and satisfied .

i wish i could . "

she had a little chapel , and in it found solacement for much trouble . "

" it would be excellent and charming , and i shall gladly arrange the little dressing room for you if you like it .

amy liked the idea , and gave her leave to arrange the light closet next her room , hoping it would do her good .

" to you and your sisters .

i know it , madame confides in me .

i witnessed her will , and it is to be so , " whispered esther smiling .

" how nice !

but i wish she 'd let us have them now .

procrastination is not agreeable , " observed amy , taking a last look at the diamonds .

" it is too soon yet for the young ladies to wear these things .

" do you think so ?

oh , i 'll be a lamb , if i can only have that lovely ring !

it 's ever so much prettier than kitty bryant 's .

i do like aunt march after all . "

and amy tried on the blue ring with a delighted face and a firm resolve to earn it .

from that day she was a model of obedience , and the old lady complacently admired the success of her training .

but , amy was a young pilgrim , and just now her burden seemed very heavy .

get along , you fright !

hold your tongue !

kiss me , dear !

ha !

ha ! "

having with difficulty restrained an explosion of merriment , lest it should offend her majesty , laurie tapped and was graciously received .

i poked it out , and it ran under the bookcase .

i couldn't help laughing , which made poll swear , and aunt woke up and scolded us both . "

" did the spider accept the old fellow 's invitation ? " asked laurie , yawning .

catch her !

catch her ! ' as i chased the spider . "

" that 's a lie !

oh , lor ! " cried the parrot , pecking at laurie 's toes .

" now i 'm ready , " said amy , shutting the wardrobe and taking a piece of paper out of her pocket .

" i want you to read that , please , and tell me if it is legal and right .

i felt i ought to do it , for life is uncertain and i don't want any ill feeling over my tomb . "

my last will and testiment

i , amy curtis march , being in my sane mind , go give and bequeethe all my earthly property viz to wit : namely

to my father , my best pictures , sketches , maps , and works of art , including frames .

also my $ 100 , to do what he likes with .

to my mother , all my clothes , except the blue apron with pockets also my likeness , and my medal , with much love .

and i herewith also leave her my regret that i ever made fun of old joanna .

i wish my favorite playmate kitty bryant to have the blue silk apron and my gold-bead ring with a kiss .

to hannah i give the bandbox she wanted and all the patchwork i leave hoping she ' will remember me , when it you see ' .

and now having disposed of my most valuable property i hope all will be satisfied and not blame the dead .

i forgive everyone , and trust we may all meet when the trump shall sound .

amen .

to this will and testiment i set my hand and seal on this 20th day of nov . anni domino @number@

amy curtis march

witnesses :

estelle valnor , theodore laurence .

" what put it into your head ?

she explained and then asked anxiously , " what about beth ? "

" i 'm sorry i spoke , but as i did , i 'll tell you .

she never thought of a will . "

laurie was signing and sealing as he spoke , and did not look up till a great tear dropped on the paper .

" yes , ' codicils ' , they call them . "

" put one in mine then , that i wish all my curls cut off , and given round to my friends .

i forgot it , but i want it done though it will spoil my looks . "

laurie added it , smiling at amy 's last and greatest sacrifice .

then he amused her for an hour , and was much interested in all her trials .

" i 'm afraid there is , but we must hope for the best , so don't cry , dear . "

and laurie put his arm about her with a brotherly gesture which was very comforting .

chapter twenty

confidential

i don't think i have any words in which to tell the meeting of the mother and daughters .

what a strange yet pleasant day that was .

so brilliant and gay without , for all the world seemed abroad to welcome the first snow .

amy came out so strong on this occasion that i think the good thoughts in the little chapel really began to bear fruit .

they were alone together in the chapel , to which her mother did not object when its purpose was explained to her .

" it is an excellent plan to have some place where we can go to be quiet , when things vex or grieve us .

i think my little girl is learning this . "

i like to think he was a little child once , for then i don't seem so far away , and that helps me . "

as amy pointed to the smiling christ child on his mother 's knee , mrs. march saw something on the lifted hand that made her smile .

aunt gave me the ring today .

she gave that funny guard to keep the turquoise on , as it 's too big .

i 'd like to wear them mother , can i ? "

" i 'll try not to be vain , " said amy .

" do you mean aunt march ? " asked her mother , laughing .

" no , to remind me not to be selfish . "

amy looked so earnest and sincere about it that her mother stopped laughing , and listened respectfully to the little plan .

beth isn't selfish , and that 's the reason everyone loves her and feels so bad at the thoughts of losing her .

i 'm apt to forget my resolutions , but if i had something always about me to remind me , i guess i should do better .

may we try this way ? "

" yes , but i have more faith in the corner of the big closet .

wear your ring , dear , and do your best .

i think you will prosper , for the sincere wish to be good is half the battle .

now i must go back to beth .

keep up your heart , little daughter , and we will soon have you home again . "

" what is it , deary ? " asked mrs. march , holding out her hand , with a face which invited confidence .

" i want to tell you something , mother . "

" about meg ? "

" how quickly you guessed !

yes , it 's about her , and though it 's a little thing , it fidgets me . "

" beth is asleep .

speak low , and tell me all about it .

that moffat hasn't been here , i hope ? " asked mrs . march rather sharply .

" no .

" last summer meg left a pair of gloves over at the laurences ' and only one was returned .

now , isn't it a dreadful state of things ? "

" do you think meg cares for him ? " asked mrs. march , with an anxious look .

" mercy me !

i don't know anything about love and such nonsense ! " cried jo , with a funny mixture of interest and contempt .

" in novels , the girls show it by starting and blushing , fainting away , growing thin , and acting like fools .

now meg does not do anything of the sort .

i forbid him to do it , but he doesn't mind me as he ought . "

" then you fancy that meg is not interested in john ? "

" who ? " cried jo , staring .

" mr brooke .

i call him ' john ' now .

we fell into the way of doing so at the hospital , and he likes it . "

" oh , dear !

i know you 'll take his part .

he 's been good to father , and you won't send him away , but let meg marry him , if she wants to .

mean thing !

to go petting papa and helping you , just to wheedle you into liking him . "

and jo pulled her hair again with a wrathful tweak .

" my dear , don't get angry about it , and i will tell you how it happened .

john went with me at mr laurence 's request , and was so devoted to poor father that we couldn't help getting fond of him .

he only wanted our leave to love her and work for her , and the right to make her love him if he could .

" of course not .

it would be idiotic !

i knew there was mischief brewing .

i felt it , and now it 's worse than i imagined .

i just wish i could marry meg myself , and keep her safe in the family . "

when john comes back , and i see them together , i can judge better of her feelings toward him . "

" she 'll see those handsome eyes that she talks about , and then it will be all up with her .

she 's got such a soft heart , it will melt like butter in the sun if anyone looks sentimentlly at her .

i see it all !

they 'll go lovering around the house , and we shall have to dodge .

meg will be absorbed and no good to me any more .

oh , dear me !

why weren't we all boys , then there wouldn't be any bother . "

jo leaned her chin on her knees in a disconsolate attitude and shook her fist at the reprehensible john .

mrs. march sighed , and jo looked up with an air of relief .

" you don't like it , mother ?

i 'm glad of it .

" i did wrong to sigh , jo .

your father and i have agreed that she shall not bind herself in any way , nor be married , before twenty .

if she and john love one another , they can wait , and test the love by doing so .

she is conscientious , and i have no fear of her treating him unkindly .

my pretty , tender hearted girl !

i hope things will go happily with her . "

i 'm not ambitious for a splendid fortune , a fashionable position , or a great name for my girls .

wouldn't it be nice ? " asked jo , looking up with a brighter face .

" he is younger than she , you know , " began mrs . march , but jo broke in ....y

" only a little , he 's old for his age , and tall , and can be quite grown-up in his manners if he likes .

then he 's rich and generous and good , and loves us all , and i say it 's a pity my plan is spoiled . "

" i 'm afraid laurie is hardly grown-up enough for meg , and altogether too much of a weathercock just now for anyone to depend on .

don't make plans , jo , but let time and their own hearts mate your friends .

i wish wearing flatirons on our heads would keep us from growing up .

but buds will be roses , and kittens cats , more 's the pity ! "

" what 's that about flatirons and cats ? " asked meg , as she crept into the room with the finished letter in her hand .

" only one of my stupid speeches .

i 'm going to bed .

come , peggy , " said jo , unfolding herself like an animated puzzle .

" quite right , and beautifully written .

please add that i send my love to john , " said mrs . march , as she glanced over the letter and gave it back .

" do you call him ' john ' ? " asked meg , smiling , with her innocent eyes looking down into her mother 's .

" i 'm glad of that , he is so lonely .

good night , mother , dear .

it is so inexpressibly comfortable to have you here , " was meg 's answer .

chapter twenty-one

laurie makes mischief , and jo makes peace

to her mother 's inquiries she answered that she was quite well , and jo 's she silenced by begging to be let alone .

" she feels it in the air love , i mean and she 's going very fast .

she 's got most of the symptoms is twittery and cross , doesn't eat , lies awake , and mopes in corners .

whatever shall we do ? " said jo , looking ready for any measures , however violent .

" nothing but wait .

let her alone , be kind and patient , and father 's coming will settle everything , " replied her mother .

" here 's a note to you , meg , all sealed up .

how odd !

teddy never seals mine , " said jo next day , as she distributed the contents of the little post office .

" it 's all a mistake , he didn't send it .

" me !

i 've done nothing !

what 's she talking about ? " cried jo , bewildered .

how could you be so rude , so mean , and cruel to us both ? "

jo hardly heard her , for she and her mother were reading the note , which was written in a peculiar hand .

" my dearest margaret ,

" i can no longer restrain my passion , and must know my fate before i return .

i dare not tell your parents yet , but i think they would consent if they knew that we adored one another .

mr laurence will help me to some good place , and then , my sweet girl , you will make me happy .

i implore you to say nothing to your family yet , but to send one word of hope through laurie to ,

" your devoted john . "

" oh , the little villain !

that 's the way he meant to pay me for keeping my word to mother .

i 'll give him a hearty scolding and bring him over to beg pardon , " cried jo , burning to execute immediate justice .

but her mother held her back , saying , with a look she seldom wore ....y

" stop , jo , you must clear yourself first .

you have played so many pranks that i am afraid you have had a hand in this . "

" on my word , mother , i haven't !

" if i had taken part in it i 'd have done it better than this , and have written a sensible note .

i should think you 'd have known mr brooke wouldn't write such stuff as that , " she added , scornfully tossing down the paper .

" it 's like his writing , " faltered meg , comparing it with the note in her hand .

" oh , meg , you didn't answer it ? " cried mrs. march quickly .

" yes , i did ! " and meg hid her face again , overcome with shame .

" here 's a scrape !

do let me bring that wicked boy over to explain and be lectured .

i can't rest till i get hold of him . "

and jo made for the door again .

" hush !

let me handle this , for it is worse than i thought .

forgive me , mother , i 'm paid for my silliness now .

i never can look him in the face again . "

" what did you say to him ? " asked mrs. march .

i was very grateful for his kindness , and would be his friend , but nothing more , for a long while . "

tell on , meg .

what did he say to that ? "

it 's very kind and respectful , but think how dreadful for me ! "

meg leaned against her mother , looking the image of despair , and jo tramped about the room , calling laurie names .

teddy wrote both , and keeps yours to crow over me with because i wouldn't tell him my secret . "

" don't have any secrets , jo .

tell it to mother and keep out of trouble , as i should have done , " said meg warningly .

" bless you , child !

mother told me . "

" that will do , jo .

i 'll comfort meg while you go and get laurie .

i shall sift the matter to the bottom , and put a stop to such pranks at once . "

away ran jo , and mrs. march gently told meg mr brooke 's real feelings .

" now , dear , what are your own ?

" if john doesn't know anything about this nonsense , don't tell him , and make jo and laurie hold their tongues .

i won't be deceived and plagued and made a fool of .

it 's a shame ! "

the instant laurie 's step was heard in the hall , meg fled into the study , and mrs. march received the culprit alone .

jo was dismissed , but chose to march up and down the hall like a sentinel , having some fear that the prisoner might bolt .

the sound of voices in the parlor rose and fell for half an hour , but what happened during that interview the girls never knew .

meg received his humble apology , and was much comforted by the assurance that brooke knew nothing of the joke .

" is mr laurence in ? " asked jo , of a housemaid , who was coming downstairs .

" yes , miss , but i don't believe he 's seeable just yet . "

" why not ?

is he ill ? "

" where is laurie ? "

" shut up in his room , and he won't answer , though i 've been a-tapping .

i don't know what 's to become of the dinner , for it 's ready , and there 's no one to eat it . "

" i 'll go and see what the matter is .

i 'm not afraid of either of them . "

up went jo , and knocked smartly on the door of laurie 's little study .

" stop that , or i 'll open the door and make you ! " called out the young gentleman in a threatening tone .

jo immediately knocked again .

the door flew open , and in she bounced before laurie could recover from his surprise .

i came to make it up , and can't go away till i have . "

" it 's all right .

get up , and don't be a goose , jo , " was the cavalier reply to her petition .

" thank you , i will .

could i ask what 's the matter ?

you don't look exactly easy in your mind . "

" i 've been shaken , and i won't bear it ! " growled laurie indignantly .

" who did it ? " demanded jo .

" grandfather .

if it had been anyone else i 'd have ....y "

and the injured youth finished his sentence by an energetic gesture of the right arm .

" that 's nothing .

i often shake you , and you don't mind , " said jo soothingly .

" pooh !

you 're a girl , and it 's fun , but i 'll allow no man to shake me ! "

" i don't think anyone would care to try it , if you looked as much like a thundercloud as you do now .

why were you treated so ? "

" just because i wouldn't say what your mother wanted me for .

i 'd promised not to tell , and of course i wasn't going to break my word . "

" couldn't you satisfy your grandpa in any other way ? "

" no , he would have the truth , the whole truth , and nothing but the truth .

i 'd have told my part of the scrape , if i could without bringing meg in .

as i couldn't , i held my tongue , and bore the scolding till the old gentleman collared me .

then i bolted , for fear i should forget myself . "

" it wasn't nice , but he 's sorry , i know , so go down and make up .

i 'll help you . "

" hanged if i do !

i 'm not going to be lectured and pummelled by everyone , just for a bit of a frolic .

" he didn't know that . "

" he ought to trust me , and not act as if i was a baby .

" what pepper pots you are ! " sighed jo .

" how do you mean to settle this affair ? "

" well , he ought to beg pardon , and believe me when i say i can't tell him what the fuss 's about . "

" bless you !

he won't do that . "

" i won't go down till he does . "

" now , teddy , be sensible .

let it pass , and i 'll explain what i can .

you can't stay here , so what 's the use of being melodramatic ? "

" i don't intend to stay here long , anyway .

i 'll slip off and take a journey somewhere , and when grandpa misses me he 'll come round fast enough . "

" i dare say , but you ought not to go and worry him . "

" don't preach .

i 'll go to washington and see brooke .

it 's gay there , and i 'll enjoy myself after the troubles . "

" what fun you 'd have !

" come on , then !

why not ?

you go and surprise your father , and i 'll stir up old brooke .

it would be a glorious joke .

let's do it , jo .

we 'll leave a letter saying we are all right , and trot off at once .

i 've got money enough .

it will do you good , and no harm , as you go to your father . "

for a moment jo looked as if she would agree , for wild as the plan was , it just suited her .

don't tempt me , teddy , it 's a crazy plan . "

" hold your tongue ! " cried jo , covering her ears .

" ' prunes and prisms ' are my doom , and i may as well make up my mind to it .

i came here to moralize , not to hear things that make me skip to think of . "

" i know meg would wet-blanket such a proposal , but i thought you had more spirit , " began laurie insinuatingly .

" bad boy , be quiet !

sit down and think of your own sins , don't go making me add to mine .

if i get your grandpa to apologize for the shaking , will you give up running away ? " asked jo seriously .

" come in ! " and mr laurence 's gruff voice sounded gruffer than ever , as jo tapped at his door .

" it 's only me , sir , come to return a book , " she said blandly , as she entered .

" want any more ? " asked the old gentleman , looking grim and vexed , but trying not to show it .

" yes , please .

the shaggy eyebrows unbent a little as he rolled the steps toward the shelf where the johnsonian literature was placed .

" what has that boy been about ?

don't try to shield him .

i know he has been in mischief by the way he acted when he came home .

" he did wrong , but we forgave him , and all promised not to say a word to anyone , " began jo reluctantly .

" that won't do .

he shall not shelter himself behind a promise from you softhearted girls .

if he 's done anything amiss , he shall confess , beg pardon , and be punished .

out with it , jo .

i won't be kept in the dark . "

" indeed , sir , i cannot tell .

mother forbade it .

laurie has confessed , asked pardon , and been punished quite enough .

we don't keep silence to shield him , but someone else , and it will make more trouble if you interfere .

please don't .

it was partly my fault , but it 's all right now .

so let's forget it , and talk about the rambler or something pleasant . "

" hang the rambler ! come down and give me your word that this harum-scarum boy of mine hasn't done anything ungrateful or impertinent .

if he has , after all your kindness to him , i 'll thrash him with my own hands . "

she obediently descended , and made as light of the prank as she could without betraying meg or forgetting the truth .

" hum ....y ha ... well , if the boy held his tongue because he promised , and not from obstinacy , i 'll forgive him .

" you think i 'm not kind to him , hey ? " was the sharp answer .

" oh , dear no , sir .

you are rather too kind sometimes , and then just a trifle hasty when he tries your patience .

don't you think you are ? "

jo was determined to have it out now , and tried to look quite placid , though she quaked a little after her bold speech .

" i 'll tell you , he 'll run away . "

jo was sorry for that speech the minute it was made .

she meant to warn him that laurie would not bear much restraint , and hoped he would be more forebearing with the lad .

it was laurie 's father , who had run away in his youth , and married against the imperious old man 's will .

jo fancied he remembered and regretted the past , and she wished she had held her tongue .

" he won't do it unless he is very much worried , and only threatens it sometimes , when he gets tired of studying .

she laughed as she spoke , and mr laurence looked relieved , evidently taking the whole as a joke .

" you hussy , how dare you talk in that way ?

where 's your respect for me , and your proper bringing up ?

bless the boys and girls !

what torments they are , yet we can't do without them , " he said , pinching her cheeks good-humoredly .

i won't bear it . "

" he won't come , sir .

he feels badly because you didn't believe him when he said he couldn't tell .

i think the shaking hurt his feelings very much . "

jo tried to look pathetic but must have failed , for mr laurence began to laugh , and she knew the day was won .

" i 'm sorry for that , and ought to thank him for not shaking me , i suppose .

what the dickens does the fellow expect ? " and the old gentleman looked a trifle ashamed of his own testiness .

" if i were you , i 'd write him an apology , sir .

he says he won't come down till he has one , and talks about washington , and goes on in an absurd way .

a formal apology will make him see how foolish he is , and bring him down quite amiable .

try it .

he likes fun , and this way is better than talking .

i 'll carry it up , and teach him his duty . "

here , give me a bit of paper , and let us have done with this nonsense . "

the note was written in the terms which one gentleman would use to another after offering some deep insult .

did you get blown up ? " he added , laughing .

" no , he was pretty mild , on the whole . "

" ah !

i got it all round .

even you cast me off over there , and i felt just ready to go to the deuce , " he began apologetically .

" don't talk that way , turn over a new leaf and begin again , teddy , my son . "

" go and eat your dinner , you 'll feel better after it .

men always croak when they are hungry , " and jo whisked out at the front door after that .

chapter twenty-two

pleasant meadows

like sunshine after a storm were the peaceful weeks which followed .

the invalids improved rapidly , and mr. march began to talk of returning early in the new year .

her once active limbs were so stiff and feeble that jo took her for a daily airing about the house in her strong arms .

laurie was equally impracticable , and would have had bonfires , skyrockets , and triumphal arches , if he had had his own way .

several days of unusually mild weather fitly ushered in a splendid christmas day .

the jungfrau to beth

god bless you , dear queen bess !

may nothing you dismay , but health and peace and happiness be yours , this christmas day .

here 's fruit to feed our busy bee , and flowers for her nose .

here 's music for her pianee , an afghan for her toes ,

a portrait of joanna , see , by raphael no . @number@ who laboured with great industry to make it fair and true .

their dearest love my makers laid within my breast of snow .

accept it , and the alpine maid , from laurie and from jo .

" so am i , " added jo , slapping the pocket wherein reposed the long-desired undine and sintram .

now and then , in this workaday world , things do happen in the delightful storybook fashion , and what a comfort it is .

half an hour after everyone had said they were so happy they could only hold one drop more , the drop came .

laurie opened the parlor door and popped his head in very quietly .

mr. march became invisible in the embrace of four pairs of loving arms .

jo disgraced herself by nearly fainting away , and had to be doctored by laurie in the china closet .

mr brooke kissed meg entirely by mistake , as he somewhat incoherently explained .

mrs. march was the first to recover herself , and held up her hand with a warning , " hush !

remember beth . "

but it was too late .

then the two invalids were ordered to repose , which they did , by both sitting in one big chair and talking hard .

also why mrs . march gently nodded her head and asked , rather abruptly , if he wouldn't like to have something to eat .

there never was such a christmas dinner as they had that day .

the fat turkey was a sight to behold , when hannah sent him up , stuffed , browned , and decorated .

mr laurence and his grandson dined with them , also mr brooke , at whom jo glowered darkly , to laurie 's infinite amusement .

they drank healths , told stories , sang songs , ' reminisced ' , as the old folks say , and had a thoroughly good time .

" just a year ago we were groaning over the dismal christmas we expected to have .

do you remember ? " asked jo , breaking a short pause which had followed a long conversation about many things .

" i think it 's been a pretty hard one , " observed amy , watching the light shine on her ring with thoughtful eyes .

" i 'm glad it 's over , because we 've got you back , " whispered beth , who sat on her father 's knee .

" rather a rough road for you to travel , my little pilgrims , especially the latter part of it .

" how do you know ?

did mother tell you ? " asked jo .

" not much .

straws show which way the wind blows , and i 've made several discoveries today . "

" oh , tell us what they are ! " cried meg , who sat beside him .

" here is one . "

" i remember a time when this hand was white and smooth , and your first care was to keep it so .

it was very pretty then , but to me it is much prettier now , for in this seeming blemishes i read a little history .

meg , my dear , i value the womanly skill which keeps home happy more than white hands or fashionable accomplishments .

i 'm proud to shake this good , industrious little hand , and hope i shall not soon be asked to give it away . "

" what about jo ?

he laughed and looked across at the tall girl who sat opposite , with an unusually mild expression in her face .

she doesn't bounce , but moves quietly , and takes care of a certain little person in a motherly way which delights me .

" now , beth , " said amy , longing for her turn , but ready to wait .

" what are you thinking of , beth ? " asked jo , when amy had thanked her father and told about her ring .

i 'll try to sing the song of the shepherd boy which the pilgrims heard .

i made the music for father , because he likes the verses . "

he that is down need fear no fall , he that is low no pride .

he that is humble ever shall have god to be his guide .

i am content with what i have , little be it , or much .

and , lord !

contentment still i crave , because thou savest such .

fulness to them a burden is , that go on pilgrimage .

here little , and hereafter bliss , is best from age to age !

chapter twenty-three

aunt march settles the question

but something was needed , and the elder ones felt it , though none confessed the fact .

mr. and mrs. march looked at one another with an anxious expression , as their eyes followed meg .

meg was absent-minded , shy , and silent , started when the bell rang , and colored when john 's name was mentioned .

" what does the goose mean ? " said meg , laughing and trying to look unconscious .

" he 's showing you how your john will go on by-and-by .

touching , isn't it ? " answered jo scornfully .

" we can't , for something has been said , and laurie 's mischief has spoiled you for me .

i see it , and so does mother .

you are not like your old self a bit , and seem ever so far away from me .

i don't mean to plague you and will bear it like a man , but i do wish it was all settled .

" i 'm not so silly and weak as you think .

i know just what i should say , for i 've planned it all , so i needn't be taken unawares .

there 's no knowing what may happen , and i wished to be prepared . "

" would you mind telling me what you 'd say ? " asked jo more respectfully .

" not at all .

" don't mean to have any .

" i think not , if you liked anyone very much , and he liked you . "

meg spoke as if to herself , and glanced out at the lane where she had often seen lovers walking together in the summer twilight .

" i thought you were going to tell your speech to that man , " said jo , rudely shortening her sister 's little reverie .

" hum , that 's stiff and cool enough !

i don't believe you 'll ever say it , and i know he won't be satisfied if you do .

if he goes on like the rejected lovers in books , you 'll give in , rather than hurt his feelings . "

" no , i won't .

i shall tell him i 've made up my mind , and shall walk out of the room with dignity . "

" good afternoon .

" it 's very well , he 's in the rack .

i 'll get him , and tell it you are here . "

but the instant she vanished , meg began to sidle toward the door , murmuring ....y

" mother will like to see you .

pray sit down , i 'll call her . "

" don't go .

are you afraid of me , margaret ? " and mr brooke looked so hurt that meg thought she must have done something very rude .

anxious to appear friendly and at her ease , she put out her hand with a confiding gesture , and said gratefully ....y

" how can i be afraid when you have been so kind to father ?

i only wish i could thank you for it . "

" i won't trouble you .

i only want to know if you care for me a little , meg .

i love you so much , dear , " added mr brooke tenderly .

this was the moment for the calm , proper speech , but meg didn't make it .

" i 'm too young , " faltered meg , wondering why she was so fluttered , yet rather enjoying it .

" i 'll wait , and in the meantime , you could be learning to like me .

would it be a very hard lesson , dear ? "

" not if i chose to learn it , but . . . "

" please choose to learn , meg .

this nettled her .

please go away and let me be ! "

" do you really mean that ? " he asked anxiously , following her as she walked away .

" yes , i do .

i don't want to be worried about such things .

father says i needn't , it 's too soon and i'd rather not . "

" mayn't i hope you 'll change your mind by-and-by ?

i 'll wait and say nothing till you have had more time .

don't play with me , meg .

i didn't think that of you . "

" don't think of me at all .

i'd rather you wouldn't , " said meg , taking a naughty satisfaction in trying her lover 's patience and her own power .

he just stood looking at her so wistfully , so tenderly , that she found her heart relenting in spite of herself .

what would have happened next i cannot say , if aunt march had not come hobbling in at this interesting minute .

" it 's father 's friend .

i 'm so surprised to see you ! " stammered meg , feeling that she was in for a lecture now .

" that 's evident , " returned aunt march , sitting down .

" but what is father 's friend saying to make you look like a peony ?

there 's mischief going on , and i insist upon knowing what it is , " with another rap .

" we were only talking .

mr brooke came for his umbrella , " began meg , wishing that mr brooke and the umbrella were safely out of the house .

" brooke ?

that boy 's tutor ?

ah !

i understand now .

i know all about it .

jo blundered into a wrong message in one of your father 's letters , and i made her tell me .

you haven't gone and accepted him , child ? " cried aunt march , looking scandalized .

" hush !

he 'll hear .

shan't i call mother ? " said meg , much troubled .

" not yet .

i 've something to say to you , and i must free my mind at once .

tell me , do you mean to marry this cook ?

if you do , not one penny of my money ever goes to you .

remember that , and be a sensible girl , " said the old lady impressively .

now aunt march possessed in perfection the art of rousing the spirit of opposition in the gentlest people , and enjoyed doing it .

the best of us have a spice of perversity in us , especially when we are young and in love .

inclination as well as perversity made the decision easy , and being already much excited , meg opposed the old lady with unusual spirit .

" highty-tighty !

is that the way you take my advice , miss ?

you 'll be sorry for it by-and-by , when you 've tried love in a cottage and found it a failure . "

" it can't be a worse one than some people find in big houses , " retorted meg .

aunt march put on her glasses and took a look at the girl , for she did not know her in this new mood .

i mean it kindly , and don't want you to spoil your whole life by making a mistake at the beginning .

you ought to marry well and help your family .

it 's your duty to make a rich match and it ought to be impressed upon you . "

" father and mother don't think so .

they like john though he is poor . "

" your parents , my dear , have no more worldly wisdom than a pair of babies . "

" i 'm glad of it , " cried meg stoutly .

aunt march took no notice , but went on with her lecture .

" this rook is poor and hasn't got any rich relations , has he ? "

" no , but he has many warm friends . "

" you can't live on friends , try it and see how cool they 'll grow .

he hasn't any business , has he ? "

" not yet .

mr laurence is going to help him . "

" that won't last long .

james laurence is a crotchety old fellow and not to be depended on .

i thought you had more sense , meg . "

" i couldn't do better if i waited half my life !

" he knows you have got rich relations , child .

that 's the secret of his liking , i suspect . "

" aunt march , how dare you say such a thing ?

" my john wouldn't marry for money , any more than i would .

we are willing to work and we mean to wait .

" well , i wash my hands of the whole affair !

you are a willful child , and you 've lost more than you know by this piece of folly .

no , i won't stop .

i 'm disappointed in you , and haven't spirits to see your father now .

don't expect anything from me when you are married .

your mr brooke 's friends must take care of you .

i 'm done with you forever . "

and slamming the door in meg 's face , aunt march drove off in high dudgeon .

thank you for defending me , and aunt march for proving that you do care for me a little bit . "

" i didn't know how much till she abused you , " began meg .

" and i needn't go away , but may stay and be happy , may i , dear ? "

i 'll go and hear the fun , and have a good laugh over it . "

at the odd sound the lovers turned and saw her .

john brooke is acting dreadfully , and meg likes it ! "

" no , i 'm sure i can't .

how much has happened since i said that !

" the joys come close upon the sorrows this time , and i rather think the changes have begun , " said mrs . march .

" in most families there comes , now and then , a year full of events .

this has been such a one , but it ends well , after all . "

" i hope the third year from this will end better .

" doesn't it seem very long to wait ? " asked amy , who was in a hurry for the wedding .

now we shall have some sensible conversation . "

" much obliged for that recommendation .

" you can't know how hard it is for me to give up meg , " she continued with a little quiver in her voice .

" you don't give her up .

you only go halves , " said laurie consolingly .

" it can never be the same again .

i 've lost my dearest friend , " sighed jo .

" you 've got me , anyhow .

i 'm not good for much , i know , but i 'll stand by you , jo , all the days of my life .

upon my word i will ! " and laurie meant what he said .

" i know you will , and i 'm ever so much obliged .

you are always a great comfort to me , teddy , " returned jo , gratefully shaking hands .

" well , now , don't be dismal , there 's a good fellow .

it 's all right you see .

wouldn't that console you ? "

" i rather think it would , but there 's no knowing what may happen in three years , " said jo thoughtfully .

" that 's true .

don't you wish you could take a look forward and see where we shall all be then ?

i do , " returned laurie .

and jo 's eyes went slowly round the room , brightening as they looked , for the prospect was a pleasant one .

father and mother sat together , quietly reliving the first chapter of the romance which for them began some twenty years ago .

so the curtain falls upon meg , jo , beth , and amy .

whether it ever rises again , depends upon the reception given the first act of the domestic drama called little women .

little women part @number@

in order that we may start afresh and go to meg 's wedding ....v

chapter twenty-four

gossip

the three years that have passed have brought but few changes to the quiet family .

sinners told their sins to the pure-hearted old man and were both rebuked and saved .

gifted men found a companion in him .

john brooke did his duty manfully for a year , got wounded , was sent home , and not allowed to return .

perfectly resigned to his discharge , he devoted himself to getting well , preparing for business , and earning a home for meg .

she had her girlish ambitions and hopes , and felt some disappointment at the humble way in which the new life must begin .

so she gave her mornings to duty , her afternoons to pleasure , and prospered finely .

jo meantime devoted herself to literature and beth , who remained delicate long after the fever was a thing of the past .

laurie , having dutifully gone to college to please his grandfather , was now getting through it in the easiest possible manner to please himself .

and speaking of sentiment brings us very naturally to the ' dovecote ' .

that was the name of the little brown house mr brooke had prepared for meg 's first home .

it was a tiny house , with a little garden behind and a lawn about as big as a pocket handkerchief in the front .

but inside , it was altogether charming , and the happy bride saw no fault from garret to cellar .

brooke came home ' .

in his love of jokes , this young gentleman , though nearly through college , was a much of a boy as ever .

his last whim had been to bring with him on his weekly visits some new , useful , and ingenious article for the young housekeeper .

in vain meg begged him to stop .

john laughed at him , and jo called him ' mr toodles ' .

he was possessed with a mania for patronizing yankee ingenuity , and seeing his friends fitly furnished forth .

so each week beheld some fresh absurdity .

" are you satisfied ?

" mother and i have talked that over , and i have made up my mind to try her way first .

" sallie moffat has four , " began amy .

" sallie isn't a poor man 's wife , and many maids are in keeping with her fine establishment .

it 's a great mistake for young girls like meg to leave themselves nothing to do but dress , give orders , and gossip .

beth was there , laying the snowy piles smoothly on the shelves and exulting over the goodly array .

all three laughed as meg spoke , for that linen closet was a joke .

" that 's a housewifely taste which i am glad to see .

" i haven't a single finger bowl , but this is a setout that will last me all my days , hannah says . "

and meg looked quite contented , as well she might .

" here i am , mother !

yes , it 's all right . "

" for mrs john brooke , with the maker 's congratulations and compliments .

bless you , beth !

what a refreshing spectacle you are , jo .

amy , you are getting altogether too handsome for a single lady . "

" where is john ? " asked meg anxiously .

" stopped to get the license for tomorrow , ma'am . "

" ours , of course .

wish you 'd been there to see . "

" how is the lovely miss randal ? " asked amy with a significant smile .

" more cruel than ever .

don't you see how i 'm pining away ? " and laurie gave his broad chest a sounding slap and heaved a melodramatic sigh .

" what 's the last joke ?

undo the bundle and see , meg , " said beth , eying the knobby parcel with curiosity .

nice thing , isn't it ? " and laurie gave them a sample of its powers that made them cover up their ears .

" there 's gratitude for you !

and speaking of gratitude reminds me to mention that you may thank hannah for saving your wedding cake from destruction .

" i wonder if you will ever grow up , laurie , " said meg in a matronly tone .

" mother and i are going to wait for john .

there are some last things to settle , " said meg , bustling away .

" come , jo , don't desert a fellow .

i 'm in such a state of exhaustion i can't get home without help .

" now , teddy , i want to talk seriously to you about tomorrow , " began jo , as they strolled away together .

" you must promise to behave well , and not cut up any pranks , and spoil our plans . "

" not a prank . "

" and don't say funny things when we ought to be sober . "

" i never do .

you are the one for that . "

" and i implore you not to look at me during the ceremony .

i shall certainly laugh if you do . "

" you won't see me , you 'll be crying so hard that the thick fog round you will obscure the prospect . "

" i never cry unless for some great affliction . "

" such as fellows going to college , hey ? " cut in laurie , with suggestive laugh .

" don't be a peacock .

i only moaned a trifle to keep the girls company . "

" exactly .

i say , jo , how is grandpa this week ?

pretty amiable ? "

" very .

why , have you got into a scrape and want to know how he 'll take it ? " asked jo rather sharply .

" no , i don't . "

" then don't go and be suspicious .

i only want some money , " said laurie , walking on again , appeased by her hearty tone .

" you spend a great deal , teddy . "

" bless you , i don't spend it , it spends itself somehow , and is gone before i know it . "

" you are so generous and kind-hearted that you let people borrow , and can't say ' no ' to anyone .

we heard about henshaw and all you did for him .

if you always spent money in that way , no one would blame you , " said jo warmly .

" oh , he made a mountain out of a molehill .

i thought you 'd got over the dandy period , but every now and then it breaks out in a new spot .

" don't lecture any more , there 's a good soul !

i have enough all through the week , and like to enjoy myself when i come home .

i 'll get myself up regardless of expense tomorrow and be a satisfaction to my friends . "

" i 'll leave you in peace if you 'll only let your hair grow .

" by the way , jo , i think that little parker is really getting desperate about amy .

he talks of her constantly , writes poetry , and moons about in a most suspicious manner .

" of course he had .

we don't want any more marrying in this family for years to come .

" it 's a fast age , and i don't know what we are coming to , ma'am .

" don't be alarmed .

i 'm not one of the agreeable sort .

nobody will want me , and it 's a mercy , for there should always be one old maid in a family . "

" i don't like that sort of thing .

i 'm too busy to be worried with nonsense , and i think it 's dreadful to break up families so .

now don't say any more about it .

meg 's wedding has turned all our heads , and we talk of nothing but lovers and such absurdities .

chapter twenty-five

the first wedding

neither silk , lace , nor orange flowers would she have .

so she made her wedding gown herself , sewing into it the tender hopes and innocent romances of a girlish heart .

" then i am satisfied .

but please hug and kiss me , everyone , and don't mind my dress .

jo 's angles are much softened , she has learned to carry herself with ease , if not grace .

the curly crop has lengthened into a thick coil , more becoming to the small head atop of the tall figure .

beth has grown slender , pale , and more quiet than ever .

the beautiful , kind eyes are larger , and in them lies an expression that saddens one , although it is not sad itself .

" you oughtn't to be seen till the last minute , child . "

i 'm too happy to care what anyone says or thinks , and i 'm going to have my little wedding just as i like it .

john , dear , here 's your hammer . "

and away went meg to help ' that man ' in his highly improper employment .

a crash , a cry , and a laugh from laurie , accompanied by the indecorous exclamation , " jupiter ammon !

mother and sisters gathered close , as if loath to give meg up .

the fatherly voice broke more than once , which only seemed to make the service more beautiful and solemn .

the bridegroom 's hand trembled visibly , and no one heard his replies .

the cake ain't hurt a mite , and everything looks lovely . "

for i 've seen enough harm done to wish other women would think as you do . "

" you are not made wise by experience , i hope ? " and there was an anxious accent in meg 's voice .

" no .

i give you my word for it .

don't think too well of me , either , this is not one of my temptations .

" but you will , for the sake of others , if not for your own .

come , laurie , promise , and give me one more reason to call this the happiest day of my life . "

a demand so sudden and so serious made the young man hesitate a moment , for ridicule is often harder to bear than self-denial .

" i thank you , very , very much . "

after lunch , people strolled about , by twos and threes , through the house and garden , enjoying the sunshine without and within .

want of breath brought the impromptu ball to a close , and then people began to go .

" i shall come every day , father , and expect to keep my old place in all your hearts , though i am married .

thank you all for my happy wedding day .

good-by , good-by ! "

chapter twenty-six

artistic attempts

it takes people a long time to learn the difference between talent and genius , especially ambitious young men and women .

amy was learning this distinction through much tribulation , for mistaking enthusiasm for inspiration , she attempted every branch of art with youthful audacity .

but over-strained eyes caused pen and ink to be laid aside for a bold attempt at poker-sketching .

raphael 's face was found boldly executed on the underside of the moulding board , and bacchus on the head of a beer barrel .

a chanting cherub adorned the cover of the sugar bucket , and attempts to portray romeo and juliet supplied kindling for some time .

from fire to oil was a natural transition for burned fingers , and amy fell to painting with undiminished ardor .

her efforts in this line , however , were brought to an abrupt close by an untoward accident , which quenched her ardor .

everybody liked her , for among her good gifts was tact .

one of her weaknesses was a desire to move in ' our best society ' , without being quite sure what the best really was .

" i want to ask a favor of you , mamma , " amy said , coming in with an important air one day .

they are wild to see the river , sketch the broken bridge , and copy some of the things they admire in my book .

" why should they ? " and mrs. march put the question with what the girls called her ' maria theresa air ' .

" that looks feasible .

what do you want for lunch ?

cake , sandwiches , fruit , and coffee will be all that is necessary , i suppose ? "

" oh , dear , no !

we must have cold tongue and chicken , french chocolate and ice cream , besides .

" how many young ladies are there ? " asked her mother , beginning to look sober .

" twelve or fourteen in the class , but i dare say they won't all come . "

" bless me , child , you will have to charter an omnibus to carry them about . "

" why , mother , how can you think of such a thing ?

not more than six or eight will probably come , so i shall hire a beach wagon and borrow mr laurence 's cherry-bounce . "

( hannah 's pronunciation of char-a-banc . )

" all of this will be expensive , amy . "

" not very .

i 've calculated the cost , and i 'll pay for it myself . "

" if i can't have it as i like , i don't care to have it at all .

talk it over with the girls , and whichever way you decide , i 'll do my best to help you . "

" thanks , mother , you are always so kind . " and away went amy to lay her plan before her sisters .

but jo frowned upon the whole project and would have nothing to do with it at first .

you don't care to make people like you , to go into good society , and cultivate your manners and tastes .

i do , and i mean to make the most of every chance that comes .

you can go through the world with your elbows out and your nose in the air , and call it independence , if you like .

that 's not my way . "

the invitations were sent , nearly all accepted , and the following monday was set apart for the grand event .

to begin with , hannah 's cooking didn't turn out well .

the chicken was tough , the tongue too salty , and the chocolate wouldn't froth properly .

beth got a cold and took to her bed .

on monday morning the weather was in that undecided state which is more exasperating than a steady pour .

amy was up at dawn , hustling people out of their beds and through their breakfasts , that the house might be got in order .

then came the hours of suspense , during which she vibrated from parlor to porch , while public opinion varied like the weathercock .

" use the chicken then , the toughness won't matter in a salad , " advised his wife .

" hannah left it on the kitchen table a minute , and the kittens got at it .

i 'm very sorry , amy , " added beth , who was still a patroness of cats .

" then i must have a lobster , for tongue alone won't do , " said amy decidedly .

" shall i rush into town and demand one ? " asked jo , with the magnanimity of a martyr .

" you 'd come bringing it home under your arm without any paper , just to try me .

i 'll go myself , " answered amy , whose temper was beginning to fail .

" please don't it 's it 's mine , " murmured amy , with a face nearly as red as her fish .

" oh , really , i beg pardon .

now that was tact , for two of the ruling foibles of the masculine mind were touched .

" there 's the rumble , they 're coming !

i 'll go onto the porch and meet them .

" run , beth , and help hannah clear half the things off the table .

in came amy , quite calm and delightfully cordial to the one guest who had kept her promise .

" miss eliott is a very sweet girl , and seemed to enjoy herself , i thought , " observed beth , with unusual warmth .

" could you spare me some of your cake ?

i really need some , i have so much company , and i can't make such delicious stuff as yours , " asked meg soberly .

" take it all .

here a general explosion of laughter cut short the ' history of salads ' , to the great surprise of the learned gentleman .

" bundle everything into a basket and send it to the hummels .

germans like messes .

" i am satisfied .

i 've done what i undertook , and it 's not my fault that it failed .

i comfort myself with that , " said amy with a little quiver in her voice .

chapter twenty-seven

literary lessons

fortune suddenly smiled upon jo , and dropped a good luck penny in her path .

they did not always venture even to ask this question , but took an observation of the cap , and judged accordingly .

on her left were two matrons , with massive foreheads and bonnets to match , discussing women 's rights and making tatting .

on her right , her only neighbor was a studious looking lad absorbed in a newspaper .

that 's a first-rate story . "

" prime , isn't it ? " asked the boy , as her eye went down the last paragraph of her portion .

" i should think i was a pretty lucky chap if i could .

" do you know her ? " asked jo , with sudden interest .

" guess she does !

she knows just what folks like , and gets paid well for writing it . "

jo had never tried this style before , contenting herself with very mild romances for the spread eagle .

for a minute she stared at it as if it had been a snake , then she read her letter and began to cry .

" you can do better than this , jo .

aim at the highest , and never mind the money . "

" i think the money is the best part of it .

what will you do with such a fortune ? " asked amy , regarding the magic slip of paper with a reverential eye .

" send beth and mother to the seaside for a month or two , " answered jo promptly .

" it seems to me that jo will profit more by taking the trial than by waiting , " said mrs . march .

we are too partial , but the praise and blame of outsiders will prove useful , even if she gets but little money . "

" yes , " said jo , knitting her brows , " that 's just it .

i 've been fussing over the thing so long , i really don't know whether it 's good , bad , or indifferent .

" i wouldn't leave a word out of it .

" do as he tells you .

he knows what will sell , and we don't .

make a good , popular book , and get as much money as you can .

if i 've got some of his wise ideas jumbled up with my romance , so much the better for me .

now , beth , what do you say ? "

" i should so like to see it printed soon , " was all beth said , and smiled in saying it .

so , with spartan firmness , the young authoress laid her first-born on her table , and chopped it up as ruthlessly as any ogre .

in the hope of pleasing everyone , she took everyone 's advice , and like the old man and his donkey in the fable suited nobody .

her mother thought that there was a trifle too much description .

out , therefore it came , and with it many necessary links in the story .

" you said , mother , that criticism would help me .

" this man says , ' an exquisite book , full of truth , beauty , and earnestness . '

' all is sweet , pure , and healthy . ' " continued the perplexed authoress .

" the next , ' the theory of the book is bad , full of morbid fancies , spiritualistic ideas , and unnatural characters . '

another says , ' it 's one of the best american novels which has appeared for years . '

' tisn't !

i wish i 'd printed the whole or not at all , for i do hate to be so misjudged . "

her family and friends administered comfort and commendation liberally .

yet it was a hard time for sensitive , high-spirited jo , who meant so well and had apparently done so ill .

so i 'll comfort myself with that , and when i 'm ready , i 'll up again and take another . "

chapter twenty-eight

domestic experiences

like most other young matrons , meg began her married life with the determination to be a model housekeeper .

she brought so much love , energy , and cheerfulness to the work that she could not but succeed , in spite of some obstacles .

she was too tired , sometimes , even to smile , john grew dyspeptic after a course of dainty dishes and ungratefully demanded plain fare .

they were very happy , even after they discovered that they couldn't live on love alone .

john did not find meg 's beauty diminished , though she beamed at him from behind the familiar coffee pot .

at first they played keep-house , and frolicked over it like children .

fired with a housewifely wish to see her storeroom stocked with homemade preserves , she undertook to put up her own currant jelly .

home came four dozen delightful little pots , half a barrel of sugar , and a small boy to pick the currants for her .

i shall always be prepared .

there shall be no flurry , no scolding , no discomfort , but a neat house , a cheerful wife , and a good dinner .

john , dear , never stop to ask my leave , invite whom you please , and be sure of a welcome from me . "

how charming that was , to be sure !

john quite glowed with pride to hear her say it , and felt what a blessed thing it was to have a superior wife .

it is a world of disappointments , as john discovered when he reached the dovecote .

the front door usually stood hospitably open .

now it was not only shut , but locked , and yesterday 's mud still adorned the steps .

nothing of the sort , for not a soul appeared but a sanginary-looking boy asleep under the current bushes .

" i 'm afraid something has happened .

step into the garden , scott , while i look up mrs brooke , " said john , alarmed at the silence and solitude .

in the kitchen reigned confusion and despair .

" oh , john , i am so tired and hot and cross and worried !

i 've been at it till i 'm all worn out .

" what worries you dear ?

has anything dreadful happened ? " asked the anxious john , tenderly kissing the crown of the little cap , which was all askew .

" yes , " sobbed meg despairingly .

" tell me quick , then .

don't cry .

i can bear anything better than that .

out with it , love . "

" the ...

the jelly won't jell and i don't know what to do ! "

" is that all ?

fling it out of the window , and don't bother any more about it .

" a man to dinner , and everything in a mess !

john brooke , how could you do such a thing ? "

" hush , he 's in the garden !

i forgot the confounded jelly , but it can't be helped now , " said john , surveying the prospect with an anxious eye .

" i didn't know it this morning , and there was no time to send word , for i met him on the way out .

i never thought of asking leave , when you have always told me to do as i liked .

i never tried it before , and hang me if i ever do again ! " added john , with an aggrieved air .

" i should hope not !

take him away at once .

i can't see him , and there isn't any dinner . "

" well , i like that !

where 's the beef and vegetables i sent home , and the pudding you promised ? " cried john , rushing to the larder .

" i hadn't time to cook anything .

i meant to dine at mother 's .

i 'm sorry , but i was so busy , " and meg 's tears began again .

he restrained himself however , and the little squall would have blown over , but for one unlucky word .

" it 's a scrape , i acknowledge , but if you will lend a hand , we 'll pull through and have a good time yet .

don't cry , dear , but just exert yourself a bit , and fix us up something to eat .

we 're both as hungry as hunters , so we shan't mind what it is .

give us the cold meat , and bread and cheese .

we won't ask for jelly . "

he meant it to be a good-natured joke , but that one word sealed his fate .

meg thought it was too cruel to hint about her sad failure , and the last atom of patience vanished as he spoke .

" you must get yourself out of the scrape as you can .

i 'm too used up to ' exert ' myself for anyone .

it 's like a man to propose a bone and vulgar bread and cheese for company .

i won't have anything of the sort in my house .

take that scott up to mother 's , and tell him i 'm away , sick , dead , anything .

i won't see him , and you two can laugh at me and my jelly as much as you like .

unfortunately , john didn't come , not seeing the matter in that light .

no , by george , it wasn't !

and meg must know it . "

" poor little thing !

it was hard upon her when she tried so heartily to please me .

she was wrong , of course , but then she was young .

i must be patient and teach her . "

he hoped she had not gone home he hated gossip and interference .

meg likewise resolved to be ' calm and kind , but firm ' , and show him his duty .

" i 've no objection , " was meg 's equally soothing remark .

a few other topics of general interest were introduced by mr brooke and wet-blanketed by mrs brooke , and conversation languished .

john went to one window , unfolded his paper , and wrapped himself in it , figuratively speaking .

meg went to the other window , and sewed as if new rosettes for slippers were among the necessaries of life .

neither spoke .

both looked quite ' calm and firm ' , and both felt desperately uncomfortable .

the word ' mother ' suggested other maternal counsels given long ago , and received with unbelieving protests .

he is very decided , but never will be obstinate , if you reason kindly , not oppose impatiently .

he is very accurate , and particular about the truth a good trait , though you call him ' fussy ' .

never deceive him by look or word , meg , and he will give you the confidence you deserve , the support you need .

be careful , be very careful , not to wake his anger against yourself , for peace and happiness depend on keeping his respect .

these words came back to meg , as she sat sewing in the sunset , especially the last .

she glanced at him with tears in her eyes , but he did not see them .

for a minute she felt as if she really couldn't do it , then came the thought , " this is the beginning .

of course that settled it .

the penitent kiss was better than a world of words , and john had her on his knee in a minute , saying tenderly ....y

" it was too bad to laugh at the poor little jelly pots .

forgive me , dear .

i never will again ! "

in the autumn , new trials and experiences came to meg .

it was pleasant , for in dull weather meg often felt lonely .

all were busy at home , john absent till night , and nothing to do but sew , or read , or potter about .

so it naturally fell out that meg got into the way of gadding and gossiping with her friend .

seeing sallie 's pretty things made her long for such , and pity herself because she had not got them .

meg didn't like to be pitied and made to feel poor .

a few days before she had done a dreadful thing , and it weighed upon her conscience .

aunt march usually gave the sisters a present of twenty-five dollars apiece at new year 's .

that was the question .

the house bills were all paid , the books all in order .

" you haven't seen my private expense book yet . "

the little book was brought slowly out and laid down before him .

" john , dear , i 'm ashamed to show you my book , for i 've really been dreadfully extravagant lately .

john laughed , and drew her round beside him , saying goodhumoredly , " don't go and hide .

i won't beat you if you have got a pair of killing boots .

that had been one of her last ' trifles ' , and john 's eye had fallen on it as he spoke .

" oh , what will he say when he comes to that awful fifty dollars ! " thought meg , with a shiver .

" well , dear , what is the ' dem'd total ' , as mr mantalini says ? "

" i know you are angry , john , but i can't help it .

i don't mean to waste your money , and i didn't think those little things would count up so .

i can't resist them when i see sallie buying all she wants , and pitying me because i don't .

i try to be contented , but it is hard , and i 'm tired of being poor . "

i do my best , meg . "

if he had scolded her , or even shaken her , it would not have broken her heart like those few words .

i didn't mean it !

it was so wicked , so untrue and ungrateful , how could i say it !

oh , how could i say it ! "

he had simply said , in answer to her surprised inquiries as to the change , " i can't afford it , my dear . "

the good-natured mrs moffat willingly did so , and had the delicacy not to make her a present of it immediately afterward .

one can imagine what answer he made , how he received his present , and what a blissful state of things ensued .

so the year rolled round , and at midsummer there came to meg a new experience , the deepest and tenderest of a woman 's life .

" how 's the little mamma ?

where is everybody ?

why didn't you tell me before i came home ? " began laurie in a loud whisper .

" happy as a queen , the dear !

every soul of ' em is upstairs a worshipin ' .

we didn't want no hurrycanes round .

presently jo appeared , proudly bearing a flannel bundle laid forth upon a large pillow .

" shut your eyes and hold out your arms , " she said invitingly .

laurie backed precipitately into a corner , and put his hands behind him with an imploring gesture .

" no , thank you .

i'd rather not .

i shall drop it or smash it , as sure as fate . "

" then you shan't see your nevvy , " said jo decidedly , turning as if to go .

" i will , i will !

only you must be responsible for damages . " and obeying orders , laurie heroically shut his eyes while something was put into his arms .

i 'm going to laugh , and i shall drop ' em . "

" it 's the best joke of the season , isn't it ?

" i never was more staggered in my life .

isn't it fun ?

are they boys ?

what are you going to name them ?

let's have another look .

" boy and girl .

aren't they beauties ? " said the proud papa , beaming upon the little red squirmers as if they were unfledged angels .

" most remarkable children i ever saw .

which is which ? " and laurie bent like a well-sweep to examine the prodigies .

" amy put a blue ribbon on the boy and a pink on the girl , french fashion , so you can always tell .

besides , one has blue eyes and one brown .

kiss them , uncle teddy , " said wicked jo .

" i 'm afraid they mightn't like it , " began laurie , with unusual timidity in such matters .

" of course they will , they are used to it now .

do it this minute , sir ! " commanded jo , fearing he might propose a proxy .

laurie screwed up his face and obeyed with a gingerly peck at each little cheek that produced another laugh , and made the babies squeal .

" there , i knew they didn't like it !

that 's the boy , see him kick , he hits out with his fists like a good one .

" he 's to be named john laurence , and the girl margaret , after mother and grandmother .

" name him demijohn , and call him demi for short , " said laurie .

" daisy and demi , just the thing !

i knew teddy would do it , " cried jo clapping her hands .

teddy certainly had done it that time , for the babies were ' daisy ' and ' demi ' to the end of the chapter .

chapter twenty-nine

calls

" come , jo , it 's time . "

" for what ? "

" you don't mean to say you have forgotten that you promised to make half a dozen calls with me today ? "

" yes , you did , it was a bargain between us .

" if it was fair , that was in the bond , and i stand to the letter of my bond , shylock .

there is a pile of clouds in the east , it 's not fair , and i don't go . "

" now , that 's shirking .

she hated calls of the formal sort , and never made any till amy compelled her with a bargain , bribe , or promise .

" jo march , you are perverse enough to provoke a saint !

you don't intend to make calls in that state , i hope , " cried amy , surveying her with amazement .

" why not ?

i 'm neat and cool and comfortable , quite proper for a dusty walk on a warm day .

if people care more for my clothes than they do for me , i don't wish to see them .

you can dress for both , and be as elegant as you please .

it pays for you to be fine .

it doesn't for me , and furbelows only worry me . "

i 'll do anything for you , jo , if you 'll only dress yourself nicely , and come and help me do the civil .

i 'm afraid to go alone , do come and take care of me . "

" you 're an artful little puss to flatter and wheedle your cross old sister in that way .

the idea of my being aristocratic and well-bred , and your being afraid to go anywhere alone !

i don't know which is the most absurd .

well , i 'll go if i must , and do my best .

" you 're a perfect cherub !

i want people to like you , and they would if you 'd only try to be a little more agreeable .

do your hair the pretty way , and put the pink rose in your bonnet .

it 's becoming , and you look too sober in your plain suit .

take your light gloves and the embroidered handkerchief .

we 'll stop at meg 's , and borrow her white sunshade , and then you can have my dove-colored one . "

" i 'm perfectly miserable , but if you consider me presentable , i die happy . "

" you 're highly satisfactory .

turn slowly round , and let me get a careful view . "

your head is all i could ask , for that white bonnet with the rose is quite ravishing .

hold back your shoulders , and carry your hands easily , no matter if your gloves do pinch .

there 's one thing you can do well , jo , that is , wear a shawl .

i can't , but it 's very nice to see you , and i 'm so glad aunt march gave you that lovely one .

it 's simple , but handsome , and those folds over the arm are really artistic .

is the point of my mantle in the middle , and have i looped my dress evenly ?

i like to show my boots , for my feet are pretty , though my nose isn't . "

" am i to drag my best dress through the dust , or loop it up , please , ma'am ? "

" hold it up when you walk , but drop it in the house .

the sweeping style suits you best , and you must learn to trail your skirts gracefully .

you haven't half buttoned one cuff , do it at once .

you 'll never look finished if you are not careful about the little details , for they make up the pleasing whole . "

" now , jo dear , the chesters consider themselves very elegant people , so i want you to put on your best deportment .

don't make any of your abrupt remarks , or do anything odd , will you ?

" let me see .

' calm , cool , and quiet ' , yes , i think i can promise that .

i 've played the part of a prim young lady on the stage , and i 'll try it off .

my powers are great , as you shall see , so be easy in your mind , my child . "

in vain amy telegraphed the word ' talk ' , tried to draw her out , and administered covert pokes with her foot .

jo sat as if blandly unconscious of it all , with deportment like maud 's face , ' icily regular , splendidly null ' .

" how could you mistake me so ?

i merely meant you to be properly dignified and composed , and you made yourself a perfect stock and stone .

try to be sociable at the lambs ' .

gossip as other girls do , and be interested in dress and flirtations and whatever nonsense comes up .

" i 'll be agreeable .

i 'll gossip and giggle , and have horrors and raptures over any trifle you like .

i rather enjoy this , and now i 'll imitate what is called ' a charming girl ' .

i can do it , for i have may chester as a model , and i 'll improve upon her .

see if the lambs don't say , ' what a lively , nice creature that jo march is ! "

amy felt anxious , as well she might , for when jo turned freakish there was no knowing where she would stop .

one may imagine her suffering on overhearing fragments of this sort of conversation .

" she rides splendidly .

who taught her ? "

" no one .

she used to practice mounting , holding the reins , and sitting straight on an old saddle in a tree .

but what could she do ?

nice animal for a pleasure party , wasn't it ? "

" which did she choose ? " asked one of the laughing gentlemen , who enjoyed the subject .

" none of them .

her struggles were really pathetic .

there was no one to bring the horse to the saddle , so she took the saddle to the horse .

" did she ride the horse ? "

" of course she did , and had a capital time .

i expected to see her brought home in fragments , but she managed him perfectly , and was the life of the party . "

she was still redder and more uncomfortable a moment after , when a sudden turn in the conversation introduced the subject of dress .

you can't buy those soft shades , so we paint ours any color we like .

it 's a great comfort to have an artistic sister . "

" isn't that an original idea ? " cried miss lamb , who found jo great fun .

" that 's nothing compared to some of her brilliant performances .

there 's nothing the child can't do .

" sorry you could find nothing better to read .

i write that rubbish because it sells , and ordinary people like it .

are you going to new york this winter ? "

as miss lamb had ' enjoyed ' the story , this speech was not exactly grateful or complimentary .

" amy , we must go .

good-by , dear , do come and see us .

we are pining for a visit .

" didn't i do well ? " asked jo , with a satisfied air as they walked away .

" nothing could have been worse , " was amy 's crushing reply .

" why , it 's funny , and amuses people .

" you needn't go and tell them all our little shifts , and expose our poverty in that perfectly unnecessary way .

" how shall i behave here ? " she asked , as they approached the third mansion .

" just as you please .

i wash my hands of you , " was amy 's short answer .

" then i 'll enjoy myself .

the boys are at home , and we 'll have a comfortable time .

leaving her sister to her own devices , amy proceeded to enjoy herself to her heart 's content .

it might have been worse , but amy considered it bad .

" capital boys , aren't they ?

" why do you always avoid mr tudor ? " asked amy , wisely refraining from any comment upon jo 's dilapidated appearance .

" don't like him , he puts on airs , snubs his sisters , worries his father , and doesn't speak respectfully of his mother .

laurie says he is fast , and i don't consider him a desirable acquaintance , so i let him alone . "

" you might treat him civilly , at least .

if you had just reversed the nod and the bow , it would have been right , " said amy reprovingly .

tommy is poor and bashful and good and very clever .

" it 's no use trying to argue with you , " began amy .

" now let us go home , and never mind aunt march today .

" speak for yourself , if you please .

aunt march likes to have us pay her the compliment of coming in style , and making a formal call .

stoop down , and let me take the crumbs off of your bonnet . "

" i wish it was as easy for me to do little things to please people as it is for you .

if you 'd remember that , and practice it , you 'd be better liked than i am , because there is more of you . "

it 's a great misfortune to have such strong likes and dislikes , isn't it ? "

" it 's a greater not to be able to hide them .

i don't mind saying that i don't approve of tudor any more than you do , but i 'm not called upon to tell him so .

neither are you , and there is no use in making yourself disagreeable because he is . "

preaching does not do any good , as i know to my sorrow , since i 've had teddie to manage .

" so we are to countenance things and people which we detest , merely because we are not belles and millionaires , are we ?

that 's a nice sort of morality . "

i don't like reformers , and i hope you never try to be one . "

we can't agree about that , for you belong to the old set , and i to the new .

you will get on the best , but i shall have the liveliest time of it .

i should rather enjoy the brickbats and hooting , i think . "

" well , compose yourself now , and don't worry aunt with your new ideas . "

" i 'll try not to , but i 'm always possessed to burst out with some particularly blunt speech or revolutionary sentiment before her .

it 's my doom , and i can't help it . "

" yes , aunt .

" i 'm not , " put in jo decidedly .

" i hate to be patronized , and the chesters think it 's a great favor to allow us to help with their highly connected fair .

i wonder you consented , amy , they only want you to work . "

" i am willing to work .

patronage does not trouble me when it is well meant . "

" quite right and proper .

i like your grateful spirit , my dear .

it 's a pleasure to help people who appreciate our efforts .

" i don't like favors , they oppress and make me feel like a slave .

i 'd rather do everything for myself , and be perfectly independent . "

" ahem ! " coughed aunt carrol softly , with a look at aunt march .

" i told you so , " said aunt march , with a decided nod to aunt carrol .

" do you speak french , dear ? " asked mrs carrol , laying a hand on amy 's .

" how are you about languages ? " asked mrs carrol of jo .

" don't know a word .

eyes don't trouble you any more , do they ? "

" not at all , thank you , ma'am .

" good girl !

crosspatch , draw the latch , sit by the fire and spin ,

" most observing bird , " said the old lady .

" thank you , i will .

" you 'd better do it , mary .

i 'll supply the money . " and aunt carrol to reply decidedly , " i certainly will , if her father and mother consent . "

chapter thirty

consequences

amy 's dainty pen-and-ink work entirely eclipsed may 's painted vases that was one thorn .

then the all conquering tudor had danced four times with amy at a late party and only once with may that was thorn number two .

" i find , dear , that there is some feeling among the young ladies about my giving this table to anyone but my girls .

" now , my dear , don't have any ill feeling , i beg .

wouldn't you like the flower table ?

the little girls undertook it , but they are discouraged .

you could make a charming thing of it , and the flower table is always attractive you know . "

" especially to gentlemen , " added may , with a look which enlightened amy as to one cause of her sudden fall from favor .

she colored angrily , but took no other notice of that girlish sarcasm , and answered with unexpected amiability ....y

" it shall be as you please , mrs chester .

i 'll give up my place here at once , and attend to the flowers , if you like . "

she meant it kindly , but amy mistook her meaning , and said quickly ....y

" now she 's mad .

but everything seemed against her .

it was late , and she was tired .

her best tile got a splash of water , which left a sepia tear on the cupid 's cheek .

she bruised her hands with hammering , and got cold working in a draft , which last affliction filled her with apprehensions for the morrow .

any girl reader who has suffered like afflictions will sympathize with poor amy and wish her well through her task .

there was great indignation at home when she told her story that evening .

her mother said it was a shame , but told her she had done right .

" because they are mean is no reason why i should be .

i hate such things , and though i think i 've a right to be hurt , i don't intend to show it .

they will feel that more than angry speeches or huffy actions , won't they , marmee ? "

" that 's the right spirit , my dear .

she began well , thanks to a silent reminder that came to her unexpectedly , but most opportunely .

amy stood a minute , turning the leaves in her hand , reading on each some sweet rebuke for all heartburnings and uncharitableness of spirit .

many wise and true sermons are preached us every day by unconscious ministers in street , school , office , or home .

even a fair table may become a pulpit , if it can offer the good and helpful words which are never out of season .

a group of girls were standing about may 's table , admiring the pretty things , and talking over the change of saleswomen .

they dropped their voices , but amy knew they were speaking of her , hearing one side of the story and judging accordingly .

it was not pleasant , but a better spirit had come over her , and presently a chance offered for proving it .

she heard may say sorrowfully ....y

the table was just complete then .

now it 's spoiled . "

" i dare say she 'd put them back if you asked her , " suggested someone .

" you may have them , and welcome , without asking , if you want them .

i was just thinking i 'd offer to put them back , for they belong to your table rather than mine .

here they are , please take them , and forgive me if i was hasty in carrying them away last night . "

" now , i call that lovely of her , don't you ? " cried one girl .

now , that was hard .

few cared to buy flowers in summer , and her bouquets began to droop long before night .

the art table was the most attractive in the room .

her mother gave her an extra cordial cup of tea .

presently the familiar tramp was heard in the dusk , and she ran out to meet him .

" is that my boy ? "

" oh , teddy , such doings ! " and jo told amy 's wrongs with sisterly zeal .

" the flowers are not at all nice , amy says , and the fresh ones may not arrive in time .

i don't wish to be unjust or suspicious , but i shouldn't wonder if they never came at all .

when people do one mean thing they are very likely to do another , " observed jo in a disgusted tone .

" didn't hayes give you the best out of our gardens ?

i told him to . "

" now , jo , how could you think there was any need of asking ?

they are just as much yours as mine .

don't we always go halves in everything ? " began laurie , in the tone that always made jo turn thorny .

" gracious , i hope not !

half of some of your things wouldn't suit me at all .

but we mustn't stand philandering here .

she reproached herself for her share of the ill feeling and resolved to exonerate amy as soon as possible .

she also discovered what amy had done about the things in the morning , and considered her a model of magnanimity .

as she passed the art table , she glanced over it for her sister 's things , but saw no sign of them .

" good evening , miss jo .

how does amy get on ? " asked may with a conciliatory air , for she wanted to show that she also could be generous .

" she has sold everything she had that was worth selling , and now she is enjoying herself .

the flower table is always attractive , you know , ' especially to gentlemen ' . "

" is amy 's illumination anywhere about ?

i took a fancy to buy that for father , " said jo , very anxious to learn the fate of her sister 's work .

" everything of amy 's sold long ago .

" very well , my son , for a small boy ! " and walked him off , with a paternal pat on the head .

" buy the vases , " whispered amy to laurie , as a final heaping of coals of fire on her enemy 's head .

to may 's great delight , mr laurence not only bought the vases , but pervaded the hall with one under each arm .

that satisfied amy , and when she got home she found the vases paraded on the parlor chimney piece with a great bouquet in each .

" the reward of merit for a magnanimous march , " as laurie announced with a flourish .

" you 've a deal more principle and generosity and nobleness of character than i ever gave you credit for , amy .

" yes , we all do , and love her for being so ready to forgive .

it must have been dreadfully hard , after working so long and setting your heart on selling your own pretty things .

i don't believe i could have done it as kindly as you did , " added beth from her pillow .

" why , girls , you needn't praise me so .

i only did as i 'd be done by .

i can't explain exactly , but i want to be above the little meannesses and follies and faults that spoil so many women .

i 'm far from it now , but i do my best , and hope in time to be what mother is . "

try away , deary , you 'll get your reward some day , and no one will be more delighted than i shall . "

a week later amy did get her reward , and poor jo found it hard to be delighted .

" aunt carrol is going abroad next month , and wants ....y "

" me to go with her ! " burst in jo , flying out of her chair in an uncontrollable rapture .

" no , dear , not you .

it 's amy . "

" oh , mother !

she 's too young , it 's my turn first .

i 've wanted it so long .

it would do me so much good , and be so altogether splendid .

i must go ! "

" i 'm afraid it 's impossible , jo .

aunt says amy , decidedly , and it is not for us to dictate when she offers such a favor . "

" it 's always so .

amy has all the fun and i have all the work .

it isn't fair , oh , it isn't fair ! " cried jo passionately .

" i 'm afraid it 's partly your own fault , dear .

amy is more docile , will make a good companion for flo , and receive gratefully any help the trip may give her . "

" oh , my tongue , my abominable tongue !

why can't i learn to keep it quiet ? " groaned jo , remembering words which had been her undoing .

when she had heard the explanation of the quoted phrases , mrs. march said sorrowfully ....y

" i 'll try , " said jo , winking hard as she knelt down to pick up the basket she had joyfully upset .

" it isn't a mere pleasure trip to me , girls , " she said impressively , as she scraped her best palette .

" then i shall come home and teach drawing for my living , " replied the aspirant for fame , with philosophic composure .

" no , you won't .

" your predictions sometimes come to pass , but i don't believe that one will .

" hum ! " said jo , with a sigh .

" if you wish it you 'll have it , for your wishes are always granted mine never . "

" would you like to go ? " asked amy , thoughtfully patting her nose with her knife .

" rather ! "

" thank you .

there was not much time for preparation , and the house was in a ferment till amy was off .

amy likewise bore up stoutly till the steamer sailed .

" oh , take care of them for me , and if anything should happen ....y "

chapter thirty-one

our foreign correspondent

london

dearest people , here i really sit at a front window of the bath hotel , piccadilly .

it 's not a fashionable place , but uncle stopped here years ago , and won't go anywhere else .

however , we don't mean to stay long , so it 's no great matter .

oh , i can't begin to tell you how i enjoy it all !

everyone was very kind to me , especially the officers .

such walks on deck , such sunsets , such splendid air and waves !

it was almost as exciting as riding a fast horse , when we went rushing on so grandly .

i wish beth could have come , it would have done her so much good .

i never shall forget it .

" oh , have you e'er heard of kate kearney ?

wasn't that nonsensical ?

we only stopped at liverpool a few hours .

it 's a dirty , noisy place , and i was glad to leave it .

i 've given ' em the latest yankee shine . "

it amused uncle immensely .

oh , i must tell you what that absurd lennox did !

wasn't that fun , girls ?

i like traveling .

i never shall get to london if i don't hurry .

the trip was like riding through a long picture gallery , full of lovely landscapes .

aunt was tired and went to sleep , but uncle read his guidebook , and wouldn't be astonished at anything .

this is the way we went on .

amy , flying up " oh , that must be kenilworth , that gray place among the trees ! "

flo , darting to my window " how sweet !

we must go there sometime , won't we papa ? "

uncle , calmly admiring his boots " no , my dear , not unless you want beer , that 's a brewery . "

a pause then flo cried out , " bless me , there 's a gallows and a man going up . "

" where , where ? " shrieks amy , staring out at two tall posts with a crossbeam and some dangling chains .

" a colliery , " remarks uncle , with a twinkle of the eye .

" here 's a lovely flock of lambs all lying down , " says amy .

" see , papa , aren't they pretty ? " added flo sentimentally .

of course it rained when we got to london , and there was nothing to be seen but fog and umbrellas .

we rested , unpacked , and shopped a little between the showers .

aunt mary got me some new things , for i came off in such a hurry i wasn't half ready .

a white hat and blue feather , a muslin dress to match , and the loveliest mantle you ever saw .

shopping in regent street is perfectly splendid .

things seem so cheap , nice ribbons only sixpence a yard .

i laid in a stock , but shall get my gloves in paris .

doesn't that sound sort of elegant and rich ?

it was so droll !

" now , then , mum ? "

today was fair , and we went to hyde park , close by , for we are more aristocratic than we look .

the duke of devonshire lives near .

i often see his footmen lounging at the back gate , and the duke of wellington 's house is not far off .

such sights as i saw , my dear !

rotten row means ' route de roi ' , or the king 's way , but now it 's more like a riding school than anything else .

this evening we are going to see fechter , which will be an appropriate end to the happiest day of my life .

it 's very late , but i can't let my letter go in the morning without telling you what happened last evening .

who do you think came in , as we were at tea ?

laurie 's english friends , fred and frank vaughn !

i was so surprised , for i shouldn't have known them but for the cards .

tell beth frank asked for her , and was sorry to hear of her ill health .

fred laughed when i spoke of jo , and sent his ' respectful compliments to the big hat ' .

neither of them had forgotten camp laurence , or the fun we had there .

what ages ago it seems , doesn't it ?

aunt is tapping on the wall for the third time , so i must stop .

i long to see you all , and in spite of my nonsense am , as ever , your loving ....v

amy

paris

dear girls ,

in my last i told you about our london visit , how kind the vaughns were , and what pleasant parties they made for us .

aunt looked sober at first , but he was so cool about it she couldn't say a word .

uncle doesn't know ten words , and insists on talking english very loud , as if it would make people understand him .

such delightful times as we are having !

sight-seeing from morning till night , stopping for nice lunches in the gay cafes , and meeting with all sorts of droll adventures .

rainy days i spend in the louvre , revelling in pictures .

i 'll talk for hours about them when i come , but haven't time to write .

the palais royale is a heavenly place , so full of bijouterie and lovely things that i 'm nearly distracted because i can't buy them .

fred wanted to get me some , but of course i didn't allow it .

then the bois and champs elysees are tres magnifique .

we often walk in the tuileries gardens , for they are lovely , though the antique luxembourg gardens suit me better .

that is so frenchy .

our rooms are on the rue de rivoli , and sitting on the balcony , we look up and down the long , brilliant street .

it is so pleasant that we spend our evenings talking there when too tired with our day 's work to go out .

fred is very entertaining , and is altogether the most agreeable young man i ever knew except laurie , whose manners are more charming .

i keep my diary , and try to ' remember correctly and describe clearly all that i see and admire ' , as father advised .

it is good practice for me , and with my sketchbook will give you a better idea of my tour than these scribbles .

adieu , i embrace you tenderly .

" votre amie . "

heidelberg

my dear mamma ,

the sail up the rhine was perfect , and i just sat and enjoyed it with all my might .

get father 's old guidebooks and read about it .

i haven't words beautiful enough to describe it .

it was a moonlight night , and about one o'clock flo and i were waked by the most delicious music under our windows .

we flew up , and hid behind the curtains , but sly peeps showed us fred and the students singing away down below .

next morning fred showed me one of the crumpled flowers in his vest pocket , and looked very sentimental .

i 'm afraid i 'm going to have trouble with that boy , it begins to look like it .

the baths at nassau were very gay , so was baden-baden , where fred lost some money , and i scolded him .

he needs someone to look after him when frank is not with him .

kate said once she hoped he 'd marry soon , and i quite agree with her that it would be well for him .

frankfurt was delightful .

i saw goethe 's house , schiller 's statue , and dannecker 's famous ' ariadne . '

it was very lovely , but i should have enjoyed it more if i had known the story better .

i didn't like to ask , as everyone knew it or pretended they did .

i wish jo would tell me all about it .

i ought to have read more , for i find i don't know anything , and it mortifies me .

now comes the serious part , for it happened here , and fred has just gone .

he has been so kind and jolly that we all got quite fond of him .

i never thought of anything but a traveling friendship till the serenade night .

since then i 've begun to feel that the moonlight walks , balcony talks , and daily adventures were something more to him than fun .

i haven't flirted , mother , truly , but remembered what you said to me , and have done my very best .

i can't help it if people like me .

i like him , and we get on comfortably together .

he is handsome , young , clever enough , and very rich ever so much richer than the laurences .

fred , as the eldest twin , will have the estate , i suppose , and such a splendid one it is !

i like it , for it 's genuine .

oh , it would be all i should ask !

and i 'd rather have it than any title such as girls snap up so readily , and find nothing behind .

i may be mercenary , but i hate poverty , and don't mean to bear it a minute longer than i can help .

one of us must marry well .

meg didn't , jo won't , beth can't yet , so i shall , and make everything okay all round .

i wouldn't marry a man i hated or despised .

so i 've been turning the matter over in my mind the last week , for it was impossible to help seeing that fred liked me .

he said nothing , but little things showed it .

i had a feeling that something was going to happen and i was ready for it .

i didn't feel blushy or quakey , but quite cool and only a little excited .

by-and-by i heard fred 's voice , and then he came hurrying through the great arch to find me .

he looked so troubled that i forgot all about myself , and asked what the matter was .

he said he 'd just got a letter begging him to come home , for frank was very ill .

so he was going at once on the night train and only had time to say good-by .

of course this is all very private , but i wished you to know what was going on .

don't be anxious about me , remember i am your ' prudent amy ' , and be sure i will do nothing rashly .

send me as much advice as you like .

i 'll use it if i can .

i wish i could see you for a good talk , marmee .

love and trust me .

ever your amy

chapter thirty-two

tender troubles

" jo , i 'm anxious about beth . "

" why , mother , she has seemed unusually well since the babies came . "

" it 's not her health that troubles me now , it 's her spirits .

i 'm sure there is something on her mind , and i want you to discover what it is . "

" what makes you think so , mother ? "

" she sits alone a good deal , and doesn't talk to her father as much as she used .

i found her crying over the babies the other day .

this isn't like beth , and it worries me . "

" have you asked her about it ? "

" i have tried once or twice , but she either evaded my questions or looked so distressed that i stopped .

i never force my children 's confidence , and i seldom have to wait for long . "

why , mother , beth 's eighteen , but we don't realize it , and treat her like a child , forgetting she 's a woman . "

" so she is .

dear heart , how fast you do grow up , " returned her mother with a sigh and a smile .

i promise never to hop very far , if that is any comfort to you . "

" it 's a great comfort , jo .

i always feel strong when you are at home , now meg is gone .

beth is too feeble and amy too young to depend upon , but when the tug comes , you are always ready . "

" why , you know i don't mind hard jobs much , and there must always be one scrub in a family .

amy is distinguishing herself abroad , but if anything is amiss at home , i 'm your man . "

be very kind , and don't let her think anyone watches or talks about her .

if she only would get quite strong and cheerful again , i shouldn't have a wish in the world . "

" happy woman !

i 've got heaps . "

" my dear , what are they ? "

" i 'll settle bethy 's troubles , and then i 'll tell you mine .

a slight incident gave jo the clue to the mystery , she thought , and lively fancy , loving heart did the rest .

she was affecting to write busily one saturday afternoon , when she and beth were alone together .

yet as she scribbled , she kept her eye on her sister , who seemed unusually quiet .

suddenly some one passed below , whistling like an operatic blackbird , and a voice called out , " all serene !

coming in tonight . "

beth whisked it off , and in her half-averted face read a tender sorrow that made her own eyes fill .

fearing to betray herself , she slipped away , murmuring something about needing more paper .

" i never dreamed of such a thing .

what will mother say ?

i wonder if her ... " there jo stopped and turned scarlet with a sudden thought .

" if he shouldn't love back again , how dreadful it would be .

he must .

i 'll make him ! " and she shook her head threateningly at the picture of the mischievous-looking boy laughing at her from the wall .

" oh dear , we are growing up with a vengeance .

here 's meg married and a mamma , amy flourishing away at paris , and beth in love .

i 'm the only one that has sense enough to keep out of mischief . "

therefore , no one thought of imagining that he cared more for her than for the others .

things were in this state when the grand discovery was made , and jo watched laurie that night as she had never done before .

" who knows ?

stranger things have happened , " thought jo , as she fussed about the room .

as everyone was out of the way but herself , jo began to feel that she ought to dispose of herself with all speed .

but where should she go ?

and burning to lay herself upon the shrine of sisterly devotion , she sat down to settle that point .

they all loved it , for it was a family refuge , and one corner had always been jo 's favorite lounging place .

" now , this is filling at the price . "

" no slang , " snapped jo , slamming down the pillow .

" come , jo , don't be thorny .

after studying himself to a skeleton all the week , a fellow deserves petting and ought to get it . "

" beth will pet you .

i 'm busy . "

have you ?

do you hate your boy , and want to fire pillows at him ? "

" not one , upon my word .

she 's engaged .

now then . "

my feelings need a ' vent ' . "

" mother doesn't approve of flirting even in fun , and you do flirt desperately , teddy . "

" i 'd give anything if i could answer , ' so do you ' .

" well , it does look pleasant , but i can't learn how it 's done .

" take lessons of amy , she has a regular talent for it . "

" yes , she does it very prettily , and never seems to go too far .

" i 'm glad you can't flirt .

it 's really refreshing to see a sensible , straightforward girl , who can be jolly and kind without making a fool of herself .

between ourselves , jo , some of the girls i know really do go on at such a rate i 'm ashamed of them .

" much you know about it , ma'am , " said laurie in a superior tone .

" we don't like romps and flirts , though we may act as if we did sometimes .

the pretty , modest girls are never talked about , except respectfully , among gentleman .

bless your innocent soul !

if you could be in my place for a month you 'd see things that would astonish you a trifle .

upon my word , when i see one of those harum-scarum girls , i always want to say with our friend cock robin ....v

" out upon you , fie upon you , bold-faced jig ! "

" you really advise it ? " and laurie looked at her with an odd mixture of anxiety and merriment in his face .

" mercy on us , this will never do , " thought jo , adding aloud , " go and sing to me .

i 'm dying for some music , and always like yours . "

" i 'd rather stay here , thank you . "

" well , you can't , there isn't room .

go and make yourself useful , since you are too big to be ornamental .

i thought you hated to be tied to a woman 's apron string ? " retorted jo , quoting certain rebellious words of his own .

" ah , that depends on who wears the apron ! " and laurie gave an audacious tweak at the tassel .

" are you going ? " demanded jo , diving for the pillow .

" i thought you were asleep , " sobbed beth .

" is it the old pain , my precious ? "

" no , it 's a new one , but i can bear it , " and beth tried to check her tears .

" tell me all about it , and let me cure it as i often did the other . "

" you can't , there is no cure . "

there beth 's voice gave way , and clinging to her sister , she cried so despairingly that jo was frightened .

" where is it ?

shall i call mother ? "

" no , no , don't call her , don't tell her .

i shall be better soon .

lie down here and ' poor ' my head .

i 'll be quiet and go to sleep , indeed i will . "

" yes , jo , " after a long pause .

" wouldn't it comfort you to tell me what it is ? "

" not now , not yet . "

" i know it .

i 'll tell you by-and-by . "

" is the pain better now ? "

" oh , yes , much better , you are so comfortable , jo . "

" go to sleep , dear .

i 'll stay with you . "

but jo had made up her mind , and after pondering over a project for some days , she confided it to her mother .

" you asked me the other day what my wishes were .

i 'll tell you one of them , marmee , " she began , as they sat along together .

" i want to go away somewhere this winter for a change . "

" why , jo ? " and her mother looked up quickly , as if the words suggested a double meaning .

with her eyes on her work jo answered soberly , " i want something new .

i feel restless and anxious to be seeing , doing , and learning more than i am .

" where will you hop ? "

" to new york .

i had a bright idea yesterday , and this is it .

you know mrs kirke wrote to you for some respectable young person to teach her children and sew .

it 's rather hard to find just the thing , but i think i should suit if i tried . "

" my dear , go out to service in that great boarding house ! " and mrs ..y march looked surprised , but not displeased .

her family is separate from the rest , and no one knows me there .

don't care if they do .

it 's honest work , and i 'm not ashamed of it . "

" nor i ..y but your writing ? "

" all the better for the change .

" i have no doubt of it , but are these your only reasons for this sudden fancy ? "

" no , mother . "

" may i know the others ? "

jo looked up and jo looked down , then said slowly , with sudden color in her cheeks .

" it may be vain and wrong to say it , but i 'm afraid laurie is getting too fond of me . "

" mercy , no !

" i 'm glad of that , jo . "

" why , please ? "

" because , dear , i don't think you suited to one another .

" that 's just the feeling i had , though i couldn't express it .

i 'm glad you think he is only beginning to care for me .

" you are sure of his feeling for you ? "

he hasn't said anything , but he looks a great deal .

i think i had better go away before it comes to anything . "

" i agree with you , and if it can be managed you shall go . "

meg is so , and i am content with her success .

you i leave to enjoy your liberty till you tire of it , for only then will you find that there is something sweeter .

amy is my chief care now , but her good sense will help her .

for beth , i indulge no hopes except that she may be well .

by the way , she seems brighter this last day or two .

have you spoken to her ? '

" yes , she owned she had a trouble , and promised to tell me by-and-by .

i said no more , for i think i know it , " and jo told her little story .

beth must think i 'm going to please myself , as i am , for i can't talk about laurie to her .

but she can pet and comfort him after i 'm gone , and so cure him of this romantic notion .

he 's been through so many little trials of the sort , he 's used to it , and will soon get over his lovelornity . "

when all was settled , with fear and trembling she told laurie , but to her surprise he took it very quietly .

" one thing i leave in your especial care , " she said , the night before she left .

" you mean your papers ? " asked beth .

" no , my boy .

be very good to him , won't you ? "

" of course i will , but i can't fill your place , and he 'll miss you sadly . "

" i 'll do my best , for your sake , " promised beth , wondering why jo looked at her so queerly .

when laurie said good-by , he whispered significantly , " it won't do a bit of good , jo .

my eye is on you , so mind what you do , or i 'll come and bring you home . "

chapter thirty-three

jo's journal

new york , november

dear marmee and beth ,

mrs kirke welcomed me so kindly i felt at home at once , even in that big house full of strangers .

a fine view and a church tower opposite atone for the many stairs , and i took a fancy to my den on the spot .

my rooms are always open to you , and your own shall be as comfortable as i can make it .

there are some pleasant people in the house if you feel sociable , and your evenings are always free .

come to me if anything goes wrong , and be as happy as you can .

there 's the tea bell , i must run and change my cap . "

and off she bustled , leaving me to settle myself in my new nest .

as i went downstairs soon after , i saw something i liked .

the little back is too young to haf such heaviness . "

wasn't it good of him ?

i like such things , for as father says , trifles show character .

he 's almost forty , so it 's no harm , marmee .

i shall keep a journal-letter , and send it once a week , so goodnight , and more tomorrow .

tuesday eve

some good angel inspired me to try gymnastics , and i kept it up till they were glad to sit down and keep still .

professor bhaer was there , and while he arranged his books , i took a good look at him .

" me wants me bhaer , " said the mite , slamming down her book and running to meet him .

" thou shalt haf thy bhaer .

" now me mus tuddy my lessin , " went on the funny little thing .

it all goes bad this day . "

poor man , i pitied him , and when the girls were gone , took just one more peep to see if he survived it .

i fancy he has a hard life of it .

she gave me a seat by her , and after my face cooled off , i plucked up courage and looked about me .

" governess , or something of that sort . "

" what the deuce is she at our table for ? "

" friend of the old lady 's . "

" handsome head , but no style . "

" not a bit of it .

give us a light and come on . "

i hate ordinary people !

thursday

i picked up a few bits of news and was introduced to the professor .

it seems that tina is the child of the frenchwoman who does the fine ironing in the laundry here .

the maiden lady is a miss norton , rich , cultivated , and kind .

i was in our parlor last evening when mr bhaer came in with some newspapers for mrs kirke .

she wasn't there , but minnie , who is a little old woman , introduced me very prettily .

" this is mamma 's friend , miss march . "

" yes , and she 's jolly and we like her lots , " added kitty , who is an ' enfant terrible ' .

we both bowed , and then we laughed , for the prim introduction and the blunt addition were rather a comical contrast .

" ah , yes , i hear these naughty ones go to vex you , mees marsch .

if so again , call at me and i come , " he said , with a threatening frown that delighted the little wretches .

" you haf a fine day to make your walk .

bon voyage , mademoiselle . "

the german gentlemen embroider , i know , but darning hose is another thing and not so pretty .

saturday

i 'm as proud as lucifer , but such favors from such people don't burden me , and i accepted gratefully .

" we are playing nargerie , " explained kitty .

" dis is mine effalunt ! " added tina , holding on by the professor 's hair .

i wish americans were as simple and natural as germans , don't you ?

pray forward amy 's as soon as you can spare them .

my small news will sound very flat after her splendors , but you will like them , i know .

is teddy studying so hard that he can't find time to write to his friends ?

take good care of him for me , beth , and tell me all about the babies , and give heaps of love to everyone .

from your faithful jo .

bless you !

december

my precious betsey ,

we are very good friends now , and i 've begun to take lessons .

i really couldn't help it , and it all came about in such a droll way that i must tell you .

to begin at the beginning , mrs kirke called to me one day as i passed mr bhaer 's room where she was rummaging .

" did you ever see such a den , my dear ?

i went in , and while we worked i looked about me , for it was ' a den ' to be sure .

half-finished boats and bits of string lay among the manuscripts .

" such a man ! " laughed good-natured mrs . k ..y , as she put the relics in the rag bag .

" i suppose the others are torn up to rig ships , bandage cut fingers , or make kite tails .

it 's dreadful , but i can't scold him .

he 's so absent-minded and goodnatured , he lets those boys ride over him roughshod .

" let me mend them , " said i .

" i don't mind it , and he needn't know .

i 'd like to , he 's so kind to me about bringing my letters and lending books . "

nothing was said , and i hoped he wouldn't find it out , but one day last week he caught me at it .

" yes , but you are too busy .

i am too stupid to learn , " i blundered out , as red as a peony .

" prut !

we will make the time , and we fail not to find the sense .

" ah !

but i haf an eye , and i see much .

i haf a heart , and i feel thanks for this .

come , a little lesson then and now , or no more good fairy works for me and mine . "

i took four lessons , and then i stuck fast in a grammatical bog .

" now we shall try a new way .

now we go well !

my turn .

i do him in german , gif me your ear . "

and away he went , rumbling out the words with his strong voice and a relish which was good to see as well as hear .

i like it very much , and he doesn't seem tired of it yet , which is very good of him , isn't it ?

i mean to give him something on christmas , for i dare not offer money .

tell me something nice , marmee .

i 'm glad laurie seems so happy and busy , that he has given up smoking and lets his hair grow .

you see beth manages him better than i did .

i 'm not jealous , dear , do your best , only don't make a saint of him .

i 'm afraid i couldn't like him without a spice of human naughtiness .

read him bits of my letters .

i haven't time to write much , and that will do just as well .

thank heaven beth continues so comfortable .

january

i can't tell you how much i enjoyed your christmas bundle , for i didn't get it till night and had given up hoping .

the things were just what i wanted , and all the better for being made instead of bought .

beth 's new ' ink bib ' was capital , and hannah 's box of hard gingerbread will be a treasure .

i 'll be sure and wear the nice flannels you sent , marmee , and read carefully the books father has marked .

thank you all , heaps and heaps !

speaking of books reminds me that i 'm getting rich in that line , for on new year 's day mr bhaer gave me a fine shakespeare .

" you say often you wish a library .

here i gif you one , for between these lids ( he meant covers ) is many books in one .

i thanked him as well as i could , and talk now about ' my library ' , as if i had a hundred books .

i never knew how much there was in shakespeare before , but then i never had a bhaer to explain it to me .

now don't laugh at his horrid name .

i 'm glad you both like what i tell you about him , and hope you will know him some day .

mother would admire his warm heart , father his wise head .

i admire both , and feel rich in my new ' friend friedrich bhaer ' .

i was so glad of that .

they got up a masquerade , and had a gay time new year 's eve .

i didn't mean to go down , having no dress .

but at the last minute , mrs kirke remembered some old brocades , and miss norton lent me lace and feathers .

so i dressed up as mrs malaprop , and sailed in with a mask on .

i enjoyed it very much , and when we unmasked it was fun to see them stare at me .

meg will relish that joke .

mr bhaer was nick bottom , and tina was titania , a perfect little fairy in his arms .

to see them dance was ' quite a landscape ' , to use a teddyism .

bless you all !

ever your loving ....y

jo

chapter thirty-four

friend

she took to writing sensation stories , for in those dark ages , even all-perfect america read rubbish .

somewhat daunted by this reception , jo hesitated on the threshold , murmuring in much embarrassment ....y

" excuse me , i was looking for the weekly volcano office .

i wished to see mr dashwood . "

" no , sir .

she has had some experience , and got a prize for a tale in the blarneystone banner . "

" well , you can leave it , if you like .

when she went again , mr dashwood was alone , whereat she rejoiced .

" we 'll take this ( editors never say i ) , if you don't object to a few alterations .

mr dashwoods 's editorial gravity relaxed into a smile , for jo had forgotten her ' friend ' , and spoken as only an author could .

" people want to be amused , not preached at , you know .

morals don't sell nowadays . "

which was not quite a correct statement , by the way .

" you think it would do with these alterations , then ? "

" what do you that is , what compensation " began jo , not exactly knowing how to express herself .

" oh , yes , well , we give from twenty-five to thirty for things of this sort .

pay when it comes out , " returned mr dashwood , as if that point had escaped him .

such trifles do escape the editorial mind , it is said .

" well , we 'll look at it .

can't promise to take it .

tell her to make it short and spicy , and never mind the moral .

what name would your friend like to put on it ? " in a careless tone .

" just as she likes , of course .

the tale will be out next week .

" i 'll call .

good morning , sir . "

one thing disturbed her satisfaction , and that was that she did not tell them at home .

she had a feeling that father and mother would not approve , and preferred to have her own way first , and beg pardon afterward .

it was easy to keep her secret , for no name appeared with her stories .

mr dashwood had of course found it out very soon , but promised to be dumb , and for a wonder kept his word .

she excited the suspicions of public librarians by asking for works on poisons .

she studied faces in the street , and characters , good , bad , and indifferent , all about her .

she thought she was prospering finely , but unconsciously she was beginning to desecrate some of the womanliest attributes of a woman 's character .

wrongdoing always brings its own punishment , and when jo most needed hers , she got it .

why everybody liked him was what puzzled jo , at first .

jo often watched him , trying to discover the charm , and at last decided that it was benevolence which worked the miracle .

there were lines upon his forehead , but time seemed to have touched him gently , remembering how kind he was to others .

his very clothes seemed to partake of the hospitable nature of the wearer .

they looked as if they were at ease , and liked to make him comfortable .

his capacious waistcoat was suggestive of a large heart underneath .

his rusty coat had a social air , and the baggy pockets plainly proved that little hands often went in empty and came out full .

his very boots were benevolent , and his collars never stiff and raspy like other people 's .

he never spoke of himself , and in a conversation with miss norton divulged the pleasing fact .

from her jo learned it , and liked it all the better because mr bhaer had never told it .

another and a better gift than intellect was shown her in a most unexpected manner .

miss norton had the entree into most society , which jo would have had no chance of seeing but for her .

the solitary woman felt an interest in the ambitious girl , and kindly conferred many favors of this sort both on jo and the professor .

she took them with her one night to a select symposium , held in honor of several celebrities .

jo went prepared to bow down and adore the mighty ones whom she had worshiped with youthful enthusiasm afar off .

turning as from a fallen idol , she made other discoveries which rapidly dispelled her romantic illusions .

before the evening was half over , jo felt so completely disillusioned , that she sat down in a corner to recover herself .

somehow , as he talked , the world got right again to jo .

the old beliefs , that had lasted so long , seemed better than the new .

god was not a blind force , and immortality was not a pretty fable , but a blessed fact .

this belief strengthened daily .

" mees marsch , for what do you laugh in your master 's face ?

haf you no respect for me , that you go on so bad ? "

" how can i be respectful , sir , when you forget to take your hat off ? " said jo .

" ah !

i see him now , it is that imp tina who makes me a fool with my cap .

well , it is nothing , but see you , if this lesson goes not well , you too shall wear him . "

they are not for children to see , nor young people to read .

it is not well , and i haf no patience with those who make this harm . "

jo glanced at the sheet and saw a pleasing illustration composed of a lunatic , a corpse , a villain , and a viper .

now it occurred to him that she was doing what she was ashamed to own , and it troubled him .

he did not say to himself , " it is none of my business .

i 've no right to say anything , " as many people would have done .

" yes , you are right to put it from you .

i do not think that good young girls should see such things .

they are made pleasant to some , but i would more rather give my boys gunpowder to play with than this bad trash . "

" there is a demand for whisky , but i think you and i do not care to sell it .

if the respectable people knew what harm they did , they would not feel that the living was honest .

they haf no right to put poison in the sugarplum , and let the small ones eat it .

no , they should think a little , and sweep mud in the street before they do this thing . "

mr bhaer spoke warmly , and walked to the fire , crumpling the paper in his hands .

" i should like much to send all the rest after him , " muttered the professor , coming back with a relieved air .

i 'll be very good and proper now . "

as soon as she went to her room , she got out her papers , and carefully reread every one of her stories .

" they are trash , and will soon be worse trash if i go on , for each is more sensational than the last .

i 've gone blindly on , hurting myself and other people , for the sake of money .

jo turned hot at the bare idea , and stuffed the whole bundle into her stove , nearly setting the chimney afire with the blaze .

" yes , that 's the best place for such inflammable nonsense .

if i didn't care about doing right , and didn't feel uncomfortable when doing wrong , i should get on capitally .

i can't help wishing sometimes , that mother and father hadn't been so particular about such things . "

so nothing came of these trials , and jo corked up her inkstand , and said in a fit of very wholesome humility ....y

" i don't know anything .

which decision proved that her second tumble down the beanstalk had done her some good .

it was a pleasant winter and a long one , for she did not leave mrs kirke till june .

everyone seemed sorry when the time came .

" going home ?

i 'll never forgive you if you do , for i want them all to know my friend . "

" do you ?

shall i come ? " he asked , looking down at her with an eager expression which she did not see .

" yes , come next month .

laurie graduates then , and you 'd enjoy commencement as something new . "

" that is your best friend , of whom you speak ? " he said in an altered tone .

" yes , my boy teddy .

i 'm very proud of him and should like you to see him . "

jo looked up then , quite unconscious of anything but her own pleasure in the prospect of showing them to one another .

if it had not been for tina on her knee .

she didn't know what would have become of her .

but he did , and his own changed again from that momentary anxiety to its usual expression , as he said cordially ....v

" i fear i shall not make the time for that , but i wish the friend much success , and you all happiness .

gott bless you ! "

and with that , he shook hands warmly , shouldered tina , and went away .

chapter thirty-five

heartache

" i 've got to stay for this confounded supper , but i shall be home early tomorrow .

you 'll come and meet me as usual , girls ? "

laurie said , as he put the sisters into the carriage after the joys of the day were over .

he said ' girls ' , but he meant jo , for she was the only one who kept up the old custom .

she had not the heart to refuse her splendid , successful boy anything , and answered warmly ....v

laurie thanked her with a look that made her think in a sudden panic , " oh , deary me !

i know he 'll say something , and then what shall i do ? "

" where 's the jew's-harp , jo ? " cried laurie , as soon as he was within speaking distance .

" i forgot it . "

and jo took heart again , for that salutation could not be called lover-like .

then he walked more slowly , suddenly lost his fine flow of language , and now and then a dreadful pause occurred .

" i intend to . "

please don't ! "

" i will , and you must hear me .

" say what you like then .

i 'll listen , " said jo , with a desperate sort of patience .

" i 've loved you ever since i 've known you , jo , couldn't help it , you 've been so good to me .

i 've tried to show it , but you wouldn't let me .

now i 'm going to make you hear , and give me an answer , for i can't go on so any longer . "

" i wanted to save you this .

i thought you 'd understand ....y " began jo , finding it a great deal harder than she expected .

" i know you did , but the girls are so queer you never know what they mean .

" i don't .

i never wanted to make you care for me so , and i went away to keep you from it if i could . "

" i thought so .

it was like you , but it was no use .

here there was a choke that couldn't be controlled , so he decapitated buttercups while he cleared his ' confounded throat ' .

i 've tried , but i can't change the feeling , and it would be a lie to say i do when i don't . "

" really , truly , jo ? "

he stopped short , and caught both her hands as he put his question with a look that she did not soon forget .

" really , truly , dear . "

so he just laid his head down on the mossy post , and stood so still that jo was frightened .

" oh , teddy , i 'm sorry , so desperately sorry , i could kill myself if it would do any good !

i wish you wouldn't take it so hard , i can't help it .

" they do sometimes , " said a muffled voice from the post .

" i don't believe it 's the right sort of love , and i 'd rather not try it , " was the decided answer .

" tell what ? " she asked , wondering at his violence .

" that you love that old man . "

" what old man ? " demanded jo , thinking he must mean his grandfather .

" that devilish professor you were always writing about .

he isn't old , nor anything bad , but good and kind , and the best friend i 've got , next to you .

pray , don't fly into a passion .

i want to be kind , but i know i shall get angry if you abuse my professor .

i haven't the least idea of loving him or anybody else . "

" but you will after a while , and then what will become of me ? "

" you 'll love someone else too , like a sensible boy , and forget all this trouble . "

" i can't love anyone else , and i 'll never forget you , jo , never !

never ! " with a stamp to emphasize his passionate words .

" what shall i do with him ? " sighed jo , finding that emotions were more unmanagable than she expected .

" you haven't heard what i wanted to tell you .

jo paused a little over the last word , but laurie uttered it with a rapturous expression .

" marry no we shouldn't !

if you loved me , jo , i should be a perfect saint , for you could make me anything you like . "

" no , i can't .

i 've tried and failed , and i won't risk our happiness by such a serious experiment .

" yes , we will if we get the chance , " muttered laurie rebelliously .

" now do be reasonable , and take a sensible view of the case , " implored jo , almost at her wit 's end .

" i won't be reasonable .

i don't want to take what you call ' a sensible view ' .

it won't help me , and it only makes it harder .

i don't believe you 've got any heart . "

" i wish i hadn't . "

everyone expects it .

grandpa has set his heart upon it , your people like it , and i can't get on without you .

say you will , and let's be happy .

do , do ! "

it was very hard to do , but she did it , knowing that delay was both useless and cruel .

" i can't say ' yes ' truly , so i won't say it at all .

you 'll see that i 'm right , by-and-by , and thank me for it ....y " she began solemnly .

" i 'll be hanged if i do ! " and laurie bounced up off the grass , burning with indignation at the very idea .

" yes , you will ! " persisted jo .

i shouldn't .

" anything more ? " asked laurie , finding it hard to listen patiently to this prophetic burst .

" nothing more , except that i don't believe i shall ever marry .

" i know better ! " broke in laurie .

" i 've done my best , but you won't be reasonable , and it 's selfish of you to keep teasing for what i can't give .

that speech was like gunpowder .

" oh , where are you going ? " she cried , for his face frightened her .

" to the devil ! " was the consoling answer .

" now i must go and prepare mr laurence to be very kind to my poor boy .

i wish he 'd love beth , perhaps he may in time , but i begin to think i was mistaken about her .

oh dear !

how can girls like to have lovers and refuse them ?

i think it 's dreadful . "

he bore it as long as he could , then went to his piano and began to play .

" that 's very fine , i dare say , but it 's sad enough to make one cry .

i want you . "

just what laurie longed to say , with a different meaning !

as he listened , he lost his place , the music ended with a broken chord , and the musician sat silent in the dark .

" i can't stand this , " muttered the old gentleman .

no answer for an instant , then laurie asked sharply , " who told you ? "

" jo herself . "

" then there 's an end of it ! "

" not quite .

i want to say one thing , and then there shall be an end of it , " returned mr laurence with unusual mildness .

" you won't care to stay at home now , perhaps ? "

" i don't intend to run away from a girl .

" not if you are the gentleman i think you .

where will you go ? "

" anywhere .

i don't care what becomes of me , " and laurie got up with a reckless laugh that grated on his grandfather 's ear .

" take it like a man , and don't do anything rash , for god 's sake .

why not go abroad , as you planned , and forget it ? "

" i can't . "

" but you 've been wild to go , and i promised you should when you got through college . "

" i don't ask you to go alone .

there 's someone ready and glad to go with you , anywhere in the world . "

" who , sir ? " stopping to listen .

" myself . "

now , my dear boy , just sit quietly down and hear my plan .

" well , sir , what is it ? " and laurie sat down , without a sign of interest in face or voice .

" there is business in london that needs looking after .

my partners do almost everything , i 'm merely holding on until you take my place , and can be off at any time . "

" but you hate traveling , sir .

i quite enjoy the idea .

i go because i think you 'd feel happier than if i was left behind .

i 've friends in london and paris , and should like to visit them .

he sighed , and then said , in a spiritless tone , " just as you like , sir .

it doesn't matter where i go or what i do . "

" it does to me , remember that , my lad .

i give you entire liberty , but i trust you to make an honest use of it .

promise me that , laurie . "

" anything you like , sir . "

" good , " thought the old gentleman .

during the time necessary for preparation , laurie bore himself as young gentleman usually do in such cases .

when the parting came he affected high spirits , to conceal certain inconvenient emotions which seemed inclined to assert themselves .

jo followed a minute after to wave her hand to him if he looked round .

" oh , jo , can't you ? "

" teddy , dear , i wish i could ! "

that was all , except a little pause .

then laurie straightened himself up , said , " it 's all right , never mind , " and went away without another word .

chapter thirty-six

beth's secret

when jo came home that spring , she had been struck with the change in beth .

but when laurie was gone , and peace prevailed again , the vague anxiety returned and haunted her .

beth was too shy to enjoy society , and jo too wrapped up in her to care for anyone else .

one day beth told her .

i 've tried to tell you , but i couldn't . "

try to see it so and don't be troubled about me , because it 's best , indeed it is . "

" is this what made you so unhappy in the autumn , beth ?

" yes , i gave up hoping then , but i didn't like to own it .

i tried to think it was a sick fancy , and would not let it trouble anyone .

" oh , beth , and you didn't tell me , didn't let me comfort and help you ?

how could you shut me out , bear it all alone ? "

" perhaps it was wrong , but i tried to do right .

i wasn't sure , no one said anything , and i hoped i was mistaken .

i was afraid it was so , and imagined your poor little heart full of lovelornity all that while . "

" i do love him dearly .

he is so good to me , how can i help it ?

but he could never be anything to me but my brother .

i hope he truly will be , sometime . "

" not through me , " said jo decidedly .

" amy is left for him , and they would suit excellently , but i have no heart for such things , now .

i don't care what becomes of anybody but you , beth .

you must get well . "

" i want to , oh , so much !

i try , but every day i lose a little , and feel more sure that i shall never gain it back .

it 's like the tide , jo , when it turns , it goes slowly , but it can't be stopped . "

" it shall be stopped , your tide must not turn so soon , nineteen is too young , beth .

i can't let you go .

i 'll work and pray and fight against it .

i 'll keep you in spite of everything .

there must be ways , it can't be too late .

simple , sincere people seldom speak much of their piety .

it shows itself in acts rather than in words , and has more influence than homilies or protestations .

beth could not reason upon or explain the faith that gave her courage and patience to give up life , and cheerfully wait for death .

she could not say , " i 'm glad to go , " for life was very sweet for her .

by and by beth said , with recovered serenity , " you 'll tell them this when we go home ? "

" i think they will see it without words , " sighed jo , for now it seemed to her that beth changed every day .

" perhaps not .

i 've heard that the people who love best are often blindest to such things .

if they don't see it , you will tell them for me .

i don't want any secrets , and it 's kinder to prepare them .

meg has john and the babies to comfort her , but you must stand by father and mother , won't you jo ? "

" if i can .

but , beth , i don't give up yet .

i only mean to say that i have a feeling that it never was intended i should live long .

i 'm not like the rest of you .

i never made any plans about what i 'd do when i grew up .

i never thought of being married , as you all did .

i couldn't seem to imagine myself anything but stupid little beth , trotting about at home , of no use anywhere but there .

i never wanted to go away , and the hard part now is the leaving you all .

i 'm not afraid , but it seems as if i should be homesick for you even in heaven . "

jo could not speak , and for several minutes there was no sound but the sigh of the wind and the lapping of the tide .

a white-winged gull flew by , with the flash of sunshine on its silvery breast .

beth watched it till it vanished , and her eyes were full of sadness .

a little gray-coated sand bird came tripping over the beach ' peeping ' softly to itself , as if enjoying the sun and sea .

" dear little bird !

see , jo , how tame it is .

i like peeps better than the gulls .

they are not so wild and handsome , but they seem happy , confiding little things .

dear little girl !

she 's so ambitious , but her heart is good and tender , and no matter how high she flies , she never will forget home .

i hope i shall see her again , but she seems so far away . "

" she is coming in the spring , and i mean that you shall be all ready to see and enjoy her .

" jo , dear , don't hope any more .

it won't do any good .

i 'm sure of that .

we won't be miserable , but enjoy being together while we wait .

jo leaned down to kiss the tranquil face , and with that silent kiss , she dedicated herself soul and body to beth .

she was right .

chapter thirty-seven

new impressions

the lady was young , blonde , and dressed in blue .

" oh , laurie , is it really you ?

" i was detained by the way , but i promised to spend christmas with you , and here i am . "

" how is your grandfather ?

when did you come ?

where are you staying ? "

" very well last night at the chauvain .

i called at your hotel , but you were out . "

" i have so much to say , i don't know where to begin !

get in and we can talk at our ease .

i was going for a drive and longing for company .

flo 's saving up for tonight . "

" what happens then , a ball ? "

" a christmas party at our hotel .

there are many americans there , and they give it in honor of the day .

you 'll go with us , of course ?

aunt will be charmed . "

" thank you .

" i 'm going to the bankers first for letters , and then to castle hill .

the view is so lovely , and i like to feed the peacocks .

have you ever been there ? "

" often , years ago , but i don't mind having a look at it . "

" now tell me all about yourself .

the last i heard of you , your grandfather wrote that he expected you from berlin . "

" yes , i spent a month there and then joined him in paris , where he has settled for the winter .

he has friends there and finds plenty to amuse him , so i go and come , and we get on capitally . "

" that 's a sociable arrangement , " said amy , missing something in laurie 's manner , though she couldn't tell what .

" the dirt is picturesque , so i don't mind .

the river and the hills are delicious , and these glimpses of the narrow cross streets are my delight .

now we shall have to wait for that procession to pass .

it 's going to the church of st john . "

she didn't like the new tone , for though not blase , it sounded indifferent in spite of the look .

" beth is very poorly , mother says .

i often think i ought to go home , but they all say ' stay ' .

so i do , for i shall never have another chance like this , " said amy , looking sober over one page .

" i think you are right , there .

" i remember .

it 's not much changed , " he answered without enthusiasm .

it must be recorded of amy that she deliberately prinked that night .

time and absence had done its work on both the young people .

in spite of this affliction , she looked unusually gay and graceful as she glided away .

" here are your flowers .

" how kind you are ! " she exclaimed gratefully .

" thank you .

" please don't . "

" i thought you liked that sort of thing . "

" not from you , it doesn't sound natural , and i like your old bluntness better . "

the company assembled in the long salle a manger , that evening , was such as one sees nowhere but on the continent .

any young girl can imagine amy 's state of mind when she ' took the stage ' that night , leaning on laurie 's arm .

" one usually does at a ball . "

her amazed look and quick answer caused laurie to repair his error as fast as possible .

" i meant the first dance .

may i have the honor ? "

" i can give you one if i put off the count .

" nice little boy , but rather a short pole to support ....v

a daughter of the gods , devinely tall , and most divinely fair , "

was all the satisfaction she got , however .

her anger had a good effect , however , for she hid it under a smiling face , and seemed unusually blithe and brilliant .

the air was dark with davises , and many joneses gamboled like a flock of young giraffes .

the golden secretary darted through the room like a meteor with a dashing french-woman who carpeted the floor with her pink satin train .

the boyish abandon of that stout man was charming to behold , for though he ' carried weight ' , he danced like an india-rubber ball .

" what do you call this stuff ? " he asked , touching a fold of her dress that had blown over his knee .

" illusion . "

" good name for it .

it 's very pretty new thing , isn't it ? "

" it 's as old as the hills .

you have seen it on dozens of girls , and you never found out that it was pretty till now stupide ! "

" i never saw it on you before , which accounts for the mistake , you see . "

" none of that , it is forbidden .

i 'd rather take coffee than compliments just now .

no , don't lounge , it makes me nervous . "

" where did you learn all this sort of thing ? " he asked with a quizzical look .

amy was gratified , but of course didn't show it , and demurely answered , " foreign life polishes one in spite of one 's self .

chapter thirty-eight

on the shelf

but three months passed , and there was no return of repose .

they are just asleep after worrying all day . "

if he proposed a little amusement at home , " no , it would disturb the babies . "

his sleep was broken by infant wails and visions of a phantom figure pacing noiselessly to and fro in the watches of the night .

mrs scott was a lively , pretty girl , with nothing to do but be agreeable , and she performed her mission most successfully .

" yes , " she would say , looking in the glass , " i 'm getting old and ugly .

" goes on how , my dear ? " asked her mother anxiously .

" he 's away all day , and at night when i want to see him , he is continually going over to the scotts ' .

it isn't fair that i should have the hardest work , and never any amusement .

men are very selfish , even the best of them . "

" so are women .

don't blame john till you see where you are wrong yourself . "

" but it can't be right for him to neglect me . "

" don't you neglect him ? "

" why , mother , i thought you 'd take my part ! "

" so i do , as far as sympathizing goes , but i think the fault is yours , meg . "

" i don't see how . "

" let me show you .

" no , but i can't do it now , with two babies to tend . "

" i think you could , dear , and i think you ought .

may i speak quite freely , and will you remember that it 's mother who blames as well as mother who sympathizes ? "

" indeed i will !

speak to me as if i were little meg again .

i often feel as if i needed teaching more than ever since these babies look to me for everything . "

" you have only made the mistake that most young wives make forgotten your duty to your husband in your love for your children .

i 've seen it for some weeks , but have not spoken , feeling sure it would come right in time . "

" i 'm afraid it won't .

if i ask him to stay , he 'll think i 'm jealous , and i wouldn't insult him by such an idea .

he doesn't see that i want him , and i don't know how to tell him without words . "

" make it so pleasant he won't want to go away .

my dear , he 's longing for his little home , but it isn't home without you , and you are always in the nursery . "

" oughtn't i to be there ? "

" not all the time , too much confinement makes you nervous , and then you are unfitted for everything .

besides , you owe something to john as well as to the babies .

don't neglect husband for children , don't shut him out of the nursery , but teach him how to help in it .

his place is there as well as yours , and the children need him .

" you really think so , mother ? "

" i know it , meg , for i 've tried it , and i seldom give advice unless i 've proved its practicability .

poor father took to his books , after i had refused all offers of help , and left me to try my experiment alone .

i struggled along as well as i could , but jo was too much for me .

i nearly spoiled her by indulgence .

you were poorly , and i worried about you till i fell sick myself .

that is the secret of our home happiness .

each do our part alone in many things , but at home we work together , always . "

" it is so , mother , and my great wish is to be to my husband and children what you have been to yours .

show me how , i 'll do anything you say . "

" you always were my docile daughter .

then i 'd do what i have often proposed , let hannah come and help you .

she is a capital nurse , and you may trust the precious babies to her while you do more housework .

you need the exercise , hannah would enjoy the rest , and john would find his wife again .

" john is so sensible , i 'm afraid he will think i 'm stupid if i ask questions about politics and things . "

" i don't believe he would .

love covers a multitude of sins , and of whom could you ask more freely than of him ?

try it , and see if he doesn't find your society far more agreeable than mrs scott 's suppers . "

" i will .

poor john !

i 'm afraid i have neglected him sadly , but i thought i was right , and he never said anything . "

" he tried not to be selfish , but he has felt rather forlorn , i fancy .

and no time is so beautiful and precious to parents as the first years of the little lives given to them to train .

now , dear , good-by .

think over mother 's preachment , act upon it if it seems good , and god bless you all . "

but unfortunately demi 's most unconquerable prejudice was against going to bed , and that night he decided to go on a rampage .

" me has tea ! " said demi , preparing to join in the revel .

" no , but i 'll save you some little cakies for breakfast , if you 'll go bye-bye like daisy .

will you , lovey ? "

" iss ! " and demi shut his eyes tight , as if to catch sleep and hurry the desired day .

he saw it at once and said with pleased surprise , " why , little mother , how gay we are tonight .

do you expect company ? "

" only you , dear . "

" is it a birthday , anniversary , or anything ? "

" no , i 'm tired of being dowdy , so i dressed up as a change .

" i do it out of respect for you , my dear , " said old-fashioned john .

" well , it 's altogether delightful , and like old times .

this tastes right .

" opy doy .

me 's tummin ! "

" it 's that naughty boy .

" no , it isn't morning yet .

you must go to bed , and not trouble poor mamma .

then you can have the little cake with sugar on it . "

" me loves parpar , " said the artful one , preparing to climb the paternal knee and revel in forbidden joys .

but john shook his head , and said to meg ....y

" yes , of course .

" iss ! " said demi the perjured , blissfully sucking his sugar , and regarding his first attempt as eminently successful .

" now this won't do , " said john , hardening his heart against the engaging little sinner .

" we shall never know any peace till that child learns to go to bed properly .

you have made a slave of yourself long enough .

give him one lesson , and then there will be an end of it .

put him in his bed and leave him , meg . "

" he won't stay there , he never does unless i sit by him . "

" i 'll manage him .

demi , go upstairs , and get into your bed , as mamma bids you . "

" you must never say that to papa .

i shall carry you if you don't go yourself . "

" go ' way , me don't love parpar . " and demi retired to his mother 's skirts for protection .

this vocal exercise usually conquered meg , but john sat as unmoved as the post which is popularly believed to be deaf .

the plaintive wail which succeeded the passionate roar went to meg 's heart , and she ran up to say beseechingly ....wh

" let me stay with him , he 'll be good now , john . "

" no , my dear .

i 've told him he must go to sleep , as you bid him , and he must , if i stay here all night . "

" but he 'll cry himself sick , " pleaded meg , reproaching herself for deserting her boy .

don't interfere , i 'll manage him . "

" he 's my child , and i can't have his spirit broken by harshness . "

" he 's my child , and i won't have his temper spoiled by indulgence .

go down , my dear , and leave the boy to me . "

when john spoke in that masterful tone , meg always obeyed , and never regretted her docility .

" please let me kiss him once , john ? "

" certainly .

" poor little man , he 's worn out with sleep and crying .

he does know how to manage them , and will be a great help , for demi is getting too much for me . "

is it what you call a breakfast cap ? "

" my dear man , it 's a bonnet !

my very best go-to-concert-and-theater bonnet . "

" i beg your pardon , it was so small , i naturally mistook it for one of the flyaway things you sometimes wear .

how do you keep it on ? "

" i 'm glad you like it , for i want you to take me to one of the new concerts some night .

i really need some music to put me in tune .

will you , please ? "

" of course i will , with all my heart , or anywhere else you like .

what put it into your head , little mother ? "

you don't object , i hope ? "

never mind what john said , or what a very narrow escape the little bonnet had from utter ruin .

it was not all paradise by any means , but everyone was better for the division of labor system .

home grew homelike again , and john had no wish to leave it , unless he took meg with him .

even sallie moffatt liked to go there .

chapter thirty-nine

lazy laurence

laurie went to nice intending to stay a week , and remained a month .

but , while apparently amusing themselves in the most careless fashion , they were half-consciously making discoveries and forming opinions about each other .

" all the rest have gone to monaco for the day .

i preferred to stay at home and write letters .

" then i 'll go with pleasure . " and he put out his hand for her sketchbook .

but she tucked it under her arm with a sharp ....y

" don't trouble yourself .

it 's no exertion to me , but you don't look equal to it . "

the two never quarreled .

she answered him with a smile , and they went on together in the most amicable manner .

it was a lovely drive , along winding roads rich in the picturesque scenes that delight beauty-loving eyes .

here an ancient monastery , whence the solemn chanting of the monks came down to them .

brown , soft-eyed children ran out from the quaint stone hovels to offer nosegays , or bunches of oranges still on the bough .

valrosa well deserved its name , for in that climate of perpetual summer roses blossomed everywhere .

" this is a regular honeymoon paradise , isn't it ?

" it 's good advice , you 'd better take it and save your fingers , " she said , thinking her speech amused him .

" thank you , i will , " he answered in jest , and a few months later he did it in earnest .

" laurie , when are you going to your grandfather ? " she asked presently , as she settled herself on a rustic seat .

" very soon . "

" you have said that a dozen times within the last three weeks . "

" i dare say , short answers save trouble . "

" he expects you , and you really ought to go . "

" hospitable creature !

i know it . "

" then why don't you do it ? "

" natural depravity , i suppose . "

" natural indolence , you mean .

it 's really dreadful ! " and amy looked severe .

" what are you doing just now ? "

" watching lizards . "

" no , no .

i mean what do you intend and wish to do ? "

" smoke a cigarette , if you 'll allow me . "

" how provoking you are !

i don't approve of cigars and i will only allow it on condition that you let me put you into my sketch .

i need a figure . "

" with all the pleasure in life .

how will you have me , full length or three-quarters , on my head or my heels ?

i should respectfully suggest a recumbent posture , then put yourself in also and call it ' dolce far niente ' . "

" stay as you are , and go to sleep if you like .

i intend to work hard , " said amy in her most energetic tone .

" what delightful enthusiasm ! " and he leaned against a tall urn with an air of entire satisfaction .

" as usual , ' go away , teddy .

i 'm busy ! ' "

it was gone before she could study it and the listless expression back again .

" wish i was ! "

" that 's a foolish wish , unless you have spoiled your life .

that satisfied her and set at rest the doubts that had begun to worry her lately .

it also touched her , and she showed that it did , by the cordial tone in which she said ....y

" i 'm glad of that !

" i 'm all ready for the secrets . " and he glanced up with a decided expression of interest in his eyes .

" i 've none to tell .

you may begin . "

" haven't one to bless myself with .

i thought perhaps you 'd had some news from home . . "

" you have heard all that has come lately .

don't you hear often ?

i fancied jo would send you volumes . "

" she 's very busy .

i 'm roving about so , it 's impossible to be regular , you know .

" never , " she answered , with a despondent but decided air .

" why should you , with so much energy and talent ? "

" that 's just why , because talent isn't genius , and no amount of energy can make it so .

i want to be great , or nothing .

i won't be a common-place dauber , so i don't intend to try any more . "

" and what are you going to do with yourself now , if i may ask ? "

" polish up my other talents , and be an ornament to society , if i get the chance . "

it was a characteristic speech , and sounded daring , but audacity becomes young people , and amy 's ambition had a good foundation .

" good !

and here is where fred vaughn comes in , i fancy . "

may i ? "

" i don't promise to answer . "

" your face will , if your tongue won't .

you aren't woman of the world enough yet to hide your feelings , my dear .

" you are not engaged , i hope ? " and laurie looked very elder-brotherly and grave all of a sudden .

" no . "

" but you will be , if he comes back and goes properly down on his knees , won't you ? "

" very likely . "

" then you are fond of old fred ? "

" i could be , if i tried . "

" but you don't intend to try till the proper moment ?

bless my soul , what unearthly prudence !

he 's a good fellow , amy , but not the man i fancied you 'd like . "

" i understand .

queens of society can't get on without money , so you mean to make a good match , and start in that way ?

quite right and proper , as the world goes , but it sounds odd from the lips of one of your mother 's girls . "

" true , nevertheless . "

a short speech , but the quiet decision with which it was uttered contrasted curiously with the young speaker .

laurie felt this instinctively and laid himself down again , with a sense of disappointment which he could not explain .

" i wish you 'd do me the favor to rouse yourself a little , " she said sharply .

" do it for me , there 's a dear girl . "

" i could , if i tried . " and she looked as if she would like doing it in the most summary style .

" try , then .

i give you leave , " returned laurie , who enjoyed having someone to tease , after his long abstinence from his favorite pastime .

" you 'd be angry in five minutes . "

" i 'm never angry with you .

it takes two flints to make a fire .

you are as cool and soft as snow . "

" you don't know what i can do .

snow produces a glow and a tingle , if applied rightly .

your indifference is half affectation , and a good stirring up would prove it . "

" stir away , it won't hurt me and it may amuse you , as the big man said when his little wife beat him .

" flo and i have got a new name for you .

it 's lazy laurence .

how do you like it ? "

she thought it would annoy him , but he only folded his arms under his head , with an imperturbable , " that 's not bad .

thank you , ladies . "

" do you want to know what i honestly think of you ? "

" pining to be told . "

" well , i despise you . "

" why , if you please ? "

" because , with every chance for being good , useful , and happy , you are faulty , lazy , and miserable . "

" strong language , mademoiselle . "

" if you like it , i 'll go on . "

" pray do , it 's quite interesting . "

" i thought you 'd find it so .

selfish people always like to talk about themselves . "

" i 'll show you how , for i 've studied you while we were frolicking , and i 'm not at all satisfied with you .

here you have been abroad nearly six months , and done nothing but waste time and money and disappoint your friends . "

" isn't a fellow to have any pleasure after a four-year grind ? "

" you don't look as if you 'd had much .

at any rate , you are none the better for it , as far as i can see .

i said when we first met that you had improved .

now i take it all back , for i don't think you half so nice as when i left you at home .

with money , talent , position , health , and beauty , ah you like that old vanity !

" saint laurence on a gridiron , " added laurie , blandly finishing the sentence .

" i supposed you 'd take it so .

amy spoke bitterly , and turned her back on the exasperating martyr at her feet .

dear soul , i wish she was here to help me ! "

" so do i ! "

the hand vanished as suddenly as it came , and there was energy enough in the echo of her wish to suit even amy .

girls are quick to read such signs and feel their eloquence .

amy had fancied that perhaps a love trouble was at the bottom of the alteration , and now she was sure of it .

" i think they would , " came from under the hat , in a grim tone , quite as touching as a broken one .

" i beg pardon , i thought ....y " and there she paused diplomatically .

" i did think so , but as they never said anything about it , and you came away , i supposed i was mistaken .

and jo wouldn't be kind to you ?

why , i was sure she loved you dearly . "

it 's her fault though , and you may tell her so . "

" i was wrong , i didn't know .

i 'm very sorry i was so cross , but i can't help wishing you 'd bear it better , teddy , dear . "

" wait till you 've tried it yourself , " he added in a low voice , as he pulled up the grass by the handful .

he felt as if suddenly shaken out of a pensive dream and found it impossible to go to sleep again .

presently he sat up and asked slowly , " do you think jo would despise me as you do ? "

" yes , if she saw you now .

she hates lazy people .

why don't you do something splendid , and make her love you ? "

" i did my best , but it was no use . "

" graduating well , you mean ?

that was no more than you ought to have done , for your grandfather 's sake .

it would have been shameful to fail after spending so much time and money , when everyone knew that you could do well . "

" that 's impossible . "

" try it and see .

you needn't shrug your shoulders , and think , ' much she knows about such things ' .

i don't pretend to be wise , but i am observing , and i see a great deal more than you 'd imagine .

i 'm interested in other people 's experiences and inconsistencies , and though i can't explain , i remember and use them for my own benefit .

there , i won't lecture any more , for i know you 'll wake up and be a man in spite of that hardhearted girl . "

neither spoke for several minutes .

presently she put it on his knee , merely saying , " how do you like that ? "

" as you are .

this is as you were . " and amy laid another sketch beside the one he held .

only a rough sketch of laurie taming a horse .

that satisfied her , and without waiting for him to speak , she said , in her sprightly way ....v

" don't you remember the day you played rarey with puck , and we all looked on ?

meg and beth were frightened , but jo clapped and pranced , and i sat on the fence and drew you .

i found that sketch in my portfolio the other day , touched it up , and kept it to show you . "

" much obliged .

you 've improved immensely since then , and i congratulate you .

may i venture to suggest in ' a honeymoon paradise ' that five o'clock is the dinner hour at your hotel ? "

amy felt the shade of coldness in his manner , and said to herself ....y

" now , i 've offended him .

they laughed and chatted all the way home , and little baptiste , up behind , thought that monsieur and madamoiselle were in charming spirits .

but both felt ill at ease .

" shall we see you this evening , mon frere ? " asked amy , as they parted at her aunt 's door .

" unfortunately i have an engagement .

something in his face made amy say quickly and warmly ....y

" no , be yourself with me , laurie , and part in the good old way .

i 'd rather have a hearty english handshake than all the sentimental salutations in france . "

next morning , instead of the usual call , amy received a note which made her smile at the beginning and sigh at the end .

a pleasant winter to you , and may the gods grant you a blissful honeymoon at valrosa !

i think fred would be benefited by a rouser .

tell him so , with my congratulations .

yours gratefully , telemachus

" good boy !

i 'm glad he 's gone , " said amy , with an approving smile .

chapter forty

the valley of the shadow

they put away their grief , and each did his or her part toward making that last year a happy one .

ah me !

jo never left her for an hour since beth had said " i feel stronger when you are here . "

precious and helpful hours to jo , for now her heart received the teaching that it needed .

seeing this did more for jo than the wisest sermons , the saintliest hymns , the most fervent prayers that any voice could utter .

the name caught her eye and the blurred look of the lines made her sure that tears had fallen on it .

" poor jo !

she 's fast asleep , so i won't wake her to ask leave .

my beth

sitting patient in the shadow till the blessed light shall come , a serene and saintly presence sanctifies our troubled home .

earthly joys and hopes and sorrows break like ripples on the strand of the deep and solemn river where her willing feet now stand .

dear , bequeath me that great patience which has power to sustain a cheerful , uncomplaining spirit in its prison-house of pain .

give me that unselfish nature , that with charity divine can pardon wrong for love 's dear sake meek heart , forgive me mine !

thus our parting daily loseth something of its bitter pain , and while learning this hard lesson , my great loss becomes my gain .

for the touch of grief will render my wild nature more serene , give to life new aspirations , a new trust in the unseen .

henceforth , safe across the river , i shall see forever more a beloved , household spirit waiting for me on the shore .

as she sat with the paper folded between her hands , the charred log fell asunder .

jo started up , revived the blaze , and crept to the bedside , hoping beth slept .

" not asleep , but so happy , dear .

see , i found this and read it .

i knew you wouldn't care .

have i been all that to you , jo ? " she asked , with wistful , humble earnestness .

" oh , beth , so much , so much ! " and jo 's head went down upon the pillow beside her sister 's .

" then i don't feel as if i 'd wasted my life .

i 'm not so good as you make me , but i have tried to do right .

" more than any one in the world , beth .

you must take my place , jo , and be everything to father and mother when i 'm gone .

chapter forty-one

learning to forget

amy 's lecture did laurie good , though , of course , he did not own it till long afterward .

then they act upon it , and , if it succeeds , they give the weaker vessel half the credit of it .

if it fails , they generously give her the whole .

there was nothing the young gentleman would have liked better , but elephants could not have dragged him back after the scolding he had received .

" go and do something splendid that will make her love you . "

he had always meant to do something , and amy 's advice was quite unnecessary .

he had only been waiting till the aforesaid blighted affections were decently interred .

that being done , he felt that he was ready to ' hide his stricken heart , and still toil on ' .

then he tried an opera , for nothing seemed impossible in the beginning , but here again unforeseen difficulties beset him .

he wanted jo for his heroine , and called upon his memory to supply him with tender recollections and romantic visions of his love .

when he looked about him for another and a less intractable damsel to immortalize in melody , memory produced one with the most obliging readiness .

" it 's genius simmering , perhaps .

" she is right !

talent isn't genius , and you can't make it so .

that music has taken the vanity out of me as rome took it out of her , and i won't be a humbug any longer .

now what shall i do ? "

that seemed a hard question to answer , and laurie began to wish he had to work for his daily bread .

i dare say you don't , mrs grundy , but it 's true nevertheless .

let the boys be boys , the longer the better , and let the young men sow their wild oats if they must .

laurie 's heart wouldn't ache .

the wound persisted in healing with a rapidity that astonished him , and instead of trying to forget , he found himself trying to remember .

he had not foreseen this turn of affairs , and was not prepared for it .

he carefully stirred up the embers of his lost love , but they refused to burst into a blaze .

" well , he was a great man , and when he couldn't have one sister he took the other , and was happy . "

i haven't forgotten , i never can .

i 'll try again , and if that fails , why then ....y "

couldn't she , wouldn't she and let him come home and be happy ?

while waiting for an answer he did nothing , but he did it energetically , for he was in a fever of impatience .

it came at last , and settled his mind effectually on one point , for jo decidedly couldn't and wouldn't .

she was wrapped up in beth , and never wished to hear the word love again .

then she begged him to be happy with somebody else , but always keep a little corner of his heart for his loving sister jo .

" so i will , at once .

the correspondence flourished famously , and letters flew to and fro with unfailing regularity all through the early spring .

laurie sold his busts , made allumettes of his opera , and went back to paris , hoping somebody would arrive before long .

it troubled her to remember that now , she wished she could take it back , it sounded so unwomanly .

she didn't want laurie to think her a heartless , worldly creature .

she didn't care to be a queen of society now half so much as she did to be a lovable woman .

she was so glad he didn't hate her for the dreadful things she said , but took them so beautifully and was kinder than ever .

his letters were such a comfort , for the home letters were very irregular and not half so satisfactory as his when they did come .

she ought to have made an effort and tried to love him .

it couldn't be very hard , many people would be proud and glad to have such a dear boy care for them .

but jo never would act like other girls , so there was nothing to do but be very kind and treat him like a brother .

amy never lectured now .

that was all , but he understood it , and looked relieved , as he said to himself , with a venerable air ....y

" i was sure she would think better of it .

poor old fellow !

i 've been through it all , and i can sympathize . "

while these changes were going on abroad , trouble had come at home .

if monsieur would give himself the pain of sitting down , a flash of time should present her .

but monsieur could not wait even a ' flash of time ' , and in the middle of the speech departed to find mademoiselle himself .

" oh , laurie , laurie , i knew you 'd come to me ! "

as he sat down beside her , amy felt shy again , and turned rosy red at the recollection of her impulsive greeting .

" i couldn't help it , i felt so lonely and sad , and was so very glad to see you .

" i came the minute i heard .

i wish i could say something to comfort you for the loss of dear little beth , but i can only feel , and ....y "

he could not get any further , for he too turned bashful all of a sudden , and did not quite know what to say .

" you needn't say anything , this comforts me , " she said softly .

we won't talk about it now , for it makes me cry , and i want to enjoy you while you stay .

you needn't go right back , need you ? "

" not if you want me , dear . "

" i do , so much .

" poor little soul , you look as if you 'd grieved yourself half sick !

bless my heart , i never thought of such a thing ! "

at nice , laurie had lounged and amy had scolded .

the invigorating air did them both good , and much exercise worked wholesome changes in minds as well as bodies .

they seemed to get clearer views of life and duty up there among the everlasting hills .

the fresh winds blew away desponding doubts , delusive fancies , and moody mists .

the warm spring sunshine brought out all sorts of aspiring ideas , tender hopes , and happy thoughts .

his second wooing , he resolved , should be as calm and simple as possible .

it all came about so naturally that no one could complain , and he knew that everybody would be pleased , even jo .

" you must be tired .

rest a little , and let me row .

it will do me good , for since you came i have been altogether lazy and luxurious . "

" i 'm not tired , but you may take an oar , if you like .

" how well we pull together , don't we ? " said amy , who objected to silence just then .

" so well that i wish we might always pull in the same boat .

will you , amy ? " very tenderly .

" yes , laurie , " very low .

chapter forty-two

all alone

it was easy to promise self-abnegation when self was wrapped up in another , and heart and soul were purified by a sweet example .

some people seemed to get all sunshine , and some all shadow .

" i can't do it .

come back ! " she did not stretch out her yearning arms in vain .

i need it more than she did , for i 'm all wrong . "

she gave him entire confidence , he gave her the help she needed , and both found consolation in the act .

" you thoughtful creeter , you 're determined we shan't miss that dear lamb ef you can help it .

we don't say much , but we see it , and the lord will bless you for't , see ef he don't . "

" marriage is an excellent thing , after all .

" it 's just what you need to bring out the tender womanly half of your nature , jo .

love will make you show your heart one day , and then the rough burr will fall off . "

" frost opens chestnut burrs , ma'am , and it takes a good shake to bring them down .

grief is the best opener of some hearts , and jo 's was nearly ready for the bag .

providence had taken her at her word .

here was the task , not what she had expected , but better because self had no part in it .

now , could she do it ?

she decided that she would try , and in her first attempt she found the helps i have suggested .

" why don't you write ?

that always used to make you happy , " said her mother once , when the desponding fit over-shadowed jo .

" i 've no heart to write , and if i had , nobody cares for my things . "

" we do .

write something for us , and never mind the rest of the world .

try it , dear .

i 'm sure it would do you good , and please us very much . "

" don't believe i can . "

but jo got out her desk and began to overhaul her half-finished manuscripts .

" i don't understand it .

what can there be in a simple little story like that to make people praise it so ? " she said , quite bewildered .

" there is truth in it , jo , that 's the secret .

humor and pathos make it alive , and you have found your style at last .

you wrote with no thoughts of fame and money , and put your heart into it , my daughter .

you have had the bitter , now comes the sweet .

do your best , and grow as happy as we are in your success . "

" if there is anything good or true in what i write , it isn't mine .

" you like it , mother ? " said jo , as they laid down the closely written sheets and looked at one another .

" yes , i hoped it would be so , ever since amy wrote that she had refused fred .

" how sharp you are , marmee , and how silent !

you never said a word to me . "

" mothers have need of sharp eyes and discreet tongues when they have girls to manage .

i was half afraid to put the idea into your head , lest you should write and congratulate them before the thing was settled . "

" i 'm not the scatterbrain i was .

you may trust me .

i 'm sober and sensible enough for anyone 's confidante now . "

so i fancied that your boy might fill the empty place if he tried now . "

" no , mother , it is better as it is , and i 'm glad amy has learned to love him .

but you are right in one thing .

" i 'm glad of that , jo , for it shows that you are getting on .

" mothers are the best lovers in the world , but i don't mind whispering to marmee that i 'd like to try all kinds .

it 's very curious , but the more i try to satisfy myself with all sorts of natural affections , the more i seem to want .

i'd no idea hearts could take in so many .

mine is so elastic , it never seems full now , and i used to be quite contented with my family .

i don't understand it . "

" it is so beautiful to be loved as laurie loves me .

" and that 's our cool , reserved , and worldly amy !

truly , love does work miracles .

by-and-by jo roamed away upstairs , for it was rainy , and she could not walk .

she drew them out , turned them over , and relived that pleasant winter at kind mrs kirke 's .

" wait for me , my friend .

i may be a little late , but i shall surely come . "

" oh , if he only would !

so kind , so good , so patient with me always , my dear old fritz .

was it all self-pity , loneliness , or low spirits ?

or was it the waking up of a sentiment which had bided its time as patiently as its inspirer ?

who shall say ?

chapter forty-three

surprises

jo was alone in the twilight , lying on the old sofa , looking at the fire , and thinking .

it was her favorite way of spending the hour of dusk .

almost twenty-five , and nothing to show for it .

jo was mistaken in that .

there was a good deal to show , and by-and-by she saw , and was grateful for it .

" an old maid , that 's what i'm to be .

it seldom is , at first , and thirty seems the end of all things to five-and-twenty .

at twenty-five , girls begin to talk about being old maids , but secretly resolve that they never will be .

and looking at them with compassion , not contempt , girls in their bloom should remember that they too may miss the blossom time .

but , like jenny in the ballad ....v

" she could not think it he , "

and lay staring up at him in startled silence , till he stooped and kissed her .

then she knew him , and flew up , crying joyfully ....y

" oh my teddy !

oh my teddy ! "

" dear jo , you are glad to see me , then ? "

" glad !

my blessed boy , words can't express my gladness .

where 's amy ? "

" your mother has got her down at meg 's .

we stopped there by the way , and there was no getting my wife out of their clutches . "

" your what ? " cried jo , for laurie uttered those two words with an unconscious pride and satisfaction which betrayed him .

" oh , the dickens !

now i 've done it , " and he looked so guilty that jo was down on him like a flash .

" you 've gone and got married ! "

" actually married ? "

" very much so , thank you . "

" mercy on us .

what dreadful thing will you do next ? " and jo fell into her seat with a gasp .

" a characteristic , but not exactly complimentary , congratulation , " returned laurie , still in an abject attitude , but beaming with satisfaction .

get up , you ridiculous boy , and tell me all about it . "

" not a word , unless you let me come in my old place , and promise not to barricade . "

so , come and ' fess , teddy . "

" how good it sounds to hear you say ' teddy ' !

no one ever calls me that but you , " and laurie sat down with an air of great content .

" what does amy call you ? "

" my lord . "

" that 's like her .

well , you look it , " and jo 's eye plainly betrayed that she found her boy comelier than ever .

both felt it , and for a minute looked at one another as if that invisible barrier cast a little shadow over them .

it was gone directly however , for laurie said , with a vain attempt at dignity ....y

" don't i look like a married man and the head of a family ? "

" not a bit , and you never will .

you 've grown bigger and bonnier , but you are the same scapegrace as ever . "

" now really , jo , you ought to treat me with more respect , " began laurie , who enjoyed it all immensely .

" it 's no use your going out in the cold to get amy , for they are all coming up presently .

i couldn't wait .

" of course you did , and spoiled your story by beginning at the wrong end .

now , start right , and tell me how it all happened .

i 'm pining to know . "

" well , i did it to please amy , " began laurie , with a twinkle that made jo exclaim ....wh

" fib number one .

amy did it to please you .

go on , and tell the truth , if you can , sir . "

" now she 's beginning to marm it .

isn't it jolly to hear her ? " said laurie to the fire , and the fire glowed and sparkled as if it quite agreed .

" it 's all the same , you know , she and i being one .

but grandpa wanted to come home .

so i just settled the difficulty by saying , ' let 's be married , and then we can do as we like ' . "

" of course you did .

you always have things to suit you . "

" not always , " and something in laurie 's voice made jo say hastily ....y

" how did you ever get aunt to agree ? "

" it was hard work , but between us , we talked her over , for we had heaps of good reasons on our side .

" a trifle , perhaps , she 's such a captivating little woman i can't help being proud of her .

well , then uncle and aunt were there to play propriety .

jo put her hand in his as he said that , and laurie gently smoothed the little red pillow , which he remembered well .

" we wanted to surprise you .

my faith !

wasn't it love among the roses ! "

" jo , dear , i want to say one thing , and then we 'll put it by forever .

amy and you changed places in my heart , that 's all .

i was a boy then , headstrong and violent , and it took a hard lesson to show me my mistake .

for it was one , jo , as you said , and i found it out , after making a fool of myself .

but i couldn't , and when i saw her in switzerland , everything seemed to clear up all at once .

will you believe it , and go back to the happy old times when we first knew one another ? "

" i 'll believe it , with all my heart , but , teddy , we never can be boy and girl again .

the happy old times can't come back , and we mustn't expect it .

we are man and woman now , with sober work to do , for playtime is over , and we must give up frolicking .

i 'm sure you feel this .

i see the change in you , and you 'll find it in me .

why , it seems only yesterday that i was buttoning amy 's pinafore , and pulling your hair when you teased .

mercy me , how time does fly ! "

" as one of the children is older than yourself , you needn't talk so like a grandma .

" you may be a little older in years , but i 'm ever so much older in feeling , teddy .

women always are , and this last year has been such a hard one that i feel forty . "

" poor jo !

we left you to bear it alone , while we went pleasuring .

you are older .

here 's a line , and there 's another .

unless you smile , your eyes look sad , and when i touched the cushion , just now , i found a tear on it .

you 've had a great deal to bear , and had to bear it all alone .

what a selfish beast i 've been ! " and laurie pulled his own hair , with a remorseful look .

i am lonely , sometimes , but i dare say it 's good for me , and ....n "

" if i shouldn't be in the way , it would be very pleasant .

i begin to feel quite young already , for somehow all my troubles seemed to fly away when you came .

" you are the same jo still , dropping tears about one minute , and laughing the next .

you look a little wicked now .

what is it , grandma ? "

" i was wondering how you and amy get on together . "

" like angels ! "

" yes , of course , but which rules ? "

" i don't mind telling you that she does now , at least i let her think so , it pleases her , you know .

by-and-by we shall take turns , for marriage , they say , halves one 's rights and doubles one 's duties . "

" you 'll go on as you begin , and amy will rule you all the days of your life . "

" well , she does it so imperceptibly that i don't think i shall mind much .

she is the sort of woman who knows how to rule well .

" that ever i should live to see you a henpecked husband and enjoying it ! " cried jo , with uplifted hands .

my wife and i respect ourselves and one another too much ever to tyrannize or quarrel . "

" i am sure of that .

amy and you never did quarrel as we used to .

she is the sun and i the wind , in the fable , and the sun managed the man best , you remember . "

" she can blow him up as well as shine on him , " laughed laurie .

" such a lecture as i got at nice !

i give you my word it was a deal worse than any of your scoldings , a regular rouser .

" what baseness !

well , if she abuses you , come to me , and i 'll defend you . "

where 's my dear old jo ? "

it was good to see him beam at ' my children ' , as he called the young pair .

jo thought , as she watched the pair , " how well they look together !

" love has done much for our little girl , " said her mother softly .

a flank movement produced an unconditional surrender , however , for laurie knew where to have him .

" young man , when i first had the honor of making your acquaintance you hit me in the face .

such a happy procession as filed away into the little dining room !

mr. march proudly escorted mrs laurence .

mrs ..y march as proudly leaned on the arm of ' my son ' .

amy , who was handed about like refreshments , returned to the parlor on father laurence 's arm .

the others paired off as before , and this arrangement left jo companionless .

she did not mind it at the minute , for she lingered to answer hannah 's eager inquiry .

" shouldn't wonder if she drove six white horses , ate off gold plate , and wore diamonds and point lace every day .

teddy thinks nothing too good for her , " returned jo with infinite satisfaction .

" no more there is !

will you have hash or fishballs for breakfast ? " asked hannah , who wisely mingled poetry and prose .

" i don't care , " and jo shut the door , feeling that food was an uncongenial topic just then .

it won't do to be dismal now . "

" no , we haven't , only the family .

my sister and friends have just come home , and we are all very happy .

come in , and make one of us . "

" if i shall not be monsieur de trop , i will so gladly see them all .

you haf been ill , my friend ? "

" not ill , but tired and sorrowful .

we have had trouble since i saw you last . "

" ah , yes , i know .

if the stranger had any doubts about his reception , they were set at rest in a minute by the cordial welcome he received .

everyone greeted him kindly , for jo 's sake at first , but very soon they liked him for his own .

for poverty enriches those who live above it , and is a sure passport to truly hospitable spirits .

but it did not last long .

he got interested in spite of himself , and before he knew it , was drawn into the circle .

for mr bhaer talked well in this genial atmosphere , and did himself justice .

then his eyes would turn to jo so wistfully that she would have surely answered the mute inquiry if she had seen it .

lastly , mr bhaer was dressed in a new suit of black , which made him look more like a gentleman than ever .

" dear old fellow !

they were not all there .

the little chair stood in its old place .

i am here . "

" play something , amy .

let them hear how much you have improved , " said laurie , with pardonable pride in his promising pupil .

but amy whispered , with full eyes , as she twirled the faded stool , " not tonight , dear .

i can't show off tonight . "

the room was very still , when the clear voice failed suddenly at the last line of beth 's favorite hymn .

it was hard to say ....y

earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal ;

and amy leaned against her husband , who stood behind her , feeling that her welcome home was not quite perfect without beth 's kiss .

" now , we must finish with mignon 's song , for mr bhaer sings that , " said jo , before the pause grew painful .

and mr bhaer cleared his throat with a gratified " hem ! " as he stepped into the corner where jo stood , saying ....v

" you will sing with me ?

we go excellently well together . "

a pleasing fiction , by the way , for jo had no more idea of music than a grasshopper .

but she would have consented if he had proposed to sing a whole opera , and warbled away , blissfully regardless of time and tune .

know'st thou the land where the citron blooms ,

there , oh there , might i with thee , o , my beloved , go

the song was considered a great success , and the singer retired covered with laurels .

he forgot himself still further when laurie said , in his most gracious manner , at parting ....y

" my wife and i are very glad to meet you , sir .

please remember that there is always a welcome waiting for you over the way . "

" i know he is a good one , " added mrs. march , with decided approval , as she wound up the clock .

" i thought you 'd like him , " was all jo said , as she slipped away to her bed .

chapter forty-four

my lord and lady

" please , madam mother , could you lend me my wife for half an hour ?

" certainly .

" weathercock can without the wind , " suggested jo , as he paused for a simile .

jo had grown quite her own saucy self again since teddy came home .

don't know anything about the north , but am altogether salubrious and balmy , hey , my lady ? "

" lovely weather so far .

i don't know how long it will last , but i 'm not afraid of storms , for i 'm learning how to sail my ship .

come home , dear , and i 'll find your bootjack .

i suppose that 's what you are rummaging after among my things .

men are so helpless , mother , " said amy , with a matronly air , which delighted her husband .

" we have our plans .

we don't mean to say much about them yet , because we are such very new brooms , but we don't intend to be idle .

i 'm going into business with a devotion that shall delight grandfather , and prove to him that i 'm not spoiled .

i need something of the sort to keep me steady .

i 'm tired of dawdling , and mean to work like a man . "

that 's about it , isn't it , madame recamier ? " asked laurie with a quizzical look at amy .

" time will show .

" i know it will .

happy amy ! " and jo sighed , then smiled brightly as professor bhaer opened the gate with an impatient push .

" my lord ! "

" that man intends to marry our jo ! "

" i hope so , don't you , dear ? "

" now , laurie , don't be too fastidious and worldly-minded .

if they love one another it doesn't matter a particle how old they are nor how poor .

women never should marry for money ....y "

amy caught herself up short as the words escaped her , and looked at her husband , who replied , with malicious gravity ....y

" certainly not , though you do hear charming girls say that they intend to do it sometimes .

if my memory serves me , you once thought it your duty to make a rich match .

that accounts , perhaps , for your marrying a good-for-nothing like me . "

" oh , my dearest boy , don't , don't say that !

i forgot you were rich when i said ' yes ' .

and amy , who was very dignified in public and very fond in private , gave convincing proofs of the truth of her words .

" you don't really think i am such a mercenary creature as i tried to be once , do you ?

" am i an idiot and a brute ?

" yes , i am , and admiring the mole in your chin at the same time .

i don't wish to make you vain , but i must confess that i 'm prouder of my handsome husband than of all his money .

don't laugh , but your nose is such a comfort to me , " and amy softly caressed the well-cut feature with artistic satisfaction .

" of course , you may . "

" shall you care if jo does marry mr bhaer ? "

" oh , that's the trouble is it ?

i thought there was something in the dimple that didn't quite suit you .

do you doubt it , my darling ? "

amy looked up at him , and was satisfied .

her little jealous fear vanished forever , and she thanked him , with a face full of love and confidence .

" i wish we could do something for that capital old professor .

" jo would find us out , and spoil it all .

she is very proud of him , just as he is , and said yesterday that she thought poverty was a beautiful thing . "

" bless her dear heart !

she won't think so when she has a literary husband , and a dozen little professors and professorins to support .

we won't interfere now , but watch our chance , and do them a good turn in spite of themselves .

" how delightful it is to be able to help others , isn't it ?

" ah , we 'll do quantities of good , won't we ?

there 's one sort of poverty that i particularly like to help .

yet there are a thousand ways of helping them , if one only knows how to do it so delicately that it does not offend .

i must say , i like to serve a decayed gentleman better than a blarnerying beggar .

i suppose it 's wrong , but i do , though it is harder . "

" because it takes a gentleman to do it , " added the other member of the domestic admiration society .

" thank you , i 'm afraid i don't deserve that pretty compliment .

if they haven't , it 's a pleasure to comfort the poor souls , and keep them from despair when they find it out . "

" yes , indeed , and there 's another class who can't ask , and who suffer in silence .

" rich people have no right to sit down and enjoy themselves , or let their money accumulate for others to waste .

we 'll have a good time ourselves , and add an extra relish to our own pleasure by giving other people a generous taste .

will you be a little dorcas , going about emptying a big basket of comforts , and filling it up with good deeds ? "

" it 's a bargain , and we shall get the best of it ! "

chapter forty-five

daisy and demi

if there ever were a pair of twins in danger of being utterly spoiled by adoration , it was these prattling brookes .

at three , daisy demanded a ' needler ' , and actually made a bag with four stitches in it .

though utterly unlike in character , the twins got on remarkably well together , and seldom quarreled more than thrice a day .

a rosy , chubby , sunshiny little soul was daisy , who found her way to everybody 's heart , and nestled there .

her small virtues were so sweet that she would have been quite angelic if a few small naughtinesses had not kept her delightfully human .

" it 's your little mind , demi , " replied the sage , stroking the yellow head respectfully .

" what is a little mine ? "

" open me .

i want to see it go wound . "

" i can't do that any more than you could open the watch .

god winds you up , and you go till he stops you . "

" does i ? " and demi 's brown eyes grew big and bright as he took in the new thought .

" is i wounded up like the watch ? "

" yes , but i can't show you how , for it is done when we don't see . "

he 's getting great bumps over his eyes , and learning to ask the most unanswerable questions . "

" if he is old enough to ask the question he is old enough to receive true answers .

i am not putting the thoughts into his head , but helping him unfold those already there .

these children are wiser than we are , and i have no doubt the boy understands every word i have said to him .

now , demi , tell me where you keep your mind . "

" no more raisins , demi .

they 'll make you sick , " says mamma to the young person who offers his services in the kitchen with unfailing regularity on plum-pudding day .

" me likes to be sick . "

" i don't want to have you , so run away and help daisy make patty cakes . "

" truly , marmar ? " asks demi , with a brilliant idea in his well-powdered head .

" yes , truly .

but demi corners her by the cool reply ....y

" then we 'll go and eat up all the raisins . "

aunt dodo was chief playmate and confidante of both children , and the trio turned the little house topsy-turvy .

but when mr bhaer came , jo neglected her playfellows , and dismay and desolation fell upon their little souls .

daisy , who was fond of going about peddling kisses , lost her best customer and became bankrupt .

mr bhaer 's devotion was sincere , however likewise effective for honesty is the best policy in love as in law .

mr bhaer came in one evening to pause on the threshold of the study , astonished by the spectacle that met his eye .

" father , father , here 's the professor ! "

excuse me for a moment .

we are just finishing our lesson .

now , demi , make the letter and tell its name . "

" what have you been at today , bubchen ? " asked mr bhaer , picking up the gymnast .

" me went to see little mary . "

" and what did you there ? "

" i kissed her , " began demi , with artless frankness .

" prut !

thou beginnest early .

" oh , she liked it , and she kissed me , and i liked it .

don't little boys like little girls ? " asked demi , with his mouth full , and an air of bland satisfaction .

" you precocious chick !

who put that into your head ? " said jo , enjoying the innocent revelation as much as the professor .

" thou shouldst save some for the little friend .

demi also saw the smile , was impressed by it , and artlessy inquired . ..

" do great boys like great girls , to , ' fessor ? "

chapter forty-six

under the umbrella

then , if she was going to meg 's he always had something for the babies .

under the circumstances , what could jo do but greet him civilly , and invite him in ?

she was mortally afraid of being laughed at for surrendering , after her many and vehement declarations of independence .

for a fortnight , the professor came and went with lover-like regularity .

" disgusted , i dare say , and gone home as suddenly as he came .

" you 'd better take the little umbrella , dear .

it looks like rain , " said her mother , observing that she had on her new bonnet , but not alluding to the fact .

" yes , marmee , do you want anything in town ?

" yes , i want some twilled silesia , a paper of number nine needles , and two yards of narrow lavender ribbon .

have you got your thick boots on , and something warm under your cloak ? "

" i believe so , " answered jo absently .

" if you happen to meet mr bhaer , bring him home to tea .

i quite long to see the dear man , " added mrs . march .

what do girls do who haven't any mothers to help them through their troubles ? "

a drop of rain on her cheek recalled her thoughts from baffled hopes to ruined ribbons .

jo , i 'm ashamed of you !

no , you shall not go there to borrow an umbrella , or find out where he is , from his friends .

now then ! "

" i feel to know the strong-minded lady who goes so bravely under many horse noses , and so fast through much mud .

what do you down here , my friend ? "

" i 'm shopping . "

may i go also , and take for you the bundles ? "

" yes , thank you . "

" we thought you had gone , " said jo hastily , for she knew he was looking at her .

her bonnet wasn't big enough to hide her face , and she feared he might think the joy it betrayed unmaidenly .

" no , i didn't .

i knew you were busy about your own affairs , but we rather missed you , father and mother especially . "

" and you ? "

" i 'm always glad to see you , sir . "

" i thank you , and come one more time before i go . "

" you are going , then ? "

" i haf no longer any business here , it is done . "

" successfully , i hope ? " said jo , for the bitterness of disappointment was in that short reply of his .

" tell me , please !

i like to know all about the the boys , " said jo eagerly .

" that is so kind , i gladly tell you .

for this i should be grateful , should i not ? "

" indeed you should .

" ah !

but we shall not meet often , i fear , this place is at the west . "

mr bhaer could read several languages , but he had not learned to read women yet .

when she met him she looked surprised , though it was impossible to help suspecting that she had come for that express purpose .

on learning his good fortune she almost clapped her hands .

was the joy all for the boys ?

" here 's the place for my errands .

will you come in ?

it won't take long . "

but owing to the flutter she was in , everything went amiss .

" may they haf oranges and figs ? " asked mr bhaer , with a paternal air .

" they eat them when they can get them . "

" do you care for nuts ? "

" like a squirrel . "

" hamburg grapes .

yes , we shall drink to the fatherland in those ? "

" yes , sir ? " and jo 's heart began to beat so hard she was afraid he would hear it .

" i am bold to say it in spite of the rain , because so short a time remains to me . "

" yes , sir , " and jo nearly crushed the small flowerpot with the sudden squeeze she gave it .

" i wish to get a little dress for my tina , and i am too stupid to go alone .

will you kindly gif me a word of taste and help ? "

" yes , sir , " and jo felt as calm and cool all of a sudden as if she had stepped into a refrigerator .

" perhaps also a shawl for tina 's mother , she is so poor and sick , and the husband is such a care .

yes , yes , a thick , warm shawl would be a friendly thing to take the little mother . "

" i 'll do it with pleasure , mr bhaer . "

mr bhaer left it all to her , so she chose a pretty gown for tina , and then ordered out the shawls .

the clerk , being a married man , condescended to take an interest in the couple , who appeared to be shopping for their family .

" your lady may prefer this .

" now shall we go home ? " he asked , as if the words were very pleasant to him .

" yes , it 's late , and i 'm so tired . "

jo 's voice was more pathetic than she knew .

" i beg your pardon .

i didn't see the name distinctly .

never mind , i can walk .

mr bhaer saw the drops on her cheeks , though she turned her head away .

instead of which , that undignified creature answered , with an irrepressible sob , " because you are going away . "

i came to see if you could care for it , and i waited to be sure that i was something more than a friend .

am i ?

can you make a little place in your heart for old fritz ? " he added , all in one breath .

neither could he offer jo his hand , except figuratively , for both were full .

much less could he indulge in tender remonstrations in the open street , though he was near it .

the professor looked as if he had conquered a kingdom , and the world had nothing more to offer him in the way of bliss .

" friedrich , why didn't you ....v "

" i always call you so to myself i forgot , but i won't unless you like it . "

" like it ?

it is more sweet to me than i can tell .

say ' thou ' , also , and i shall say your language is almost as beautiful as mine . "

" isn't ' thou ' a little sentimental ? " asked jo , privately thinking it a lovely monosyllable .

" sentimental ?

yes .

thank gott , we germans believe in sentiment , and keep ourselves young mit it .

" well , then , why didn't thou tell me all this sooner ? " asked jo bashfully .

wouldst thou have said ' yes ' , then , if i had spoken ? "

" i don't know .

i 'm afraid not , for i didn't have any heart just then . "

" prut !

that i do not believe .

it was asleep till the fairy prince came through the wood , and waked it up .

ah , well , ' die erste liebe ist die beste ' , but that i should not expect . "

" yes , the first love is the best , but be so contented , for i never had another .

teddy was only a boy , and soon got over his little fancy , " said jo , anxious to correct the professor 's mistake .

" good !

then i shall rest happy , and be sure that thou givest me all .

i haf waited so long , i am grown selfish , as thou wilt find , professorin . "

" i like that , " cried jo , delighted with her new name .

" now tell me what brought you , at last , just when i wanted you ? "

" this , " and mr bhaer took a little worn paper out of his waistcoat pocket .

" how could that bring you ? " she asked , wondering what he meant .

" i found it by chance .

i knew it by the names and the initials , and in it there was one little verse that seemed to call me .

read and find him .

i will see that you go not in the wet . "

in the garret

" meg " on the first lid , smooth and fair .

ah , happy mother !

well i know you hear , like a sweet refrain , lullabies ever soft and low in the falling summer rain .

the songs she sang , without lament , in her prison-house of pain , forever are they sweetly blent with the falling summer rain .

i haf a heart full , full for her .

" and so you came to find that it was not too poor , but the one precious thing i needed , " whispered jo .

" i had no courage to think that at first , heavenly kind as was your welcome to me .

" i 'm glad you are poor .

i couldn't bear a rich husband , " said jo decidedly , adding in a softer tone , " don't fear poverty .

i couldn't help loving you if you were seventy ! "

the professor found that so touching that he would have been glad of his handkerchief , if he could have got at it .

as he couldn't , jo wiped his eyes for him , and said , laughing , as she took away a bundle or two ....v

i 'm to carry my share , friedrich , and help to earn the home .

make up your mind to that , or i 'll never go , " she added resolutely , as he tried to reclaim his load .

" we shall see .

haf you patience to wait a long time , jo ?

i must go away and do my work alone .

i must help my boys first , because , even for you , i may not break my word to minna .

can you forgif that , and be happy while we hope and wait ? "

" yes , i know i can , for we love one another , and that makes all the rest easy to bear .

i have my duty , also , and my work .

i couldn't enjoy myself if i neglected them even for you , so there 's no need of hurry or impatience .

" ah !

jo led her lover in , and shut the door .

chapter forty-seven

harvest time

the second year began rather soberly , for their prospects did not brighten , and aunt march died suddenly .

" you don't mean to live there ? "

" yes , i do . "

" but , my dear girl , it 's an immense house , and will take a power of money to keep it in order .

the garden and orchard alone need two or three men , and farming isn't in bhaer 's line , i take it . "

" he 'll try his hand at it there , if i propose it . "

" and you expect to live on the produce of the place ?

well , that sounds paradisiacal , but you 'll find it desperate hard work . "

" the crop we are going to raise is a profitable one , " and jo laughed .

" of what is this fine crop to consist , ma'am ? "

" boys .

" that 's a truly joian plan for you !

isn't that just like her ? " cried laurie , appealing to the family , who looked as much surprised as he .

" i like it , " said mrs . march decidedly .

" it will be an immense care for jo , " said meg , stroking the head of her one all-absorbing son .

" jo can do it , and be happy in it .

it 's a splendid idea .

" i knew you 'd stand by me , sir .

amy does too i see it in her eyes , though she prudently waits to turn it over in her mind before she speaks .

money doesn't stay in his pocket long enough to lay up any .

it 's just the place for boys , the house is big , and the furniture strong and plain .

there 's plenty of room for dozens inside , and splendid grounds outside .

they could help in the garden and orchard .

such work is healthy , isn't it , sir ?

then fritz could train and teach in his own way , and father will help him .

i can feed and nurse and pet and scold them , and mother will be my stand-by .

think what luxury plumfield my own , and a wilderness of boys to enjoy it with me . "

" i don't see anything funny , " she said gravely , when she could be heard .

" she is putting on airs already , " said laurie , who regarded the idea in the light of a capital joke .

" but may i inquire how you intend to support the establishment ?

if all the pupils are little ragamuffins , i 'm afraid your crop won't be profitable in a worldly sense , mrs bhaer . "

" now don't be a wet-blanket , teddy .

of course i shall have rich pupils , also perhaps begin with such altogether .

then , when i 've got a start , i can take in a ragamuffin or two , just for a relish .

rich people 's children often need care and comfort , as well as poor .

i 've seen unfortunate little creatures left to servants , or backward ones pushed forward , when it 's real cruelty .

some are naughty through mismanagment or neglect , and some lose their mothers .

besides , the best have to get through the hobbledehoy age , and that 's the very time they need most patience and kindness .

they don't complain much plucky little souls but they feel it .

i 've been through something of it , and i know all about it .

i 've had experience , too , for haven't i brought up one boy to be a pride and honor to his family ? "

" i 'll testify that you tried to do it , " said laurie with a grateful look .

yes , and when i have my flock , i 'll just point to you , and say ' there 's your model , my lads ' . "

" i say , jo , that 's rather too much , " he began , just in his old boyish way .

" you have all done more for me than i can ever thank you for , except by doing my best not to disappoint you .

you have rather cast me off lately , jo , but i 've had the best of help , nevertheless .

" when i have one of my own , i hope it will be as happy as the three i know and love the best .

if john and my fritz were only here , it would be quite a little heaven on earth , " she added more quietly .

it was a very astonishing year altogether , for things seemed to happen in an unusually rapid and delightful manner .

almost before she knew where she was , jo found herself married and settled at plumfield .

every room in the big house was soon full .

every little plot in the garden soon had its owner .

a regular menagerie appeared in barn and shed , for pet animals were allowed .

yes , jo was a very happy woman there , in spite of hard work , much anxiety , and a perpetual racket .

there were a great many holidays at plumfield , and one of the most delightful was the yearly apple-picking .

for then the marches , laurences , brookes and bhaers turned out in full force and made a day of it .

the old orchard wore its holiday attire .

goldenrod and asters fringed the mossy walls .

grasshoppers skipped briskly in the sere grass , and crickets chirped like fairy pipers at a feast .

squirrels were busy with their small harvesting .

everybody was there .

everybody laughed and sang , climbed up and tumbled down .

mr. march strolled placidly about , quoting tusser , cowley , and columella to mr laurence , while enjoying ....y

the gentle apple 's winey juice .

at four o'clock a lull took place , and baskets remained empty , while the apple pickers rested and compared rents and bruises .

the little girls had a private tea party , and ted roved among the edibles at his own sweet will .

" now , grandma 's sixtieth birthday !

long life to her , with three times three ! "

that was given with a will , as you may well believe , and the cheering once begun , it was hard to stop it .

every stitch daisy 's patient little fingers had put into the handkerchiefs she hemmed was better than embroidery to mrs. march .

after this , the boys dispersed for a final lark , leaving mrs . march and her daughters under the festival tree .

" and yet your life is very different from the one you pictured so long ago .

do you remember our castles in the air ? " asked amy , smiling as she watched laurie and john playing cricket with the boys .

" dear fellows !

" yes , i remember , but the life i wanted then seems selfish , lonely , and cold to me now .

" my castle was the most nearly realized of all .

i 've begun to model a figure of baby , and laurie says it is the best thing i 've ever done .

this cross was doing much for both father and mother , for one love and sorrow bound them closely together .

amy 's nature was growing sweeter , deeper , and more tender .

into each life some rain must fall , some days must be dark and sad and dreary .

" she is growing better , i am sure of it , my dear .

so , in spite of my one cross , i can say with meg , ' thank god , i 'm a happy woman . ' "

" fritz is getting gray and stout .

i 'm growing as thin as a shadow , and am thirty .

but in spite of these unromantic facts , i have nothing to complain of , and never was so jolly in my life .

excuse the remark , but living among boys , i can't help using their expressions now and then . "

" not half so good as yours , mother .

" i hope there will be more wheat and fewer tares every year , " said amy softly .

" a large sheaf , but i know there 's room in your heart for it , marmee dear , " added meg 's tender voice .

" oh , my girls , however long you may live , i never can wish you a greater happiness than this ! "

end of the project gutenberg ebook of little women , by louisa may alcott