inflections 0.4.0.7 → 0.4.1.0
raw patch · 8 files changed
+23082/−15 lines, 8 filesdep +criteriondep +weighdep ~basedep ~containersdep ~exceptionsnew-uploaderPVP: major bump suggested
API removals or changes: PVP suggests a major version bump
Dependencies added: criterion, weigh
Dependency ranges changed: base, containers, exceptions, text
API changes (from Hackage documentation)
- Text.Inflections: [SomeWord] :: (Transformable (Word t), Show (Word t)) => Word t -> SomeWord
+ Text.Inflections: [SomeWord] :: forall (t :: WordType). (Transformable (Word t), Show (Word t)) => Word t -> SomeWord
- Text.Inflections: unWord :: Word t -> Text
+ Text.Inflections: unWord :: forall (t :: WordType). Word t -> Text
Files
- CHANGELOG.md +8/−0
- README.md +54/−2
- Text/Inflections/Parameterize.hs +5/−1
- bench/little_women.txt +22848/−0
- bench/memory/Main.hs +67/−0
- bench/speed/Main.hs +58/−0
- inflections.cabal +39/−9
- test/Text/Inflections/ParametrizeSpec.hs +3/−3
CHANGELOG.md view
@@ -1,3 +1,11 @@+## Inflections 0.4.1.0+* Fix `parameterize` emitting non-alphanumeric characters when the transliteration table maps an input to a string containing punctuation (e.g. `ʼn` previously produced `'n`; now produces `n`). The output is now filtered to `[a-z0-9_-]` as the docs imply. Note: this is an observable behavior change for affected inputs, hence the minor-version bump.+* Bump bounds for `text` and `containers` to support GHC 9.10 and 9.12+* Tighten lower bound on `text` to `>= 1.2.3` to reflect actual minimum+* Widen upper bound on `exceptions` to `< 0.12`+* Add `tested-with` covering GHC 8.4 through 9.12+* CI now tests GHC 8.4 through 9.12+ ## Inflections 0.4.0.7 * Bump bounds for `text` in order to support ghc-9.6.1
README.md view
@@ -6,6 +6,10 @@ [](http://stackage.org/lts/package/inflections) [](https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/actions/workflows/build.yml) +<!-- ALL-CONTRIBUTORS-BADGE:START - Do not remove or modify this section -->+[](#contributors-)+<!-- ALL-CONTRIBUTORS-BADGE:END -->+ This library is a partial port of the [String Inflector](http://api.rubyonrails.org/classes/ActiveSupport/Inflector.html) from Ruby on Rails. It currently implements methods such as `parameterize`,@@ -59,9 +63,57 @@ For more information, please see the the [Haddock docs for this module](http://hackage.haskell.org/package/inflections/docs/Text-Inflections.html). -## Author+## Contributors ✨ -Justin Leitgeb <justin@stackbuilders.com>+Thanks goes to these wonderful people ([emoji key](https://allcontributors.org/docs/en/emoji-key)):++<!-- ALL-CONTRIBUTORS-LIST:START - Do not remove or modify this section -->+<!-- prettier-ignore-start -->+<!-- markdownlint-disable -->+<table>+ <tbody>+ <tr>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://cristhianmotoche.github.io/"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/8370088?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Cristhian Motoche"/><br /><sub><b>Cristhian Motoche</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=CristhianMotoche" title="Code">💻</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://markkarpov.com/"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/8165792?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Mark Karpov"/><br /><sub><b>Mark Karpov</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=mrkkrp" title="Code">💻</a> <a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=mrkkrp" title="Documentation">📖</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://www.stackbuilders.com/news/author/justin-leitgeb"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/9977?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Justin S. Leitgeb"/><br /><sub><b>Justin S. Leitgeb</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=jsl" title="Code">💻</a> <a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=jsl" title="Documentation">📖</a> <a href="#ideas-jsl" title="Ideas, Planning, & Feedback">🤔</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://github.com/jpvillaisaza"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/584947?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Juan Pedro Villa Isaza"/><br /><sub><b>Juan Pedro Villa Isaza</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=jpvillaisaza" title="Code">💻</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://caurea.org/"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/34538?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Tomas Carnecky"/><br /><sub><b>Tomas Carnecky</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=wereHamster" title="Code">💻</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://twitter.com/4e6"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/357683?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Dmitry Bushev"/><br /><sub><b>Dmitry Bushev</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=4e6" title="Code">💻</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://github.com/nieled"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/20074796?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Daniel Calle"/><br /><sub><b>Daniel Calle</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=nieled" title="Code">💻</a> <a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=nieled" title="Documentation">📖</a></td>+ </tr>+ <tr>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://blog.rcook.org/"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/425396?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Richard Cook"/><br /><sub><b>Richard Cook</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=rcook" title="Code">💻</a> <a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=rcook" title="Documentation">📖</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://github.com/philderbeast"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/633283?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Phil de Joux"/><br /><sub><b>Phil de Joux</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=philderbeast" title="Code">💻</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://github.com/Centeno448"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/40647387?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Diego Centeno"/><br /><sub><b>Diego Centeno</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=Centeno448" title="Code">💻</a> <a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=Centeno448" title="Documentation">📖</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://github.com/Jagl257"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/27145248?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Jorge Guerra Landázuri"/><br /><sub><b>Jorge Guerra Landázuri</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=Jagl257" title="Code">💻</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://github.com/elcuy"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/11718997?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Luis Fernando Alvarez"/><br /><sub><b>Luis Fernando Alvarez</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=elcuy" title="Code">💻</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://github.com/seuros"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/2394703?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Abdelkader Boudih"/><br /><sub><b>Abdelkader Boudih</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=seuros" title="Documentation">📖</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://juancarlos.io/"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/2164411?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Juan Paucar"/><br /><sub><b>Juan Paucar</b></sub></a><br /><a href="#infra-juanpaucar" title="Infrastructure (Hosting, Build-Tools, etc)">🚇</a></td>+ </tr>+ <tr>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="http://s9gf4ult.blogspot.com/"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/105054?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Alexey Uimanov"/><br /><sub><b>Alexey Uimanov</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=s9gf4ult" title="Code">💻</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://github.com/badosu"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/347552?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Amadeus Folego"/><br /><sub><b>Amadeus Folego</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=badosu" title="Code">💻</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://github.com/mecampbellsoup"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/2043821?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Matt Campbell"/><br /><sub><b>Matt Campbell</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=mecampbellsoup" title="Code">💻</a></td>+ <td align="center" valign="top" width="14.28%"><a href="https://github.com/jonap22"><img src="https://avatars.githubusercontent.com/u/76792472?v=4?s=100" width="100px;" alt="Jonathan Puglla"/><br /><sub><b>Jonathan Puglla</b></sub></a><br /><a href="https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/commits?author=jonap22" title="Documentation">📖</a></td>+ </tr>+ </tbody>+ <tfoot>+ <tr>+ <td align="center" size="13px" colspan="7">+ <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/all-contributors/all-contributors-cli/1b8533af435da9854653492b1327a23a4dbd0a10/assets/logo-small.svg">+ <a href="https://all-contributors.js.org/docs/en/bot/usage">Add your contributions</a>+ </img>+ </td>+ </tr>+ </tfoot>+</table>++<!-- markdownlint-restore -->+<!-- prettier-ignore-end -->++<!-- ALL-CONTRIBUTORS-LIST:END -->++This project follows the [all-contributors](https://github.com/all-contributors/all-contributors) specification. Contributions of any kind welcome! ## License
Text/Inflections/Parameterize.hs view
@@ -35,8 +35,12 @@ -- | Transliterate 'Text' with a custom transliteration table. parameterizeCustom :: Transliterations -> Text -> Text-parameterizeCustom m txt = (T.intercalate "-" . T.words) (T.unfoldr f ("", txt))+parameterizeCustom m txt =+ (T.intercalate "-" . T.words . T.map keepAllowed) (T.unfoldr f ("", txt)) where+ keepAllowed c+ | (isAscii c && isAlphaNum c) || c == '_' = c+ | otherwise = ' ' f ("", t) = uncurry g <$> T.uncons t f (x:xs, t) = Just (x, (xs, t)) g x xs
+ bench/little_women.txt view
@@ -0,0 +1,22848 @@+The Project Gutenberg eBook of Little Women; Or, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy+ +This ebook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and+most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions+whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms+of the Project Gutenberg License included with this ebook or online+at www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States,+you will have to check the laws of the country where you are located+before using this eBook.++Title: Little Women; Or, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy+++Author: Louisa May Alcott++Illustrator: Frank T. Merrill++Release date: August 16, 2011 [eBook #37106]+ Most recently updated: May 22, 2023++Language: English++Credits: David Edwards, Ernest Schaal, Robert Homa, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team+++*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LITTLE WOMEN; OR, MEG, JO, BETH, AND AMY ***++++ [Illustration: LITTLE WOMEN+ MEG, JO, BETH, AND AMY+ LOUISA M. ALCOTT]+++++ LITTLE WOMEN.+++[Illustration: "They all drew to the fire, mother in the big chair, with+Beth at her feet"+ (See page 9) FRONTISPIECE]+++++ LITTLE WOMEN+ OR+ Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy+++ BY+ LOUISA M. ALCOTT++ AUTHOR OF "LITTLE MEN," "AN OLD-FASHIONED GIRL"+ "SPINNING-WHEEL STORIES," ETC.+++ _With more than 200 illustrations by Frank T. Merrill+ and a picture of the Home of the Little Women+ by Edmund H. Garrett_+++ BOSTON+ LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY+++++ Entered according to Act of Congress, in the years 1868 and 1869, by+ LOUISA M. ALCOTT,+ In the Clerk's office of the+ District Court of the District of Massachusetts.+++ _Copyright, 1880_,+ BY LOUISA M. ALCOTT.++ _Copyright, 1896_,+ BY JOHN S. P. ALCOTT.+++ BOSTON+ ALFRED MUDGE & SON INC. PRINTERS+++++ [Illustration: Preface]+++ "_Go then, my little Book, and show to all+ That entertain and bid thee welcome shall,+ What thou dost keep close shut up in thy breast;+ And wish what thou dost show them may be blest+ To them for good, may make them choose to be+ Pilgrims better, by far, than thee or me.+ Tell them of Mercy; she is one+ Who early hath her pilgrimage begun.+ Yea, let young damsels learn of her to prize+ The world which is to come, and so be wise;+ For little tripping maids may follow God+ Along the ways which saintly feet have trod._"++ Adapted from JOHN BUNYAN.+++++ [Illustration: Contents]+++ Part First.++ CHAPTER++ I. PLAYING PILGRIMS++ II. A MERRY CHRISTMAS++ III. THE LAURENCE BOY++ IV. BURDENS++ V. BEING NEIGHBORLY++ VI. BETH FINDS THE PALACE BEAUTIFUL++ VII. AMY'S VALLEY OF HUMILIATION++ VIII. JO MEETS APOLLYON++ IX. MEG GOES TO VANITY FAIR++ X. THE P. C. AND P. O.++ XI. EXPERIMENTS++ XII. CAMP LAURENCE++ XIII. CASTLES IN THE AIR++ XIV. SECRETS++ XV. A TELEGRAM++ XVI. LETTERS++ XVII. LITTLE FAITHFUL++ XVIII. DARK DAYS++ XIX. AMY'S WILL++ XX. CONFIDENTIAL++ XXI. LAURIE MAKES MISCHIEF, AND JO MAKES PEACE++ XXII. PLEASANT MEADOWS++ XXIII. AUNT MARCH SETTLES THE QUESTION+++ Part Second.++ XXIV. GOSSIP++ XXV. THE FIRST WEDDING++ XXVI. ARTISTIC ATTEMPTS++ XXVII. LITERARY LESSONS++ XXVIII. DOMESTIC EXPERIENCES++ XXIX. CALLS++ XXX. CONSEQUENCES++ XXXI. OUR FOREIGN CORRESPONDENT++ XXXII. TENDER TROUBLES++ XXXIII. JO'S JOURNAL++ XXXIV. A FRIEND++ XXXV. HEARTACHE++ XXXVI. BETH'S SECRET++ XXXVII. NEW IMPRESSIONS++ XXXVIII. ON THE SHELF++ XXXIX. LAZY LAURENCE++ XL. THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW++ XLI. LEARNING TO FORGET++ XLII. ALL ALONE++ XLIII. SURPRISES++ XLIV. MY LORD AND LADY++ XLV. DAISY AND DEMI++ XLVI. UNDER THE UMBRELLA++ XLVII. HARVEST TIME++ [Illustration: Tail-piece to Contents]+++++ [Illustration: List of illustrations.]+++ [The Illustrations, designed by FRANK T. MERRILL, drawn, engraved,+ and printed under the supervision of GEORGE T. ANDREW.]++ PAGE++ They all drew to the fire, mother in the big chair, with+ Beth at her feet++ Preface++ Contents++ Tail-piece to Contents++ List of Illustrations++ Tail-piece to Illustrations++ Christmas won't be Christmas without any presents++ Beth put a pair of slippers down to warm++ I used to be so frightened when it was my turn to sit in+ the big chair++ Do it this way, clasp your hands so++ It was a cheerful, hopeful letter++ How you used to play Pilgrim's Progress++ No one but Beth could get much music out of the old piano++ At nine they stopped work and sung as usual++ Merry Christmas++ The procession set out++ Out came Meg with gray horse-hair hanging about her face++ A little figure in cloudy white++ The lovers kneeling to receive Don Pedro's blessing++ We talked over the fence++ Tail-piece++ Eating apples and crying over the "Heir of Redclyffe"++ Jo undertook to pinch the papered locks++ Mrs. Gardiner greeted them++ Face to face with the Laurence boy++ They sat down on the stairs++ Tell about the party++ The kitten stuck like a burr just out of reach++ Curling herself up in the big chair++ Reading that everlasting Belsham++ He took her by the ear! by the ear!++ Mr. Laurence hooked up a big fish++ Tail-piece++ Being neighborly++ Laurie opened the window++ Poll tweaked off his wig++ Putting his finger under her chin++ Please give these to your mother++ Tail-piece++ O sir, they do care very much++ Mr. Laurence often opened his study door++ She put both arms around his neck and kissed him++ The Cyclops++ Amy bore without flinching several tingling blows++ You do know her++ Girls, where are you going?++ I burnt it up++ Held Amy up by his arms and hockey++ Packing the go abroady trunk++ Meg's partner appeared++ Asked to be introduced++ I wouldn't, Meg++ Holding a hand of each, Mrs. March said, &c.++ Mr. Pickwick++ Jo threw open the door of the closet++ Jo spent the morning on the river++ Amy sat down to draw++ O Pip! O Pip!++ Miss Crocker made a wry face++ We'll work like bees++ Beth was post-mistress++ Amy capped the climax by putting a clothes-pin on her nose 151++ Mr. Laurence waving his hat++ Now, Miss Jo, I'll settle you++ A very merry lunch it was++ He went prancing down a quiet street++ "Oh, rise," she said++ A stunning blow from the big Greek lexicon++ He sneezed++ The Portuguese walked the plank++ Will you give me a rose?++ Miss Kate put up her glass++ Ellen Tree++ Tail-piece++ Swinging to and fro in his hammock++ It was rather a pretty little picture++ Waved a brake before her face++ I see him bow and smile++ Tail-piece++ Jo was very busy++ Hurrah for Miss March++ Jo darted away++ Jo laid herself on the sofa and affected to read++ November is the most disagreeable month in the year++ One of them horrid telegraph things++ She came suddenly upon Mr. Brooke++ The man clipped++ Tail-piece++ Letters++ She rolled away++ I wind the clock++ Yours Respectful, Hannah Mullet++ Tail-piece++ It didn't stir, and I knew it was dead++ He sat down beside her++ What do you want now?++ Beth did have the fever++ Gently stroking her head as her mother used to do++ Amy's Will++ Polish up the spoons and the fat silver teapot++ On his back, with all his legs in the air++ I should choose this++ Gravely promenaded to and fro++ Amy's Will++ Tail-piece++ Mrs. March would not leave Beth's side++ Tail-piece++ Letters++ Jo and her mother were reading the note++ Get up and don't be a goose++ "Hold your tongue!" cried Jo, covering her ears++ He stood at the foot, like a lion in the path++ Beth was soon able to lie on the study sofa all day++ The Jungfrau++ Popping in her head now and then++ He sat in the big chair by Beth's sofa with the other+ three close by++ Shall I tell you how?++ Bless me, what's all this?++ For Mrs. John Brooke++ Home of the Little Women++ The Dove Cote++ A small watchman's rattle++ Tail-piece++ The First Wedding++ Artistic Attempts++ Her foot held fast in a panful of plaster++ Please don't, it's mine++ Tail-piece++ Literary Lessons++ A check for one hundred dollars++ Tail-piece++ Domestic Experiences++ Both felt desperately uncomfortable++ A bargain, I assure you, ma'am++ Laurie heroically shut his eyes while something was put+ into his arms++ Calls++ She took the saddle to the horse++ It might have been worse++ The call at Aunt March's++ Tail-piece++ You shall have another table++ Bought up the bouquets++ Tail-piece++ Flo and I ordered a hansom-cab++ Every one was very kind, especially the officers++ I've seen the imperial family several times++ Trying to sketch the gray-stone lion's head on the wall++ She leaned her head upon her hands++ Now, this is filling at the price++ Up with the Bonnets of Bonnie Dundee++ I amused myself by dropping gingerbread nuts over+ the seat++ Thou shalt haf thy Bhaer++ He waved his hand, sock and all++ Dis is mine effalunt++ I sat down upon the floor and read and looked and ate++ Tail-piece++ In the presence of three gentlemen++ A select symposium++ He doesn't prink at his glass before coming++ Jo stuffed the whole bundle into the stove++ He put the sisters into the carriage++ He laid his head down on the mossy post++ O Jo, can't you?++ Tail-piece++ With her head in Jo's lap, while the wind blew+ healthfully over her++ Tail-piece++ He hurried forward to meet her++ Here are your flowers++ Demi and Daisy++ Mornin' now++ My dear man, it's a bonnet++ Tail-piece++ Sat piping on a stone while his goats skipped++ Laurie threw himself down on the turf++ A rough sketch of Laurie taming a horse++ The Valley of the Shadow++ Tail-piece++ Sat staring up at the busts++ Turning the ring thoughtfully upon his finger++ O Laurie, Laurie, I knew you'd come++ How well we pull together++ Jo and her father++ Jo laid her head on a comfortable rag-bag and cried++ A substantial lifelike ghost leaning over her++ The tall uncle proceeded to toss and tousle the+ small nephew++ O Mr. Bhaer, I am so glad to see you++ Mr. Bhaer sang heartily++ Mrs. Laurence sitting in her mother's lap++ They began to pace up and down++ Tail-piece++ Me loves evvybody++ What makes my legs go, dranpa?++ Dranpa, it's a We++ Tail-piece++ Mr. Bhaer and Jo were enjoying promenades++ Looking up she saw Mr. Bhaer++ Does this suit you, Mr. Bhaer?++ Under the umbrella++ Tail-piece++ Harvest time++ Teddy bore a charmed life++ Leaving Mrs. March and her daughters under the festival+ tree++ Tail-piece++ [Illustration: Tail-piece to Illustrations]+++++ [Illustration: Christmas won't be Christmas without any presents]++ I.++ 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.++"I don't think it's fair for some girls to have plenty of pretty things,+and other girls nothing at all," added little Amy, with an injured+sniff.++"We've got father and mother and each other," said Beth contentedly,+from her corner.++The four young faces on which the firelight shone brightened at the+cheerful words, but darkened again as Jo said sadly,--++"We haven't got father, and shall not have him for a long time." She+didn't say "perhaps never," but each silently added it, thinking of+father far away, where the fighting was.++Nobody spoke for a minute; then Meg said in an altered tone,--++"You know the reason mother proposed not having any presents this+Christmas was because it is going to be a hard winter for every one; and+she thinks we ought not to spend money for pleasure, when our men are+suffering so in the army. 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 Sintram for myself; I've wanted it _so_ long," said+Jo, who was a bookworm.++"I planned to spend mine in new music," said Beth, with a little sigh,+which no one heard but the hearth-brush and kettle-holder.++"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. Let's each buy what we want, and have a little fun;+I'm sure we work hard enough to earn it," cried Jo, examining the heels+of her shoes in a gentlemanly manner.++"I know _I_ do,--teaching those tiresome children nearly all day, when+I'm longing to enjoy myself at home," began Meg, in the complaining tone+again.++"You don't have half such a hard time as I do," said Jo. "How would you+like to be shut up for hours with a nervous, fussy old lady, who keeps+you trotting, is never satisfied, and worries you till you're ready to+fly out of the window or cry?"++"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 practise well at all;" and Beth looked at her rough+hands with a sigh that any one could hear that time.++"I don't believe any of you suffer as I do," cried Amy; "for you don't+have to go to school with impertinent girls, who plague you if you don't+know your lessons, and laugh at your dresses, and label your father if+he isn't rich, and insult you when your nose isn't nice."++"If you mean _libel_, I'd say so, and not talk about _labels_, as if+papa was a pickle-bottle," advised Jo, laughing.++"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.++"You said the other day, you thought we were a deal happier than the+King children, for they were fighting and fretting all the time, in+spite of their money."++"So I did, Beth. Well, I think we are; for, though we do have to work,+we make fun for ourselves, and are a pretty jolly set, as Jo would say."++"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, unlady-like girls!"++"I hate affected, niminy-piminy chits!"++"'Birds in their little nests agree,'" sang Beth, the peace-maker, with+such a funny face that both sharp voices softened to a laugh, and the+"pecking" ended for that time.++"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. It didn't matter so much+when you were a little girl; but now you are so tall, and turn up your+hair, you should remember that you are a young lady."++"I'm not! and if turning up my hair makes me one, I'll wear it in two+tails till I'm twenty," cried Jo, pulling off her net, and shaking down+a chestnut mane. "I hate to think I've got to grow up, and be Miss+March, and wear long gowns, and look as prim as a China-aster! It's bad+enough to be a girl, anyway, when I like boys' 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 at 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; so you must try to be+contented with making your name boyish, and playing brother to us+girls," said Beth, stroking the rough head at her knee with a hand that+all the dish-washing and dusting in the world could not make ungentle in+its touch.++"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."++"If Jo is a tom-boy and Amy a goose, what am I, please?" asked Beth,+ready to share the lecture.++"You're a dear, and nothing else," answered Meg warmly; and no one+contradicted her, for the "Mouse" was the pet of the family.++As young readers like to know "how people look," we will take this+moment to give them a little sketch of the four sisters, who sat+knitting away in the twilight, while the December snow fell quietly+without, and the fire crackled cheerfully within. It was a comfortable+old room, though the carpet was faded and the furniture very plain; for+a good picture or two hung on the walls, books filled the recesses,+chrysanthemums and Christmas roses bloomed in the windows, and a+pleasant atmosphere of home-peace pervaded it.++Margaret, the eldest of the four, was sixteen, and very pretty, being+plump and fair, with large eyes, plenty of soft, brown hair, a sweet+mouth, and white hands, of which she was rather vain. Fifteen-year-old+Jo was very tall, thin, and brown, and reminded one of a colt; for she+never seemed to know what to do with her long limbs, which were very+much in her way. She had a decided mouth, a comical nose, and sharp,+gray eyes, which appeared to see everything, and were by turns fierce,+funny, or thoughtful. Her long, thick hair was her one beauty; but it+was usually bundled into a net, to be out of her way. Round shoulders+had Jo, big hands and feet, a fly-away look to her clothes, and the+uncomfortable appearance of a girl who was rapidly shooting up into a+woman, and didn't like it. Elizabeth--or Beth, as every one called+her--was a rosy, smooth-haired, bright-eyed girl of thirteen, with a shy+manner, a timid voice, and a peaceful expression, which was seldom+disturbed. Her father called her "Little Tranquillity," and the name+suited her excellently; for she seemed to live in a happy world of her+own, only venturing out to meet the few whom she trusted and loved. Amy,+though the youngest, was a most important person,--in her own opinion at+least. A regular snow-maiden, with blue eyes, and yellow hair, curling+on her shoulders, pale and slender, and always carrying herself like a+young lady mindful of her manners. 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. Somehow the sight of the old shoes had a good+effect upon the girls; for mother was coming, and every one brightened+to welcome her. Meg stopped lecturing, and lighted the lamp, Amy got out+of the easy-chair without being asked, and Jo forgot how tired she was+as she sat up to hold the slippers nearer to the blaze.++ [Illustration: 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.++"I'm the oldest," began Meg, but Jo cut in with a decided--++"I'm the man of the family now papa is away, and _I_ shall provide the+slippers, for he told me to take special care of mother while he was+gone."++"I'll tell you what we'll do," said Beth; "let's each get her something+for Christmas, and not get anything for ourselves."++"That's like you, dear! What will we get?" exclaimed Jo.++Every one thought soberly for a minute; then Meg announced, as if the+idea was suggested by the sight of her own pretty hands, "I shall give+her a nice pair of gloves."++"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.++ [Illustration: I used to be so frightened when it was my+ turn to sit in the big chair]++"I used to be _so_ frightened when it was my turn to sit in the big+chair with the crown on, and see you all come marching round to give the+presents, with a kiss. I liked the things and the kisses, but it was+dreadful to have you sit looking at me while I opened the bundles," said+Beth, who was toasting her face and the bread for tea, at the same time.++"Let Marmee think we are getting things for ourselves, and then surprise+her. We must go shopping to-morrow afternoon, Meg; there is so much to+do about the play for Christmas night," said Jo, marching up and down,+with her hands behind her back and her nose in the air.++"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 won't stop, I know, as long as you can trail round in a white gown+with your hair down, and wear gold-paper jewelry. 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 to-night. 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 any one 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; I don't care if Hugo does come at me with a pistol," returned+Amy, who was not gifted with dramatic power, but was chosen because she+was small enough to be borne out shrieking by the villain of the piece.++ [Illustration: Do it this way, clasp your hands so]++"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.++Amy followed, but she poked her hands out stiffly before her, and jerked+herself along as if she went by machinery; and her "Ow!" was more+suggestive of pins being run into her than of fear and anguish. 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 laugh, 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 do think 'The Witch's Curse, an+Operatic Tragedy,' is rather a nice thing; but I'd like to try Macbeth,+if we only had a trap-door for Banquo. I always wanted to do the killing+part. 'Is that a dagger that I see before me?'" muttered Jo, rolling her+eyes and clutching at the air, as she had seen a famous tragedian do.++"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.++"Glad to find you so merry, my girls," said a cheery voice at the door,+and actors and audience turned to welcome a tall, motherly lady, with a+"can-I-help-you" look about her which was truly delightful. She was not+elegantly dressed, but a noble-looking woman, and the girls thought the+gray cloak and unfashionable bonnet covered the most splendid mother in+the world.++"Well, dearies, how have you got on to-day? There was so much to do,+getting the boxes ready to go to-morrow, that I didn't come home to+dinner. Has any one called, Beth? How is your cold, Meg? Jo, you look+tired to death. Come and kiss me, baby."++While making these maternal inquiries Mrs. March got her wet things off,+her warm slippers on, and sitting down in the easy-chair, drew Amy to+her lap, preparing to enjoy the happiest hour of her busy day. 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,+overturning, and clattering everything she touched; Beth trotted to and+fro between parlor and kitchen, quiet and busy; while Amy gave+directions to every one, as she sat with her hands folded.++As they gathered about the table, Mrs. March said, with a particularly+happy face, "I've got a treat for you after supper."++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. He sends all sorts of loving+wishes for Christmas, and an especial message to you girls," said Mrs.+March, patting her pocket as if she had got a treasure there.++"Hurry and get done! Don't stop to quirk your little finger, and simper+over your plate, Amy," cried Jo, choking in her tea, and dropping her+bread, butter side down, on the carpet, in her haste to get at the+treat.++Beth ate no more, but crept away, to sit in her shadowy corner and brood+over the delight to come, till the others were ready.++"I think it was so splendid in father to go as a chaplain when he was+too old to be drafted, and not strong enough for a soldier," said Meg+warmly.++"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.++"It must be very disagreeable to sleep in a tent, and eat all sorts of+bad-tasting things, and drink out of a tin mug," sighed Amy.++"When will he come home, Marmee?" asked Beth, with a little quiver in+her voice.++"Not for many months, dear, unless he is sick. He will stay and do his+work faithfully as long as he can, and we won't ask for him back a+minute sooner than he can be spared. Now come and hear the letter."++They all drew to the fire, mother in the big chair with Beth at her+feet, Meg and Amy perched on either arm of the chair, and Jo leaning on+the back, where no one would see any sign of emotion if the letter+should happen to be touching.++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; it was a cheerful, hopeful letter, full of+lively descriptions of camp life, marches, and military news; and only+at the end did the writer's heart overflow with fatherly love and+longing for the little girls at home.++ [Illustration: It was a cheerful, hopeful letter]++"Give them all my dear love and a kiss. Tell them I think of them by+day, pray for them by night, and find my best comfort in their affection+at all times. A year seems very long to wait before I see them, but+remind them that while we wait we may all work, so that these hard days+need not be wasted. I know they will remember all I said to them, that+they will be loving children to you, will do their duty faithfully,+fight their bosom enemies bravely, and conquer themselves so+beautifully, that when I come back to them I may be fonder and prouder+than ever of my little women."++Everybody sniffed when they came to that part; Jo wasn't ashamed of the+great tear that dropped off the end of her nose, and Amy never minded+the rumpling of her curls as she hid her face on her mother's shoulder+and sobbed out, "I _am_ a selfish girl! 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'll try and be what he loves to call me, 'a little woman,' and not be+rough and wild; but do my duty here instead of wanting to be somewhere+else," said Jo, thinking that keeping her temper at home was a much+harder task than facing a rebel or two down South.++Beth said nothing, but wiped away her tears with the blue army-sock, and+began to knit with all her might, losing no time in doing the duty that+lay nearest her, while she resolved in her quiet little soul to be all+that father hoped to find her when the year brought round the happy+coming home.++ [Illustration: How you used to play Pilgrim's Progress]++Mrs. March broke the silence that followed Jo's words, by saying in her+cheery voice, "Do you remember how you used to play Pilgrim's Progress+when you were little things? Nothing delighted you more than to have me+tie my piece-bags on your backs for burdens, give you hats and sticks+and rolls of paper, and let you travel through the house from the+cellar, which was the City of Destruction, up, up, to the house-top,+where you had all the lovely things you could collect to make a+Celestial City."++"What fun it was, especially going by the lions, fighting Apollyon, and+passing through the Valley where the hobgoblins were!" said Jo.++"I liked the place where the bundles fell off and tumbled down stairs,"+said Meg.++"My favorite part was when we came out on the flat roof where our+flowers and arbors and pretty things were, and all stood and sung for+joy up there in the sunshine," said Beth, smiling, as if that pleasant+moment had come back to her.++"I don't remember much about it, except that I was afraid of the cellar+and the dark entry, and always liked the cake and milk we had up at the+top. If I wasn't too old for such things, I'd rather like to play it+over again," said Amy, who began to talk of renouncing childish things+at the mature age of twelve.++"We never are too old for this, my dear, because it is a play we are+playing all the time in one way or another. Our burdens are here, our+road is before us, and the longing for goodness and happiness is the+guide that leads us through many troubles and mistakes to the peace+which is a true Celestial City. Now, my little pilgrims, suppose you+begin again, not in play, but in earnest, and see how far on you can get+before father comes home."++"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."++Beth's bundle was such a funny one that everybody wanted to laugh; but+nobody did, for it would have hurt her feelings very much.++"Let us do it," said Meg thoughtfully. "It is only another name for+trying to be good, and the story may help us; for though we do want to+be good, it's hard work, and we forget, and don't do our best."++"We were in the Slough of Despond to-night, and mother came and pulled+us out as Help did in the book. We ought to have our roll of directions,+like Christian. What shall we do about that?" asked Jo, delighted with+the fancy which lent a little romance to the very dull task of doing her+duty.++"Look under your pillows, Christmas morning, and you will find your+guide-book," replied Mrs. March.++They talked over the new plan while old Hannah cleared the table; then+out came the four little work-baskets, and the needles flew as the girls+made sheets for Aunt March. It was uninteresting sewing, but to-night no+one grumbled. They adopted Jo's plan of dividing the long seams into+four parts, and calling the quarters Europe, Asia, Africa, and America,+and in that way got on capitally, especially when they talked about the+different countries as they stitched their way through them.++ [Illustration: No one but Beth could get much music out of the old+ piano]++At nine they stopped work, and sung, as usual, before they went to bed.+No one but Beth could get much music out of the old piano; but she had a+way of softly touching the yellow keys, and making a pleasant+accompaniment to the simple songs they sung. Meg had a voice like a+flute, and she and her mother led the little choir. Amy chirped like a+cricket, and Jo wandered through the airs at her own sweet will, always+coming out at the wrong place with a croak or a quaver that spoilt the+most pensive tune. They had always done this from the time they could+lisp++ "Crinkle, crinkle, 'ittle 'tar,"++and it had become a household custom, for the mother was a born singer.+The first sound in the morning was her voice, as she went about the+house singing like a lark; and the last sound at night was the same+cheery sound, for the girls never grew too old for that familiar+lullaby.++ [Illustration: At nine they stopped work and sung as usual]+++++ [Illustration: A Merry Christmas]++ II.++ A MERRY CHRISTMAS.+++Jo was the first to wake in the gray dawn of Christmas morning. No+stockings hung at the fireplace, and for a moment she felt as much+disappointed as she did long ago, when her little sock fell down because+it was so crammed with goodies. Then she remembered her mother's+promise, and, slipping her hand under her pillow, drew out a little+crimson-covered book. She knew it very well, for it was that beautiful+old story of the best life ever lived, and Jo felt that it was a true+guide-book for any pilgrim going the long journey. She woke Meg with a+"Merry Christmas," and bade her see what was under her pillow. A+green-covered book appeared, with the same picture inside, and a few+words written by their mother, which made their one present very+precious in their eyes. Presently Beth and Amy woke, to rummage and find+their little books also,--one dove-colored, the other blue; and all sat+looking at and talking about them, while the east grew rosy with the+coming day.++In spite of her small vanities, Margaret had a sweet and pious nature,+which unconsciously influenced her sisters, especially Jo, who loved her+very tenderly, and obeyed her because her advice was so gently given.++"Girls," said Meg seriously, looking from the tumbled head beside her to+the two little night-capped ones in the room beyond, "mother wants us to+read and love and mind these books, and we must begin at once. We used+to be faithful about it; but since father went away, and all this war+trouble unsettled us, we have neglected many things. You can do as you+please; but _I_ shall keep my book on the table here, and read a little+every morning as soon as I wake, for I know it will do me good, and help+me through the day."++Then she opened her new book and began to read. Jo put her arm round+her, and, leaning cheek to cheek, read also, with the quiet expression+so seldom seen on her restless face.++"How good Meg is! Come, Amy, let's do as they do. I'll help you with the+hard words, and they'll explain things if we don't understand,"+whispered Beth, very much impressed by the pretty books and her sisters'+example.++"I'm glad mine is blue," said Amy; and then the rooms were very still+while the pages were softly turned, and the winter sunshine crept in to+touch the bright heads and serious faces with a Christmas greeting.++"Where is mother?" asked Meg, as she and Jo ran down to thank her for+their gifts, half an hour later.++"Goodness only knows. Some poor creeter come a-beggin', and your ma went+straight off to see what was needed. There never _was_ such a woman for+givin' away vittles and drink, clothes and firin'," replied Hannah, who+had lived with the family since Meg was born, and was considered by them+all more as a friend than a servant.++"She will be back soon, I think; so fry your cakes, and have everything+ready," said Meg, looking over the presents which were collected in a+basket and kept under the sofa, ready to be produced at the proper time.+"Why, where is Amy's bottle of cologne?" she added, as the little flask+did not appear.++"She took it out a minute ago, and went off with it to put a ribbon on+it, or some such notion," replied Jo, dancing about the room to take the+first stiffness off the new army-slippers.++"How nice my handkerchiefs look, don't they? Hannah washed and ironed+them for me, and I marked them all myself," said Beth, looking proudly+at the somewhat uneven letters which had cost her such labor.++"Bless the child! she's gone and put 'Mother' on them instead of 'M.+March.' How funny!" cried Jo, taking up one.++"Isn't it right? I thought it was better to do it so, because Meg's+initials are 'M. M.,' and I don't want any one to use these but Marmee,"+said Beth, looking troubled.++"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.++"Where have you been, and what are you hiding behind you?" asked Meg,+surprised to see, by her hood and cloak, that lazy Amy had been out so+early.++"Don't laugh at me, Jo! I didn't mean any one should know till the time+came. I only meant to change the little bottle for a big one, and I gave+_all_ my money to get it, and I'm truly trying not to be selfish any+more."++As she spoke, Amy showed the handsome flask which replaced the cheap+one; and looked so earnest and humble in her little effort to forget+herself that Meg hugged her on the spot, and Jo pronounced her "a+trump," while Beth ran to the window, and picked her finest rose to+ornament the stately bottle.++"You see I felt ashamed of my present, after reading and talking about+being good this morning, so I ran round the corner and changed it the+minute I was up: and I'm _so_ glad, for mine is the handsomest now."++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 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 new-born 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?"++They were all unusually hungry, having waited nearly an hour, and for a+minute no one spoke; only a minute, for Jo exclaimed impetuously,--++"I'm so glad you came before we began!"++"May I go and help carry the things to the poor little children?" asked+Beth, eagerly.++"_I_ shall take the cream and the muffins," added Amy, heroically giving+up the articles 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. "You+shall all go and help me, and when we come back we will have bread and+milk for breakfast, and make it up at dinner-time."++They were soon ready, and the procession set out. Fortunately it was+early, and they went through back streets, so few people saw them, and+no one laughed at the queer party.++ [Illustration: The procession set out]++A poor, bare, miserable room it was, with broken windows, no fire,+ragged bed-clothes, a sick mother, wailing baby, and a group of pale,+hungry children cuddled under one old quilt, trying to keep warm.++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 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. Mrs. March gave the mother+tea and gruel, and comforted her with promises of help, while she+dressed the little baby as tenderly as if it had been her own. The+girls, meantime, spread the table, set the children round the fire, and+fed them like so many hungry birds,--laughing, talking, and trying to+understand the funny broken English.++"Das ist gut!" "Die Engel-kinder!" cried the poor things, as they ate,+and warmed their purple hands at the comfortable blaze.++The girls had never been called angel children before, and thought it+very agreeable, especially Jo, who had been considered a "Sancho" ever+since she was born. That was a very happy breakfast, though they didn't+get any of it; and when they went away, leaving comfort behind, I think+there were not in all the city four merrier people than the hungry+little girls who gave away their breakfasts and contented themselves+with bread and milk on Christmas morning.++"That's loving our neighbor better than ourselves, and I like it," said+Meg, as they set out their presents, while their mother was upstairs+collecting clothes for the poor Hummels.++Not a very splendid show, but there was a great deal of love done up in+the few little bundles; and the tall vase of red roses, white+chrysanthemums, and trailing vines, which stood in the middle, gave+quite an elegant air to the table.++"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. Mrs. March was both surprised and touched;+and smiled with her eyes full as she examined her presents, and read the+little notes which accompanied them. The slippers went on at once, a new+handkerchief was slipped into her pocket, well scented with Amy's+cologne, the rose was fastened in her bosom, and the nice gloves were+pronounced a "perfect fit."++There was a good deal of laughing and kissing and explaining, in the+simple, loving fashion which makes these home-festivals so pleasant at+the time, so sweet to remember long afterward, and then all fell to+work.++The morning charities and ceremonies took so much time that the rest of+the day was devoted to preparations for the evening festivities. Being+still too young to go often to the theatre, and not rich enough to+afford any great outlay for private performances, the girls put their+wits to work, and--necessity being the mother of invention,--made+whatever they needed. Very clever were some of their+productions,--pasteboard guitars, antique lamps made of old-fashioned+butter-boats covered with silver paper, gorgeous robes of old cotton,+glittering with tin spangles from a pickle factory, and armor covered+with the same useful diamond-shaped bits, left in sheets when the lids+of tin preserve-pots were cut out. The furniture was used to being+turned topsy-turvy, and the big chamber was the scene of many innocent+revels.++No gentlemen were admitted; so Jo played male parts to her heart's+content, and took immense satisfaction in a pair of russet-leather boots+given her by a friend, who knew a lady who knew an actor. These boots,+an old foil, and a slashed doublet once used by an artist for some+picture, were Jo's chief treasures, and appeared on all occasions. The+smallness of the company made it necessary for the two principal actors+to take several parts apiece; and they certainly deserved some credit+for the hard work they did in learning three or four different parts,+whisking in and out of various costumes, and managing the stage besides.+It was excellent drill for their memories, a harmless amusement, and+employed many hours which otherwise would have been idle, lonely, or+spent in less profitable society.++On Christmas night, a dozen girls piled on to the bed which was the+dress-circle, and sat before the blue and yellow chintz curtains in a+most flattering state of expectancy. There was a good deal of rustling+and whispering behind the curtain, a trifle of lamp-smoke, and an+occasional giggle from Amy, who was apt to get hysterical in the+excitement of the moment. Presently a bell sounded, the curtains flew+apart, and the Operatic Tragedy began.++"A gloomy wood," according to the one play-bill, was represented by a+few shrubs in pots, green baize on the floor, and a cave in the+distance. This cave was made with a clothes-horse for a roof, bureaus+for walls; and in it was a small furnace in full blast, with a black pot+on it, and an old witch bending over it. The stage was dark, and the+glow of the furnace had a fine effect, especially as real steam issued+from the kettle when the witch took off the cover. A moment was allowed+for the first thrill to subside; then Hugo, the villain, stalked in with+a clanking sword at his side, a slouched hat, black beard, mysterious+cloak, and the boots. After pacing to and fro in much agitation, he+struck his forehead, and burst out in a wild strain, singing of his+hatred to Roderigo, his love for Zara, and his pleasing resolution to+kill the one and win the other. The gruff tones of Hugo's voice, with an+occasional shout when his feelings overcame him, were very impressive,+and the audience applauded the moment he paused for breath. Bowing with+the air of one accustomed to public praise, he stole to the cavern, and+ordered Hagar to come forth with a commanding "What ho, minion! I need+thee!"++[Illustration: Out came Meg with gray horse-hair hanging about her face]++Out came Meg, with gray horse-hair hanging about her face, a red and+black robe, a staff, and cabalistic signs upon her cloak. 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!"++ [Illustration: A little figure in cloudy white]++A soft strain of music sounded, and then at the back of the cave+appeared a little figure in cloudy white, with glittering wings, golden+hair, and a garland of roses on its head. Waving a wand, it sang,--++ "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. Another chant from Hagar produced another apparition,--not a+lovely one; for, with a bang, an ugly black imp appeared, and, having+croaked a reply, tossed a dark bottle at Hugo, and disappeared with a+mocking laugh. Having warbled his thanks and put the potions in his+boots, Hugo departed; and Hagar informed the audience that, as he had+killed a few of her friends in times past, she has cursed him, and+intends to thwart his plans, and be revenged on him. Then the curtain+fell, and the audience reposed and ate candy while discussing the merits+of the play.++A good deal of hammering went on before the curtain rose again; but when+it became evident what a masterpiece of stage-carpentering had been got+up, no one murmured at the delay. It was truly superb! A tower rose to+the ceiling; half-way up appeared a window, with a lamp burning at it,+and behind the white curtain appeared Zara in a lovely blue and silver+dress, waiting for Roderigo. He came in gorgeous array, with plumed cap,+red cloak, chestnut love-locks, 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,--it caught in the window; the tower tottered, leaned forward,+fell with a crash, and buried the unhappy lovers in the ruins!++A universal shriek arose as the russet boots waved wildly from the+wreck, and a golden head emerged, exclaiming, "I told you so! I told you+so!" With wonderful presence of mind, Don Pedro, the cruel sire, rushed+in, dragged out his daughter, with a hasty aside,--++"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 of 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. A stout little retainer came in with chains, and led them+away, looking very much frightened, and evidently forgetting the speech+he ought to have made.++Act third was the castle hall; and here Hagar appeared, having come to+free the lovers and finish Hugo. She hears him coming, and hides; sees+him put the potions into two cups of wine, and bid the timid little+servant "Bear them to the captives in their cells, and tell them I shall+come anon." 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. Hugo, getting thirsty after a long+warble, drinks it, loses his wits, and, after a good deal of clutching+and stamping, falls flat and dies; while Hagar informs him what she has+done in a song of exquisite power and melody.++This was a truly thrilling scene, though some persons might have thought+that the sudden tumbling down of a quantity of long hair rather marred+the effect of the villain's death. He was called before the curtain, and+with great propriety appeared, leading Hagar, whose singing was+considered more wonderful than all the rest of the performance put+together.++Act fourth displayed the despairing Roderigo on the point of stabbing+himself, because he has been told that Zara has deserted him. Just as+the dagger is at his heart, a lovely song is sung under his window,+informing him that Zara is true, but in danger, and he can save her, if+he will. A key is thrown in, which unlocks the door, and in a spasm of+rapture he tears off his chains, and rushes away to find and rescue his+lady-love.++Act fifth opened with a stormy scene between Zara and Don Pedro. He+wishes her to go into a convent, but she won't hear of it; and, after a+touching appeal, is about to faint, when Roderigo dashes in and demands+her hand. Don Pedro refuses, because he is not rich. They shout and+gesticulate tremendously, but cannot agree, and Roderigo is about to+bear away the exhausted Zara, when the timid servant enters with a+letter and a bag from Hagar, who has mysteriously disappeared. The+latter informs the party that she bequeaths untold wealth to the young+pair, and an awful doom to Don Pedro, if he doesn't make them happy. 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": he consents without a murmur, all join in a+joyful chorus, and the curtain falls upon the lovers kneeling to receive+Don Pedro's blessing in attitudes of the most romantic grace.++ [Illustration: The lovers kneeling to receive Don Pedro's blessing]++Tumultuous applause followed, but received an unexpected check; for the+cot-bed, on which the "dress-circle" was built, suddenly shut up, and+extinguished the enthusiastic audience. 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. It was like Marmee to+get up a little treat for them; but anything so fine as this was+unheard-of since the departed days of plenty. There was+ice-cream,--actually two dishes of it, pink and white,--and cake and+fruit and distracting French bonbons, and, in the middle of the table,+four great bouquets of hot-house flowers!++It quite took their breath away; and they stared first at the table and+then at their mother, who looked as if she enjoyed it immensely.++"Is it fairies?" asked Amy,++"It's 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. He knew my father, years ago;+and he sent me a polite note this afternoon, saying he hoped I would+allow him to express his friendly feeling toward my children by sending+them a few trifles in honor of the day. 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. He looks as if he'd like to know us;+but he's bashful, and Meg is so prim she won't let me speak to him when+we pass," said Jo, as the plates went round, and the ice began to melt+out of sight, with "Ohs!" and "Ahs!" of satisfaction.++"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."++"Our cat ran away once, and he brought her back, and we talked over the+fence, and were getting on capitally,--all about cricket, and so+on,--when he saw Meg coming, and walked off. I mean to know him some+day; for he needs fun, I'm sure he does," said Jo decidedly.++ [Illustration: We talked over the fence]++"I like his manners, and he looks like a little gentleman; so I've no+objection to your knowing him, if a proper opportunity comes. 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, some time, 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."++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Eating apples and crying over the "Heir of Redclyffe"]++ III.++ THE LAURENCE BOY.+++"Jo! Jo! where are you?" cried Meg, at the foot of the garret stairs.++"Here!" answered a husky voice from above; and, running up, Meg found+her sister eating apples and crying over the "Heir of Redclyffe,"+wrapped up in a comforter on an old three-legged sofa by the sunny+window. This was Jo's favorite refuge; and here she loved to retire with+half a dozen russets and a nice book, to enjoy the quiet and the society+of a pet rat who lived near by, and didn't mind her a particle. 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! a regular note of invitation from Mrs. Gardiner for+to-morrow night!" cried Meg, waving the precious paper, and then+proceeding to read it, with girlish delight.++"'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?"++"What's the use of asking that, when you know we shall wear our poplins,+because we haven't got anything else?" answered Jo, with her mouth full.++"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. I shall have a new ribbon for my hair, and Marmee+will lend me her little pearl pin, and my new slippers are lovely, and+my gloves will do, though they aren't as nice as I'd like."++"Mine are spoilt with lemonade, and I can't get any new ones, so I shall+have to go without," said Jo, who never troubled herself much about+dress.++"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 spoilt the others, that she shouldn't+get you any more this winter. Can't you make them do?" asked Meg+anxiously.++"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?"++"Your hands are bigger than mine, and you will stretch my glove+dreadfully," began Meg, whose gloves were a tender point with her.++"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."++So Meg went away to "accept with thanks," look over her dress, and sing+blithely as she did up her one real lace frill; while Jo finished her+story, her four apples, and had a game of romps with Scrabble.++On New-Year's Eve the parlor was deserted, for the two younger girls+played dressing-maids, and the two elder were absorbed in the+all-important business of "getting ready for the party." Simple as the+toilets were, there was a great deal of running up and down, laughing+and talking, and at one time a strong smell of burnt hair pervaded the+house. Meg wanted a few curls about her face, and Jo undertook to pinch+the papered locks with a pair of hot tongs.++ [Illustration: Jo undertook to pinch the papered locks]++"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 burnt feathers," observed Amy, smoothing+her own pretty curls with a superior air.++"There, now I'll take off the papers and you'll see a cloud of little+ringlets," said Jo, putting down the tongs.++She did take off the papers, but no cloud of ringlets appeared, for the+hair came with the papers, and the horrified hair-dresser laid a row of+little scorched bundles on the bureau before her victim.++"Oh, oh, oh! what _have_ you done? I'm spoilt! 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. I'm so sorry, but the tongs were too hot, and so I've made a+mess," groaned poor Jo, regarding the black pancakes with tears of+regret.++"It isn't spoilt; just frizzle it, and tie your ribbon so the ends come+on your forehead a bit, and it will look like the last fashion. 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.++After various lesser mishaps, Meg was finished at last, and by the+united exertions of the family Jo's hair was got up and her dress on.+They looked very well in their simple suits,--Meg in silvery drab, with+a blue velvet snood, lace frills, and the pearl pin; 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." Meg's+high-heeled slippers were very tight, and hurt her, though she would not+own it, and Jo's nineteen hair-pins all seemed stuck straight into her+head, which was not exactly comfortable; but, dear me, let us be elegant+or die!++"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,--++"Girls, girls! _have_ you both got nice pocket-handkerchiefs?"++"Yes, yes, spandy nice, and Meg has cologne on hers," cried Jo, adding,+with a laugh, as they went on, "I do believe Marmee would ask that if we+were all running away from an earthquake."++"It is one of her aristocratic tastes, and quite proper, for a real lady+is always known by neat boots, gloves, and handkerchief," replied Meg,+who had a good many little "aristocratic tastes" of her own.++"Now don't forget to keep the bad breadth out of sight, Jo. Is my sash+right? and does my hair look _very_ bad?" said Meg, as she turned from+the glass in Mrs. Gardiner's dressing-room, after a prolonged prink.++"I know I shall forget. If you see me doing anything wrong, just remind+me by a wink, will you?" returned Jo, giving her collar a twitch and her+head a hasty brush.++"No, winking isn't lady-like; I'll lift my eyebrows if anything is+wrong, and nod if you are all right. Now hold your shoulders straight,+and take short steps, and don't shake hands if you are introduced to any+one: it isn't the thing."++"How _do_ you learn all the proper ways? I never can. Isn't that music+gay?"++ [Illustration: Mrs. Gardiner greeted them]++Down they went, feeling a trifle timid, for they seldom went to parties,+and, informal as this little gathering was, it was an event to them.+Mrs. Gardiner, a stately old lady, greeted them kindly, and handed them+over to the eldest of her six daughters. Meg knew Sallie, and was at her+ease very soon; but Jo, who didn't care much for girls or girlish+gossip, stood about, with her back carefully against the wall, and felt+as much out of place as a colt in a flower-garden. Half a dozen jovial+lads were talking about skates in another part of the room, and she+longed to go and join them, for skating was one of the joys of her life.+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 near her dwindled away, till she was left alone. She could not+roam about and amuse herself, for the burnt breadth would show, so she+stared at people rather forlornly till the dancing began. Meg was asked+at once, and the tight slippers tripped about so briskly that none would+have guessed the pain their wearer suffered smilingly. Jo saw a big+red-headed youth approaching her corner, and fearing he meant to engage+her, she slipped into a curtained recess, intending to peep and enjoy+herself in peace. Unfortunately, another bashful person had chosen the+same refuge; for, as the curtain fell behind her, she found herself face+to face with the "Laurence boy."++ [Illustration: Face to face with the Laurence boy]++"Dear me, I didn't know any one was here!" stammered Jo, preparing to+back out as speedily as she had bounced in.++But the boy laughed, and said pleasantly, though he looked a little+startled,--++"Don't mind me; stay, if you like."++"Sha'n'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."++The boy sat down again and looked at his pumps, till Jo said, trying to+be polite and easy,--++"I think I've had the pleasure of seeing you before; you live near us,+don't you?"++"Next door"; and he looked up and laughed outright, for Jo's prim manner+was rather funny when he remembered how they had chatted about cricket+when he brought the cat home.++That put Jo at her ease; and she laughed too, as she said, in her+heartiest way,--++"We did have such a good time over your nice Christmas present."++"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!"++"My first name is Theodore, but I don't like it, for the fellows called+me Dora, so I made them say Laurie instead."++"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 every one is+lively. In a place like this I'm sure to upset something, tread on+people's toes, or do something dreadful, so I keep out of mischief, and+let Meg sail about. 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."++Laurie didn't seem to know where to begin; but Jo's eager questions soon+set him going, and he told her how he had been at school in Vevay, where+the boys never wore hats, and had a fleet of boats on the lake, and for+holiday fun went walking trips about Switzerland with their teachers.++"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 any thing else at Vevay."++"Do say some! I can read it, but can't pronounce."++"Quel nom a cette jeune demoiselle en les pantoufles jolis?" said Laurie+good-naturedly.++"How nicely you do it! Let me see,--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 criticised and chatted,+till they felt like old acquaintances. Laurie's bashfulness soon wore+off; for Jo's gentlemanly demeanor amused and set him at his ease, and+Jo was her merry self again, because her dress was forgotten, and nobody+lifted their eyebrows at her. She liked the "Laurence boy" better than+ever, and took several good looks at him, so that she might describe him+to the girls; for they had no brothers, very few male cousins, and boys+were almost unknown creatures to them.++"Curly black hair; brown skin; big, black eyes; handsome nose; fine+teeth; small hands and feet; taller than I am; very polite, for a boy,+and altogether jolly. Wonder how old he is?"++It was on the tip of Jo's tongue to ask; but she checked herself in+time, and, with unusual tact, tried to find out in a roundabout way.++"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."++Jo wanted very much to ask what his own way was; but his black brows+looked rather threatening as he knit them; so she changed the subject by+saying, as her foot kept time, "That's a splendid polka! 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--" There Jo stopped, and+looked undecided whether to tell or to laugh.++"Because what?" asked Laurie curiously.++"You won't tell?"++"Never!"++"Well, I have a bad trick of standing before the fire, and so I burn my+frocks, and I scorched this one; and, though it's nicely mended, it+shows, and Meg told me to keep still, so no one would see it. 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. The hall was+empty, and they had a grand polka; for Laurie danced well, and taught+her the German step, which delighted Jo, being full of swing and spring.+When the music stopped, they sat down on the stairs to get their breath;+and Laurie was in the midst of an account of a students' festival at+Heidelberg, when Meg appeared in search of her sister. She beckoned, and+Jo reluctantly followed her into a side-room, where she found her on a+sofa, holding her foot, and looking pale.++ [Illustration: They sat down on the stairs]++"I've sprained my ankle. That stupid high heel turned, and gave me a sad+wrench. It aches so, I can hardly stand, and I don't know how I'm ever+going to get home," she said, rocking to and fro in pain.++"I knew you'd hurt your feet with those silly shoes. I'm sorry. But I+don't see what you can do, except get a carriage, or stay here all+night," answered Jo, softly rubbing the poor ankle as she spoke.++"I can't have a carriage, without its costing ever so much. I dare say I+can't get one at all; for most people come in their own, and it's a long+way to the stable, and no one to send."++"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 any one. Get me my rubbers, and put these+slippers with our things. I can't dance any more; 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!"++So Meg reclined, with rubbers well hidden, and Jo went blundering away+to the dining-room, which she found after going into a china-closet, and+opening the door of a room where old Mr. Gardiner was taking a little+private refreshment. Making a dart at the table, she secured the coffee,+which she immediately spilt, thereby making the front of her dress as+bad as the back.++"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.++"I was trying to get something for Meg, who is very tired, and some one+shook me; and here I am, in a nice state," answered Jo, glancing+dismally from the stained skirt to the coffee-colored glove.++"Too bad! I was looking for some one 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."++Jo led the way; and, as if used to waiting on ladies, Laurie drew up a+little table, brought a second instalment of coffee and ice for Jo, and+was so obliging that even particular Meg pronounced him a "nice boy."+They had a merry time over the bonbons and mottoes, and were in the+midst of a quiet game of "Buzz," with two or three other young people+who had strayed in, when Hannah appeared. 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 up-stairs 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+happened to be a hired waiter, who knew nothing about the neighborhood;+and Jo was looking round for help, when Laurie, who had heard what she+said, came up, and offered his grandfather's carriage, which had just+come for him, he said.++"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. Hannah+hated rain as much as a cat does; so she made no trouble, and they+rolled away in the luxurious close carriage, feeling very festive and+elegant. 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. Sallie's friend, Annie Moffat, took a fancy to+me, and asked me to come and spend a week with her, when Sallie does.+She is going in the spring, when the opera comes; and it will be+perfectly splendid, if mother only lets me go," answered Meg, cheering+up at the thought.++"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. With many thanks, they said "Good night," and crept in, hoping to+disturb no one; but the instant their door creaked, two little+night-caps bobbed up, and two sleepy but eager voices cried out,--++"Tell about the party! tell about the party!"++With what Meg called "a great want of manners," Jo had saved some+bonbons for the little girls; and they soon subsided, after hearing the+most thrilling events of the evening.++"I declare, it really seems like being a fine young lady, to come home+from the party in a carriage, and sit in my dressing-gown, with a maid+to wait on me," said Meg, as Jo bound up her foot with arnica, and+brushed her hair.++"I don't believe fine young ladies enjoy themselves a bit more than we+do, in spite of our burnt hair, old gowns, one glove apiece, and tight+slippers that sprain our ankles when we are silly enough to wear them."+And I think Jo was quite right.++ [Illustration: Tell about the party]+++++ [Illustration: The kitten stuck like a burr just out of reach]++ IV.++ BURDENS.+++"Oh dear, how hard it does seem to take up our packs and go on," sighed+Meg, the morning after the party; for, now the holidays were over, the+week of merry-making did not fit her for going on easily with the task+she never liked.++"I wish it was Christmas or New-Year all the time; wouldn't it be fun?"+answered Jo, yawning dismally.++"We shouldn't enjoy ourselves half so much as we do now. But it does+seem so nice to have little suppers and bouquets, and go to parties, and+drive home, and read and rest, and not work. It's like other people,+you know, and I always envy girls who do such things; I'm so fond of+luxury," said Meg, trying to decide which of two shabby gowns was the+least shabby.++"Well, we can't have it, so don't let us grumble, but shoulder our+bundles and trudge along as cheerfully as Marmee does. I'm sure Aunt+March is a regular Old Man of the Sea to me, but I suppose when I've+learned to carry her without complaining, she will tumble off, or get so+light that I sha'n't mind her."++This idea tickled Jo's fancy, and put her in good spirits; but Meg+didn't brighten, for her burden, consisting of four spoilt children,+seemed heavier than ever. She hadn't heart enough even to make herself+pretty, as usual, by putting on a blue neck-ribbon, and dressing her+hair in the most becoming way.++"Where's the use of looking nice, when no one sees me but those cross+midgets, and no one cares whether I'm pretty or not?" she muttered,+shutting her drawer with a jerk. "I shall have to toil and moil all my+days, with only little bits of fun now and then, and get old and ugly+and sour, because I'm poor, and can't enjoy my life as other girls do.+It's a shame!"++So Meg went down, wearing an injured look, and wasn't at all agreeable+at breakfast-time. Every one 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; Mrs. March was very busy+trying to finish a letter, which must go at once; and Hannah had the+grumps, for being up late didn't suit her.++"There never _was_ such a cross family!" cried Jo, losing her temper+when she had upset an inkstand, broken both boot-lacings, and sat down+upon her hat.++"You're the crossest person in it!" returned Amy, washing out the sum,+that was all wrong, with the tears that had fallen on her slate.++"Beth, if you don't keep these horrid cats down cellar I'll have them+drowned," exclaimed Meg angrily, as she tried to get rid of the kitten,+which had scrambled up her back, and stuck like a burr just out of+reach.++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! I _must_ get this off by the+early mail, and you drive me distracted with your worry," cried Mrs.+March, crossing out the third spoilt sentence in her letter.++There was a momentary lull, broken by Hannah, who stalked in, laid two+hot turn-overs on the table, and stalked out again. These turn-overs+were an institution; and the girls called them "muffs," for they had no+others, and found the hot pies very comforting to their hands on cold+mornings. 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. Good-by, 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.++They always looked back before turning the corner, for their mother was+always at the window, to nod and smile, and wave her hand to them.+Somehow it seemed as if they couldn't have got through the day without+that; for, whatever their mood might be, the last glimpse of that+motherly face was sure to affect them like sunshine.++"If Marmee shook her fist instead of kissing her hand to us, it would+serve us right, for more ungrateful wretches than we are were never+seen," cried Jo, taking a remorseful satisfaction in the snowy walk and+bitter wind.++"Don't use such dreadful expressions," said Meg, from the depths of the+vail in which she had shrouded herself like a nun sick of the world.++"I like good strong words, that mean something," replied Jo, catching+her hat as it took a leap off her head, preparatory to flying away+altogether.++"Call yourself any names you like; but _I_ am neither a rascal nor a+wretch, and I don't choose to be called so."++"You're a blighted being, and decidedly cross to-day because you can't+sit in the lap of luxury all the time. Poor dear, just wait till I make+my fortune, and you shall revel in carriages and ice-cream and+high-heeled slippers and posies and red-headed boys to dance with."++"How ridiculous you are, Jo!" but Meg laughed at the nonsense, and felt+better in spite of herself.++"Lucky for you I am; for if I put on crushed airs, and tried to be+dismal, as you do, we should be in a nice state. 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."++Jo gave her sister an encouraging pat on the shoulder as they parted for+the day, each going a different way, each hugging her little warm+turn-over, and each trying to be cheerful in spite of wintry weather,+hard work, and the unsatisfied desires of pleasure-loving youth.++When Mr. March lost his property in trying to help an unfortunate+friend, the two oldest girls begged to be allowed to do something toward+their own support, at least. Believing that they could not begin too+early to cultivate energy, industry, and independence, their parents+consented, and both fell to work with the hearty good-will which in+spite of all obstacles, is sure to succeed at last. 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. She+found it harder to bear than the others, because she could remember a+time when home was beautiful, life full of ease and pleasure, and want+of any kind unknown. She tried not to be envious or discontented, but it+was very natural that the young girl should long for pretty things, gay+friends, accomplishments, and a happy life. At the Kings' she daily saw+all she wanted, for the children's older sisters were just out, and Meg+caught frequent glimpses of dainty ball-dresses and bouquets, heard+lively gossip about theatres, concerts, sleighing parties, and+merry-makings of all kinds, and saw money lavished on trifles which+would have been so precious to her. Poor Meg seldom complained, but a+sense of injustice made her feel bitter toward every one sometimes, for+she had not yet learned to know how rich she was in the blessings which+alone can make life happy.++Jo happened to suit Aunt March, who was lame, and needed an active+person to wait upon her. The childless old lady had offered to adopt one+of the girls when the troubles came, and was much offended because her+offer was declined. Other friends told the Marches that they had lost+all chance of being remembered in the rich old lady's will; but the+unworldly Marches only said,--++"We can't give up our girls for a dozen fortunes. Rich or poor, we will+keep together and be happy in one another."++The old lady wouldn't speak to them for a time, but happening to meet Jo+at a friend's, something in her comical face and blunt manners struck+the old lady's fancy, and she proposed to take her for a companion. This+did not suit Jo at all; but she accepted the place since nothing better+appeared, and, to every one's surprise, got on remarkably well with her+irascible relative. There was an occasional tempest, and once Jo had+marched home, declaring she couldn't bear it any longer; but Aunt March+always cleared up quickly, and sent for her back again with such urgency+that she could not refuse, for in her heart she rather liked the peppery+old lady.++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 remembered+the kind old gentleman, who used to let her build railroads and bridges+with his big dictionaries, tell her stories about the queer pictures in+his Latin books, and buy her cards of gingerbread whenever he met her in+the street. The dim, dusty room, with the busts staring down from the+tall book-cases, the cosy chairs, the globes, and, best of all, the+wilderness of books, in which she could wander where she liked, made the+library a region of bliss to her. The moment Aunt March took her nap, or+was busy with company, Jo hurried to this quiet place, and, curling+herself up in the easy-chair, devoured poetry, romance, history,+travels, and pictures, like a regular book-worm. But, like all+happiness, it did not last long; for as sure as she had just reached the+heart of the story, the sweetest verse of the song, or the most perilous+adventure of her traveller, a shrill voice called, "Josy-phine!+Josy-phine!" and she had to leave her paradise to wind yarn, wash the+poodle, or read Belsham's Essays by the hour together.++ [Illustration: Curling herself up in the big chair]++Jo's ambition was to do something very splendid; what it was she had no+idea, as yet, but left it for time to tell her; and, meanwhile, found+her greatest affliction in the fact that she couldn't read, run, and+ride as much as she liked. A quick temper, sharp tongue, and restless+spirit were always getting her into scrapes, and her life was a series+of ups and downs, which were both comic and pathetic. But the training+she received at Aunt March's was just what she needed; and the thought+that she was doing something to support herself made her happy, in spite+of the perpetual "Josy-phine!"++Beth was too bashful to go to school; it had been tried, but she+suffered so much that it was given up, and she did her lessons at home,+with her father. Even when he went away, and her mother was called to+devote her skill and energy to Soldiers' Aid Societies, Beth went+faithfully on by herself, and did the best she could. She was a+housewifely little creature, and helped Hannah keep home neat and+comfortable for the workers, never thinking of any reward but to be+loved. Long, quiet days she spent, not lonely nor idle, for her little+world was peopled with imaginary friends, and she was by nature a busy+bee. There were six dolls to be taken up and dressed every morning, for+Beth was a child still, and loved her pets as well as ever. Not one+whole or handsome one among them; all were outcasts till Beth took them+in; for, when her sisters outgrew these idols, they passed to her,+because Amy would have nothing old or ugly. Beth cherished them all the+more tenderly for that very reason, and set up a hospital for infirm+dolls. No pins were ever stuck into their cotton vitals; no harsh words+or blows were ever given them; no neglect ever saddened the heart of the+most repulsive: but all were fed and clothed, nursed and caressed, with+an affection which never failed. One forlorn fragment of _dollanity_ had+belonged to Jo; and, having led a tempestuous life, was left a wreck in+the rag-bag, from which dreary poorhouse it was rescued by Beth, and+taken to her refuge. Having no top to its head, she tied on a neat+little cap, and, as both arms and legs were gone, she hid these+deficiencies by folding it in a blanket, and devoting her best bed to+this chronic invalid. If any one had known the care lavished on that+dolly, I think it would have touched their hearts, even while they+laughed. She brought it bits of bouquets; she read to it, took it out to+breathe the air, hidden under her coat; she sung it lullabys, and never+went to bed without kissing its dirty face, and whispering tenderly, "I+hope you'll have a good night, my poor dear."++Beth had her troubles as well as the others; and not being an angel, but+a very human little girl, she often "wept a little weep," as Jo said,+because she couldn't take music lessons and have a fine piano. She loved+music so dearly, tried so hard to learn, and practised away so patiently+at the jingling old instrument, that it did seem as if some one (not to+hint Aunt March) ought to help her. Nobody did, however, and nobody saw+Beth wipe the tears off the yellow keys, that wouldn't keep in tune,+when she was all alone. She sang like a little lark about her work,+never was too tired to play for Marmee and the girls, and day after day+said hopefully to herself, "I know I'll get my music some time, if I'm+good."++There are many Beths in the world, shy and quiet, sitting in corners+till needed, and living for others so cheerfully that no one sees the+sacrifices till the little cricket on the hearth stops chirping, and the+sweet, sunshiny presence vanishes, leaving silence and shadow behind.++If anybody had asked Amy what the greatest trial of her life was, she+would have answered at once, "My nose." When she was a baby, Jo had+accidentally dropped her into the coal-hod, and Amy insisted that the+fall had ruined her nose forever. It was not big, nor red, like poor+"Petrea's"; it was only rather flat, and all the pinching in the world+could not give it an aristocratic point. No one minded it but herself,+and it was doing its best to grow, but Amy felt deeply the want of a+Grecian nose, and drew whole sheets of handsome ones to console herself.++"Little Raphael," as her sisters called her, had a decided talent for+drawing, and was never so happy as when copying flowers, designing+fairies, or illustrating stories with queer specimens of art. Her+teachers complained that, instead of doing her sums, she covered her+slate with animals; the blank pages of her atlas were used to copy maps+on; and caricatures of the most ludicrous description came fluttering+out of all her books at unlucky moments. 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.+Her little airs and graces were much admired, so were her+accomplishments; for beside her drawing, she could play twelve tunes,+crochet, and read French without mispronouncing more than two thirds of+the words. She had a plaintive way of saying, "When papa was rich we did+so-and-so," which was very touching; and her long words were considered+"perfectly elegant" by the girls.++Amy was in a fair way to be spoilt; for every one 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. Now Florence's mamma hadn't a particle of taste, and Amy+suffered deeply at having to wear a red instead of a blue bonnet,+unbecoming gowns, and fussy aprons that did not fit. Everything was+good, well made, and little worn; but Amy's artistic eyes were much+afflicted, especially this winter, when her school dress was a dull+purple, with yellow dots, and no trimming.++"My only comfort," she said to Meg, with tears in her eyes, "is, that+mother don't take tucks in my dresses whenever I'm naughty, as Maria+Parks' mother does. My dear, it's really dreadful; for sometimes she is+so bad, her frock is up to her knees, and she can't come to school. When+I think of this _deggerredation_, I feel that I can bear even my flat+nose and purple gown, with yellow sky-rockets on it."++Meg was Amy's confidant and monitor, and, by some strange attraction of+opposites, Jo was gentle Beth's. To Jo alone did the shy child tell her+thoughts; and over her big, harum-scarum sister, Beth unconsciously+exercised more influence than any one in the family. The two older girls+were a great deal to one another, but each took one of the younger into+her keeping, and watched over her in her own way; "playing mother" they+called it, and put their sisters in the places of discarded dolls, with+the maternal instinct of little women.++"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 had a queer time with aunt to-day, and, as I got the best of it, I'll+tell you about it," began Jo, who dearly loved to tell stories. "I was+reading that everlasting Belsham, and droning away as I always do, for+aunt soon drops off, and then I take out some nice book, and read like+fury till she wakes up. I actually made myself sleepy; and, before she+began to nod, I gave such a gape that she asked me what I meant by+opening my mouth wide enough to take the whole book in at once.++ [Illustration: Reading that everlasting Belsham]++"'I wish I could, and be done with it,' said I, trying not to be saucy.++"Then she gave me a long lecture on my sins, and told me to sit and+think them over while she just 'lost' herself for a moment. She never+finds herself very soon; so the minute her cap began to bob, like a+top-heavy dahlia, I whipped the 'Vicar of Wakefield' out of my pocket,+and read away, with one eye on him, and one on aunt. I'd just got to+where they all tumbled into the water, when I forgot, and laughed out+loud. Aunt woke up; and, being more good-natured after her nap, told me+to read a bit, and show what frivolous work I preferred to the worthy+and instructive Belsham. I did my very best, and she liked it, though+she only said,--++"'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; sha'n't I stop now?'++"She caught up her knitting, which had dropped out of her hands, gave me+a sharp look through her specs, and said, in her short way,--++"'Finish the chapter, and don't be impertinent, miss.'"++"Did she own she liked it?" asked Meg.++"Oh, bless you, no! but she let old Belsham rest; and, when I ran back+after my gloves this afternoon, there she was, so hard at the Vicar that+she didn't hear me laugh as I danced a jig in the hall, because of the+good time coming. What a pleasant life she might have, if she only+chose. I don't envy her much, in spite of her money, for after all rich+people have about as many worries as poor ones, I think," added Jo.++"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. At the Kings to-day I found everybody in a flurry, and one of the+children said that her oldest brother had done something dreadful, and+papa had sent him away. I heard Mrs. King crying and Mr. King talking+very loud, and Grace and Ellen turned away their faces when they passed+me, so I shouldn't see how red their eyes were. I didn't ask any+questions, of course; but I felt so sorry for them, and was rather glad+I hadn't any wild brothers to do wicked things and disgrace the family."++"I think being disgraced in school is a great deal try_inger_ than+anything bad boys can do," said Amy, shaking her head, as if her+experience of life had been a deep one. "Susie Perkins came to school+to-day with a lovely red carnelian ring; I wanted it dreadfully, and+wished I was her with all my might. Well, she drew a picture of Mr.+Davis, with a monstrous nose and a hump, and the words, 'Young ladies,+my eye is upon you!' coming out of his mouth in a balloon thing. 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! just fancy how horrid!--and led her to the recitation+platform, and made her stand there half an hour, holding that slate so+every one could see."++ [Illustration: He took her by the ear! by the ear!]++"Didn't the girls laugh at the picture?" asked Jo, who relished the+scrape.++"Laugh? Not one! They sat as 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.++"I saw something that I liked this morning, and I meant to tell it at+dinner, but I forgot," said Beth, putting Jo's topsy-turvy basket in+order as she talked. "When I went to get some oysters for Hannah, Mr.+Laurence was in the fish-shop; but he didn't see me, for I kept behind a+barrel, and he was busy with Mr. Cutter, the fish-man. A poor woman came+in, with a pail and a mop, and asked Mr. Cutter if he would let her do+some scrubbing for a bit of fish, because she hadn't any dinner for her+children, and had been disappointed of a day's work. Mr. Cutter was in a+hurry, and said 'No,' rather crossly; so she was going away, looking+hungry and sorry, when Mr. Laurence hooked up a big fish with the+crooked end of his cane, and held it out to her. She was so glad and+surprised, she took it right in 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? Oh, she did look so funny, hugging the big,+slippery fish, and hoping Mr. Laurence's bed in heaven would be 'aisy.'"++ [Illustration: Mr. Laurence hooked up a big fish]++When they had laughed at Beth's story, they asked their mother for one;+and, after a moment's thought, she said soberly,--++"As I sat cutting out blue flannel jackets to-day, at the rooms, I felt+very anxious about father, and thought how lonely and helpless we should+be, if anything happened to him. It was not a wise thing to do; but I+kept on worrying, till an old man came in, with an order for some+clothes. 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. I had four, but two were killed, one is a prisoner, and+I'm going to the other, who is very sick in a Washington hospital,' he+answered quietly.++"'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. I had all my girls+to comfort me at home; and his last son was waiting, miles away, to say+'good by' to him, perhaps! I felt so rich, so happy, thinking of my+blessings, that I made him a nice bundle, gave him some money, and+thanked him heartily for the lesson he had taught me."++"Tell another story, mother,--one with a moral to it, like this. I like+to think about them afterwards, if they are real, and not too preachy,"+said Jo, after a minute's silence.++Mrs. March smiled, and began at once; for she had told stories to this+little audience for many years, and knew how to please them.++"Once upon a time, there were four girls, who had enough to eat and+drink and wear, a good many comforts and pleasures, kind friends and+parents, who loved them dearly, and yet they were not contented." (Here+the listeners stole sly looks at one another, and began to sew+diligently.) "These girls were anxious to be good, and made many+excellent resolutions; but they did not keep them very well, and were+constantly saying, 'If we only had this,' or 'If we could only do that,'+quite forgetting how much they already had, and how many pleasant things+they actually could do. So they asked an old woman what spell they could+use to make them happy, and she said, 'When you feel discontented, think+over your blessings, and be grateful.'" (Here Jo looked up quickly, as+if about to speak, but changed her mind, seeing that the story was not+done yet.)++"Being sensible girls, they decided to try her advice, and soon were+surprised to see how well off they were. One discovered that money+couldn't keep shame and sorrow out of rich people's houses; another+that, though she was poor, she was a great deal happier, with her youth,+health, and good spirits, than a certain fretful, feeble old lady, who+couldn't enjoy her comforts; a third that, disagreeable as it was to+help get dinner, it was harder still to have to go begging for it; and+the fourth, that even carnelian rings were not so valuable as good+behavior. So they agreed to stop complaining, to enjoy the blessings+already possessed, and try to deserve them, lest they should be taken+away entirely, instead of increased; and I believe they were never+disappointed, or sorry that they took the old woman's advice."++"Now, Marmee, that is very cunning of you to turn our own stories+against us, and give us a sermon instead of a romance!" cried Meg.++"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.++"I don't complain near as much as the others do, and I shall be more+careful than ever now; for I've had warning from Susie's downfall," said+Amy morally.++"We needed that lesson, and we won't forget it. If we do, you just say+to us, as old Chloe did in 'Uncle Tom,' 'Tink ob yer marcies, chillen!+tink ob yer marcies!'" added Jo, who could not, for the life of her,+help getting a morsel of fun out of the little sermon, though she took+it to heart as much as any of them.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ V.++ BEING NEIGHBORLY.+++ [Illustration: Being neighborly]++"What in the world are you going to do now, Jo?" asked Meg, one snowy+afternoon, as her sister came tramping through the hall, in rubber+boots, old sack and hood, with a broom in one hand and a shovel in the+other.++"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! It's+cold and dull out; and I advise you to stay, warm and dry, by the fire,+as I do," said Meg, with a shiver.++"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. The snow was light, and with her broom she soon+swept a path all round the garden, for Beth to walk in when the sun came+out; and the invalid dolls needed air. 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. On one+side was an old, brown house, looking rather bare and shabby, robbed of+the vines that in summer covered its walls, and the flowers which then+surrounded it. On the other side was a stately stone mansion, plainly+betokening every sort of comfort and luxury, from the big coach-house+and well-kept grounds to the conservatory and the glimpses of lovely+things one caught between the rich curtains. Yet it seemed a lonely,+lifeless sort of house; for no children frolicked on the lawn, no+motherly face ever smiled at the windows, and few people went in and+out, except the old gentleman and his grandson.++To Jo's lively fancy, this fine house seemed a kind of enchanted palace,+full of splendors and delights, which no one enjoyed. She had long+wanted to behold these hidden glories, and to know the "Laurence boy,"+who looked as if he would like to be known, if he only knew how to+begin. Since the party, she had been more eager than ever, and had+planned many ways of making friends with him; but he had not been seen+lately, and Jo began to think he had gone away, when she one day spied a+brown face at an upper window, looking wistfully down into their garden,+where Beth and Amy were snow-balling one another.++"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. She saw Mr. Laurence drive off, and then sallied out+to dig her way down to the hedge, where she paused, and took a survey.+All quiet,--curtains down at the lower windows; servants out of sight,+and nothing human visible but a curly black head leaning on a thin hand+at the upper window.++"There he is," thought Jo, "poor boy! all alone and sick this dismal+day. It's a shame! I'll toss up a snow-ball, and make him look out, and+then say a kind word to him."++Up went a handful of soft snow, and the head turned at once, showing a+face which lost its listless look in a minute, as the big eyes+brightened and the mouth began to smile. Jo nodded and laughed, and+flourished her broom as she called out,--++"How do you do? Are you sick?"++ [Illustration: Laurie opened the window]++Laurie opened the window, and croaked out as hoarsely as a raven,--++"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 as 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 some one come and see you, then."++"There isn't any one 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 that 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. Laurie was in a flutter of excitement at+the idea of having company, and flew about to get ready; for, as Mrs.+March said, he was "a little gentleman," and did honor to the coming+guest by brushing his curly pate, putting on a fresh collar, and trying+to tidy up the room, which, in spite of half a dozen servants, was+anything but neat. Presently there came a loud ring, then a decided+voice, asking for "Mr. Laurie," and a surprised-looking servant came+running up to announce a young lady.++"All right, show her up, it's Miss Jo," said Laurie, going to the door+of his little parlor to meet Jo, who appeared, looking rosy and kind and+quite at her ease, with a covered dish in one hand and Beth's three+kittens in the other.++"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 so happened that Beth's funny loan was just the thing; for, in+laughing over the kits, Laurie forgot his bashfulness, and grew sociable+at once.++"That looks too pretty to eat," he said, smiling with pleasure, as Jo+uncovered the dish, and showed the blanc-mange, surrounded by a garland+of green leaves, and the scarlet flowers of Amy's pet geranium.++"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 cosy 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."++"I'll right it up in two minutes; for it only needs to have the hearth+brushed, so,--and the things made straight on the mantel-piece so,--and+the books put here, and the bottles there, and your sofa turned from the+light, and the pillows plumped up a bit. Now, then, you're fixed."++And so he was; for, as she laughed and talked, Jo had whisked things+into place, and given quite a different air to the room. Laurie watched+her in respectful silence; and when she beckoned him to his sofa, he sat+down with a sigh of satisfaction, saying gratefully,--++"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."++"Is Beth the rosy one, who stays at home a good deal, and sometimes goes+out with a little basket?" asked Laurie, with interest.++"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?"++Laurie colored up, but answered frankly, "Why, you see, I often hear you+calling to one another, and when I'm alone up here, I can't help looking+over at your house, you always seem to be having such good times. I beg+your pardon for being so rude, but sometimes you forget to put down the+curtain at the window where the flowers are; and when the lamps are+lighted, it's like looking at a picture to see the fire, and you all+round the table with your mother; 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.+She had been so simply taught that there was no nonsense in her head,+and at fifteen she was as innocent and frank as any child. Laurie was+sick and lonely; and, feeling how rich she was in home-love and+happiness, she gladly tried to share it with him. Her face was very+friendly and her sharp voice unusually gentle as she said,--++"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. Mother is so splendid, she'd do you heaps of good, and+Beth would sing to you if _I_ begged her to, and Amy would dance; 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. He's very kind, though he+does not look so; and he lets me do what I like, pretty much, only he's+afraid I might be a bother to strangers," began Laurie, brightening more+and more.++"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. Mr. Brooke, my tutor, doesn't stay here, you know, and+I have no one to go about with me, so I just stop at home and get on as+I can."++"That's bad. You ought to make an effort, and go visiting everywhere you+are asked; then you'll have plenty of friends, and pleasant places to go+to. Never mind being bashful; it won't last long if you keep going."++Laurie turned red again, but wasn't offended at being accused of+bashfulness; for there was so much good-will in Jo, it was impossible+not to take her blunt speeches as kindly as they were meant.++"Do you like your school?" asked the boy, changing the subject, after a+little pause, during which he stared at the fire, and Jo looked about+her, well pleased.++"Don't go to school; I'm a business man--girl, I mean. I go to wait on+my great-aunt, and a dear, cross old soul she is, too," answered Jo.++Laurie opened his mouth to ask another question; but remembering just in+time that it wasn't manners to make too many inquiries into people's+affairs, he shut it again, and looked uncomfortable. Jo liked his good+breeding, and didn't mind having a laugh at Aunt March, so she gave him+a lively description of the fidgety old lady, her fat poodle, the parrot+that talked Spanish, and the library where she revelled. Laurie enjoyed+that immensely; and when she told about the prim old gentleman who came+once to woo Aunt March, and, in the middle of a fine speech, how Poll+had tweaked his wig off to his great dismay, the boy lay back and+laughed till the tears ran down his cheeks, and a maid popped her head+in to see what was the matter.++ [Illustration: Poll tweaked off his wig]++"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.++Much elated with her success, Jo did "tell on," all about their plays+and plans, their hopes and fears for father, and the most interesting+events of the little world in which the sisters lived. Then they got to+talking about books; and to Jo's delight, she found that Laurie loved+them as well as she did, and had read even more than herself.++"If you like them so much, come down and see ours. Grandpa 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.++"I don't believe you are!" exclaimed the boy, looking at her with much+admiration, though he privately thought she would have good reason to be+a trifle afraid of the old gentleman, if she met him in some of his+moods.++The atmosphere of the whole house being summer-like, Laurie led the way+from room to room, letting Jo stop to examine whatever struck her fancy;+and so at last they came to the library, where she clapped her hands,+and pranced, as she always did when especially delighted. It was lined+with books, and there were pictures and statues, and distracting little+cabinets full of coins and curiosities, and sleepy-hollow chairs, and+queer tables, and bronzes; and, best of all, a great open fireplace,+with quaint tiles all round it.++"What richness!" sighed Jo, sinking into the depth of a velvet chair,+and gazing about her with an air of intense satisfaction. "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 say more, a bell rung, 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. Marmee said I might come, and I don't think you're any the worse for+it," said Jo, composing herself, though she kept her eyes on the door.++"I'm a great deal better for it, and ever so much obliged. I'm only+afraid you are very tired 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 as happy as a cricket here," answered Jo.++Laurie went away, and his guest amused herself in her own way. She was+standing before a fine portrait of the old gentleman, when the door+opened again, and, without turning, she said decidedly, "I'm sure now+that I shouldn't be afraid of him, for he's got kind eyes, though his+mouth is grim, and he looks as if he had a tremendous will of his own.+He isn't as handsome as _my_ grandfather, but I like him."++"Thank you, ma'am," said a gruff voice behind her; and there, to her+great dismay, stood old Mr. Laurence.++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. For a+minute a wild desire to run away possessed her; but that was cowardly,+and the girls would laugh at her: so she resolved to stay, and get out+of the scrape as she could. A second look showed her that the living+eyes, under the bushy gray eyebrows, were kinder even than the painted+ones; and there was a sly twinkle in them, which lessened her fear a+good deal. The gruff voice was gruffer than ever, as the old gentleman+said abruptly, after that dreadful pause, "So you're not afraid of me,+hey?"++"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; he gave a short laugh, shook+hands with her, and, putting his finger under her chin, turned up her+face, examined it gravely, and let it go, saying, with a nod, "You've+got your grandfather's spirit, if you haven't his face. He _was_ a fine+man, my dear; but, what is better, he was a brave and an honest one, and+I was proud to be his friend."++ [Illustration: Putting his finger under her chin]++"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. We are only girls, but we should be glad to help if we could,+for we don't forget the splendid Christmas present you sent us," said Jo+eagerly.++"Tut, tut, tut! that was the boy's affair. How is the poor woman?"++"Doing nicely, sir;" and off went Jo, talking very fast, as she told all+about the Hummels, in whom her mother had interested richer friends than+they were.++"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.++"What _would_ Meg say to this?" thought Jo, as she was marched away,+while her eyes danced with fun as she imagined herself telling the story+at home.++"Hey! Why, what the dickens has come to the fellow?" said the old+gentleman, as Laurie came running down stairs, and brought up with a+start of surprise at the astonishing sight of Jo arm-in-arm with his+redoubtable grandfather.++"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 down stairs. Come to your tea,+sir, and behave like a gentleman;" and having pulled the boy's hair by+way of a caress, Mr. Laurence walked on, while Laurie went through a+series of comic evolutions behind their backs, which nearly produced an+explosion of laughter from Jo.++The old gentleman did not say much as he drank his four cups of tea, but+he watched the young people, who soon chatted away like old friends, and+the change in his grandson did not escape him. 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. He liked+Jo, for her odd, blunt ways suited him; and she seemed to understand the+boy almost as well as if she had been one herself.++If the Laurences had been what Jo called "prim and poky," she would not+have got on at all, for such people always made her shy and awkward; but+finding them free and easy, she was so herself, and made a good+impression. When they rose she proposed to go, but Laurie said he had+something more to show her, and took her away to the conservatory, which+had been lighted for her benefit. It seemed quite fairylike to Jo, as+she went up and down the walks, enjoying the blooming walls on either+side, the soft light, the damp sweet air, and the wonderful vines and+trees that hung above her,--while her new friend cut the finest flowers+till his hands were full; then he tied them up, saying, with the happy+look Jo liked to see, "Please give these to your mother, and tell her I+like the medicine she sent me very much."++ [Illustration: Please give these to your mother]++They found Mr. Laurence standing before the fire in the great+drawing-room, but Jo's attention was entirely absorbed by a grand piano,+which stood open.++"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. She wished Beth could hear him, but she did not say so; only+praised him till he was quite abashed, and his grandfather came to the+rescue. "That will do, that will do, young lady. Too many sugar-plums+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 anything+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!"++When all the afternoon's adventures had been told, the family felt+inclined to go visiting in a body, for each found something very+attractive in the big house on the other side of the hedge. Mrs. March+wanted to talk of her father with the old man who had not forgotten him;+Meg longed to walk in the conservatory; Beth sighed for the grand piano;+and Amy was eager to see the fine pictures and statues.++"Mother, why didn't Mr. Laurence like to have Laurie play?" asked Jo,+who was of an inquiring disposition.++"I am not sure, but I think it was because his son, Laurie's father,+married an Italian lady, a musician, which displeased the old man, who+is very proud. 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.+I fancy the boy, who was born in Italy, is not very strong, and the old+man is afraid of losing him, which makes him so careful. Laurie comes+naturally by his love of music, for he is like his mother, and I dare+say his grandfather fears that he may want to be a musician; at any+rate, his skill reminds him of the woman he did not like, and so he+'glowered,' as Jo said."++"Dear me, how romantic!" exclaimed Meg.++"How silly!" said Jo. "Let him be a musician, if he wants to, and not+plague his life out sending him to college, when he hates to go."++"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! You don't know a compliment when you get it,"+said Meg, with the air of a young lady who knew all about the matter.++"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. We'll all be+good to him, because he hasn't got any mother, and he _may_ come over+and see us, mayn't he, Marmee?"++"Yes, Jo, your little friend is very welcome, and I hope Meg will+remember that children should be children as long as they can."++"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. "How we got out of the Slough and through the Wicket+Gate by resolving to be good, and up the steep hill by trying; and that+maybe the house over there, full of splendid things, is going to be our+Palace Beautiful."++"We have got to get by the lions, first," said Jo, as if she rather+liked the prospect.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ VI.++ BETH FINDS THE PALACE BEAUTIFUL.+++The big house did prove a Palace Beautiful, though it took some time for+all to get in, and Beth found it very hard to pass the lions. Old Mr.+Laurence was the biggest one; but after he had called, said something+funny or kind to each one of the girls, and talked over old times with+their mother, nobody felt much afraid of him, except timid Beth. The+other lion was the fact that they were poor and Laurie rich; for this+made them shy of accepting favors which they could not return. But,+after a while, they found that he considered them the benefactors, and+could not do enough to show how grateful he was for Mrs. March's+motherly welcome, their cheerful society, and the comfort he took in+that humble home of theirs. 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." With the delightful enthusiasm of youth, they took the+solitary boy into their midst, and made much of him, and he found+something very charming in the innocent companionship of these+simple-hearted girls. Never having known mother or sisters, he was quick+to feel the influences they brought about him; and their busy, lively+ways made him ashamed of the indolent life he led. He was tired of+books, and found people so interesting now that Mr. Brooke was obliged+to make very unsatisfactory reports; for Laurie was always playing+truant, and running over to the Marches.++"Never mind; let him take a holiday, and make it up afterwards," 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! Such plays and tableaux, such+sleigh-rides and skating frolics, such pleasant evenings in the old+parlor, and now and then such gay little parties at the great house. Meg+could walk in the conservatory whenever she liked, and revel in+bouquets; Jo browsed over the new library voraciously, and convulsed the+old gentleman with her criticisms; Amy copied pictures, and enjoyed+beauty to her heart's content; and Laurie played "lord of the manor" in+the most delightful style.++But Beth, though yearning for the grand piano, could not pluck up+courage to go to the "Mansion of Bliss," as Meg called it. She went once+with Jo; but the old gentleman, not being aware of her infirmity, stared+at her so hard from under his heavy eyebrows, and said "Hey!" so loud,+that he frightened her so much her "feet chattered on the floor," she+told her mother; and she ran away, declaring she would never go there+any more, not even for the dear piano. No persuasions or enticements+could overcome her fear, till, the fact coming to Mr. Laurence's ear in+some mysterious way, he set about mending matters. During one of the+brief calls he made, he artfully led the conversation to music, and+talked away about great singers whom he had seen, fine organs he had+heard, and told such charming anecdotes that Beth found it impossible to+stay in her distant corner, but crept nearer and nearer, as if+fascinated. At the back of his chair she stopped, and stood listening,+with her great eyes wide open, and her cheeks red with the excitement of+this unusual performance. 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,--++"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. Wouldn't some of+your girls like to run over, and practise on it now and then, just to+keep it in tune, you know, ma'am?"++Beth took a step forward, and pressed her hands tightly together to keep+from clapping them, for this was an irresistible temptation; and the+thought of practising on that splendid instrument quite took her breath+away. Before Mrs. March could reply, Mr. Laurence went on with an odd+little nod and smile,--++"They needn't see or speak to any one, but run in at any time; for I'm+shut up in my study at the other end of the house, Laurie is out a great+deal, and the servants are never near the drawing-room after nine+o'clock."++Here he rose, as if going, and Beth made up her mind to speak, for that+last arrangement left nothing to be desired. "Please tell the young+ladies what I say; and if they don't care to come, why, never mind."+Here a little hand slipped into his, and Beth looked up at him with a+face full of gratitude, as she said, in her earnest yet timid way,--++"O sir, they do care, very, very much!"++ [Illustration: O sir, they do care very much]++"Are you the musical girl?" he asked, without any startling "Hey!" as he+looked down at her very kindly.++"I'm Beth. I love it dearly, and I'll come, if you are quite sure nobody+will hear me--and be disturbed," she added, fearing to be rude, and+trembling at her own boldness as she spoke.++"Not a soul, my dear. The house is empty half the day; so come, and drum+away as much as you like, and I shall be obliged to you."++"How kind you are, sir!"++Beth blushed like a rose under the friendly look he wore; but she was+not frightened now, and gave the big hand a grateful squeeze, because+she had no words to thank him for the precious gift he had given her.+The old gentleman softly stroked the hair off her forehead, and,+stooping down, he kissed her, saying, in a tone few people ever heard,--++"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.++Beth had a rapture with her mother, and then rushed up to impart the+glorious news to her family of invalids, as the girls were not at home.+How blithely she sung that evening, and how they all laughed at her,+because she woke Amy in the night by playing the piano on her face in+her sleep. Next day, having seen both the old and young gentleman out of+the house, Beth, after two or three retreats, fairly got in at the+side-door, and made her way, as noiselessly as any mouse, to the+drawing-room, where her idol stood. Quite by accident, of course, some+pretty, easy music lay on the piano; and, with trembling fingers, and+frequent stops to listen and look about, Beth at last touched the great+instrument, and straightway forgot her fear, herself, and everything+else but the unspeakable delight which the music gave her, for it was+like the voice of a beloved friend.++She stayed till Hannah came to take her home to dinner; but she had no+appetite, and could only sit and smile upon every one in a general state+of beatitude.++After that, the little brown hood slipped through the hedge nearly every+day, and the great drawing-room was haunted by a tuneful spirit that+came and went unseen. She never knew that Mr. Laurence often 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; she never suspected+that the exercise-books and new songs which she found in the rack were+put there for her especial benefit; and when he talked to her about+music at home, she only thought how kind he was to tell things that+helped her so much. 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.++ [Illustration: Mr. Laurence often opened his study door]++"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. The girls will help you about them, and I will pay for the making+up," replied Mrs. March, who took peculiar pleasure in granting Beth's+requests, because she so seldom asked anything for herself.++After many serious discussions with Meg and Jo, the pattern was chosen,+the materials bought, and the slippers begun. A cluster of grave yet+cheerful pansies, on a deeper purple ground, was pronounced very+appropriate and pretty; and Beth worked away early and late, with+occasional lifts over hard parts. She was a nimble little needle-woman,+and they were finished before any one got tired of them. Then she wrote+a very short, simple note, and, with Laurie's help, got them smuggled on+to the study-table one morning before the old gentleman was up.++When this excitement was over, Beth waited to see what would happen. All+that day passed, and a part of the next, before any acknowledgment+arrived, and she was beginning to fear she had offended her crotchety+friend. On the afternoon of the second day, she went out to do an+errand, and give poor Joanna, the invalid doll, her daily exercise. As+she came up the street, on her return, she saw three, yes, four, heads+popping in and out of the parlor windows, and the moment they saw her,+several hands were waved, and several joyful voices screamed,--++"Here's a letter from the old gentleman! Come quick, and read it!"++"O Beth, he's sent you--" began Amy, gesticulating with unseemly energy;+but she got no further, for Jo quenched her by slamming down the window.++Beth hurried on in a flutter of suspense. At the door, her sisters+seized and bore her to the parlor in a triumphal procession, all+pointing, and all saying at once, "Look there! look there!" Beth did+look, and turned pale with delight and surprise; for there stood a+little cabinet-piano, with a letter lying on the glossy lid, directed,+like a sign-board, to "Miss Elizabeth March."++"For me?" gasped Beth, holding on to Jo, and feeling as if she should+tumble down, it was such an overwhelming thing altogether.++"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. We didn't open it, but we are dying to know what he says," cried+Jo, hugging her sister, and offering the note.++"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,--++ "MISS MARCH:++ "_Dear Madam_,--"++"How nice it sounds! I wish some one would write to me so!" said Amy,+who thought the old-fashioned address very elegant.++ "'I have had many pairs of slippers in my life, but I never had+ any that suited me so well as yours,'" continued Jo.+ "'Heart's-ease is my favorite flower, and these will always+ remind me of the gentle giver. I like to pay my debts; so I+ know you will allow "the old gentleman" to send you something+ which once belonged to the little granddaughter he lost. 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.+That comes of having big blue eyes and loving music," said Jo, trying to+soothe Beth, who trembled, and looked more excited than she had ever+been before.++"See the cunning brackets to hold candles, and the nice green silk,+puckered up, with a gold rose in the middle, and the pretty rack and+stool, all complete," added Meg, opening the instrument and displaying+its beauties.++"'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 every one pronounced it the most remarkable piano+ever heard. It had evidently been newly tuned and put in apple-pie+order; but, perfect as it was, I think the real charm of it lay in the+happiest of all happy faces which leaned over it, as Beth lovingly+touched the beautiful black and white keys and pressed the bright+pedals.++"You'll have to go and thank him," said Jo, by way of a joke; for the+idea of the child's really going never entered her head.++"Yes, I mean to. I guess I'll go now, before I get frightened thinking+about it." And, to the utter amazement of the assembled family, Beth+walked deliberately down the garden, through the hedge, and in at the+Laurences' door.++"Well, I wish I may die if it ain't the queerest thing I ever see! The+pianny has turned her head! She'd never have gone in her right mind,"+cried Hannah, staring after her, while the girls were rendered quite+speechless by the miracle.++They would have been still more amazed if they had seen what Beth did+afterward. If you will believe me, she went and knocked at the+study-door before she gave herself time to think; and when a gruff voice+called out, "Come in!" she did go in, right up to Mr. Laurence, who+looked quite taken aback, and held out her hand, saying, with only a+small quaver in her voice, "I came to thank you, sir, for--" But she+didn't finish; for he looked so friendly that she forgot her speech,+and, only remembering that he had lost the little girl he loved, she put+both arms round his neck, and kissed him.++ [Illustration: She put both arms around his neck and kissed him]++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!--and was so touched and pleased by that confiding+little kiss that all his crustiness vanished; and he just set her on his+knee, and laid his wrinkled cheek against her rosy one, feeling as if he+had got his own little granddaughter back again. Beth ceased to fear him+from that moment, and sat there talking to him as cosily as if she had+known him all her life; for love casts out fear, and gratitude can+conquer pride. When she went home, he walked with her to her own gate,+shook hands cordially, and touched his hat as he marched back again,+looking very stately and erect, like a handsome, soldierly old+gentleman, as he was.++When the girls saw that performance, Jo began to dance a jig, by way of+expressing her satisfaction; Amy nearly fell out of the window in her+surprise; and Meg exclaimed, with uplifted hands, "Well, I do believe+the world is coming to an end!"+++++ VII.++ AMY'S VALLEY OF HUMILIATION.+++ [Illustration: The Cyclops]++"That boy is a perfect Cyclops, isn't he?" said Amy, one day, as Laurie+clattered by on horseback, with a flourish of his whip as he passed.++"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.++"You needn't be so rude; it's only a 'lapse of lingy,' as Mr. Davis+says," retorted Amy, finishing Jo with her Latin. "I just wish I had a+little of the money Laurie spends on that horse," she added, as if to+herself, yet hoping her sisters would hear.++"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.++"Why, I owe at least a dozen pickled limes, and I can't pay them, you+know, till I have money, for Marmee forbade my having anything charged+at the shop."++"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.++"Why, you see, the girls are always buying them, and unless you want to+be thought mean, you must do it, too. It's nothing but limes now, for+every one is sucking them in their desks in school-time, and trading+them off for pencils, bead-rings, paper dolls, or something else, at+recess. If one girl likes another, she gives her a lime; if she's mad+with her, she eats one before her face, and don't offer even a suck.+They treat by turns; and I've had ever so many, but haven't returned+them; and I ought, for they are debts of honor, you know."++"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."++Next day Amy was rather late at school; but could not resist the+temptation of displaying, with pardonable pride, a moist brown-paper+parcel, before she consigned it to the inmost recesses of her desk.+During the next few minutes the rumor that Amy March had got twenty-four+delicious limes (she ate one on the way), and was going to treat,+circulated through her "set," and the attentions of her friends became+quite overwhelming. Katy Brown invited her to her next party on the+spot; Mary Kingsley insisted on lending her her watch till recess; and+Jenny Snow, a satirical young lady, who had basely twitted Amy upon her+limeless state, promptly buried the hatchet, and offered to furnish+answers to certain appalling sums. But Amy had not forgotten Miss Snow's+cutting remarks about "some persons whose noses were not too flat to+smell other people's limes, and stuck-up people, who were not too proud+to ask for them;" and she instantly crushed "that Snow girl's" hopes by+the withering telegram, "You needn't be so polite all of a sudden, for+you won't get any."++A distinguished personage happened to visit the school that morning, and+Amy's beautifully drawn maps received praise, which honor to her foe+rankled in the soul of Miss Snow, and caused Miss March to assume the+airs of a studious young peacock. But, alas, alas! pride goes before a+fall, and the revengeful Snow turned the tables with disastrous success.+No sooner had the guest paid the usual stale compliments, and bowed+himself out, than Jenny, under pretence of asking an important question,+informed Mr. Davis, the teacher, that Amy March had pickled limes in her+desk.++Now Mr. Davis had declared limes a contraband article, and solemnly+vowed to publicly ferrule the first person who was found breaking the+law. This much-enduring man had succeeded in banishing chewing-gum after+a long and stormy war, had made a bonfire of the confiscated novels and+newspapers, had suppressed a private post-office, had forbidden+distortions of the face, nicknames, and caricatures, and done all that+one man could do to keep half a hundred rebellious girls in order. Boys+are trying enough to human patience, goodness knows! but girls are+infinitely more so, especially to nervous gentlemen, with tyrannical+tempers, and no more talent for teaching than Dr. Blimber. Mr. Davis+knew any quantity of Greek, Latin, Algebra, and ologies of all sorts, so+he was called a fine teacher; and manners, morals, feelings, and+examples were not considered of any particular importance. It was a most+unfortunate moment for denouncing Amy, and Jenny knew it. Mr. Davis had+evidently taken his coffee too strong that morning; there was an east+wind, which always affected his neuralgia; and his pupils had not done+him the credit which he felt he deserved: therefore, to use the+expressive, if not elegant, language of a school-girl, "he was as+nervous as a witch and as cross as a bear." The word "limes" was like+fire to powder; his yellow face flushed, and he rapped on his desk with+an energy which made Jenny skip to her seat with unusual rapidity.++"Young ladies, attention, if you please!"++At the stern order the buzz ceased, and fifty pairs of blue, black,+gray, and brown eyes were obediently fixed upon his awful countenance.++"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.++"Bring with you the limes you have in your desk," was the unexpected+command which arrested her before she got out of her seat.++"Don't take all," whispered her neighbor, a young lady of great presence+of mind.++Amy hastily shook out half a dozen, and laid the rest down before Mr.+Davis, feeling that any man possessing a human heart would relent when+that delicious perfume met his nose. 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."++There was a simultaneous sigh, which created quite a little gust, as the+last hope fled, and the treat was ravished from their longing lips.+Scarlet with shame and anger, Amy went to and fro six dreadful times;+and as each doomed couple--looking oh! so plump and juicy--fell from her+reluctant hands, a shout from the street completed the anguish of the+girls, for it told them that their feast was being exulted over by the+little Irish children, who were their sworn foes. 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,--++"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."++Amy started, and put both hands behind her, turning on him an imploring+look which pleaded for her better than the words she could not utter.+She was rather a favorite with "old Davis," as, of course, he was+called, and it's my private belief that he _would_ have broken his word+if the indignation of one irrepressible young lady had not found vent in+a hiss. That hiss, faint as it was, irritated the irascible gentleman,+and sealed the culprit's fate.++"Your hand, Miss March!" was the only answer her mute appeal received;+and, too proud to cry or beseech, Amy set her teeth, threw back her+head defiantly, and bore without flinching several tingling blows on her+little palm. They were neither many nor heavy, but that made no+difference to her. For the first time in her life she had been struck;+and the disgrace, in her eyes, was as deep as if he had knocked her+down.++ [Illustration: Amy bore without flinching several tingling blows]++"You will now stand on the platform till recess," said Mr. Davis,+resolved to do the thing thoroughly, since he had begun.++That was dreadful. It would have been bad enough to go to her seat, and+see the pitying faces of her friends, or the satisfied ones of her few+enemies; but to face the whole school, with that shame fresh upon her,+seemed impossible, and for a second she felt as if she could only drop+down where she stood, and break her heart with crying. A bitter sense of+wrong, and the thought of Jenny Snow, helped her to bear it; and, taking+the ignominious place, she fixed her eyes on the stove-funnel above what+now seemed a sea of faces, and stood there, so motionless and white that+the girls found it very hard to study, with that pathetic figure before+them.++During the fifteen minutes that followed, the proud and sensitive little+girl suffered a shame and pain which she never forgot. To others it+might seem a ludicrous or trivial affair, but to her it was a hard+experience; for during the twelve years of her life she had been+governed by love alone, and a blow of that sort had never touched her+before. The smart of her hand and the ache of her heart were forgotten+in the sting of the thought,--++"I shall have to tell at home, and they will be so disappointed in me!"++The fifteen minutes seemed an hour; but they came to an end at last, and+the word "Recess!" had never seemed so welcome to her before.++"You can go, Miss March," said Mr. Davis, looking, as he felt,+uncomfortable.++He did not soon forget the reproachful glance Amy gave him, as she went,+without a word to any one, straight into the ante-room, snatched her+things, and left the place "forever," as she passionately declared to+herself. She was in a sad state when she got home; and when the older+girls arrived, some time later, an indignation meeting was held at+once. Mrs. March did not say much, but looked disturbed, and comforted+her afflicted little daughter in her tenderest manner. Meg bathed the+insulted hand with glycerine and tears; Beth felt that even her beloved+kittens would fail as a balm for griefs like this; Jo wrathfully+proposed that Mr. Davis be arrested without delay; and Hannah shook her+fist at the "villain," and pounded potatoes for dinner as if she had him+under her pestle.++No notice was taken of Amy's flight, except by her mates; but the+sharp-eyed demoiselles discovered that Mr. Davis was quite benignant in+the afternoon, also unusually nervous. Just before school closed, Jo+appeared, wearing a grim expression, as she stalked up to the desk, and+delivered a letter from her mother; then collected Amy's property, and+departed, carefully scraping the mud from her boots on the door-mat, as+if she shook the dust of the place off her feet.++"Yes, you can have a vacation from school, but I want you to study a+little every day, with Beth," said Mrs. March, that evening. "I don't+approve of corporal punishment, especially for girls. I dislike Mr.+Davis's manner of teaching, and don't think the girls you associate with+are doing you any good, so I shall ask your father's advice before I+send you anywhere else."++"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.++"I am not sorry you lost them, for you broke the rules, and deserved+some punishment for disobedience," was the severe reply, which rather+disappointed the young lady, who expected nothing but sympathy.++"Do you mean you are glad I was disgraced before the whole school?"+cried Amy.++"I should not have chosen that way of mending a fault," replied her+mother; "but I'm not sure that it won't do you more good than a milder+method. 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. There is not much danger that real talent or goodness+will be overlooked long; even if it is, the consciousness of possessing+and using it well should satisfy one, and the great charm of all power+is modesty."++"So it is!" cried Laurie, who was playing chess in a corner with Jo. "I+knew a girl, once, who had a really remarkable talent for music, and she+didn't know it; never guessed what sweet little things she composed when+she was alone, and wouldn't have believed it if any one had told her."++"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.++"You do know her, and she helps you better than any one else could,"+answered Laurie, looking at her with such mischievous meaning in his+merry black eyes, that Beth suddenly turned very red, and hid her face+in the sofa-cushion, quite overcome by such an unexpected discovery.++ [Illustration: You do know her]++Jo let Laurie win the game, to pay for that praise of her Beth, who+could not be prevailed upon to play for them after her compliment. So+Laurie did his best, and sung delightfully, being in a particularly+lively humor, for to the Marches he seldom showed the moody side of his+character. When he was gone, Amy, who had been pensive all the evening,+said suddenly, as if busy over some new idea,--++"Is Laurie an accomplished boy?"++"Yes; he has had an excellent education, and has much talent; he will+make a fine man, if not spoilt 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.++"These things are always seen and felt in a person's manner and+conversation, if modestly used; but it is not necessary to display+them," said Mrs. March.++"Any more than it's proper to wear all your bonnets and gowns and+ribbons at once, that folks may know you've got them," added Jo; and the+lecture ended in a laugh.+++++ [Illustration: Girls, where are you going?]++ VIII.++ JO MEETS APOLLYON.+++"Girls, where are you going?" asked Amy, coming into their room one+Saturday afternoon, and finding them getting ready to go out, with an+air of secrecy which excited her curiosity.++"Never mind; little girls shouldn't ask questions," returned Jo sharply.++Now if there _is_ anything mortifying to our feelings, when we are+young, it is to be told that; and to be bidden to "run away, dear," is+still more trying to us. 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! I+should think you might let me go, too; for Beth is fussing over her+piano, and I haven't got anything to do, and am _so_ lonely."++"I can't, dear, because you aren't invited," began Meg; but Jo broke in+impatiently, "Now, Meg, be quiet, or you will spoil it all. 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! you're going to the theatre to see the 'Seven+Castles!'" she cried; adding resolutely, "and I _shall_ go, for mother+said I might see it; and I've got my rag-money, and it was mean not to+tell me in time."++"Just listen to me a minute, and be a good child," said Meg soothingly.+"Mother doesn't wish you to go this week, because your eyes are not well+enough yet to bear the light of this fairy piece. 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.++"If _she_ goes _I_ sha'n't; and if I don't, Laurie won't like it; and it+will be very rude, after he invited only us, to go and drag in Amy. I+should think she'd hate to poke herself where she isn't wanted," said Jo+crossly, for she disliked the trouble of overseeing a fidgety child,+when she wanted to enjoy herself.++Her tone and manner angered Amy, who began to put her boots on, saying,+in her most aggravating way, "I _shall_ go; Meg says I may; and if I pay+for myself, Laurie hasn't anything to do with it."++"You can't sit with us, for our seats are reserved, and you mustn't sit+alone; so Laurie will give you his place, and that will spoil our+pleasure; or he'll get another seat for you, and that isn't proper, when+you weren't asked. You sha'n't stir a step; so you may just stay where+you are," scolded Jo, crosser than ever, having just pricked her finger+in her hurry.++Sitting on the floor, with one boot on, Amy began to cry, and Meg to+reason with her, when Laurie called from below, and the two girls+hurried down, leaving their sister wailing; for now and then she forgot+her grown-up ways, and acted like a spoilt child. Just as the party was+setting out, Amy called over the banisters, in a threatening tone,+"You'll be sorry for this, Jo March; see if you ain't."++"Fiddlesticks!" returned Jo, slamming the door.++They had a charming time, for "The Seven Castles of the Diamond Lake"+were as brilliant and wonderful as heart could wish. But, in spite of+the comical red imps, sparkling elves, and gorgeous princes and+princesses, Jo's pleasure had a drop of bitterness in it; the fairy+queen's yellow curls reminded her of Amy; and between the acts she+amused herself with wondering what her sister would do to make her+"sorry for it." She and Amy had had many lively skirmishes in the course+of their lives, for both had quick tempers, and were apt to be violent+when fairly roused. Amy teased Jo, and Jo irritated Amy, and+semi-occasional explosions occurred, of which both were much ashamed+afterward. Although the oldest, Jo had the least self-control, and had+hard times trying to curb the fiery spirit which was continually getting+her into trouble; 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. Poor Jo tried desperately to be+good, but her bosom enemy was always ready to flame up and defeat her;+and it took years of patient effort to subdue it.++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. On going up to put away her best hat, Jo's+first look was toward the bureau; for, in their last quarrel, Amy had+soothed her feelings by turning Jo's top drawer upside down on the+floor. Everything was in its place, however; and after a hasty glance+into her various closets, bags, and boxes, Jo decided that Amy had+forgiven and forgotten her wrongs.++There Jo was mistaken; for next day she made a discovery which produced+a tempest. Meg, Beth, and Amy were sitting together, late in the+afternoon, when Jo burst into the room, looking excited, and demanding+breathlessly, "Has any one taken my book?"++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."++"That's a fib!" cried Jo, taking her by the shoulders, and looking+fierce enough to frighten a much braver child than Amy.++"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.++"Scold as much as you like, you'll never see your silly old book again,"+cried Amy, getting excited in her turn.++"Why not?"++"I burnt it up."++ [Illustration: I burnt 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 burnt 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--"++Amy got no farther, for Jo's hot temper mastered her, and she shook Amy+till her teeth chattered in her head; crying, in a passion of grief and+anger,--++"You wicked, wicked girl! I never can write it again, and I'll never+forgive you as long as I live."++Meg flew to rescue Amy, and Beth to pacify Jo, but Jo was quite beside+herself; and, with a parting box on her sister's ear, she rushed out of+the room up to the old sofa in the garret, and finished her fight alone.++The storm cleared up below, for Mrs. March came home, and, having heard+the story, soon brought Amy to a sense of the wrong she had done her+sister. Jo's book was the pride of her heart, and was regarded by her+family as a literary sprout of great promise. It was only half a dozen+little fairy tales, but Jo had worked over them patiently, putting her+whole heart into her work, hoping to make something good enough to+print. She had just copied them with great care, and had destroyed the+old manuscript, so that Amy's bonfire had consumed the loving work of+several years. It seemed a small loss to others, but to Jo it was a+dreadful calamity, and she felt that it never could be made up to her.+Beth mourned as for a departed kitten, and Meg refused to defend her+pet; Mrs. March looked grave and grieved, and Amy felt that no one would+love her till she had asked pardon for the act which she now regretted+more than any of them.++When the tea-bell rung, Jo appeared, looking so grim and unapproachable+that it took all Amy's courage to say meekly,--++"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.++No one spoke of the great trouble,--not even Mrs. March,--for all had+learned by experience that when Jo was in that mood words were wasted;+and the wisest course was to wait till some little accident, or her own+generous nature, softened Jo's resentment, and healed the breach. It was+not a happy evening; for, though they sewed as usual, while their mother+read aloud from Bremer, Scott, or Edgeworth, something was wanting, and+the sweet home-peace was disturbed. They felt this most when+singing-time came; for Beth could only play, Jo stood dumb as a stone,+and Amy broke down, so Meg and mother sung alone. But, in spite of their+efforts to be as cheery as larks, the flute-like voices did not seem to+chord as well as usual, and all felt out of tune.++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 to-morrow."++Jo wanted to lay her head down on that motherly bosom, and cry her grief+and anger all away; but tears were an unmanly weakness, and she felt so+deeply injured that she really _couldn't_ quite forgive yet. So she+winked hard, shook her head, and said, gruffly because Amy was+listening,--++"It was an abominable thing, and she don't deserve to be forgiven."++With that she marched off to bed, and there was no merry or confidential+gossip that night.++Amy was much offended that her overtures of peace had been repulsed, and+began to wish she had not humbled herself, to feel more injured than+ever, and to plume herself on her superior virtue in a way which was+particularly exasperating. Jo still looked like a thunder-cloud, and+nothing went well all day. It was bitter cold in the morning; she+dropped her precious turn-over in the gutter, Aunt March had an attack+of fidgets, Meg was pensive, Beth _would_ look grieved and wistful when+she got home, and Amy kept making remarks about people who were always+talking about being good, and yet wouldn't try, when other people set+them a virtuous example.++"Everybody is so hateful, I'll ask Laurie to go skating. He is always+kind and jolly, and will put me to rights, I know," said Jo to herself,+and off she went.++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 cross-patch to take me."++"Don't say that; you _were_ very naughty, and it _is_ hard to forgive+the loss of her precious little book; but I think she might do it now,+and I guess she will, if you try her at the right minute," said Meg. "Go+after them; don't say anything till Jo has got good-natured with Laurie,+then take a quiet minute, and just kiss her, or do some kind thing, and+I'm sure she'll be friends again, with all her heart."++"I'll try," said Amy, for the advice suited her; and, after a flurry to+get ready, she ran after the friends, who were just disappearing over+the hill.++It was not far to the river, but both were ready before Amy reached+them. Jo saw her coming, and turned her back; Laurie did not see, for he+was carefully skating along the shore, sounding the ice, for a warm+spell had preceded the cold snap.++"I'll go on to the first bend, and see if it's all right, before we+begin to race," Amy heard him say, as he shot away, looking like a young+Russian, in his fur-trimmed coat and cap.++Jo heard Amy panting after her run, stamping her feet and blowing her+fingers, as she tried to put her skates on; but Jo never turned, and+went slowly zigzagging down the river, taking a bitter, unhappy sort of+satisfaction in her sister's troubles. She had cherished her anger till+it grew strong, and took possession of her, as evil thoughts and+feelings always do, unless cast out at once. As Laurie turned the bend,+he shouted back,--++"Keep near the shore; it isn't safe in the middle."++Jo heard, but Amy was just 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,--++"No matter whether she heard or not, let her take care of herself."++Laurie had vanished round the bend; Jo was just at the turn, and Amy,+far behind, striking out toward the smoother ice in the middle of the+river. For a minute Jo stood still, with a strange feeling at her heart;+then she resolved to go on, but something held and turned her round,+just in time to see Amy throw up her hands and go down, with the sudden+crash of rotten ice, the splash of water, and a cry that made Jo's heart+stand still with fear. She tried to call Laurie, but her voice was gone;+she tried to rush forward, but her feet seemed to have no strength in+them; and, for a second, she could only stand motionless, staring, with+a terror-stricken face, at the little blue hood above the black water.+Something rushed swiftly by her, and Laurie's voice cried out,--++"Bring a rail; quick, quick!"++How she did it, she never knew; but for the next few minutes she worked+as if possessed, blindly obeying Laurie, who was quite self-possessed,+and, lying flat, held Amy up by his arm and hockey till Jo dragged a+rail from the fence, and together they got the child out, more+frightened than hurt.++ [Illustration: Held Amy up by his arms and hockey]++"Now then, we must walk her home as fast as we can; pile our things on+her, while I get off these confounded skates," cried Laurie, wrapping+his coat round Amy, and tugging away at the straps, which never seemed+so intricate before.++Shivering, dripping, and crying, they got Amy home; and, after an+exciting time of it, she fell asleep, rolled in blankets, before a hot+fire. During the bustle Jo had scarcely spoken; but flown about, looking+pale and wild, with her things half off, her dress torn, and her hands+cut and bruised by ice and rails, and refractory buckles. When Amy was+comfortably asleep, the house quiet, and Mrs. March sitting by the bed,+she called Jo to her, and began to bind up the hurt hands.++"Are you sure she is safe?" whispered Jo, looking remorsefully at the+golden head, which might have been swept away from her sight forever+under the treacherous ice.++"Quite safe, dear; she is not hurt, and won't even take cold, I think,+you were so sensible in covering and getting her home quickly," replied+her mother cheerfully.++"Laurie did it all; I only let her go. Mother, if she _should_ die, it+would be my fault"; and Jo dropped down beside the bed, in a passion of+penitent tears, telling all that had happened, bitterly condemning her+hardness of heart, and sobbing out her gratitude for being spared the+heavy punishment which might have come upon her.++"It's my dreadful temper! I try to cure it; I think I have, and then it+breaks out worse than ever. O mother, what shall I do? what shall I do?"+cried poor Jo, in despair.++"Watch and pray, dear; never get tired of trying; and never think it is+impossible to conquer your fault," said Mrs. March, drawing the blowzy+head to her shoulder, and kissing the wet cheek so tenderly that Jo+cried harder than ever.++"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 any+one, and enjoy it. I'm afraid I _shall_ do something dreadful some day,+and spoil my life, and make everybody hate me. O 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. Jo, dear, we all have our temptations, some far greater than yours,+and it often takes us all our lives to conquer them. 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. I am angry nearly every day of my life, Jo; but I have+learned not to show it; and I still hope to learn not to feel it, though+it may take me another forty years to do so."++The patience and the humility of the face she loved so well was a better+lesson to Jo than the wisest lecture, the sharpest reproof. She felt+comforted at once by the sympathy and confidence given her; the+knowledge that her mother had a fault like hers, and tried to mend it,+made her own easier to bear and strengthened her resolution to cure it;+though forty years seemed rather a long time to watch and pray, to a+girl of fifteen.++"Mother, are you angry when you fold your lips tight together, and go+out of the room sometimes, when Aunt March scolds, or people worry+you?" asked Jo, feeling nearer and dearer to her mother than ever+before.++"Yes, I've learned to check the hasty words that rise to my lips; and+when I feel that they mean to break out against my will, I just go away+a minute, and give myself a little shake, for being so weak and wicked,"+answered Mrs. March, with a sigh and a smile, as she smoothed and+fastened up Jo's dishevelled hair.++"How did you learn to keep still? That is what troubles me--for the+sharp words fly out before I know what I'm about; and the more I say the+worse I get, till it's a pleasure to hurt people's feelings, and say+dreadful things. Tell me how you do it, Marmee dear."++"My good mother used to help me--"++"As you do us--" interrupted Jo, with a grateful kiss.++"But I lost her when I was a little older than you are, and for years+had to struggle on alone, for I was too proud to confess my weakness to+any one else. I had a hard time, Jo, and shed a good many bitter tears+over my failures; for, in spite of my efforts, I never seemed to get on.+Then your father came, and I was so happy that I found it easy to be+good. But by and by, when I had four little daughters round me, and we+were poor, then the old trouble began again; for I am not patient by+nature, and it tried me very much to see my children wanting anything."++"Poor mother! what helped you then?"++"Your father, Jo. He never loses patience,--never doubts or+complains,--but always hopes, and works and waits so cheerfully, that+one is ashamed to do otherwise before him. He helped and comforted me,+and showed me that I must try to practise all the virtues I would have+my little girls possess, for I was their example. It was easier to try+for your sakes than for my own; a startled or surprised look from one of+you, when I spoke sharply, rebuked me more than any words could have+done; and the love, respect, and confidence of my children was the+sweetest reward I could receive for my efforts to be the woman I would+have them copy."++"O mother, if I'm ever half as good as you, I shall be satisfied," cried+Jo, much touched.++"I hope you will be a great deal better, dear; but you must keep watch+over your 'bosom enemy,' as father calls it, or it may sadden, if not+spoil your life. You have had a warning; remember it, and try with heart+and soul to master this quick temper, before it brings you greater+sorrow and regret than you have known to-day."++"I will try, mother; I truly will. But you must help me, remind me, and+keep me from flying out. I used to see father sometimes put his finger+on his lips, and look at you with a very kind, but sober face, and you+always folded your lips tight or went away: was he reminding you then?"+asked Jo softly.++"Yes; I asked him to help me so, and he never forgot it, but saved me+from many a sharp word by that little gesture and kind look."++Jo saw that her mother's eyes filled and her lips trembled, as she+spoke; and, fearing that she had said too much, she whispered anxiously,+"Was it wrong to watch you, and to speak of it? I didn't mean to be+rude, but it's so comfortable to say all I think to you, and feel so+safe and happy here."++"My Jo, you may say anything to your mother, for it is my greatest+happiness and pride to feel that my girls confide in me, and know how+much I love them."++"I thought I'd grieved you."++"No, dear; but speaking of father reminded me how much I miss him, how+much I owe him, and how faithfully I should watch and work to keep his+little daughters safe and good for him."++"Yet you told him to go, mother, and didn't cry when he went, and never+complain now, or seem as if you needed any help," said Jo, wondering.++"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? If I don't seem to need+help, it is because I have a better friend, even than father, to comfort+and sustain me. My child, the troubles and temptations of your life are+beginning, and may be many; but you can overcome and outlive them all if+you learn to feel the strength and tenderness of your Heavenly Father as+you do that of your earthly one. The more you love and trust Him, the+nearer you will feel to Him, and the less you will depend on human power+and wisdom. His love and care never tire or change, can never be taken+from you, but may become the source of life-long peace, happiness, and+strength. Believe this heartily, and go to God with all your little+cares, and hopes, and sins, and sorrows, as freely and confidingly as+you come to your mother."++Jo's only answer was to hold her mother close, and, in the silence which+followed, the sincerest prayer she had ever prayed left her heart+without words; for in that sad, yet happy hour, she had learned not only+the bitterness of remorse and despair, but the sweetness of self-denial+and self-control; and, led by her mother's hand, she had drawn nearer to+the Friend who welcomes every child with a love stronger than that of+any father, tenderer than that of any mother.++Amy stirred, and sighed in her sleep; and, as if eager to begin at once+to mend her fault, Jo looked up with an expression on her face which it+had never worn before.++"I let the sun go down on my anger; I wouldn't forgive her, and to-day,+if it hadn't been for Laurie, it might have been too late! How could I+be so wicked?" said Jo, half aloud, as she leaned over her sister,+softly stroking the wet hair scattered on the pillow.++As if she heard, Amy opened her eyes, and held out her arms, with a+smile that went straight to Jo's heart. Neither said a word, but they+hugged one another close, in spite of the blankets, and everything was+forgiven and forgotten in one hearty kiss.+++++ [Illustration: Packing the go abroady trunk]++ IX.++ MEG GOES TO VANITY FAIR.+++"I do think it was the most fortunate thing in the world that those+children should have the measles just now," said Meg, one April day, as+she stood packing the "go abroady" trunk in her room, surrounded by her+sisters.++"And so nice of Annie Moffat not to forget her promise. A whole+fortnight of fun will be regularly splendid," replied Jo, looking like a+windmill, as she folded skirts with her long arms.++"And such lovely weather; I'm so glad of that," added Beth, tidily+sorting neck and hair ribbons in her best box, lent for the great+occasion.++"I wish I was going to have a fine time, and wear all these nice+things," said Amy, with her mouth full of pins, as she artistically+replenished her sister's cushion.++"I wish you were all going; but, as you can't, I shall keep my+adventures to tell you when I come back. I'm sure it's the least I can+do, when you have been so kind, lending me things, and helping me get+ready," said Meg, glancing round the room at the very simple outfit,+which seemed nearly perfect in their eyes.++"What did mother give you out of the treasure-box?" asked Amy, who had+not been present at the opening of a certain cedar chest, in which Mrs.+March kept a few relics of past splendor, as gifts for her girls when+the proper time came.++"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 tarlatan."++"It will look nicely over my new muslin skirt, and the sash will set it+off beautifully. I wish I hadn't smashed my coral bracelet, for you+might have had it," said Jo, who loved to give and lend, but whose+possessions were usually too dilapidated to be of much use.++"There is a lovely old-fashioned pearl set in the treasure-box; but+mother said real flowers were the prettiest ornament for a young girl,+and Laurie promised to send me all I want," replied Meg. "Now, let me+see; there's my new gray walking-suit--just curl up the feather in my+hat, Beth,--then my poplin, for Sunday, and the small party,--it looks+heavy for spring, doesn't it? The violet silk would be so nice; oh,+dear!"++"Never mind; you've got the tarlatan for the big party, and you always+look like an angel in white," said Amy, brooding over the little store+of finery in which her soul delighted.++"It isn't low-necked, and it doesn't sweep enough, but it will have to+do. My blue house-dress 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. It's strong and neat, so I ought not to complain,+but I know I shall feel ashamed of it beside Annie's silk one with a+gold top," sighed Meg, surveying the little umbrella with great+disfavor.++"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 night-caps; 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.++"I wonder if I shall _ever_ be happy enough to have real lace on my+clothes, and bows on my caps?" said Meg impatiently.++"You said the other day that you'd be perfectly happy if you could only+go to Annie Moffat's," observed Beth, in her quiet way.++"So I did! Well, I _am_ happy, and I _won't_ fret; but it does seem as+if the more one gets the more one wants, doesn't it? There, now, the+trays are ready, and everything in but my ball-dress, which I shall+leave for mother to pack," said Meg, cheering up, as she glanced from+the half-filled trunk to the many-times pressed and mended white+tarlatan, which she called her "ball-dress," with an important air.++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 she had begged so hard, and Sallie had promised to+take good care of her, and a little pleasure seemed so delightful after+a winter of irksome work, that the mother yielded, and the daughter went+to take her first taste of fashionable life.++The Moffats _were_ very fashionable, and simple Meg was rather daunted,+at first, by the splendor of the house and the elegance of its+occupants. But they were kindly people, in spite of the frivolous life+they led, and soon put their guest at her ease. Perhaps Meg felt,+without understanding why, that they were not particularly cultivated or+intelligent people, and that all their gilding could not quite conceal+the ordinary material of which they were made. It certainly was+agreeable to fare sumptuously, drive in a fine carriage, wear her best+frock every day, and do nothing but enjoy herself. It suited her+exactly; and soon she began to imitate the manners and conversation of+those about her; to put on little airs and graces, use French phrases,+crimp her hair, take in her dresses, and talk about the fashions as well+as she could. The more she saw of Annie Moffat's pretty things, the more+she envied her, and sighed to be rich. Home now looked bare and dismal+as she thought of it, work grew harder than ever, and she felt that she+was a very destitute and much-injured girl, in spite of the new gloves+and silk stockings.++She had not much time for repining, however, for the three young girls+were busily employed in "having a good time." They shopped, walked,+rode, and called all day; went to theatres and operas, or frolicked at+home in the evening; for Annie had many friends, and knew how to+entertain them. Her older sisters were very fine young ladies, and one+was engaged, which was extremely interesting and romantic, Meg thought.+Mr. Moffat was a fat, jolly old gentleman, who knew her father; and Mrs.+Moffat, a fat, jolly old lady, who took as great a fancy to Meg as her+daughter had done. Every one petted her; and "Daisy," as they called+her, was in a fair way to have her head turned.++When the evening for the "small party" came, she found that the poplin+wouldn't do at all, for the other girls were putting on thin dresses,+and making themselves very fine indeed; so out came the tarlatan,+looking older, limper, and shabbier than ever beside Sallie's crisp new+one. Meg saw the girls glance at it and then at one another, and her+cheeks began to burn, for, with all her gentleness, she was very proud.+No one said a word about it, but Sallie offered to dress her hair, and+Annie to tie her sash, and Belle, the engaged sister, praised her white+arms; but in their kindness Meg saw only pity for her poverty, and her+heart felt very heavy as she stood by herself, while the others laughed,+chattered, and flew about like gauzy butterflies. 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.++"It's for Belle, of course; George always sends her some, but these are+altogether ravishing," cried Annie, with a great sniff.++"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.++"The note is from mother, and the flowers from Laurie," said Meg simply,+yet much gratified that he had not forgotten her.++"Oh, indeed!" said Annie, with a funny look, as Meg slipped the note+into her pocket, as a sort of talisman against envy, vanity, and false+pride; for the few loving words had done her good, and the flowers+cheered her up by their beauty.++Feeling almost happy again, she laid by a few ferns and roses for+herself, and quickly made up the rest in dainty bouquets for the+breasts, hair, or skirts of her friends, offering them so prettily that+Clara, the elder sister, told her she was "the sweetest little thing she+ever saw;" and they looked quite charmed with her small attention.+Somehow the kind act finished her despondency; and when all the rest+went to show themselves to Mrs. Moffat, she saw a happy, bright-eyed+face in the mirror, as she laid her ferns against her rippling hair, and+fastened the roses in the dress that didn't strike her as so _very_+shabby now.++She enjoyed herself very much that evening, for she danced to her+heart's content; every one was very kind, and she had three compliments.+Annie made her sing, and some one said she had a remarkably fine voice;+Major Lincoln asked who "the fresh little girl, with the beautiful+eyes," was; and Mr. Moffat insisted on dancing with her, because she+"didn't dawdle, but had some spring in her," as he gracefully expressed+it. So, altogether, she had a very nice time, till she overheard a bit+of a conversation, which disturbed her extremely. She was sitting just+inside the conservatory, waiting for her partner to bring her an ice,+when she heard a voice ask, on the other side of the flowery wall,--++"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 mamma, 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 tarlatan is+all she has got. She may tear it to-night, and that will be a good+excuse for offering a decent one."++"We'll see. I shall ask young Laurence, as a compliment to her, and+we'll have fun about it afterward."++ [Illustration: Meg's partner appeared]++Here Meg's partner appeared, to find her looking much flushed and rather+agitated. She _was_ proud, and her pride was useful just then, for it+helped her hide her mortification, anger, and disgust at what she had+just heard; for, innocent and unsuspicious as she was, she could not+help understanding the gossip of her friends. She tried to forget it,+but could not, and kept repeating to herself, "Mrs. M. has made her+plans," "that fib about her mamma," and "dowdy tarlatan," till she was+ready to cry, and rush home to tell her troubles and ask for advice. As+that was impossible, she did her best to seem gay; and, being rather+excited, she succeeded so well that no one dreamed what an effort she+was making. She was very glad when it was all over, and she was quiet in+her bed, where she could think and wonder and fume till her head ached+and her hot cheeks were cooled by a few natural tears. Those foolish,+yet well-meant words, had opened a new world to Meg, and much disturbed+the peace of the old one, in which, till now, she had lived as happily+as a child. Her innocent friendship with Laurie was spoilt by the silly+speeches she had overheard; her faith in her mother was a little shaken+by the worldly plans attributed to her by Mrs. Moffat, who judged others+by herself; and the sensible resolution to be contented with the simple+wardrobe which suited a poor man's daughter, was weakened by the+unnecessary pity of girls who thought a shabby dress one of the greatest+calamities under heaven.++Poor Meg had a restless night, and got up heavy-eyed, unhappy, half+resentful toward her friends, and half ashamed of herself for not+speaking out frankly, and setting everything right. 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; they treated her with more respect, she thought;+took quite a tender interest in what she said, and looked at her with+eyes that plainly betrayed curiosity. All this surprised and flattered+her, though she did not understand it till Miss Belle looked up from her+writing, and said, with a sentimental air,--++"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."++Meg colored, but a mischievous fancy to tease the girls made her reply+demurely,--++"You are very kind, but I'm afraid he won't come."++"Why not, _chérie_?" 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. My mother and old Mr. Laurence are friends, you know,+so it is quite natural that we children should play together;" and Meg+hoped they would say no more.++"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,--" 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.++"My old white one again, if I can mend it fit to be seen; it got sadly+torn last night," said Meg, trying to speak quite easily, but feeling+very uncomfortable.++"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--" She did not finish her speech, for Belle shook+her head at her, and broke in, saying kindly,--++"Not at all; where is the use of having a lot of dresses when she isn't+out? There's no need of sending home, Daisy, even if you had a dozen,+for I've got a sweet blue silk laid away, which I've outgrown, and you+shall wear it, to please me, won't you, dear?"++"You are very kind, but I don't mind my old dress, if you don't; it does+well enough for a little girl like me," said Meg.++"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. I+sha'n't let any one see you till you are done, and then we'll burst upon+them like Cinderella and her godmother, going to the ball," said Belle,+in her persuasive tone.++Meg couldn't refuse the offer so kindly made, for a desire to see if she+would be "a little beauty" after touching up, caused her to accept, and+forget all her former uncomfortable feelings towards the Moffats.++On the Thursday evening, Belle shut herself up with her maid; and,+between them, they turned Meg into a fine lady. They crimped and curled+her hair, they polished her neck and arms with some fragrant powder,+touched her lips with coralline salve, to make them redder, and Hortense+would have added "a _soupçon_ of rouge," if Meg had not rebelled. They+laced her into a sky-blue dress, which was so tight she could hardly+breathe, and so low in the neck that modest Meg blushed at herself in+the mirror. A set of silver filagree was added, bracelets, necklace,+brooch, and even ear-rings, for Hortense tied them on, with a bit of+pink silk, which did not show. A cluster of tea-rosebuds at the bosom,+and a _ruche_, reconciled Meg to the display of her pretty white+shoulders, and a pair of high-heeled blue silk boots satisfied the last+wish of her heart. A laced handkerchief, a plumy fan, and a bouquet in a+silver holder finished her off; and Miss Belle surveyed her with the+satisfaction of a little girl with a newly dressed doll.++"Mademoiselle is charmante, très 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.++As Meg went rustling after, with her long skirts trailing, her ear-rings+tinkling, her curls waving, and her heart beating, she felt as if her+"fun" had really begun at last, for the mirror had plainly told her that+she _was_ "a little beauty." Her friends repeated the pleasing phrase+enthusiastically; and, for several minutes, she stood, like the jackdaw+in the fable, enjoying her borrowed plumes, while the rest chattered+like a party of magpies.++"While I dress, do you drill her, Nan, in the management of her skirt,+and those French heels, or she will trip herself up. Take your silver+butterfly, and catch up that long curl on the left side of her head,+Clara, and don't any of you disturb the charming work of my hands," said+Belle, as she hurried away, looking well pleased with her success.++"I'm afraid to go down, I feel so queer and stiff and half-dressed,"+said Meg to Sallie, as the bell rang, and Mrs. Moffat sent to ask the+young ladies to appear at once.++"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. Let your flowers hang; don't be so careful of them, and be+sure you don't trip," returned Sallie, trying not to care that Meg was+prettier than herself.++ [Illustration: Asked to be introduced]++Keeping that warning carefully in mind, Margaret got safely down stairs,+and sailed into the drawing-rooms, where the Moffats and a few early+guests were assembled. 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; several young gentlemen,+who had only stared at her at the other party, now not only stared, but+asked to be introduced, and said all manner of foolish but agreeable+things to her; and several old ladies, who sat on sofas, and criticised+the rest of the party, inquired who she was, with an air of interest.+She heard Mrs. Moffat reply to one of them,--++"Daisy March--father a colonel in the army--one of our first families,+but reverses of fortune, you know; intimate friends of the Laurences;+sweet creature, I assure you; my Ned is quite wild about her."++"Dear me!" said the old lady, putting up her glass for another+observation of Meg, who tried to look as if she had not heard, and been+rather shocked at Mrs. Moffat's fibs.++The "queer feeling" did not pass away, but she imagined herself acting+the new part of fine lady, and so got on pretty well, though the tight+dress gave her a side-ache, the train kept getting under her feet, and+she was in constant fear lest her ear-rings should fly off, and get lost+or broken. She was flirting her fan and laughing at the feeble jokes of+a young gentleman who tried to be witty, when she suddenly stopped+laughing and looked confused; for, just opposite, she saw Laurie. He was+staring at her with undisguised surprise, and disapproval also, she+thought; for, though he bowed and smiled, yet something in his honest+eyes made her blush, and wish she had her old dress on. To complete her+confusion, she saw Belle nudge Annie, and both glance from her to+Laurie, who, she was happy to see, looked unusually boyish and shy.++"Silly creatures, to put such thoughts into my head! I won't care for+it, or let it change me a bit," thought Meg, and rustled across the room+to shake hands with her friend.++"I'm glad you came, I was afraid you wouldn't," she said, with her most+grown-up air.++"Jo wanted me to come, and tell her how you looked, so I did;" answered+Laurie, without turning his eyes upon her, though he half smiled at her+maternal tone.++"What shall you tell her?" asked Meg, full of curiosity to know his+opinion of her, yet feeling ill at ease with him, for the first time.++"I shall say I didn't know you; for you look so grown-up, and unlike+yourself, I'm quite afraid of you," he said, fumbling at his+glove-button.++"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.++He glanced at her frizzled head, bare shoulders, and fantastically+trimmed dress, with an expression that abashed her more than his answer,+which had not a particle of his usual politeness about it.++"I don't like fuss and feathers."++That was altogether too much from a lad younger than herself; and Meg+walked away, saying petulantly,--++"You are the rudest boy I ever saw."++Feeling very much ruffled, she went and stood at a quiet window, to cool+her cheeks, for the tight dress gave her an uncomfortably brilliant+color. As she stood there, Major Lincoln passed by; and, a minute after,+she heard him saying to his mother,--++"They are making a fool of that little girl; I wanted you to see her,+but they have spoilt her entirely; she's nothing but a doll, to-night."++"Oh, dear!" sighed Meg; "I wish I'd been sensible, and worn my own+things; then I should not have disgusted other people, or felt so+uncomfortable and ashamed myself."++She leaned her forehead on the cool pane, and stood half hidden by the+curtains, never minding that her favorite waltz had begun, till some one+touched her; and, turning, she saw Laurie, looking penitent, as he said,+with his very best bow, and his hand out,--++"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 don't trip you up; it's the plague of my life, and I+was a goose to wear it."++"Pin it round your neck, and then it will be useful," said Laurie,+looking down at the little blue boots, which he evidently approved of.++Away they went, fleetly and gracefully; for, having practised at home,+they were well matched, and the blithe young couple were a pleasant+sight to see, as they twirled merrily round and round, feeling more+friendly than ever after their small tiff.++"Laurie, I want you to do me a favor; will you?" said Meg, as he stood+fanning her, when her breath gave out, which it did very soon, though+she would not own why.++"Won't I!" said Laurie, with alacrity.++"Please don't tell them at home about my dress to-night. 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,--++"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,--++"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; what does he want?" said Laurie, knitting his+black brows, as if he did not regard his young host in the light of a+pleasant addition to the party.++"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.++He did not speak to her again till supper-time, when he saw her drinking+champagne with Ned and his friend Fisher, who were behaving "like a pair+of fools," as Laurie said to himself, for he felt a brotherly sort of+right to watch over the Marches, and fight their battles whenever a+defender was needed.++ [Illustration: I wouldn't, Meg]++"You'll have a splitting headache to-morrow, if you drink much of that.+I wouldn't Meg; your mother doesn't like it, you know," he whispered,+leaning over her chair, as Ned turned to refill her glass, and Fisher+stooped to pick up her fan.++"I'm not Meg, to-night; I'm 'a doll,' who does all sorts of crazy+things. To-morrow I shall put away my 'fuss and feathers,' and be+desperately good again," she answered, with an affected little laugh.++"Wish to-morrow 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;+after supper she undertook the German, and blundered through it, nearly+upsetting her partner with her long skirt, and romping in a way that+scandalized Laurie, who looked on and meditated a lecture. 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 à la mort," replied Laurie, with a melodramatic flourish, as he+went away.++This little bit of by-play excited Annie's curiosity; but Meg was too+tired for gossip, and went to bed, feeling as if she had been to a+masquerade, and hadn't enjoyed herself as much as she expected. She was+sick all the next day, and on Saturday went home, quite used up with her+fortnight's fun, and feeling that she had "sat in the lap of luxury"+long enough.++"It does seem pleasant to be quiet, and not have company manners on all+the time. Home _is_ a nice place, though it isn't splendid," said Meg,+looking about her with a restful expression, as she sat with her mother+and Jo on the Sunday evening.++"I'm glad to hear you say so, dear, for I was afraid home would seem+dull and poor to you, after your fine quarters," replied her mother, who+had given her many anxious looks that day; for motherly eyes are quick+to see any change in children's faces.++Meg had told her adventures gayly, and said over and over what a+charming time she had had; but something still seemed to weigh upon her+spirits, and, when the younger girls were gone to bed, she sat+thoughtfully staring at the fire, saying little, and looking worried. As+the clock struck nine, and Jo proposed bed, Meg suddenly left her chair,+and, taking Beth's stool, leaned her elbows on her mother's knee, saying+bravely,--++"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? I was ashamed to+speak of it before the children, but I want you to know all the dreadful+things I did at the Moffat's."++"We are prepared," said Mrs. March, smiling, but looking a little+anxious.++"I told you they dressed me up, but I didn't tell you that they powdered+and squeezed and frizzled, and made me look like a fashion-plate. Laurie+thought I wasn't proper; I know he did, though he didn't say so, and one+man called me 'a doll.' I knew it was silly, but they flattered me, and+said I was a beauty, and quantities of nonsense, so I let them make a+fool of me."++"Is that all?" asked Jo, as Mrs. March looked silently at the downcast+face of her pretty daughter, and could not find it in her heart to blame+her little follies.++"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,--++"Yes; it's very silly, but I want to tell it, because I hate to have+people say and think such things about us and Laurie."++Then she told the various bits of gossip she had heard at the Moffats;+and, as she spoke, Jo saw her mother fold her lips tightly, as if ill+pleased that such ideas should be put into Meg's innocent mind.++"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. I couldn't help hearing, at+first, and then I was so angry and ashamed, I didn't remember that I+ought to go away."++"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 was very unwise to let you go among+people of whom I know so little,--kind, I dare say, but worldly,+ill-bred, and full of these vulgar ideas about young people. 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 forget all the bad, and+remember only the good; for I did enjoy a great deal, and thank you very+much for letting me go. 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. But it _is_ nice to be praised and admired, and I+can't help saying I like it," said Meg, looking half ashamed of the+confession.++"That is perfectly natural, and quite harmless, if the liking does not+become a passion, and lead one to do foolish or unmaidenly things. Learn+to know and value the praise which is worth having, and to excite the+admiration of excellent people by being modest as well as pretty, Meg."++Margaret sat thinking a moment, while Jo stood with her hands behind+her, looking both interested and a little perplexed; for it was a new+thing to see Meg blushing and talking about admiration, lovers, and+things of that sort; and Jo felt as if, during that fortnight, her+sister had grown up amazingly, and was drifting away from her into a+world where she could not follow.++"Mother, do you have 'plans,' as Mrs. Moffat said?" asked Meg bashfully.++"Yes, my dear, I have a great many; all mothers do, but mine differ+somewhat from Mrs. Moffat's, I suspect. I will tell you some of them,+for the time has come when a word may set this romantic little head and+heart of yours right, on a very serious subject. You are young, Meg, but+not too young to understand me; and mothers' lips are the fittest to+speak of such things to girls like you. Jo, your turn will come in time,+perhaps, so listen to my 'plans,' and help me carry them out, if they+are good."++Jo went and sat on one arm of the chair, looking as if she thought they+were about to join in some very solemn affair. Holding a hand of each,+and watching the two young faces wistfully, Mrs. March said, in her+serious yet cheery way,--++ [Illustration: Holding a hand of each, Mrs. March said, &c.]++"I want my daughters to be beautiful, accomplished, and good; to be+admired, loved, and respected; to have a happy youth, to be well and+wisely married, and to lead useful, pleasant lives, with as little care+and sorrow to try them as God sees fit to send. To be loved and chosen+by a good man is the best and sweetest thing which can happen to a+woman; and I sincerely hope my girls may know this beautiful experience.+It is natural to think of it, Meg; right to hope and wait for it, and+wise to prepare for it; so that, when the happy time comes, you may+feel ready for the duties and worthy of the joy. My dear girls, I _am_+ambitious for you, but not to have you make a dash in the world,--marry+rich men merely because they are rich, or have splendid houses, which+are not homes because love is wanting. Money is a needful and precious+thing,--and, when well used, a noble thing,--but I never want you to+think it is the first or only prize to strive for. I'd rather see you+poor men's wives, if you were happy, beloved, contented, than queens on+thrones, without self-respect and peace."++"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. Some of+the best and most honored women I know were poor girls, but so+love-worthy that they were not allowed to be old maids. Leave these+things to time; make this home happy, so that you may be fit for homes+of your own, if they are offered you, and contented here if they are+not. One thing remember, my girls: mother is always ready to be your+confidant, father to be your friend; and both of us trust and hope that+our daughters, whether married or single, will be the pride and comfort+of our lives."++"We will, Marmee, we will!" cried both, with all their hearts, as she+bade them good-night.+++++ X.++ THE P. C. AND P. O.+++As spring came on, a new set of amusements became the fashion, and the+lengthening days gave long afternoons for work and play of all sorts.+The garden had to be put in order, and each sister had a quarter of the+little plot to do what she liked with. Hannah used to say, "I'd know+which each of them gardings belonged to, ef I see 'em in Chiny;" and so+she might, for the girls' tastes differed as much as their characters.+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; this year it was to be a plantation of sun-flowers, the+seeds of which cheerful and aspiring plant were to feed "Aunt+Cockle-top" and her family of chicks. Beth had old-fashioned, fragrant+flowers in her garden,--sweet peas and mignonette, larkspur, pinks,+pansies, and southernwood, with chickweed for the bird, and catnip for+the pussies. Amy had a bower in hers,--rather small and earwiggy, but+very pretty to look at,--with honeysuckles and morning-glories hanging+their colored horns and bells in graceful wreaths all over it; tall,+white lilies, delicate ferns, and as many brilliant, picturesque plants+as would consent to blossom there.++Gardening, walks, rows on the river, and flower-hunts employed the fine+days; and for rainy ones, they had house diversions,--some old, some+new,--all more or less original. One of these was the "P. C."; for, as+secret societies were the fashion, it was thought proper to have one;+and, as all of the girls admired Dickens, they called themselves the+Pickwick Club. With a few interruptions, they had kept this up for a+year, and met every Saturday evening in the big garret, on which+occasions the ceremonies were as follows: Three chairs were arranged in+a row before a table, on which was a lamp, also four white badges, with+a big "P. C." in different colors on each, and the weekly newspaper,+called "The Pickwick Portfolio," to which all contributed something;+while Jo, who revelled in pens and ink, was the editor. At seven+o'clock, the four members ascended to the club-room, tied their badges+round their heads, and took their seats with great solemnity. Meg, as+the eldest, was Samuel Pickwick; Jo, being of a literary turn, Augustus+Snodgrass; Beth, because she was round and rosy, Tracy Tupman, and Amy,+who was always trying to do what she couldn't, was Nathaniel Winkle.+Pickwick, the president, read the paper, which was filled with original+tales, poetry, local news, funny advertisements, and hints, in which+they good-naturedly reminded each other of their faults and+short-comings.++ [Illustration: Mr. Pickwick]++On one occasion, Mr. Pickwick put on a pair of spectacles without any+glasses, rapped upon the table, hemmed, and, having stared hard at Mr.+Snodgrass, who was tilting back in his chair, till he arranged himself+properly, began to read:--+++ The Pickwick Portfolio.++ MAY 20, 18--++ Poet's Corner.++ ANNIVERSARY ODE.++ Again we meet to celebrate+ With badge and solemn rite,+ Our fifty-second anniversary,+ In Pickwick Hall, to-night.++ We all are here in perfect health,+ None gone from our small band;+ Again we see each well-known face,+ And press each friendly hand.++ Our Pickwick, always at his post,+ With reverence we greet,+ As, spectacles on nose, he reads+ Our well-filled weekly sheet.++ Although he suffers from a cold,+ We joy to hear him speak,+ For words of wisdom from him fall,+ In spite of croak or squeak.++ 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!++ Next our peaceful Tupman comes,+ So rosy, plump, and sweet.+ Who chokes with laughter at the puns,+ And tumbles off his seat.++ Prim little Winkle too is here,+ With every hair in place,+ A model of propriety,+ Though he hates to wash his face.++ The year is gone, we still unite+ To joke and laugh and read,+ And tread the path of literature+ That doth to glory lead.++ Long may our paper prosper well,+ Our club unbroken be,+ And coming years their blessings pour+ On the useful, gay "P. C."++ A. SNODGRASS.+++ THE MASKED MARRIAGE.++ A TALE OF VENICE.++ Gondola after gondola swept up to the marble steps, and left its+ lovely load to swell the brilliant throng that filled the+ stately halls of Count de Adelon. Knights and ladies, elves and+ pages, monks and flower-girls, all mingled gayly in the dance.+ Sweet voices and rich melody filled the air; and so with mirth+ and music the masquerade went on.++ "Has your Highness seen the Lady Viola to-night?" asked a+ gallant troubadour of the fairy queen who floated down the hall+ upon his arm.++ "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. When that is off we shall see+ how he regards the fair maid whose heart he cannot win, though+ her stern father bestows her hand," returned the troubadour.++ "'Tis whispered that she loves the young English artist who+ haunts her steps, and is spurned by the old count," said the+ lady, as they joined the dance.++ The revel was at its height when a priest appeared, and,+ withdrawing the young pair to an alcove hung with purple velvet,+ he motioned them to kneel. Instant silence fell upon the gay+ throng; and not a sound, but the dash of fountains or the rustle+ of orange-groves sleeping in the moonlight, broke the hush, as+ Count de Adelon spoke thus:--++ "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."++ All eyes turned toward the bridal party, and a low murmur of+ amazement went through the throng, for neither bride nor groom+ removed their masks. 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.++ "Gladly would I give it if I could; but I only know that it was+ the whim of my timid Viola, and I yielded to it. Now, my+ children, let the play end. Unmask, and receive my blessing."++ But neither bent the knee; for the young bridegroom replied, in+ a tone that startled all listeners, as the mask fell, disclosing+ the noble face of Ferdinand Devereux, the artist lover; and,+ leaning on the breast where now flashed the star of an English+ earl, was the lovely Viola, radiant with joy and beauty.++ "My lord, you scornfully bade me claim your daughter when I+ could boast as high a name and vast a fortune as the Count+ Antonio. I can do more; for even your ambitious soul cannot+ refuse the Earl of Devereux and De Vere, when he gives his+ ancient name and boundless wealth in return for the beloved hand+ of this fair lady, now my wife."++ The count stood like one changed to stone; and, turning to the+ bewildered crowd, Ferdinand added, with a gay smile of triumph,+ "To you, my gallant friends, I can only wish that your wooing+ may prosper as mine has done; and that you may all win as fair a+ bride as I have, by this masked marriage."++ S. PICKWICK.++ * * * * *++ Why is the P. C. like the Tower of Babel? It is full of unruly+ members.++ * * * * *++ THE HISTORY OF A SQUASH.++ Once upon a time a farmer planted a little seed in his garden,+ and after a while it sprouted and became a vine, and bore many+ squashes. One day in October, when they were ripe, he picked one+ and took it to market. A grocer-man bought and put it in his+ shop. That same morning, a little girl, in a brown hat and blue+ dress, with a round face and snub nose, went and bought it for+ her mother. She lugged it home, cut it up, and boiled it in the+ big pot; mashed some of it, with salt and butter, for dinner;+ and to the rest she added a pint of milk, two eggs, four spoons+ of sugar, nutmeg, and some crackers; put it in a deep dish, and+ baked it till it was brown and nice; and next day it was eaten+ by a family named March.+ T. TUPMAN.++ * * * * *++ MR. PICKWICK, _Sir_:--++ I address you upon the subject of sin the sinner I mean is a man+ named Winkle who makes trouble in his club by laughing and+ sometimes won't write his piece in this fine paper I hope you+ will pardon his badness and let him send a French fable because+ he can't write out of his head as he has so many lessons to do+ and no brains in future I will try to take time by the fetlock+ and prepare some work which will be all _commy la fo_ that means+ all right I am in haste as it is nearly school time++ 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. On rushing, in a body,+ to the cellar, we discovered our beloved President prostrate+ upon the floor, having tripped and fallen while getting wood for+ domestic purposes. A perfect scene of ruin met our eyes; for in+ his fall Mr. Pickwick had plunged his head and shoulders into a+ tub of water, upset a keg of soft soap upon his manly form, and+ torn his garments badly. On being removed from this perilous+ situation, it was discovered that he had suffered no injury but+ several bruises; and, we are happy to add, is now doing well.+ ED.++ ***************************************************************+ * *+ * THE PUBLIC BEREAVEMENT. *+ * *+ * It is our painful duty to record the sudden and mysterious *+ * disappearance of our cherished friend, Mrs. Snowball Pat *+ * Paw. This lovely and beloved cat was the pet of a large *+ * circle of warm and admiring friends; for her beauty *+ * attracted all eyes, her graces and virtues endeared her to *+ * all hearts, and her loss is deeply felt by the whole *+ * community. *+ * *+ * When last seen, she was sitting at the gate, watching the *+ * butcher's cart; and it is feared that some villain, tempted *+ * by her charms, basely stole her. Weeks have passed, but no *+ * trace of her has been discovered; and we relinquish all *+ * hope, tie a black ribbon to her basket, set aside her dish, *+ * and weep for her as one lost to us forever. *+ * *+ ***************************************************************++ * * * * *++ A sympathizing friend sends the following gem:--+++ A LAMENT++ FOR S. B. PAT PAW.++ We mourn the loss of our little pet,+ And sigh o'er her hapless fate,+ For never more by the fire she'll sit,+ Nor play by the old green gate.++ 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.++ Her empty bed, her idle ball,+ Will never see her more;+ No gentle tap, no loving purr+ Is heard at the parlor-door.++ Another cat comes after her mice,+ A cat with a dirty face;+ But she does not hunt as our darling did,+ Nor play with her airy grace.++ Her stealthy paws tread the very hall+ Where Snowball used to play,+ But she only spits at the dogs our pet+ So gallantly drove away.++ She is useful and mild, and does her best,+ But she is not fair to see;+ And we cannot give her your place, dear,+ Nor worship her as we worship thee.+ A. S.+++ ADVERTISEMENTS.++ MISS ORANTHY BLUGGAGE, the accomplished Strong-Minded Lecturer,+ will deliver her famous Lecture on "WOMAN AND HER POSITION," at+ Pickwick Hall, next Saturday Evening, after the usual+ performances.++ 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.++ A NEW PLAY will appear at the Barnville Theatre, in the course+ of a few weeks, which will surpass anything ever seen on the+ American stage. "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.+++As the President finished reading the paper (which I beg leave to assure+my readers is a _bona fide_ copy of one written by _bona fide_ girls+once upon a time), a round of applause followed, and then Mr. Snodgrass+rose to make a proposition.++"Mr. President and gentlemen," he began, assuming a parliamentary+attitude and tone, "I wish to propose the admission of a new+member,--one who highly deserves the honor, would be deeply grateful for+it, and would add immensely to the spirit of the club, the literary+value of the paper, and be no end jolly and nice. I propose Mr. Theodore+Laurence as an honorary member of the P. C. Come now, do have him."++Jo's sudden change of tone made the girls laugh; but all looked rather+anxious, and no one said a word, as Snodgrass took his seat.++"We'll put it to vote," said the President. "All in favor of this motion+please to manifest it by saying 'Ay.'"++A loud response from Snodgrass, followed, to everybody's surprise, by a+timid one from Beth.++"Contrary minded say 'No.'"++Meg and Amy were contrary minded; and Mr. Winkle rose to say, with great+elegance, "We don't wish any boys; they only joke and bounce about. This+is a ladies' club, and we wish to be private and proper."++"I'm afraid he'll laugh at our paper, and make fun of us afterward,"+observed Pickwick, pulling the little curl on her forehead, as she+always did when doubtful.++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? We can do so little for him, and he does so+much for us, I think the least we can do is to offer him a place here,+and make him welcome if he comes."++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 'Ay!'" cried Snodgrass excitedly.++"Ay! ay! ay!" replied three voices at once.++"Good! Bless you! Now, as there's nothing like 'taking time by the+_fetlock_,' as Winkle characteristically observes, allow me to present+the new member;" and, to the dismay of the rest of the club, Jo threw+open the door of the closet, and displayed Laurie sitting on a rag-bag,+flushed and twinkling with suppressed laughter.++ [Illustration: Jo threw open the door of the closet]++"You rogue! you traitor! Jo, how could you?" cried the three girls, as+Snodgrass led her friend triumphantly forth; and, producing both a chair+and a badge, installed him in a jiffy.++"The coolness of you two rascals is amazing," began Mr. Pickwick, trying+to get up an awful frown, and only succeeding in producing an amiable+smile. But the new member was equal to the occasion; and, rising, with a+grateful salutation to the Chair, said, in the most engaging manner,+"Mr. President and ladies,--I beg pardon, gentlemen,--allow me to+introduce myself as Sam Weller, the very humble servant of the club."++"Good! good!" cried Jo, pounding with the handle of the old warming-pan+on which she leaned.++"My faithful friend and noble patron," continued Laurie, with a wave of+the hand, "who has so flatteringly presented me, is not to be blamed for+the base stratagem of to-night. 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 you 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 _dewote_ 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.++"I merely wish to say, that as a slight token of my gratitude for the+honor done me, and as a means of promoting friendly relations between+adjoining nations, I have set up a post-office in the hedge in the lower+corner of the garden; a fine, spacious building, with padlocks on the+doors, and every convenience for the mails,--also the females, if I may+be allowed the expression. It's the old martin-house; but I've stopped+up the door, and made the roof open, so it will hold all sorts of+things, and save our valuable time. Letters, manuscripts, books, and+bundles can be passed in there; and, as each nation has a key, it will+be uncommonly nice, I fancy. Allow me to present the club key; and,+with many thanks for your favor, take my seat."++Great applause as Mr. Weller deposited a little key on the table, and+subsided; the warming-pan clashed and waved wildly, and it was some time+before order could be restored. A long discussion followed, and every+one came out surprising, for every one did her best; so it was an+unusually lively meeting, and did not adjourn till a late hour, when it+broke up with three shrill cheers for the new member.++No one ever regretted the admittance of Sam Weller, for a more devoted,+well-behaved, and jovial member no club could have. He certainly did add+"spirit" to the meetings, and "a tone" to the paper; for his orations+convulsed his hearers, and his contributions were excellent, being+patriotic, classical, comical, or dramatic, but never sentimental. Jo+regarded them as worthy of Bacon, Milton, or Shakespeare; and remodelled+her own works with good effect, she thought.++The P. O. was a capital little institution, and flourished wonderfully,+for nearly as many queer things passed through it as through the real+office. Tragedies and cravats, poetry and pickles, garden-seeds and long+letters, music and gingerbread, rubbers, invitations, scoldings and+puppies. The old gentleman liked the fun, and amused himself by sending+odd bundles, mysterious messages, and funny telegrams; and his gardener,+who was smitten with Hannah's charms, actually sent a love-letter to+Jo's care. How they laughed when the secret came out, never dreaming how+many love-letters that little post-office would hold in the years to+come!+++++ [Illustration: Jo spent the morning on the river]++ XI.++ EXPERIMENTS.+++"The first of June! The Kings are off to the seashore to-morrow, and I'm+free. Three months' vacation,--how I shall enjoy it!" exclaimed Meg,+coming home one warm day to find Jo laid upon the sofa in an unusual+state of exhaustion, while Beth took off her dusty boots, and Amy made+lemonade for the refreshment of the whole party.++"Aunt March went to-day, for which, oh, be joyful!" said Jo. "I was+mortally afraid she'd ask me to go with her; if she had, I should have+felt as if I ought to do it; but Plumfield is about as gay as a+churchyard, you know, and I'd rather be excused. We had a flurry getting+the old lady off, and I had a fright every time she spoke to me, for I+was in such a hurry to be through that I was uncommonly helpful and+sweet, and feared she'd find it impossible to part from me. I quaked+till she was fairly in the carriage, and had a final fright, for, as it+drove off, she popped out her head, saying, 'Josy-phine, won't you--?'+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 sea-weed; 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. "I've been routed up early all winter, and had to+spend my days working for other people; so now I'm going to rest and+revel to my heart's content."++"No," said Jo; "that dozy way wouldn't suit me. I've laid in a heap of+books, and I'm going to improve my shining hours reading on my perch in+the old apple-tree, when I'm not having l------"++"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."++"Don't let us do any lessons, Beth, for a while, but play all the time,+and rest, as the girls mean to," proposed Amy.++"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; her+solitary breakfast did not taste nice, and the room seemed lonely and+untidy; for Jo had not filled the vases, Beth had not dusted, and Amy's+books lay scattered about. Nothing was neat and pleasant but "Marmee's+corner," which looked as usual; and there Meg sat, to "rest and read,"+which meant yawn, and imagine what pretty summer dresses she would get+with her salary. Jo spent the morning on the river, with Laurie, and the+afternoon reading and crying over "The Wide, Wide World," up in the+apple-tree. Beth began by rummaging everything out of the big closet,+where her family resided; but, getting tired before half done, she left+her establishment topsy-turvy, and went to her music, rejoicing that she+had no dishes to wash. Amy arranged her bower, put on her best white+frock, smoothed her curls, and sat down to draw, under the honeysuckles,+hoping some one would see and inquire who the young artist was. As no+one appeared but an inquisitive daddy-long-legs, who examined her work+with interest, she went to walk, got caught in a shower, and came home+dripping.++ [Illustration: Amy sat down to draw]++At tea-time they compared notes, and all agreed that it had been a+delightful, though unusually long day. Meg, who went shopping in the+afternoon, and got a "sweet blue muslin," had discovered, after she had+cut the breadths off, that it wouldn't wash, which mishap made her+slightly cross. Jo had burnt the skin off her nose boating, and got a+raging headache by reading too long. Beth was worried by the confusion+of her closet, and the difficulty of learning three or four songs at+once; and Amy deeply regretted the damage done her frock, for Katy+Brown's party was to be the next day; and now, like Flora McFlimsey, she+had "nothing to wear." 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 revelling" process. The days kept getting+longer and longer; the weather was unusually variable, and so were+tempers; an unsettled feeling possessed every one, and Satan found+plenty of mischief for the idle hands to do. As the height of luxury,+Meg put out some of her sewing, and then found time hang so heavily that+she fell to snipping and spoiling her clothes, in her attempts to+furbish them up à la Moffat. Jo read till her eyes gave out, and she was+sick of books; got so fidgety that even good-natured Laurie had a+quarrel with her, and so reduced in spirits that she desperately wished+she had gone with Aunt March. Beth got on pretty well, for she was+constantly forgetting that it was to be _all play, and no work_, and+fell back into her old ways now and then; but something in the air+affected her, and, more than once, her tranquillity was much disturbed;+so much so, that, on one occasion, she actually shook poor dear Joanna,+and told her she was "a fright." Amy fared worst of all, for her+resources were small; and when her sisters left her to amuse and care+for herself, she soon found that accomplished and important little self+a great burden. 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. "If one could have a+fine house, full of nice girls, or go travelling, the summer would be+delightful; but to stay at home with three selfish sisters and a+grown-up boy was enough to try the patience of a Boaz," complained Miss+Malaprop, after several days devoted to pleasure, fretting, and _ennui_.++No one would own that they were tired of the experiment; but, by Friday+night, each acknowledged to herself that she was glad the week was+nearly done. Hoping to impress the lesson more deeply, Mrs. March, who+had a good deal of humor, resolved to finish off the trial in an+appropriate manner; so she gave Hannah a holiday, and let the girls+enjoy the full effect of the play system.++When they got up on Saturday morning, there was no fire in the kitchen,+no breakfast in the dining-room, and no mother anywhere to be seen.++"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.++"Mother isn't sick, only very tired, and she says she is going to stay+quietly in her room all day, and let us do the best we can. 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."++"That's easy enough, and I like the idea; I'm aching for something to+do--that is, some new amusement, you know," added Jo quickly.++In fact it _was_ an immense relief to them all to have a little work,+and they took hold with a will, but soon realized the truth of Hannah's+saying, "Housekeeping ain't no joke." There was plenty of food in the+larder, and, while Beth and Amy set the table, Meg and Jo got breakfast,+wondering, as they did so, why servants ever talked about hard work.++"I shall take some up to mother, though she said we were not to think of+her, for she'd take care of herself," said Meg, who presided, and felt+quite matronly behind the teapot.++So a tray was fitted out before any one began, and taken up, with the+cook's compliments. The boiled tea was very bitter, the omelette+scorched, and the biscuits speckled with saleratus; but Mrs. March+received her repast with thanks, and laughed heartily over it after Jo+was gone.++"Poor little souls, they will have a hard time, I'm afraid; but they+won't suffer, and it will do them good," she said, producing the more+palatable viands with which she had provided herself, and disposing of+the bad breakfast, so that their feelings might not be hurt,--a motherly+little deception, for which they were grateful.++Many were the complaints below, and great the chagrin of the head cook+at her failures. "Never mind, I'll get the dinner, and be servant; you+be mistress, keep your hands nice, see company, and give orders," said+Jo, who knew still less than Meg about culinary affairs.++This obliging offer was gladly accepted; and Margaret retired to the+parlor, which she hastily put in order by whisking the litter under the+sofa, and shutting the blinds, to save the trouble of dusting. Jo, with+perfect faith in her own powers, and a friendly desire to make up the+quarrel, immediately put a note in the office, inviting Laurie to+dinner.++"You'd better see what you have got before you think of having company,"+said Meg, when informed of the hospitable but rash act.++"Oh, there's corned beef and plenty of potatoes; and I shall get some+asparagus, and a lobster, 'for a relish,' as Hannah says. 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 wash my hands of the+dinner-party; and, since you have asked Laurie on your own+responsibility, you may just take care of him."++"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. "I never enjoyed housekeeping, and I'm going to take a vacation+to-day, and read, write, go visiting, and amuse myself."++The unusual spectacle of her busy mother rocking comfortably, and+reading, early in the morning, made Jo feel as if some natural+phenomenon had occurred, for an eclipse, an earthquake, or a volcanic+eruption would hardly have seemed stranger.++"Everything is out of sorts, somehow," she said to herself, going down+stairs. "There's Beth crying; that's a sure sign that something is wrong+with this family. If Amy is bothering, I'll shake her."++Feeling very much out of sorts herself, Jo hurried into the parlor to+find Beth sobbing over Pip, the canary, who lay dead in the cage, with+his little claws pathetically extended, as if imploring the food for+want of which he had died.++"It's all my fault--I forgot him--there isn't a seed or a drop left. O+Pip! O Pip! how could I be so cruel to you?" cried Beth, taking the poor+thing in her hands, and trying to restore him.++ [Illustration: O Pip! O Pip!]++Jo peeped into his half-open eye, felt his little heart, and finding him+stiff and cold, shook her head, and offered her domino-box for a coffin.++"Put him in the oven, and maybe he will get warm and revive," said Amy+hopefully.++"He's been starved, and he sha'n't be baked, now he's dead. I'll make+him a shroud, and he shall be buried in the garden; and I'll never have+another bird, never, my Pip! for I am too bad to own one," murmured+Beth, sitting on the floor with her pet folded in her hands.++"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. Make the shroud, and lay him in my box;+and, after the dinner-party, we'll have a nice little funeral," said Jo,+beginning to feel as if she had undertaken a good deal.++Leaving the others to console Beth, she departed to the kitchen, which+was in a most discouraging state of confusion. Putting on a big apron,+she fell to work, and got the dishes piled up ready for washing, when+she discovered that the fire was out.++"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. The walk revived her spirits; and, flattering herself that+she had made good bargains, she trudged home again, after buying a very+young lobster, some very old asparagus, and two boxes of acid+strawberries. By the time she got cleared up, the dinner arrived, and+the stove was red-hot. Hannah had left a pan of bread to rise, Meg had+worked it up early, set it on the hearth for a second rising, and+forgotten it. Meg was entertaining Sallie Gardiner in the parlor, when+the door flew open, and a floury, crocky, flushed, and dishevelled+figure appeared, demanding tartly,--++"I say, isn't bread 'riz' enough when it runs over the pans?"++Sallie began to laugh; but Meg nodded, and lifted her eyebrows as high+as they would go, which caused the apparition to vanish, and put the+sour bread into the oven without further delay. Mrs. March went out,+after peeping here and there to see how matters went, also saying a word+of comfort to Beth, who sat making a winding-sheet, while the dear+departed lay in state in the domino-box. A strange sense of helplessness+fell upon the girls as the gray bonnet vanished round the corner; and+despair seized them, when, a few minutes later, Miss Crocker appeared,+and said she'd come to dinner. Now, this lady was a thin, yellow+spinster, with a sharp nose and inquisitive eyes, who saw everything,+and gossiped about all she saw. They disliked her, but had been taught+to be kind to her, simply because she was old and poor, and had few+friends. So Meg gave her the easy-chair, and tried to entertain her,+while she asked questions, criticised everything, and told stories of+the people whom she knew.++Language cannot describe the anxieties, experiences, and exertions which+Jo underwent that morning; and the dinner she served up became a+standing joke. Fearing to ask any more advice, she did her best alone,+and discovered that something more than energy and good-will is+necessary to make a cook. She boiled the asparagus for an hour, and was+grieved to find the heads cooked off and the stalks harder than ever.+The bread burnt black; for the salad-dressing so aggravated her, that+she let everything else go till she had convinced herself that she could+not make it fit to eat. The lobster was a scarlet mystery to her, but+she hammered and poked, till it was unshelled, and its meagre+proportions concealed in a grove of lettuce-leaves. The potatoes had to+be hurried, not to keep the asparagus waiting, and were not done at+last. The blanc-mange was lumpy, and the strawberries not as ripe as+they looked, having been skilfully "deaconed."++"Well, they can eat beef, and bread and butter, if they are hungry; only+it's mortifying to have to spend your whole morning for nothing,"+thought Jo, as she rang the bell half an hour later than usual, and+stood, hot, tired, and dispirited, surveying the feast spread for+Laurie, accustomed to all sorts of elegance, and Miss Crocker, whose+curious eyes would mark all failures, and whose tattling tongue would+report them far and wide.++Poor Jo would gladly have gone under the table, as one thing after+another was tasted and left; while Amy giggled, Meg looked distressed,+Miss Crocker pursed up her lips, and Laurie talked and laughed with all+his might, to give a cheerful tone to the festive scene. Jo's one strong+point was the fruit, for she had sugared it well, and had a pitcher of+rich cream to eat with it. Her hot cheeks cooled a trifle, and she drew+a long breath, as the pretty glass plates went round, and every one+looked graciously at the little rosy islands floating in a sea of cream.+Miss Crocker tasted first, made a wry face, and drank some water+hastily. Jo, who had refused, thinking there might not be enough, for+they dwindled sadly after the picking over, glanced at Laurie, but he+was eating away manfully, though there was a slight pucker about his+mouth, and he kept his eye fixed on his plate. Amy, who was fond of+delicate fare, took a heaping spoonful, choked, hid her face in her+napkin, and left the table precipitately.++ [Illustration: Miss Crocker made a wry face]++"Oh, what is it?" exclaimed Jo trembling.++"Salt instead of sugar, and the cream is sour," replied Meg, with a+tragic gesture.++Jo uttered a groan, and fell back in her chair; remembering that she had+given a last hasty powdering to the berries out of one of the two boxes+on the kitchen table, and had neglected to put the milk in the+refrigerator. She turned scarlet, and was on the verge of crying, when+she met Laurie's eyes, which _would_ look merry in spite of his heroic+efforts; the comical side of the affair suddenly struck her, and she+laughed till the tears ran down her cheeks. So did every one else, even+"Croaker," as the girls called the old lady; and the unfortunate dinner+ended gayly, with bread and butter, olives and fun.++"I haven't strength of mind enough to clear up now, so we will sober+ourselves with a funeral," said Jo, as they rose; and Miss Crocker made+ready to go, being eager to tell the new story at another friend's+dinner-table.++They did sober themselves, for Beth's sake; Laurie dug a grave under the+ferns in the grove, little Pip was laid in, with many tears, by his+tender-hearted mistress, and covered with moss, while a wreath of+violets and chickweed was hung on the stone which bore his epitaph,+composed by Jo, while she struggled with the dinner:--++ "Here lies Pip March,+ Who died the 7th of June;+ Loved and lamented sore,+ And not forgotten soon."++At the conclusion of the ceremonies, Beth retired to her room, overcome+with emotion and lobster; but there was no place of repose, for the beds+were not made, and she found her grief much assuaged by beating up+pillows and putting things in order. Meg helped Jo clear away the+remains of the feast, which took half the afternoon, and left them so+tired that they agreed to be contented with tea and toast for supper.+Laurie took Amy to drive, which was a deed of charity, for the sour+cream seemed to have had a bad effect upon her temper. Mrs. March came+home to find the three older girls hard at work in the middle of the+afternoon; and a glance at the closet gave her an idea of the success of+one part of the experiment.++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 till the last minute.+As twilight fell, dewy and still, one by one they gathered in the porch+where the June roses were budding beautifully, and each groaned or+sighed as she sat down, as if tired or troubled.++"What a dreadful day this has been!" begun Jo, usually the first to+speak.++"It has seemed shorter than usual, but _so_ uncomfortable," said Meg.++"Not a bit like home," added Amy.++"It can't seem so without Marmee and little Pip," sighed Beth, glancing,+with full eyes, at the empty cage above her head.++"Here's mother, dear, and you shall have another bird to-morrow, if you+want it."++As she spoke, Mrs. March came and took her place among them, looking as+if her holiday had not been much pleasanter than theirs.++"Are you satisfied with your experiment, girls, or do you want another+week of it?" she asked, as Beth nestled up to her, and the rest turned+toward her with brightening faces, as flowers turn toward the sun.++"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; that's a useful accomplishment, which+no woman should be without," said Mrs. March, laughing inaudibly at the+recollection of Jo's dinner-party; for she had met Miss Crocker, and+heard her account of it.++"Mother, did you go away and let everything be, just to see how we'd get+on?" cried Meg, who had had suspicions all day.++"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 every+one thinks only of herself. Don't you feel that it is pleasanter to help+one another, to have daily duties which make leisure sweet when it+comes, and to bear and forbear, that home may be comfortable and lovely+to us all?"++"We do, mother, we do!" cried the girls.++"Then let me advise you to take up your little burdens again; for though+they seem heavy sometimes, they are good for us, and lighten as we learn+to carry them. Work is wholesome, and there is plenty for every one; it+keeps us from _ennui_ and mischief, is good for health and spirits, and+gives us a sense of power and independence better than money or+fashion."++"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. I am a stupid thing, and ought to be studying, not playing,"+was Beth's resolution; while Amy followed their example by heroically+declaring, "I shall learn to make button-holes, and attend to my parts+of speech."++"Very good! then I am quite satisfied with the experiment, and fancy+that we shall not have to repeat it; only don't go to the other extreme,+and delve like slaves. Have regular hours for work and play; make each+day both useful and pleasant, and prove that you understand the worth of+time by employing it well. 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.++ [Illustration: We'll work like bees]+++++ XII.++ CAMP LAURENCE.+++ [Illustration: Beth was post-mistress]++Beth was post-mistress, for, being most at home, she could attend to it+regularly, and dearly liked the daily task of unlocking the little door+and distributing the mail. 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! Laurie never forgets that," she said, putting+the fresh nosegay in the vase that stood in "Marmee's corner," and was+kept supplied by the affectionate boy.++"Miss Meg March, one letter and a glove," continued Beth, delivering the+articles to her sister, who sat near her mother, stitching wristbands.++"Why, I left a pair over there, and here is only one," said Meg, looking+at the gray cotton glove.++"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."++Mrs. March glanced at Meg, who was looking very pretty in her gingham+morning-gown, with the little curls blowing about her forehead, and very+womanly, as she sat sewing at her little work-table, full of tidy white+rolls; so unconscious of the thought in her mother's mind as she sewed+and sung, while her fingers flew, and her thoughts were busied with+girlish fancies as innocent and fresh as the pansies in her belt, that+Mrs. March smiled, and was satisfied.++"Two letters for Doctor Jo, a book, and a funny old hat, which covered+the whole post-office, stuck outside," said Beth, laughing, as she went+into the study, where Jo sat 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,--++ "MY DEAR:++ "I write a little word to tell you with how much satisfaction I+ watch your efforts to control your temper. You say nothing about+ your trials, failures, or successes, and think, perhaps, that no+ one sees them but the Friend whose help you daily ask, if I may+ trust the well-worn cover of your guide-book. _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++ "MOTHER."++"That does me good! that's worth millions of money and pecks of praise.+O Marmee, I do try! I will keep on trying, and not get tired, since I+have you to help me."++Laying her head on her arms, Jo wet her little romance with a few happy+tears, for she _had_ thought that no one saw and appreciated her efforts+to be good; and this assurance was doubly precious, doubly encouraging,+because unexpected, and from the person whose commendation she most+valued. Feeling stronger than ever to meet and subdue her Apollyon, she+pinned the note inside her frock, as a shield and a reminder, lest she+be taken unaware, and proceeded to open her other letter, quite ready+for either good or bad news. In a big, dashing hand, Laurie wrote,--++ "DEAR JO,+ What ho!++ Some English girls and boys are coming to see me to-morrow and+ I want to have a jolly time. If it's fine, I'm going to pitch+ my tent in Longmeadow, and row up the whole crew to lunch and+ croquet,--have a fire, make messes, gypsy fashion, and all+ sorts of larks. 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? it will be such a help to Laurie, for I+can row, and Meg see to the lunch, and the children be useful in some+way."++"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. Kate is older than you, Fred and+Frank (twins) about my age, and a little girl (Grace), who is nine or+ten. 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,+Bethy?"++"If you won't let any of the 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 any one; 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. Thank you, mother," and Jo gave the thin cheek a+grateful kiss, more precious to Mrs. March than if it had given back the+rosy roundness of her youth.++"I had a box of chocolate drops, and the picture I wanted to copy," said+Amy, showing her mail.++"And I got a note from Mr. Laurence, asking me to come over and play to+him to-night, before the lamps are lighted, and I shall go," added Beth,+whose friendship with the old gentleman prospered finely.++"Now let's fly round, and do double duty to-day, so that we can play+to-morrow with free minds," said Jo, preparing to replace her pen with a+broom.++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 fête as seemed necessary and proper. Meg had an extra row of+little curl-papers across her forehead, Jo had copiously anointed her+afflicted face with cold cream, Beth had taken Joanna to bed with her to+atone for the approaching separation, and Amy had capped the climax by+putting a clothes-pin on her nose, to uplift the offending feature. It+was one of the kind artists use to hold the paper on their+drawing-boards, therefore quite appropriate and effective for the+purpose to which it was now put. This funny spectacle appeared to amuse+the sun, for he burst out with such radiance that Jo woke up, and+roused all her sisters by a hearty laugh at Amy's ornament.++ [Illustration: Amy capped the climax by putting a clothes-pin on her+ nose]++Sunshine and laughter were good omens for a pleasure party, and soon a+lively bustle began in both houses. Beth, who was ready first, kept+reporting what went on next door, and enlivened her sisters' toilets by+frequent telegrams from the window.++"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.+Look, 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 straight; it looks+sentimental tipped that way, and will fly off at the first puff. Now,+then, come on!"++"O Jo, you are not going to wear that awful hat? It's too absurd! You+shall _not_ make a guy of yourself," remonstrated Meg, as Jo tied down,+with a red ribbon, the broad-brimmed, old-fashioned Leghorn Laurie had+sent for a joke.++"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." With+that Jo marched straight away, and the rest followed,--a bright little+band of sisters, all looking their best, in summer suits, with happy+faces under the jaunty hat-brims.++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. Meg was grateful to see that Miss Kate,+though twenty, was dressed with a simplicity which American girls would+do well to imitate; and she was much flattered by Mr. Ned's assurances+that he came especially to see her. Jo understood why Laurie "primmed up+his mouth" when speaking of Kate, for that young lady had a+stand-off-don't-touch-me air, which contrasted strongly with the free+and easy demeanor of the other girls. Beth took an observation of the+new boys, and decided that the lame one was not "dreadful," but gentle+and feeble, and she would be kind to him on that account. Amy found+Grace a well-mannered, merry little person; and after staring dumbly at+one another for a few minutes, they suddenly became very good friends.++Tents, lunch, and croquet utensils having been sent on beforehand, the+party was soon embarked, and the two boats pushed off together, leaving+Mr. Laurence waving his hat on the shore. Laurie and Jo rowed one boat;+Mr. Brooke and Ned the other; while Fred Vaughn, the riotous twin, did+his best to upset both by paddling about in a wherry like a disturbed+water-bug. Jo's funny hat deserved a vote of thanks, for it was of+general utility; it broke the ice in the beginning, by producing a+laugh; it created quite a refreshing breeze, flapping to and fro, as she+rowed, and would make an excellent umbrella for the whole party, if a+shower came up, she said. Kate looked rather amazed at Jo's proceedings,+especially as she exclaimed "Christopher Columbus!" when she lost her+oar; and Laurie said, "My dear fellow, did I hurt you?" when he tripped+over her feet in taking his place. But after putting up her glass to+examine the queer girl several times, Miss Kate decided that she was+"odd, but rather clever," and smiled upon her from afar.++ [Illustration: Mr. Laurence waving his hat]++Meg, in the other boat, was delightfully situated, face to face with the+rowers, who both admired the prospect, and feathered their oars with+uncommon "skill and dexterity." 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 encyclopædia of useful knowledge.+He never talked to her much; but he looked at her a good deal, and she+felt sure that he did not regard her with aversion. 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. Sallie Gardiner was+absorbed in keeping her white piqué dress clean, and chattering with the+ubiquitous Fred, who kept Beth in constant terror by his pranks.++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.++"Brooke is commander-in-chief; I am commissary-general; the other+fellows are staff-officers; and you, ladies, are company. The tent is+for your especial benefit, and that oak is your drawing-room; this is+the mess-room, and the third is the camp-kitchen. 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. The Englishers played well; but the Americans played+better, and contested every inch of the ground as strongly as if the+spirit of '76 inspired them. 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. No one was+very near; and running up to examine, he gave it a sly nudge with his+toe, which put it just an inch on the right side.++"I'm through! Now, Miss Jo, I'll settle you, and get in first," cried+the young gentleman, swinging his mallet for another blow.++ [Illustration: Now, Miss Jo, I'll settle you]++"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.++Jo opened her lips to say something rude, but checked herself in time,+colored up to her forehead, and stood a minute, hammering down a wicket+with all her might, while Fred hit the stake, and declared himself out+with much exultation. She went off to get her ball, and was a long time+finding it, among the bushes; but she came back, looking cool and quiet,+and waited her turn patiently. It took several strokes to regain the+place she had lost; and, when she got there, the other side had nearly+won, for Kate's ball was the last but one, and lay near the stake.++"By George, it's all up with us! Good-by, Kate. Miss Jo owes me one, so+you are finished," cried Fred excitedly, as they all drew near to see+the finish.++"Yankees have a trick of being generous to their enemies," said Jo, with+a look that made the lad redden, "especially when they beat them," she+added, as, leaving Kate's ball untouched, she won the game by a clever+stroke.++Laurie threw up his hat; then remembered that it wouldn't do to exult+over the defeat of his guests, and stopped in the middle of a cheer to+whisper to his friend,--++"Good for you, Jo! He did cheat, I saw him; we can't tell him so, but he+won't do it again, take my word for it."++Meg drew her aside, under pretence of pinning up a loose braid, and said+approvingly,--++"It was dreadfully provoking; but you kept your temper, and I'm so glad,+Jo."++"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 enough to hold my tongue. It's simmering now, so I+hope he'll keep out of my way," returned Jo, biting her lips, as she+glowered at Fred from under her big hat.++"Time for lunch," said Mr. Brooke, looking at his watch.+"Commissary-general, will you make the fire and get water, while Miss+March, Miss Sallie, and I spread the table? Who can make good coffee?"++"Jo can," said Meg, glad to recommend her sister. So Jo, feeling that+her late lessons in cookery were to do her honor, went to preside over+the coffee-pot, while the children collected dry sticks, and the boys+made a fire, and got water from a spring near by. 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 aids soon spread the table-cloth with an+inviting array of eatables and drinkables, prettily decorated with green+leaves. Jo announced that the coffee was ready, and every one settled+themselves to a hearty meal; for youth is seldom dyspeptic, and exercise+develops wholesome appetites. A very merry lunch it was; for everything+seemed fresh and funny, and frequent peals of laughter startled a+venerable horse who fed near by. There was a pleasing inequality in the+table, which produced many mishaps to cups and plates; acorns dropped+into the milk, little black ants partook of the refreshments without+being invited, and fuzzy caterpillars swung down from the tree, to see+what was going on. Three white-headed children peeped over the fence,+and an objectionable dog barked at them from the other side of the river+with all his might and main.++ [Illustration: "A very merry lunch it was."--Page 156.]++"There's salt here, if you prefer it," 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. "How dare you remind me of that+horrid dinner-party, when yours is so nice in every way?" added Jo,+as they both laughed, and ate out of one plate, the china having run+short.++"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 go, and I'm no end obliged to you. What shall we+do when we can't eat any more?" asked Laurie, feeling that his trump+card had been played when lunch was over.++"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."++Miss Kate did know several new games; and as the girls would not, and+the boys could not, eat any more, they all adjourned to the drawing-room+to play "Rigmarole."++"One person begins a story, any nonsense you like, and tells as long as+he pleases, only taking care to stop short at some exciting point, when+the next takes it up and does the same. It's very funny when well done,+and makes a perfect jumble of tragical comical stuff to laugh over.+Please start it, Mr. Brooke," said Kate, with a commanding air, which+surprised Meg, who treated the tutor with as much respect as any other+gentleman.++Lying on the grass at the feet of the two young ladies, Mr. Brooke+obediently began the story, with the handsome brown eyes steadily fixed+upon the sunshiny river.++"Once on a time, a knight went out into the world to seek his fortune,+for he had nothing but his sword and his shield. He travelled a long+while, nearly eight-and-twenty years, and had a hard time of it, till he+came to the palace of a good old king, who had offered a reward to any+one who would tame and train a fine but unbroken colt, of which he was+very fond. The knight agreed to try, and got on slowly but surely; for+the colt was a gallant fellow, and soon learned to love his new master,+though he was freakish and wild. Every day, when he gave his lessons to+this pet of the king's, the knight rode him through the city; and, as+he rode, he looked everywhere for a certain beautiful face, which he had+seen many times in his dreams, but never found. One day, as he went+prancing down a quiet street, he saw at the window of a ruinous castle+the lovely face. He was delighted, inquired who lived in this old+castle, and was told that several captive princesses were kept there by+a spell, and spun all day to lay up money to buy their liberty. The+knight wished intensely that he could free them; but he was poor, and+could only go by each day, watching for the sweet face, and longing to+see it out in the sunshine. 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--"++ [Illustration: He went prancing down a quiet street]++"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!' With these thrilling words he rushed away, and+flinging open the door of the mauve salon, was about to enter, when he+received--"++ [Illustration: "Oh, rise," she said]++"A stunning blow from the big Greek lexicon, which an old fellow in a+black gown fired at him," said Ned. "Instantly Sir What's-his-name+recovered himself, pitched the tyrant out of the window, and turned to+join the lady, victorious, but with a bump on his brow; found the door+locked, tore up the curtains, made a rope ladder, got half-way down when+the ladder broke, and he went head first into the moat, sixty feet+below. Could swim like a duck, paddled round the castle till he came to+a little door guarded by two stout fellows; knocked their heads together+till they cracked like a couple of nuts, then, by a trifling exertion of+his prodigious strength, he smashed in the door, went up a pair of stone+steps covered with dust a foot thick, toads as big as your fist, and+spiders that would frighten you into hysterics, Miss March. At the top+of these steps he came plump upon a sight that took his breath away and+chilled his blood--"++ [Illustration: A stunning blow from the big Greek lexicon]++"A tall figure, all in white with a veil over its face and a lamp in its+wasted hand," went on Meg. "It beckoned, gliding noiselessly before him+down a corridor as dark and cold as any tomb. Shadowy effigies in armor+stood on either side, a dead silence reigned, the lamp burned blue, and+the ghostly figure ever and anon turned its face toward him, showing the+glitter of awful eyes through its white veil. They reached a curtained+door, behind which sounded lovely music; he sprang forward to enter, but+the spectre plucked him back, and waved threateningly before him a--"++"Snuff-box," 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! ha!'+laughed the ghost; and having peeped through the key-hole at the+princesses spinning away for dear life, the evil spirit picked up her+victim and put him in a large tin box, where there were eleven other+knights packed together without their heads, like sardines, who all rose+and began to--"++ [Illustration: He sneezed]++"Dance a hornpipe," cut in Fred, as Jo paused for breath; "and, as they+danced, the rubbishy old castle turned to a man-of-war in full sail. 'Up+with the jib, reef the tops'l halliards, helm hard a lee, and man the+guns!' roared the captain, as a Portuguese pirate hove in sight, with a+flag black as ink flying from her foremast. 'Go in and win, my+hearties!' says the captain; and a tremendous fight begun. Of course the+British beat; they always do."++"No, they don't!" cried Jo, aside.++"Having taken the pirate captain prisoner, sailed slap over the+schooner, whose decks were piled with dead, and whose lee-scuppers ran+blood, for the order had been 'Cutlasses, and die hard!' 'Bosen's mate,+take a bight of the flying-jib sheet, and start this villain if he don't+confess his sins double quick,' said the British captain. The Portuguese+held his tongue like a brick, and walked the plank, while the jolly tars+cheered like mad. But the sly dog dived, came up under the man-of-war,+scuttled her, and down she went, with all sail set, 'To the bottom of+the sea, sea, sea,' where--"++ [Illustration: The Portuguese walked the plank]++"Oh, gracious! what _shall_ I say?" cried Sallie, as Fred ended his+rigmarole, in which he had jumbled together, pell-mell, nautical phrases+and facts, out of one of his favorite books. "Well they went to the+bottom, and a nice mermaid welcomed them, but was much grieved on+finding the box of headless knights, and kindly pickled them in brine,+hoping to discover the mystery about them; for, being a woman, she was+curious. By and by a diver came down, and the mermaid said, 'I'll give+you this box of pearls if you can take it up;' for she wanted to restore+the poor things to life, and couldn't raise the heavy load herself. 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--"++"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. So she+asked what she should use for new heads, since the old ones were lost,+and all the geese opened their hundred mouths and screamed--"++"'Cabbages!'" continued Laurie promptly. "'Just the thing,' said the+girl, and ran to get twelve fine ones from her garden. She put them on,+the knights revived at once, thanked her, and went on their way+rejoicing, never knowing the difference, for there were so many other+heads like them in the world that no one thought anything of it. The+knight in whom I'm interested went back to find the pretty face, and+learned that the princesses had spun themselves free, and all gone to be+married, but one. He was in a great state of mind at that; and mounting+the colt, who stood by him through thick and thin, rushed to the castle+to see which was left. 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. So he patiently+broke twig after twig, till he had made a little hole, through which he+peeped, saying imploringly, 'Let me in! 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."++ [Illustration: Will you give me a rose?]++"I can't; I'm not playing, I never do," said Frank, dismayed at the+sentimental predicament out of which he was to rescue the absurd couple.+Beth had disappeared behind Jo, and Grace was asleep.++"So the poor knight is to be left sticking in the hedge, is he?" asked+Mr. Brooke, still watching the river, and playing with the wild rose in+his button-hole.++"I guess the princess gave him a posy, and opened the gate, after a+while," said Laurie, smiling to himself, as he threw acorns at his+tutor.++"What a piece of nonsense we have made! With practice we might do+something quite clever. Do you know 'Truth'?" asked Sallie, after they+had laughed over their story.++"I hope so," said Meg soberly.++"The game, I mean?"++"What is it?" said Fred.++"Why, you pile up your hands, choose a number, and draw out in turn, and+the person who draws at the number has to answer truly any questions put+by the rest. It's great fun."++"Let's try it," said Jo, who liked new experiments.++Miss Kate and Mr. Brooke, Meg, and Ned declined, but Fred, Sallie, Jo,+and Laurie piled and drew; and the lot fell to Laurie.++"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,--++"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. I'll harrow up your feelings first, by asking+if you don't think you are something of a flirt," said Laurie, as Jo+nodded to Fred, as a sign that peace was declared.++"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. Miss Kate took out her sketch+again, and Margaret watched her, while Mr. Brooke lay on the grass, with+a book, which he did not read.++"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. So did mine; but I+proved to her that I had talent, by taking a few lessons privately, and+then she was quite willing I should go on. 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, indeed!" said Miss Kate; but she might as well have said, "Dear me,+how dreadful!" for her tone implied it, and something in her face made+Meg color, and wish she had not been so frank.++Mr. Brooke looked up, and said quickly, "Young ladies in America love+independence as much as their ancestors did, and are admired and+respected for supporting themselves."++"Oh, yes; of course it's very nice and proper in them to do so. We have+many most respectable and worthy young women, who do the same and are+employed by the nobility, because, being the daughters of gentlemen,+they are both well-bred and accomplished, you know," said Miss Kate, in+a patronizing tone, that hurt Meg's pride, and made her work seem not+only more distasteful, but degrading.++"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. My father, who taught me, is away, and I don't get on+very fast alone, for I've no one to correct my pronunciation."++"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.++"It's so hard I'm afraid to try," said Meg, grateful, but bashful in the+presence of the accomplished young lady beside her.++"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.++Meg, obediently following the long grass-blade which her new tutor used+to point with, read slowly and timidly, unconsciously making poetry of+the hard words by the soft intonation of her musical voice. Down the+page went the green guide, and presently, forgetting her listener in the+beauty of the sad scene, Meg read as if alone, giving a little touch of+tragedy to the words of the unhappy queen. If she had seen the brown+eyes then, she would have stopped short; but she never looked up, and+the lesson was not spoiled for her.++"Very well indeed!" said Mr. Brooke, as she paused, quite ignoring her+many mistakes, and looking as if he did, indeed, "love to teach."++Miss Kate put up her glass, and, having taken a survey of the little+tableau before her, shut her sketch-book, saying, with condescension,--++ [Illustration: Miss Kate put up her glass]++"You've a nice accent, and, in time, will be a clever reader. I advise+you to learn, for German is a valuable accomplishment to teachers. I+must look after Grace, she is romping;" and Miss Kate strolled away,+adding to herself, with a shrug, "I didn't come to chaperone a+governess, though she _is_ young and pretty. What odd people these+Yankees are; I'm afraid Laurie will be quite spoilt among them."++"I forgot that English people rather turn up their noses at governesses,+and don't treat them as we do," said Meg, looking after the retreating+figure with an annoyed expression.++"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 wish 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 that question, but her+eyes added, "And what becomes of you?"++"Yes; it's high time he went, for he is ready; and as soon as he is off,+I shall turn soldier. I am needed."++"I am glad of that!" exclaimed Meg. "I should think every young man+would want to go; though it is hard for the mothers and sisters who stay+at home," she added sorrowfully.++"I have neither, and very few friends, to care whether I live or die,"+said Mr. Brooke, rather bitterly, as he absently put the dead rose in+the hole he had made and covered it up, like a little grave.++"Laurie and his grandfather would care a great deal, and we should all+be very sorry to have any harm happen to you," said Meg heartily.++"Thank you; that sounds pleasant," began Mr. Brooke, looking cheerful+again; but before he could finish his speech, Ned, mounted on the old+horse, came lumbering up to display his equestrian skill before the+young ladies, and there was no more quiet that day.++"Don't you love to ride?" asked Grace of Amy, as they stood resting,+after a race round the field with the others, led by Ned.++"I dote upon it; my sister Meg used to ride when papa was rich, but we+don't keep any horses now, except Ellen Tree," added Amy, laughing.++"Tell me about Ellen Tree; is it a donkey?" asked Grace curiously.++ [Illustration: Ellen Tree]++"Why, you see, Jo is crazy about horses, and so am I, but we've only got+an old side-saddle, and no horse. Out in our garden is an apple-tree,+that has a nice low branch; so Jo put the saddle on it, fixed some reins+on the part that turns up, and we bounce away on Ellen Tree whenever we+like."++"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! I hope I shall go abroad some day; but I'd rather+go to Rome than the Row," said Amy, who had not the remotest idea what+the Row was, and wouldn't have asked for the world.++Frank, sitting just behind the little girls, heard what they were+saying, and pushed his crutch away from him with an impatient gesture as+he watched the active lads going through all sorts of comical+gymnastics. Beth, who was collecting the scattered Author-cards, looked+up, and said, in her shy yet friendly way,--++"I'm afraid you are tired; 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.++If he had asked her to deliver a Latin oration, it would not have seemed+a more impossible task to bashful Beth; but there was no place to run+to, no Jo to hide behind now, and the poor boy looked so wistfully at+her, that she bravely resolved to try.++"What do you like to talk about?" she asked, fumbling over the cards,+and dropping half as she tried to tie them up.++"Well, I like to hear about cricket and boating and hunting," said+Frank, who had not yet learned to suit his amusements to his strength.++"My heart! what shall I do? I don't know anything about them," thought+Beth; and, forgetting the boy's misfortune in her flurry, she said,+hoping to make him talk, "I never saw any hunting, but I suppose you+know all about it."++"I did once; but I can never hunt again, for I got hurt leaping a+confounded five-barred gate; so there are no more horses and hounds for+me," said Frank, with a sigh that made Beth hate herself for her+innocent blunder.++"Your deer are much prettier than our ugly buffaloes," she said, turning+to the prairies for help, and feeling glad that she had read one of the+boys' books in which Jo delighted.++Buffaloes proved soothing and satisfactory; and, in her eagerness to+amuse another, Beth forgot herself, and was quite unconscious of her+sisters' surprise and delight at the unusual spectacle of Beth talking+away to one of the dreadful boys, against whom she had begged+protection.++"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.++"I haven't heard Frank laugh so much for ever so long," said Grace to+Amy, as they sat discussing dolls, and making tea-sets out of the+acorn-cups.++"My sister Beth is a very _fastidious_ girl, when she likes to be," said+Amy, well pleased at Beth's success. She meant "fascinating," 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. At sunset the tent was struck, hampers packed,+wickets pulled up, boats loaded, and the whole party floated down the+river, singing at the tops of their voices. Ned, getting sentimental,+warbled a serenade with the pensive refrain,--++ "Alone, alone, ah! woe, alone,"++and at the lines--++ "We each are young, we each have a heart,+ Oh, why should we stand thus coldly apart?"++he looked at Meg with such a lackadaisical expression that she laughed+outright and spoilt 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."++"I didn't mean to; but you looked so funny I really couldn't help it,"+replied Meg, passing over the first part of his reproach; for it was+quite true that she _had_ shunned him, remembering the Moffat party and+the talk after it.++Ned was offended, and turned to Sallie for consolation, saying to her+rather pettishly, "There isn't a bit of flirt in that girl, is there?"++"Not a particle; but she's a dear," returned Sallie, defending her+friend even while confessing her short-comings.++"She's not a stricken deer, any way," said Ned, trying to be witty, and+succeeding as well as very young gentlemen usually do.++On the lawn, where it had gathered, the little party separated with+cordial good-nights and good-byes, for the Vaughns were going to Canada.+As the four sisters went home through the garden, Miss Kate looked after+them, saying, without the patronizing tone in her voice, "In spite of+their demonstrative manners, American girls are very nice when one knows+them."++"I quite agree with you," said Mr. Brooke.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Swinging to and fro in his hammock]++ XIII.++ CASTLES IN THE AIR.+++Laurie lay luxuriously swinging to and fro in his hammock, one warm+September afternoon, wondering what his neighbors were about, but too+lazy to go and find out. He was in one of his moods; for the day had+been both unprofitable and unsatisfactory, and he was wishing he could+live it over again. The hot weather made him indolent, and he had+shirked his studies, tried Mr. Brooke's patience to the utmost,+displeased his grandfather by practising half the afternoon, frightened+the maid-servants half out of their wits, by mischievously hinting that+one of his dogs was going mad, and, after high words with the stable-man+about some fancied neglect of his horse, he had flung himself into his+hammock, to fume over the stupidity of the world in general, till the+peace of the lovely day quieted him in spite of himself. Staring up into+the green gloom of the horse-chestnut trees above him, he dreamed dreams+of all sorts, and was just imagining himself tossing on the ocean, in a+voyage round the world, when the sound of voices brought him ashore in a+flash. Peeping through the meshes of the hammock, he saw the Marches+coming out, as if bound on some expedition.++"What in the world are those girls about now?" thought Laurie, opening+his sleepy eyes to take a good look, for there was something rather+peculiar in the appearance of his neighbors. 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.+All walked quietly through the garden, out at the little back gate, and+began to climb the hill that lay between the house and river.++"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."++Though possessed of half a dozen hats, it took him some time to find+one; then there was a hunt for the key, which was at last discovered in+his pocket; so that the girls were quite out of sight when he leaped the+fence and ran after them. Taking the shortest way to the boat-house, he+waited for them to appear: but no one came, and he went up the hill to+take an observation. A grove of pines covered one part of it, and from+the heart of this green spot came a clearer sound than the soft sigh of+the pines or the drowsy chirp of the crickets.++"Here's a landscape!" thought Laurie, peeping through the bushes, and+looking wide-awake and good-natured already.++It _was_ rather a pretty little picture; for the sisters sat together in+the shady nook, with sun and shadow flickering over them, the aromatic+wind lifting their hair and cooling their hot cheeks, and all the little+wood-people going on with their affairs as if these were no strangers,+but old friends. Meg sat upon her cushion, sewing daintily with her+white hands, and looking as fresh and sweet as a rose, in her pink+dress, among the green. Beth was sorting the cones that lay thick under+the hemlock near by, for she made pretty things of them. Amy was+sketching a group of ferns, and Jo was knitting as she read aloud. A+shadow passed over the boy's face as he watched them, feeling that he+ought to go away, because uninvited; yet lingering, because home seemed+very lonely, and this quiet party in the woods most attractive to his+restless spirit. He stood so still that a squirrel, busy with its+harvesting, ran down a pine close beside him, saw him suddenly and+skipped back, scolding so shrilly that Beth looked up, espied the+wistful face behind the birches, and beckoned with a reassuring smile.++ [Illustration: It was rather a pretty little picture]++"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 liked 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.++"Yes'm," was the meek answer, as he began, doing his best to prove his+gratitude for the favor of an admission into the "Busy Bee Society."++The story was not a long one, and, when it was finished, he ventured to+ask a few questions as a reward of merit.++"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! Well, you see we used to play+'Pilgrim's Progress,' and we have been going on with it in earnest, all+winter and summer."++"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. For the fun of it we bring our+things in these bags, wear the old hats, use poles to climb the hill,+and play pilgrims, as we used to do years ago. We call this hill the+'Delectable Mountain,' for we can look far away and see the country+where we hope to live some time."++Jo pointed, and Laurie sat up to examine; for through an opening in the+wood one could look across the wide, blue river, the meadows on the+other side, far over the outskirts of the great city, to the green hills+that rose to meet the sky. The sun was low, and the heavens plowed with+the splendor of an autumn sunset. Gold and purple clouds lay on the+hill-tops; and rising high into the ruddy light were silvery white+peaks, that shone like the airy spires of some Celestial City.++"How beautiful that is!" said Laurie softly, for he was quick to see and+feel beauty of any kind.++"It's often so; and we like to watch it, for it is never the same, but+always splendid," replied Amy, wishing she could paint it.++"Jo talks about the country where we hope to live some time,--the real+country, she means, with pigs and chickens, and haymaking. It would be+nice, but I wish the beautiful country up there was real, and we could+ever go to it," said Beth musingly.++"There is a lovelier country even than that, where we _shall_ go, by and+by, when we are good enough," answered Meg, with her sweet voice.++"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 travelling 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?"++Something in the boy's face troubled his little friend; but she said+cheerfully, with her quiet eyes on the changing clouds, "If people+really want to go, and really try all their lives, I think they will get+in; for I don't believe there are any locks on that door, or any guards+at the gate. I always imagine it is as it is in the picture, where the+shining ones stretch out their hands to welcome poor Christian as he+comes up from the river."++"Wouldn't it be fun if all the castles in the air which we make could+come true, and we could live in them?" said Jo, after a little pause.++"I've made such quantities it would be hard to choose which I'd have,"+said Laurie, lying flat, and throwing cones at the squirrel who had+betrayed him.++"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."++"After I'd seen as much of the world as I want to, I'd like to settle in+Germany, and have just as much music as I choose. 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?"++Margaret seemed to find it a little hard to tell hers, and waved a brake+before her face, as if to disperse imaginary gnats, while she said+slowly, "I should like a lovely house, full of all sorts of luxurious+things,--nice food, pretty clothes, handsome furniture, pleasant people,+and heaps of money. I am to be mistress of it, and manage it as I like,+with plenty of servants, so I never need work a bit. How I should enjoy+it! for I wouldn't be idle, but do good, and make every one love me+dearly."++ [Illustration: Waved a brake before her face]++"Wouldn't you have a master for your castle in the air?" asked Laurie+slyly.++"I said 'pleasant people,' you know;" and Meg carefully tied up her shoe+as she spoke, so that no one saw her face.++"Why don't you say you'd have a splendid, wise, good husband, and some+angelic little children? You know your castle wouldn't be perfect+without," said blunt Jo, who had no tender fancies yet, and rather+scorned romance, except in books.++"You'd have nothing but horses, inkstands, and novels in yours,"+answered Meg petulantly.++"Wouldn't I, though? I'd have a stable full of Arabian steeds, rooms+piled with books, and I'd write out of a magic inkstand, so that my+works should be as famous as Laurie's music. 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."++"I have ever so many wishes; but the pet one is to be an artist, and go+to Rome, and do fine pictures, and be the best artist in the whole+world," was Amy's modest desire.++"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 my castle in the air; but whether I can unlock the+door remains to be seen," observed Jo mysteriously.++"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."++"Wait and see if it doesn't bring you something worth having," replied+the boy, laughing at the thought of a charming little secret which he+fancied he knew.++Meg colored behind the brake, but asked no questions, and looked across+the river with the same expectant expression which Mr. Brooke had worn+when he told the story of the knight.++"If we are all alive ten years hence, let's meet, and see how many of us+have got our wishes, or how much nearer we are then than now," said Jo,+always ready with a plan.++"Bless me! how old I shall be,--twenty-seven!" exclaimed Meg who felt+grown up already, having just reached seventeen.++"You and I shall be twenty-six, Teddy, Beth twenty-four, and Amy+twenty-two. What a venerable party!" said Jo.++"I hope I shall have done something to be proud of by that time; but I'm+such a lazy dog, I'm afraid I shall 'dawdle,' 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. "I ought to be satisfied to please+grandfather, and I do try, but it's working against the grain, you see,+and comes hard. He wants me to be an India merchant, as he was, and I'd+rather be shot. I hate tea and silk and spices, and every sort of+rubbish his old ships bring, and I don't care how soon they go to the+bottom when I own them. Going to college ought to satisfy him, for if I+give him four years he ought to let me off from the business; but he's+set, and I 've got to do just as he did, unless I break away and please+myself, as my father did. If there was any one left to stay with the old+gentleman, I'd do it to-morrow."++Laurie spoke excitedly, and looked ready to carry his threat into+execution on the slightest provocation; for he was growing up very fast,+and, in spite of his indolent ways, had a young man's hatred of+subjection, a young man's restless longing to try the world for himself.++"I advise you to sail away in one of your ships, and never come home+again till you have tried your own way," said Jo, whose imagination was+fired by the thought of such a daring exploit, and whose sympathy was+excited by what she called "Teddy's wrongs."++"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. "Do your best at+college, and, when he sees that you try to please him, I'm sure he won't+be hard or unjust to you. As you say, there is no one else to stay with+and love him, and you'd never forgive yourself if you left him without+his permission. Don't be dismal or fret, but do your duty; and you'll+get your reward, as good Mr. Brooke has, by being respected and loved."++"What do you know about him?" asked Laurie, grateful for the good+advice, but objecting to the lecture, and glad to turn the conversation+from himself, after his unusual outbreak.++"Only what your grandpa told us about him,--how he took good care of his+own mother till she died, and wouldn't go abroad as tutor to some nice+person, because he wouldn't leave her; and how he provides now for an+old woman who nursed his mother; and never tells any one, but is just as+generous and patient and good as he can be."++"So he is, dear old fellow!" said Laurie heartily, as Meg paused,+looking flushed and earnest with her story. "It's like grandpa to find+out all about him, without letting him know, and to tell all his+goodness to others, so that they might like him. 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."++ [Illustration: I see him bow and smile]++"We haven't; don't be angry, and oh, don't tell him I said anything! It+was only to show that I cared how you get on, and what is said here is+said in confidence, you know," cried Meg, much alarmed at the thought of+what might follow from her careless speech.++"_I_ don't tell tales," replied Laurie, with his "high and mighty" air,+as Jo called a certain expression which he occasionally wore. "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."++Bent on showing that he was not offended, he made himself as agreeable+as possible,--wound cotton for Meg, recited poetry to please Jo, shook+down cones for Beth, and helped Amy with her ferns, proving himself a+fit person to belong to the "Busy Bee Society." In the midst of an+animated discussion on the domestic habits of turtles (one of those+amiable creatures having strolled up from the river), the faint sound of+a bell warned them that Hannah had put the tea "to draw," and they would+just have time to get home to supper.++"May I come again?" asked Laurie.++"Yes, if you are good, and love your book, as the boys in the primer are+told to do," said Meg smiling.++"I'll try."++"Then you may come, and I'll teach you to knit as the Scotchmen do;+there's a demand for socks just now," added Jo, waving hers, like a big+blue worsted banner, as they parted at the gate.++That night, when Beth played to Mr. Laurence in the twilight, Laurie,+standing in the shadow of the curtain, listened to the little David,+whose simple music always quieted his moody spirit, and watched the old+man, who sat with his gray head on his hand, thinking tender thoughts of+the dead child he had loved so much. Remembering the conversation of the+afternoon, the boy said to himself, with the resolve to make the+sacrifice cheerfully, "I'll let my castle go, and stay with the dear old+gentleman while he needs me, for I am all he has."++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Jo was very busy]++ XIV.++ SECRETS.+++Jo was very busy in the garret, for the October days began to grow+chilly, and the afternoons were short. For two or three hours the sun+lay warmly in the high window, showing Jo seated on the old sofa,+writing busily, with her papers spread out upon a trunk before her,+while Scrabble, the pet rat, promenaded the beams overhead, accompanied+by his oldest son, a fine young fellow, who was evidently very proud of+his whiskers. Quite absorbed in her work, Jo scribbled away till the+last page was filled, when she signed her name with a flourish, and+threw down her pen, exclaiming,--++"There, I've done my best! If this won't suit I shall have to wait till+I can do better."++Lying back on the sofa, she read the manuscript carefully through,+making dashes here and there, and putting in many exclamation points,+which looked like little balloons; then she tied it up with a smart red+ribbon, and sat a minute looking at it with a sober, wistful expression,+which plainly showed how earnest her work had been. Jo's desk up here+was an old tin kitchen, which hung against the wall. In it she kept her+papers and a few books, safely shut away from Scrabble, who, being+likewise of a literary turn, was fond of making a circulating library of+such books as were left in his way, by eating the leaves. From this tin+receptacle Jo produced another manuscript; and, putting both in her+pocket, crept quietly down stairs, leaving her friends to nibble her+pens and taste her ink.++She put on her hat and jacket as noiselessly as possible, and, going to+the back entry window, got out upon the roof of a low porch, swung+herself down to the grassy bank, and took a roundabout way to the road.+Once there, she composed herself, hailed a passing omnibus, and rolled+away to town, looking very merry and mysterious.++If any one had been watching her, he would have thought her movements+decidedly peculiar; for, on alighting, she went off at a great pace till+she reached a certain number in a certain busy street; having found the+place with some difficulty, she went into the door-way, looked up the+dirty stairs, and, after standing stock still a minute, suddenly dived+into the street, and walked away as rapidly as she came. This+manœuvre she repeated several times, to the great amusement of a+black-eyed young gentleman lounging in the window of a building+opposite. On returning for the third time, Jo gave herself a shake,+pulled her hat over her eyes, and walked up the stairs, looking as if+she were going to have all her teeth out.++There was a dentist's sign, among others, which adorned the entrance,+and, after staring a moment at the pair of artificial jaws which slowly+opened and shut to draw attention to a fine set of teeth, the young+gentleman put on his coat, took his hat, and went down to post himself+in the opposite door-way, saying, with a smile and a shiver,--++"It's like her to come alone, but if she has a bad time she'll need some+one to help her home."++In ten minutes Jo came running down stairs with a very red face, and the+general appearance of a person who had just passed through a trying+ordeal of some sort. 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 any one 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?"++"Begging your pardon, ma'am, it wasn't a billiard saloon, but a+gymnasium, and I was taking a lesson in fencing."++"I'm glad of that."++"Why?"++"You can teach me, and then when we play Hamlet, you can be Laertes, and+we'll make a fine thing of the fencing scene."++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 have billiards at home, but it's no fun unless you+have good players; so, as I'm fond of it, I come sometimes and have a+game with Ned Moffat or some of the other fellows."++"Oh dear, I'm so sorry, for you'll get to liking it better and better,+and will waste time and money, and grow like those dreadful boys. 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.++"No, she can't bear fashionable young men, and she'd shut us all up in+bandboxes rather than have us associate with them."++"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; he had plenty of money, but didn't know how to+spend it, and got tipsy and gambled, and ran away, and forged his+father's name, I believe, and was altogether horrid."++"You think I'm likely to do the same? Much obliged."++"No, I don't--oh, _dear_, no!--but I hear people talking about money+being such a temptation, and I sometimes wish you were poor; I shouldn't+worry then."++"Do you worry about me, Jo?"++"A little, when you look moody or discontented, as you sometimes do; for+you've got such a strong will, if you once get started wrong, I'm afraid+it would be hard to stop you."++Laurie walked in silence a few minutes, and Jo watched him, wishing she+had held her tongue, for his eyes looked angry, though his lips still+smiled as if at her warnings.++"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 are 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."++"Well, I've left two stories with a newspaper man, and he's to give his+answer next week," whispered Jo, in her confidant's ear.++"Hurrah for Miss March, the celebrated American authoress!" cried+Laurie, throwing up his hat and catching it again, to the great delight+of two ducks, four cats, five hens, and half a dozen Irish children; for+they were out of the city now.++ [Illustration: Hurrah for Miss March]++"Hush! It won't come to anything, I dare say; but I couldn't rest till I+had tried, and I said nothing about it, because I didn't want any one+else to be disappointed."++"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 sha'n't we feel proud of our authoress?"++Jo's eyes sparkled, for it is always pleasant to be believed in; and a+friend's praise is always sweeter than a dozen newspaper puffs.++"Where's _your_ secret? Play fair, Teddy, or I'll never believe you+again," she said, trying to extinguish the brilliant hopes that blazed+up at a word of encouragement.++"I may get into a scrape for telling; but I didn't promise not to, so I+will, for I never feel easy in my mind till I've told you any plummy bit+of news I get. 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. She stood and stared at him for a minute, looking both+surprised and displeased, then walked on, saying sharply, "How do you+know?"++"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 any one; mind that."++"I didn't promise."++"That was understood, and I trusted you."++"Well, I won't for the present, any way; 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 any one try it," cried Jo fiercely.++"So should I!" and Laurie chuckled at the idea.++"I don't think secrets agree with me; I feel rumpled up in my mind since+you told me that," said Jo, rather ungratefully.++"Race down this hill with me, and you'll be all right," suggested+Laurie.++No one was in sight; the smooth road sloped invitingly before her; and+finding the temptation irresistible, Jo darted away, soon leaving hat+and comb behind her, and scattering hair-pins as she ran. Laurie reached+the goal first, and was quite satisfied with the success of his+treatment; for his Atalanta came panting up, with flying hair, bright+eyes, ruddy cheeks, and no signs of dissatisfaction in her face.++ [Illustration: Jo darted away]++"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.+Go, pick up my things, like a cherub as you are," said Jo, dropping down+under a maple-tree, which was carpeting the bank with crimson leaves.++Laurie leisurely departed to recover the lost property, and Jo bundled+up her braids, hoping no one would pass by till she was tidy again. But+some one did pass, and who should it be but Meg, looking particularly+ladylike in her state and festival suit, for she had been making calls.++"What in the world are you doing here?" she asked, regarding her+dishevelled sister with well-bred surprise.++"Getting leaves," meekly answered Jo, sorting the rosy handful she had+just swept up.++"And hair-pins," 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? When _will_ you stop such+romping ways?" said Meg reprovingly, as she settled her cuffs, and+smoothed her hair, with which the wind had taken liberties.++"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."++As she spoke, Jo bent over the leaves to hide the trembling of her lips;+for lately she had felt that Margaret was fast getting to be a woman,+and Laurie's secret made her dread the separation which must surely come+some time, and now seemed very near. He saw the trouble in her face, and+drew Meg's attention from it by asking quickly, "Where have you been+calling, all so fine?"++"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.++"Because if you care much about riches, you will never go and marry a+poor man," said Jo, frowning at Laurie, who was mutely warning her to+mind what she said.++"I shall never '_go_ and marry' any one," observed Meg, walking on with+great dignity, while the others followed, laughing, whispering, skipping+stones, and "behaving like children," as Meg said to herself, though she+might have been tempted to join them if she had not had her best dress+on.++For a week or two, Jo behaved so queerly that her sisters were quite+bewildered. She rushed to the door when the postman rang; was rude to+Mr. Brooke whenever they met; would sit looking at Meg with a woe-begone+face, occasionally jumping up to shake, and then to kiss her, in a very+mysterious manner; Laurie and she were always making signs to one+another, and talking about "Spread Eagles," till the girls declared they+had both lost their wits. On the second Saturday after Jo got out of the+window, Meg, as she sat sewing at her window, was scandalized by the+sight of Laurie chasing Jo all over the garden, and finally capturing+her in Amy's bower. What went on there, Meg could not see; but shrieks+of laughter were heard, followed by the murmur of voices and a great+flapping of newspapers.++"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; she is so funny and dear as she is," said Beth, who+had never betrayed that she was a little hurt at Jo's having secrets+with any one but her.++"It's very trying, but we never can make her _commy la fo_," added Amy,+who sat making some new frills for herself, with her curls tied up in a+very becoming way,--two agreeable things, which made her feel unusually+elegant and ladylike.++In a few minutes Jo bounced in, laid herself on the sofa, and affected+to read.++ [Illustration: Jo laid herself on the sofa and affected to read]++"Have you anything interesting there?" asked Meg, with condescension.++"Nothing but a story; won't amount to much, I guess," returned Jo,+carefully keeping the name of the paper out of sight.++"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. Viola and Angelo are two of our favorite+names; isn't that queer?" said Meg, wiping her eyes, for the "lovering+part" was tragical.++"Who wrote it?" asked Beth, who had caught a glimpse of Jo's face.++The reader suddenly sat up, cast away the paper, displaying a flushed+countenance, and, with a funny mixture of solemnity and excitement,+replied in a loud voice, "Your sister."++"You?" cried Meg, dropping her work.++"It's very good," said Amy critically.++"I knew it! I knew it! O 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 graciously Amy criticised the artistic parts+of the story, and offered hints for a sequel, which unfortunately+couldn't be carried out, as the hero and heroine were dead; how Beth got+excited, and skipped and sung 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; how Jo laughed, with+tears in her eyes, as she declared she might as well be a peacock and+done with it; and how the "Spread Eagle" might be said to flap his wings+triumphantly over the House of March, as the paper passed from hand to+hand.++"Tell us all about it." "When did it come?" "How much did you get for+it?" "What _will_ father say?" "Won't Laurie laugh?" cried the family,+all in one breath, as they clustered about Jo; for these foolish,+affectionate people made a jubilee of every little household joy.++"Stop jabbering, girls, and I'll tell you everything," said Jo,+wondering if Miss Burney felt any grander over her "Evelina" than she+did over her "Rival Painters." Having told how she disposed of her+tales, Jo added, "And when I went to get my answer, the man said he+liked them both, but didn't pay beginners, only let them print in his+paper, and noticed the stories. It was good practice, he said; and when+the beginners improved, any one would pay. So I let him have the two+stories, and to-day this was sent to me, and Laurie caught me with it,+and insisted on seeing it, so I let him; and he said it was good, and I+shall write more, and he's going to get the next paid for, and I _am_ so+happy, for in time I may be able to support myself and help the girls."++Jo's breath gave out here; and, wrapping her head in the paper, she+bedewed her little story with a few natural tears; for to be+independent, and earn the praise of those she loved were the dearest+wishes of her heart, and this seemed to be the first step toward that+happy end.+++++ XV.++ A TELEGRAM.+++ [Illustration: November is the most disagreeable month in the year]++"November is the most disagreeable month in the whole year," said+Margaret, standing at the window one dull afternoon, looking out at the+frost-bitten garden.++"That's the reason I was born in it," observed Jo pensively, quite+unconscious of the blot on her nose.++"If something very pleasant should happen now, we should think it a+delightful month," said Beth, who took a hopeful view of everything,+even November.++"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. "I don't much wonder, poor+dear, for you see other girls having splendid times, while you grind,+grind, year in and year out. 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; then you'd dash out as an heiress, scorn every one who+has slighted you, go abroad, and come home my Lady Something, in a blaze+of splendor and elegance."++"People don't have fortunes left them in that style now-a-days; men have+to work, and women to marry for money. It's a dreadfully unjust world,"+said Meg bitterly.++"Jo and I are going to make fortunes for you all; just wait ten years,+and see if we don't," said Amy, who sat in a corner, making mud pies, as+Hannah called her little clay models of birds, fruit, and faces.++"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 frost-bitten garden again; Jo groaned, and+leaned both elbows on the table in a despondent attitude, but Amy+spatted away energetically; and Beth, who sat at the other window, said,+smiling, "Two pleasant things are going to happen right away: Marmee is+coming down the street, and Laurie is tramping through the garden as if+he had something nice to tell."++In they both came, Mrs. March with her usual question, "Any letter from+father, girls?" and Laurie to say in his persuasive way, "Won't some of+you come for a drive? 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. It's a+dull day, but the air isn't bad, and I'm going to take Brooke home, so+it will be gay inside, if it isn't out. Come, Jo, you and Beth will go,+won't you?"++"Of course we will."++"Much obliged, but I'm busy;" and Meg whisked out her work-basket, for+she had agreed with her mother that it was best, for her at least, not+to drive often with the young gentleman.++"We three will be ready in a minute," cried Amy, running away to wash+her hands.++"Can I do anything for you, Madam Mother?" asked Laurie, leaning over+Mrs. March's chair, with the affectionate look and tone he always gave+her.++"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.++"It's one of them horrid telegraph things, mum," she said, handing it as+if she was afraid it would explode and do some damage.++ [Illustration: One of them horrid telegraph things]++At the word "telegraph," Mrs. March snatched it, read the two lines it+contained, and dropped back into her chair as white as if the little+paper had sent a bullet to her heart. Laurie dashed down stairs for+water, while Meg and Hannah supported her, and Jo read aloud, in a+frightened voice,--++ "MRS. MARCH:++ "Your husband is very ill. Come at once.+ "S. HALE,+ "Blank Hospital, Washington"++How still the room was as they listened breathlessly, how strangely the+day darkened outside, and how suddenly the whole world seemed to change,+as the girls gathered about their mother, feeling as if all the+happiness and support of their lives was about to be taken from them.+Mrs. March was herself again directly; read the message over, and+stretched out her arms to her daughters, saying, in a tone they never+forgot, "I shall go at once, but it may be too late. O children,+children, help me to bear it!"++For several minutes there was nothing but the sound of sobbing in the+room, mingled with broken words of comfort, tender assurances of help,+and hopeful whispers that died away in tears. Poor Hannah was the first+to recover, and with unconscious wisdom she set all the rest a good+example; for, with her, work was the panacea for most afflictions.++"The Lord keep the dear man! I won't waste no time a cryin', but git+your things ready right away, mum," she said, heartily, as she wiped her+face on her apron, gave her mistress a warm shake of the hand with her+own hard one, and went away, to work like three women in one.++"She's right; there's no time for tears now. Be calm, girls, and let me+think."++They tried to be calm, poor things, as their mother sat up, looking+pale, but steady, and put away her grief to think and plan for them.++"Where's Laurie?" she asked presently, when she had collected her+thoughts, and decided on the first duties to be done.++"Here, ma'am. Oh, let me do something!" cried the boy, hurrying from the+next room, whither he had withdrawn, feeling that their first sorrow was+too sacred for even his friendly eyes to see.++"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."++Tearing off the blank side of one of her newly copied pages, Jo drew the+table before her mother, well knowing that money for the long, sad+journey must be borrowed, and feeling as if she could do anything to add+a little to the sum for her father.++"Now go, dear; but don't kill yourself driving at a desperate pace;+there is no need of that."++Mrs. March's warning was evidently thrown away; for five minutes later+Laurie tore by the window on his own fleet horse, riding as if for his+life.++"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. Amy, tell+Hannah to get down the black trunk; and, Meg, come and help me find my+things, for I'm half bewildered."++Writing, thinking, and directing, all at once, might well bewilder the+poor lady, and Meg begged her to sit quietly in her room for a little+while, and let them work. Every one scattered like leaves before a gust+of wind; and the quiet, happy household was broken up as suddenly as if+the paper had been an evil spell.++Mr. Laurence came hurrying back with Beth, bringing every comfort the+kind old gentleman could think of for the invalid, and friendliest+promises of protection for the girls during the mother's absence, which+comforted her very much. There was nothing he didn't offer, from his own+dressing-gown to himself as escort. But that last was impossible. Mrs.+March would not hear of the old gentleman's undertaking the long+journey; yet an expression of relief was visible when he spoke of it,+for anxiety ill fits one for travelling. He saw the look, knit his heavy+eyebrows, rubbed his hands, and marched abruptly away, saying he'd be+back directly. No one had time to think of him again till, as Meg ran+through the entry, with a pair of rubbers in one hand and a cup of tea+in the other, she came suddenly upon Mr. Brooke.++ [Illustration: She came suddenly upon Mr. Brooke]++"I'm very sorry to hear of this, Miss March," he said, in the kind,+quiet tone which sounded very pleasantly to her perturbed spirit. "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."++Down dropped the rubbers, and the tea was very near following, as Meg+put out her hand, with a face so full of gratitude, that Mr. Brooke+would have felt repaid for a much greater sacrifice than the trifling+one of time and comfort which he was about to make.++"How kind you all are! Mother will accept, I'm sure; and it will be such+a relief to know that she has some one to take care of her. Thank you+very, very much!"++Meg spoke earnestly, and forgot herself entirely till something in the+brown eyes looking down at her made her remember the cooling tea, and+lead the way into the parlor, saying she would call her mother.++Everything was arranged by the time Laurie returned with a note from+Aunt March, enclosing the desired sum, and a few lines repeating what+she had often said before,--that she had always told them it was absurd+for March to go into the army, always predicted that no good would come+of it, and she hoped they would take her advice next time. Mrs. March+put the note in the fire, the money in her purse, and went on with her+preparations, with her lips folded tightly, in a way which Jo would have+understood if she had been there.++The short afternoon wore away; all the other errands were done, and Meg+and her mother busy at some necessary needle-work, while Beth and Amy+got tea, and Hannah finished her ironing with what she called a "slap+and a bang," but still Jo did not come. They began to get anxious; and+Laurie went off to find her, for no one ever knew what freak Jo might+take into her head. He missed her, however, and she came walking in with+a very queer expression of countenance, for there was a mixture of fun+and fear, satisfaction and regret, in it, which puzzled the family as+much as did the roll of bills she laid before her mother, saying, with a+little choke in her voice, "That's my contribution towards making+father comfortable and bringing him home!"++"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!" "O 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!"++As every one exclaimed, and Beth hugged the cropped head tenderly, Jo+assumed an indifferent air, which did not deceive any one a particle,+and said, rumpling up the brown bush, and trying to look as if she liked+it, "It doesn't affect the fate of the nation, so don't wail, Beth. 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; my head feels deliciously+light and cool, and the barber said I could soon have a curly crop,+which will be boyish, becoming, and easy to keep in order. I'm+satisfied; so please take the money, and let's have supper."++"Tell me all about it, Jo. _I_ am not quite satisfied, but I can't blame+you, for I know how willingly you sacrificed your vanity, as you call+it, to your love. But, my dear, it was not necessary, and I'm afraid you+will regret it, one of these days," said Mrs. March.++"No, I won't!" returned Jo stoutly, feeling much relieved that her prank+was not entirely condemned.++"What made you do it?" asked Amy, who would as soon have thought of+cutting off her head as her pretty hair.++"Well, I was wild to do something for father," replied Jo, as they+gathered about the table, for healthy young people can eat even in the+midst of trouble. "I hate to borrow as much as mother does, and I knew+Aunt March would croak; she always does, if you ask for a ninepence. Meg+gave all her quarterly salary toward the rent, and I only got some+clothes with mine, so I felt wicked, and was bound to have some money,+if I sold the nose off my face to get it."++"You needn't feel wicked, my child: you had no winter things, and got+the simplest with your own hard earnings," said Mrs. March, with a look+that warmed Jo's heart.++"I hadn't the least idea of selling my hair at first, but as I went+along I kept thinking what I could do, and feeling as if I'd like to+dive into some of the rich stores and help myself. In a barber's window+I saw tails of hair with the prices marked; and one black tail, not so+thick as mine, was forty dollars. It came over me all of a sudden that I+had one thing to make money out of, and without stopping to think, I+walked in, asked if they bought hair, and what they would give for+mine."++"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.+It was getting late, and I was afraid, if it wasn't done right away,+that I shouldn't have it done at all, and you know when I start to do a+thing, I hate to give it up; so I begged him to take it, and told him+why I was in such a hurry. It was silly, I dare say, but it changed his+mind, for I got rather excited, and told the story in my topsy-turvy+way, and his wife heard, and said so kindly,--++"'Take it, Thomas, and oblige the young lady; 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."++ [Illustration: The man clipped]++"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; I will+confess, though, I felt queer when I saw the dear old hair laid out on+the table, and felt only the short, rough ends on my head. It almost+seemed as if I'd an arm or a leg off. The woman saw me look at it, and+picked out a long lock for me to keep. I'll give it to you, Marmee, just+to remember past glories by; for a crop is so comfortable I don't think+I shall ever have a mane again."++Mrs. March folded the wavy, chestnut lock, and laid it away with a short+gray one in her desk. She only said "Thank you, deary," but something in+her face made the girls change the subject, and talk as cheerfully as+they could about Mr. Brooke's kindness, the prospect of a fine day+to-morrow, and the happy times they would have when father came home to+be nursed.++No one wanted to go to bed, when, at ten o'clock, Mrs. March put by the+last finished job, and said, "Come, girls." Beth went to the piano and+played the father's favorite hymn; all began bravely, but broke down+one by one, till Beth was left alone, singing with all her heart, for to+her music was always a sweet consoler.++"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. Beth and Amy soon fell asleep in spite of+the great trouble, but Meg lay awake, thinking the most serious thoughts+she had ever known in her short life. Jo lay motionless, and her sister+fancied that she was asleep, till a stifled sob made her exclaim, as she+touched a wet cheek,--++"Jo, dear, what is it? Are you crying about father?"++"No, not now."++"What then?"++"My--my hair!" burst out poor Jo, trying vainly to smother her emotion+in the pillow.++It did not sound 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 to-morrow,+if I could. It's only the vain, selfish part of me that goes and cries+in this silly way. Don't tell any one, 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."++Jo laughed, and Meg sharply ordered her not to talk, then amiably+promised to make her hair curl, and fell asleep to dream of living in+her castle in the air.++The clocks were striking midnight, and the rooms were very still, as a+figure glided quietly from bed to bed, smoothing a coverlid here,+settling a pillow there, and pausing to look long and tenderly at each+unconscious face, to kiss each with lips that mutely blessed, and to+pray the fervent prayers which only mothers utter. As she lifted the+curtain to look out into the dreary night, the moon broke suddenly from+behind the clouds, and shone upon her like a bright, benignant face,+which seemed to whisper in the silence, "Be comforted, dear soul! There+is always light behind the clouds."++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Letters]++ XVI.++ LETTERS.+++In the cold gray dawn the sisters lit their lamp, and read their chapter+with an earnestness never felt before; for now the shadow of a real+trouble had come, the little books were full of help and comfort; and,+as they dressed, they agreed to say good-by cheerfully and hopefully,+and send their mother on her anxious journey unsaddened by tears or+complaints from them. 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 night-cap on.+The big trunk stood ready in the hall, mother's cloak and bonnet lay on+the sofa, and mother herself sat trying to eat, but looking so pale and+worn with sleeplessness and anxiety that the girls found it very hard to+keep their resolution. Meg's eyes kept filling in spite of herself; Jo+was obliged to hide her face in the kitchen roller more than once; and+the little girls' wore a grave, troubled expression, as if sorrow was a+new experience to them.++Nobody talked much, but as the time drew very near, and they sat waiting+for the carriage, Mrs. March said to the girls, who were all busied+about her, one folding her shawl, another smoothing out the strings of+her bonnet, a third putting on her overshoes, and a fourth fastening up+her travelling bag,--++"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. Don't grieve and fret when I am gone,+or think that you can comfort yourselves by being idle and trying to+forget. 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. Be patient, Jo, don't get despondent+or do rash things; write to me often, and be my brave girl, ready to+help and cheer us all. Beth, comfort yourself with your music, and be+faithful to the little home duties; and you, Amy, help all you can, be+obedient, and keep happy safe at home."++"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: no one cried, no+one ran away or uttered a lamentation, though their hearts were very+heavy as they sent loving messages to father, remembering, as they+spoke, that it might be too late to deliver them. They kissed their+mother quietly, clung about her tenderly, and tried to wave their hands+cheerfully when she drove away.++Laurie and his grandfather came over to see her off, and Mr. Brooke+looked so strong and sensible and kind that the girls christened him+"Mr. Greatheart" on the spot.++"Good-by, my darlings! God bless and keep us all!" whispered Mrs. March,+as she kissed one dear little face after the other, and hurried into the+carriage.++As she rolled away, the sun came out, and, looking back, she saw it+shining on the group at the gate, like a good omen. They saw it also,+and smiled and waved their hands; and the last thing she beheld, as she+turned the corner, was the four bright faces, and behind them, like a+body-guard, old Mr. Laurence, faithful Hannah, and devoted Laurie.++ [Illustration: She rolled away]++"How kind every one is to us!" she said, turning to find fresh proof of+it in the respectful sympathy of the young man's face.++"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 long+journey began with the good omens of sunshine, smiles, and cheerful+words.++"I feel as if there had been an earthquake," said Jo, as their neighbors+went home to breakfast, leaving them to rest and refresh themselves.++"It seems as if half the house was gone," added Meg forlornly.++Beth opened her lips to say something, but could only point to the pile+of nicely-mended hose which lay on mother's table, showing that even in+her last hurried moments she had thought and worked for them. It was a+little thing, but it went straight to their hearts; and, in spite of+their brave resolutions, they all broke down, and cried bitterly.++Hannah wisely allowed them to relieve their feelings, and, when the+shower showed signs of clearing up, she came to the rescue, armed with a+coffee-pot.++"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.++"I shall go to my Kings, though I'd much rather stay at home and attend+to things here," said Meg, wishing she hadn't made her eyes so red.++"No need of that; Beth and I can keep house perfectly well," put in Amy,+with an important air.++"Hannah will tell us what to do; and we'll have everything nice when you+come home," added Beth, getting out her mop and dish-tub without delay.++"I think anxiety is very interesting," observed Amy, eating sugar,+pensively.++The girls couldn't help laughing, and felt better for it, though Meg+shook her head at the young lady who could find consolation in a+sugar-bowl.++The sight of the turn-overs made Jo sober again; and when the two went+out to their daily tasks, they looked sorrowfully back at the window+where they were accustomed to see their mother's face. It was gone; but+Beth had remembered the little household ceremony, and there she was,+nodding away at them like a rosy-faced mandarin.++"That's so like my Beth!" said Jo, waving her hat, with a grateful face.+"Good-by, Meggy; I hope the Kings won't train to-day. Don't fret about+father, dear," she added, as they parted.++"And I hope Aunt March won't croak. Your hair _is_ becoming, and it+looks very boyish and nice," returned Meg, trying not to smile at the+curly head, which looked comically small on her tall sister's shoulders.++"That's my only comfort;" and, touching her hat _à la_ Laurie, away went+Jo, feeling like a shorn sheep on a wintry day.++News from their father comforted the girls very much; for, though+dangerously ill, the presence of the best and tenderest of nurses had+already done him good. Mr. Brooke sent a bulletin every day, and, as the+head of the family, Meg insisted on reading the despatches, which grew+more and more cheering as the week passed. At first, every one was eager+to write, and plump envelopes were carefully poked into the letter-box+by one or other of the sisters, who felt rather important with their+Washington correspondence. As one of these packets contained+characteristic notes from the party, we will rob an imaginary mail, and+read them:--++ "MY DEAREST MOTHER,--++ "It is impossible to tell you how happy your last letter made+ us, for the news was so good we couldn't help laughing and+ crying over it. How very kind Mr. Brooke is, and how fortunate+ that Mr. Laurence's business detains him near you so long,+ since he is so useful to you and father. 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 that 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 button-holes 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; she does not scold at all, and always calls+ me Miss 'Margaret,' which is quite proper, you know, and treats+ me with respect. 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+ "MEG."++This note, prettily written on scented paper, was a great contrast to+the next, which was scribbled on a big sheet of thin foreign paper,+ornamented with blots and all manner of flourishes and curly-tailed+letters:--++ "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 rushed+ up garret when the letter came, and tried to thank God for+ being so good to us; but I could only cry, and say, 'I'm glad!+ I'm glad!' Didn't that do as well as a regular prayer? for I+ felt a great many in my heart. We have such funny times; and+ now I can enjoy them, for every one is so desperately good,+ it's like living in a nest of turtle-doves. 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 read my little book, felt better, resolved not to let the sun+ set on _my_ anger, and ran over to tell Laurie I was sorry. 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.++ "I made a 'pome' yesterday, when I was helping Hannah wash; and,+ as father likes my silly little things, I put it in to amuse+ him. Give him the lovingest hug that ever was, and kiss yourself+ a dozen times for your+ "TOPSY-TURVY JO."++ "A SONG FROM THE SUDS.++ "Queen of my tub, I merrily sing,+ While the white foam rises high;+ And sturdily wash and rinse and wring,+ And fasten the clothes to dry;+ Then out in the free fresh air they swing,+ Under the sunny sky.++ "I wish we could wash from our hearts and souls+ The stains of the week away,+ And let water and air by their magic make+ Ourselves as pure as they;+ 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.++ "I am glad a task to me is given,+ To labor at day by day;+ For it brings me health and strength and hope,+ And I cheerfully learn to say,--+ 'Head, you may think, Heart, you may feel,+ But, Hand, you shall work alway!'"++ "DEAR MOTHER,--++ "There is only room for me to send my love, and some pressed+ pansies from the root I have been keeping safe in the house for+ father to see. 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. Every one 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+ "LITTLE BETH."++ [Illustration: I wind the clock]++ "MA CHERE MAMMA,--++ "We are all well I do my lessons always and never corroberate+ the girls--Meg says I mean contradick so I put in both words+ and you can take the properest. Meg is a great comfort to me+ and lets me have jelly every night at tea its so good for me Jo+ says because it keeps me sweet tempered. Laurie is not as+ respeckful as he ought to be now I am almost in my teens, he+ calls me Chick and hurts my feelings by talking French to me+ very fast when I say Merci or Bon jour as Hattie King does. The+ sleeves of my blue dress were all worn out, and Meg put in new+ ones, but the full front came wrong and they are more blue than+ the dress. I felt bad but did not fret I bear my troubles well+ but I do wish Hannah would put more starch in my aprons and+ have buckwheats every day. Can't she? Didn't I make that+ interrigation point nice? Meg says my punchtuation and spelling+ are disgraceful and I am mortyfied but dear me I have so many+ things to do, I can't stop. Adieu, I send heaps of love to+ Papa.+ "Your affectionate daughter,+ "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. Jo doos beat all for goin+ ahead, but she don't stop to cal'k'late fust, and you never+ know where she's like to bring up. She done out a tub of+ clothes on Monday, but she starched 'em afore they was+ wrenched, and blued a pink calico dress till I thought I should+ a died a laughin. 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 about frettin, wearin+ her best clothes and eatin sweet stuff. Mr. Laurie is as full+ of didoes as usual, and turns the house upside down frequent;+ but he heartens up the girls, and so I let em hev full swing.+ 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."++ [Illustration: Yours Respectful, Hannah Mullet]++ "HEAD NURSE OF WARD NO. 2,--++ "All serene on the Rappahannock, troops in fine condition,+ commissary department well conducted, the Home Guard under+ Colonel Teddy always on duty, Commander-in-chief General+ Laurence reviews the army daily, Quartermaster Mullett keeps+ order in camp, and Major Lion does picket duty at night. A+ salute of twenty-four guns was fired on receipt of good news+ from Washington, and a dress parade took place at+ head-quarters. Commander-in-chief sends best wishes, in which+ he is heartily joined by+ "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."++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ XVII.++ LITTLE FAITHFUL.+++For a week the amount of virtue in the old house would have supplied the+neighborhood. It was really amazing, for every one seemed in a heavenly+frame of mind, and self-denial was all the fashion. Relieved of their+first anxiety about their father, the girls insensibly relaxed their+praiseworthy efforts a little, and began to fall back into the old ways.+They did not forget their motto, but hoping and keeping busy seemed to+grow easier; and after such tremendous exertions, they felt that+Endeavor deserved a holiday, and gave it a good many.++Jo caught a bad cold through neglect to cover the shorn head enough, and+was ordered to stay at home till she was better, for Aunt March didn't+like to hear people read with colds in their heads. Jo liked this, and+after an energetic rummage from garret to cellar, subsided on the sofa+to nurse her cold with arsenicum and books. Amy found that housework and+art did not go well together, and returned to her mud pies. Meg went+daily to her pupils, and sewed, or thought she did, at home, but much+time was spent in writing long letters to her mother, or reading the+Washington despatches over and over. Beth kept on, with only slight+relapses into idleness or grieving. All the little duties were+faithfully done each day, and many of her sisters' also, for they were+forgetful, and the house seemed like a clock whose pendulum was gone+a-visiting. When her heart got heavy with longings for mother or fears+for father, she went away into a certain closet, hid her face in the+folds of a certain dear old gown, and made her little moan and prayed+her little prayer quietly by herself. Nobody knew what cheered her up+after a sober fit, but every one felt how sweet and helpful Beth was,+and fell into a way of going to her for comfort or advice in their small+affairs.++All were unconscious that this experience was a test of character; and,+when the first excitement was over, felt that they had done well, and+deserved praise. 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."++"It's well enough for me to go out with Laurie, but not well enough to+go to the Hummels'," said Jo, laughing, but looking a little ashamed of+her inconsistency.++"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 to-morrow.++"Ask Hannah for some nice little mess, and take it round, Beth; the air+will do you good," said Jo, adding apologetically, "I'd go, but I want+to finish my writing."++"My head aches and I'm tired, so I thought may be some of you would go,"+said Beth.++"Amy will be in presently, and she will run down for us," suggested Meg.++"Well, I'll rest a little and wait for her."++So Beth lay down on the sofa, the others returned to their work, and the+Hummels were forgotten. An hour passed: Amy did not come; Meg went to+her room to try on a new dress; Jo was absorbed in her story, and Hannah+was sound asleep before the kitchen fire, when Beth quietly put on her+hood, filled her basket with odds and ends for the poor children, and+went out into the chilly air, with a heavy head, and a grieved look in+her patient eyes. It was late when she came back, and no one saw her+creep upstairs and shut herself into her mother's room. Half an hour+after Jo went to "mother's closet" for something, and there found Beth+sitting on the medicine chest, looking very grave, with red eyes, and a+camphor-bottle in her hand.++"Christopher Columbus! What's the matter?" cried Jo, as Beth put out her+hand as if to warn her off, and asked quickly,--++"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! I ought to have gone," said Jo,+taking her sister in her arms as she sat down in her mother's big chair,+with a remorseful face.++"It wasn't dreadful, Jo, only so sad! I saw in a minute that it was+sicker, but Lottchen said her mother had gone for a doctor, so I took+baby and let Lotty rest. It seemed asleep, but all of a sudden it gave a+little cry, and trembled, and then lay very still. I tried to warm its+feet, and Lotty gave it some milk, but it didn't stir, and I knew it was+dead."++ [Illustration: It didn't stir, and I knew it was dead]++"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 got sore+throats. 'Scarlet fever, ma'am. Ought to have called me before,' he said+crossly. Mrs. Hummel told him she was poor, and had tried to cure baby+herself, but now it was too late, and she could only ask him to help the+others, and trust to charity for his pay. He smiled then, and was+kinder; but it was very sad, and I cried with them till he turned round,+all of a sudden, and told me to go home and take belladonna right away,+or I'd have the fever."++"No, you won't!" cried Jo, hugging her close, with a frightened look. "O+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. I looked in+mother's book, and saw that it begins with headache, sore throat, and+queer feelings like mine, so I did take some belladonna, and I feel+better," said Beth, laying her cold hands on her hot forehead, and+trying to look well.++"If mother was only at home!" exclaimed Jo, seizing the book, and+feeling that Washington was an immense way off. She read a page, looked+at Beth, felt her head, peeped into her throat, and then said gravely;+"You've been over the baby every day for more than a week, and among the+others who are going to have it; so I'm afraid _you_ are going to have+it, Beth. 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; serve me right, selfish pig, to let+you go, and stay writing rubbish myself!" muttered Jo, as she went to+consult Hannah.++The good soul was wide awake in a minute, and took the lead at once,+assuring Jo that there was no need to worry; every one had scarlet+fever, and, if rightly treated, nobody died,--all of which Jo believed,+and felt much relieved as they went up to call Meg.++"Now I'll tell you what we'll do," said Hannah, when she had examined+and questioned Beth; "we will have Dr. Bangs, just to take a look at+you, dear, and see that we start right; then we'll send Amy off to Aunt+March's, for a spell, to keep her out of harm's way, and one of you+girls can stay at home and amuse Beth for a day or two."++"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," said+Hannah.++"Jo, please;" and Beth leaned her head against her sister, with a+contented look, which effectually settled that point.++"I'll go and tell Amy," said Meg, feeling a little hurt, yet rather+relieved, on the whole, for she did not like nursing, and Jo did.++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. She told her story, expecting to be consoled; but+Laurie only put his hands in his pockets and walked about the room,+whistling softly, as he knit his brows in deep thought. Presently he sat+down beside her, and said, in his most wheedlesome tone, "Now be a+sensible little woman, and do as they say. 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?"++ [Illustration: He sat down beside her]++"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. Change of air and care will keep you well, I dare say; or, if+it does not entirely, you will have the fever more lightly. 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. The old lady likes me, and I'll be as+sweet as possible to her, so she won't peck at us, whatever we do."++"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 theatre, truly?"++"A dozen theatres, if we may."++"Well--I guess--I will," said Amy slowly.++"Good girl! Call Meg, and tell her you'll give in," said Laurie, with an+approving pat, which annoyed Amy more than the "giving in."++Meg and Jo came running down to behold the miracle which had been+wrought; and Amy, feeling very precious and self-sacrificing, promised+to go, if the doctor said Beth was going to be ill.++"How is the little dear?" asked Laurie; for Beth was his especial pet,+and he felt more anxious about her than he liked to show.++"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+sort of 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. Settle+your wig, Jo, and tell me if I shall telegraph to your mother, or do+anything?" asked Laurie, who never had been reconciled to the loss of+his friend's one beauty.++"That is what troubles me," said Meg. "I think we ought to tell her if+Beth is really ill, but Hannah says we mustn't, for mother can't leave+father, and it will only make them anxious. Beth won't be sick long, and+Hannah knows just what to do, and mother said we were to mind her, so I+suppose we must, but it doesn't seem quite right to me."++"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 of 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.++Dr. Bangs came, said Beth had symptoms of the fever, but thought she+would have it lightly, though he looked sober over the Hummel story. Amy+was ordered off at once, and provided with something to ward off danger,+she departed in great state, with Jo and Laurie as escort.++Aunt March received them with her usual hospitality.++"What do you want now?" she asked, looking sharply over her spectacles,+while the parrot, sitting on the back of her chair, called out,--++ [Illustration: What do you want now?]++"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."++Amy _was_ on the point of crying, but Laurie slyly pulled the parrot's+tail, which caused Polly to utter an astonished croak, and call out,--++"Bless my boots!" in such a funny way, that she laughed instead.++"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! never say die, take a pinch of snuff, good by, good by!"+squalled Polly, dancing on her perch, and clawing at the old lady's cap+as Laurie tweaked him in the rear.++"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 rattle-pated+boy like--"++"Hold your tongue, you disrespectful old bird!" cried Polly, tumbling+off the chair with a bounce, and running to peck the "rattle-pated" boy,+who was shaking with laughter at the last speech.++"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.+++++ XVIII.++ DARK DAYS.+++ [Illustration: Beth did have the fever]++Beth did have the fever, and was much sicker than any one but Hannah and+the doctor suspected. The girls knew nothing about illness, and Mr.+Laurence was not allowed to see her, so Hannah had everything all her+own way, and busy Dr. Bangs did his best, but left a good deal to the+excellent nurse. Meg stayed at home, lest she should infect the Kings,+and kept house, feeling very anxious and a little guilty when she wrote+letters in which no mention was made of Beth's illness. She could not+think it right to deceive her mother, but she had been bidden to mind+Hannah, and Hannah wouldn't hear of "Mrs. March bein' told, and worried+just for sech a trifle." Jo devoted herself to Beth day and night; not a+hard task, for Beth was very patient, and bore her pain uncomplainingly+as long as she could control herself. But there came a time when during+the fever fits she began to talk in a hoarse, broken voice, to play on+the coverlet, as if on her beloved little piano, and try to sing with a+throat so swollen that there was no music left; a time when she did not+know the familiar faces round her, but addressed them by wrong names,+and called imploringly for her mother. Then Jo grew frightened, Meg+begged to be allowed to write the truth, and even Hannah said she "would+think of it, though there was no danger _yet_." A letter from Washington+added to their trouble, for Mr. March had had a relapse, and could not+think of coming home for a long while.++How dark the days seemed now, how sad and lonely the house, and how+heavy were the hearts of the sisters as they worked and waited, while+the shadow of death hovered over the once happy home! Then it was that+Margaret, sitting alone with tears dropping often on her work, felt how+rich she had been in things more precious than any luxuries money could+buy,--in love, protection, peace, and health, the real blessings of+life. Then it was that Jo, living in the darkened room, with that+suffering little sister always before her eyes, and that pathetic voice+sounding in her ears, learned to see the beauty and the sweetness of+Beth's nature, to feel how deep and tender a place she filled in all+hearts, and to acknowledge the worth of Beth's unselfish ambition, to+live for others, and make home happy by the exercise of those simple+virtues which all may possess, and which all should love and value more+than talent, wealth, or beauty. And Amy, in her exile, longed eagerly to+be at home, that she might work for Beth, feeling now that no service+would be hard or irksome, and remembering, with regretful grief, how+many neglected tasks those willing hands had done for her. Laurie+haunted the house like a restless ghost, and Mr. Laurence locked the+grand piano, because he could not bear to be reminded of the young+neighbor who used to make the twilight pleasant for him. Every one+missed Beth. The milkman, baker, grocer, and butcher inquired how she+did; poor Mrs. Hummel came to beg pardon for her thoughtlessness, and to+get a shroud for Minna; the neighbors sent all sorts of comforts and+good wishes, and even those who knew her best were surprised to find how+many friends shy little Beth had made.++Meanwhile she lay on her bed with old Joanna at her side, for even in+her wanderings she did not forget her forlorn _protégé_. She longed for+her cats, but would not have them brought, lest they should get sick;+and, in her quiet hours, she was full of anxiety about Jo. She sent+loving messages to Amy, bade them tell her mother that she would write+soon; and often begged for pencil and paper to try to say a word, that+father might not think she had neglected him. But soon even these+intervals of consciousness ended, and she lay hour after hour, tossing+to and fro, with incoherent words on her lips, or sank into a heavy+sleep which brought her no refreshment. Dr. Bangs came twice a day,+Hannah sat up at night, Meg kept a telegram in her desk all ready to+send off at any minute, and Jo never stirred from Beth's side.++The first of December was a wintry day indeed to them, for a bitter wind+blew, snow fell fast, and the year seemed getting ready for its death.+When Dr. Bangs came that morning, he looked long at Beth, held the hot+hand in both his own a minute, and laid it gently down, saying, in a low+tone, to Hannah,--++"If Mrs. March _can_ leave her husband, she'd better be sent for."++Hannah nodded without speaking, for her lips twitched nervously; Meg+dropped down into a chair as the strength seemed to go out of her limbs+at the sound of those words; and Jo, after standing with a pale face for+a minute, ran to the parlor, snatched up the telegram, and, throwing on+her things, rushed out into the storm. She was soon back, and, while+noiselessly taking off her cloak, Laurie came in with a letter, saying+that Mr. March was mending again. Jo read it thankfully, but the heavy+weight did not seem lifted off her heart, and her face was so full of+misery that Laurie asked quickly,--++"What is it? is Beth worse?"++"I've sent for mother," said Jo, tugging at her rubber boots with a+tragical expression.++"Good for you, Jo! Did you do it on your own responsibility?" asked+Laurie, as he seated her in the hall chair, and took off the rebellious+boots, seeing how her hands shook.++"No, the doctor told us to."++"O 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."++As the tears streamed fast down poor Jo's cheeks, she stretched out her+hand in a helpless sort of way, as if groping in the dark, and Laurie+took it in his, whispering, as well as he could, with a lump in his+throat,--++"I'm here. Hold on to me, Jo, dear!"++She could not speak, but she did "hold on," and the warm grasp of the+friendly human hand comforted her sore heart, and seemed to lead her+nearer to the Divine arm which alone could uphold her in her trouble.+Laurie longed to say something tender and comfortable, but no fitting+words came to him, so he stood silent, gently stroking her bent head as+her mother used to do. It was the best thing he could have done; far+more soothing than the most eloquent words, for Jo felt the unspoken+sympathy, and, in the silence, learned the sweet solace which affection+administers to sorrow. Soon she dried the tears which had relieved her,+and looked up with a grateful face.++ [Illustration: Gently stroking her head as her mother used to do]++"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 right."++"I'm so glad father is better; now she won't feel so bad about leaving+him. Oh, me! it does seem as if all the troubles came in a heap, and I+got the heaviest part on my shoulders," sighed Jo, spreading her wet+handkerchief over her knees to dry.++"Doesn't Meg pull fair?" asked Laurie, looking indignant.++"Oh, yes; she tries to, but she can't love Bethy as I do; and she won't+miss her as I shall. Beth is my conscience, and I _can't_ give her up. I+can't! I can't!"++Down went Jo's face into the wet handkerchief, and she cried+despairingly; for she had kept up bravely till now, and never shed a+tear. Laurie drew his hand across his eyes, but could not speak till he+had subdued the choky feeling in his throat and steadied his lips. 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."++"The good and dear people always do die," groaned Jo, but she stopped+crying, for her friend's words cheered her up, in spite of her own+doubts and fears.++"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."++Laurie went off two stairs at a time, and Jo laid her wearied head down+on Beth's little brown hood, which no one had thought of moving from the+table where she left it. It must have possessed some magic, for the+submissive spirit of its gentle owner seemed to enter into Jo; and, when+Laurie came running down with a glass of wine, she took it with a smile,+and said bravely, "I drink--Health to my Beth! You are a good doctor,+Teddy, and _such_ a comfortable friend; how can I ever pay you?" she+added, as the wine refreshed her body, as the kind words had done her+troubled mind.++"I'll send in my bill, by and by; and to-night I'll give you something+that will warm the cockles of your heart better than quarts of wine,"+said Laurie, beaming at her with a face of suppressed satisfaction at+something.++"What is it?" cried Jo, forgetting her woes for a minute, in her wonder.++"I telegraphed to your mother yesterday, and Brooke answered she'd come+at once, and she'll be here to-night, and everything will be all right.+Aren't you glad I did it?"++Laurie spoke very fast, and turned red and excited all in a minute, for+he had kept his plot a secret, for fear of disappointing the girls or+harming Beth. Jo grew quite white, flew out of her chair, and the moment+he stopped speaking she electrified him by throwing her arms round his+neck, and crying out, with a joyful cry, "O Laurie! O mother! I _am_ so+glad!" She did not weep again, but laughed hysterically, and trembled+and clung to her friend as if she was a little bewildered by the sudden+news. Laurie, though decidedly amazed, behaved with great presence of+mind; he patted her back soothingly, and, finding that she was+recovering, followed it up by a bashful kiss or two, which brought Jo+round at once. Holding on to the banisters, she put him gently away,+saying breathlessly, "Oh, don't! I didn't mean to; it was dreadful of+me; but you were such a dear to go and do it in spite of Hannah that I+couldn't help flying at you. 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--well, if anything happened, you know. So I got grandpa to+say it was high time we did something, and off I pelted to the office+yesterday, for the doctor looked sober, and Hannah most took my head off+when I proposed a telegram. I never _can_ bear to be 'lorded over;' so+that settled my mind, and I did it. Your mother will come, I know, and+the late train is in at two, A.M. I shall go for her; and you've only+got to bottle up your rapture, and keep Beth quiet, till that blessed+lady gets here."++"Laurie, you're an angel! How shall I ever thank you?"++"Fly at me again; I rather like 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!"++Jo had backed into a corner; and, as she finished her speech, she+vanished precipitately into the kitchen, where she sat down upon a+dresser, and told the assembled cats that she was "happy, oh, _so_+happy!" while Laurie departed, feeling that he had made rather a neat+thing of it.++"That's the interferingest chap I ever see; but I forgive him, and do+hope Mrs. March is coming on right away," said Hannah, with an air of+relief, when Jo told the good news.++Meg had a quiet rapture, and then brooded over the letter, while Jo set+the sick-room in order, and Hannah "knocked up a couple of pies in case+of company unexpected." 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; the fires seemed to burn with unusual cheeriness; and every time+the girls met, their pale faces broke into smiles as they hugged one+another, whispering encouragingly, "Mother's coming, dear! mother's+coming!" Every one rejoiced but Beth; she lay in that heavy stupor,+alike unconscious of hope and joy, doubt and danger. It was a piteous+sight,--the once rosy face so changed and vacant, the once busy hands so+weak and wasted, the once smiling lips quite dumb, and the once pretty,+well-kept hair scattered rough and tangled on the pillow. All day she+lay so, only rousing now and then to mutter, "Water!" with lips so+parched they could hardly shape the word; all day Jo and Meg hovered+over her, watching, waiting, hoping, and trusting in God and mother; and+all day the snow fell, the bitter wind raged, and the hours dragged+slowly by. But night came at last; and every time the clock struck, the+sisters, still sitting on either side the bed, looked at each other with+brightening eyes, for each hour brought help nearer. The doctor had been+in to say that some change, for better or worse, would probably take+place about midnight, at which time he would return.++Hannah, quite worn out, lay down on the sofa at the bed's foot, and fell+fast asleep; Mr. Laurence marched to and fro in the parlor, feeling that+he would rather face a rebel battery than Mrs. March's anxious+countenance as she entered; Laurie lay on the rug, pretending to rest,+but staring into the fire with the thoughtful look which made his black+eyes beautifully soft and clear.++The girls never forgot that night, for no sleep came to them as they+kept their watch, with that dreadful sense of powerlessness which comes+to us in hours like those.++"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.++"If life is often as hard as this, I don't see how we ever shall get+through it," added her sister despondently.++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.+Another hour,--still no one came; and anxious fears of delay in the+storm, or accidents by the way, or, worst of all, a great grief at+Washington, haunted the poor girls.++It was past two, when Jo, who stood at the window thinking how dreary+the world looked in its winding-sheet of snow, heard a movement by the+bed, and, turning quickly, saw Meg kneeling before their mother's+easy-chair, with her face hidden. 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. The fever flush and the look of pain+were gone, and the beloved little face looked so pale and peaceful in+its utter repose, that Jo felt no desire to weep or to lament. Leaning+low over this dearest of her sisters, she kissed the damp forehead with+her heart on her lips, and softly whispered, "Good-by, my Beth;+good-by!"++As if waked by the stir, Hannah started out of her sleep, hurried to the+bed, looked at Beth, felt her hands, listened at her lips, and then,+throwing her apron over her head, sat down to rock to and fro,+exclaiming, under her breath, "The fever's turned; she's sleepin'+nat'ral; her skin's damp, and she breathes easy. Praise be given! Oh, my+goodness me!"++Before the girls could believe the happy truth, the doctor came to+confirm it. He was a homely man, but they thought his face quite+heavenly when he smiled, and said, with a fatherly look at them, "Yes,+my dears, I think the little girl will pull through this time. Keep the+house quiet; let her sleep, and when she wakes, give her--"++What they were to give, neither heard; for both crept into the dark+hall, and, sitting on the stairs, held each other close, rejoicing with+hearts too full for words. When they went back to be kissed and cuddled+by faithful Hannah, they found Beth lying, as she used to do, with her+cheek pillowed on her hand, the dreadful pallor gone, and breathing+quietly, as if just fallen asleep.++"If mother would only come now!" said Jo, as the winter night began to+wane.++"See," said Meg, coming up with a white, half-opened rose, "I thought+this would hardly be ready to lay in Beth's hand to-morrow if she--went+away from us. But it has blossomed in the night, and now I mean to put+it in my vase here, so that when the darling wakes, the first thing she+sees will be the little rose, and mother's face."++Never had the sun risen so beautifully, and never had the world seemed+so lovely, as it did to the heavy eyes of Meg and Jo, as they looked out+in the early morning, when their long, sad vigil was done.++"It looks like a fairy world," said Meg, smiling to herself, as she+stood behind the curtain, watching the dazzling sight.++"Hark!" cried Jo, starting to her feet.++Yes, there was a sound of bells at the door below, a cry from Hannah,+and then Laurie's voice saying, in a joyful whisper, "Girls, she's come!+she's come!"+++++ [Illustration: Amy's Will]++ XIX.++ 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. Aunt March+never petted any one; she did not approve of it; but she meant to be+kind, for the well-behaved little girl pleased her very much, and Aunt+March had a soft place in her old heart for her nephew's children,+though she didn't think proper to confess it. She really did her best to+make Amy happy, but, dear me, what mistakes she made! Some old people+keep young at heart in spite of wrinkles and gray hairs, can sympathize+with children's little cares and joys, make them feel at home, and can+hide wise lessons under pleasant plays, giving and receiving friendship+in the sweetest way. But Aunt March had not this gift, and she worried+Amy very much with her rules and orders, her prim ways, and long, prosy+talks. Finding the child more docile and amiable than her sister, the+old lady felt it her duty to try and counteract, as far as possible, the+bad effects of home freedom and indulgence. So she took Amy in hand, and+taught her as she herself had been taught sixty years ago,--a process+which carried dismay to Amy's soul, and made her feel like a fly in the+web of a very strict spider.++ [Illustration: Polish up the spoons and the fat silver teapot]++She had to wash the cups every morning, and polish up the old-fashioned+spoons, the fat silver teapot, and the glasses, till they shone. 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. Then Polly must be fed, the+lap-dog combed, and a dozen trips upstairs and down, to get things, or+deliver orders, for the old lady was very lame, and seldom left her big+chair. 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? Laurie came every day,+and wheedled Aunt March, till Amy was allowed to go out with him, when+they walked and rode, and had capital times. After dinner, she had to+read aloud, and sit still while the old lady slept, which she usually+did for an hour, as she dropped off over the first page. Then patchwork+or towels appeared, and Amy sewed with outward meekness and inward+rebellion till dusk, when she was allowed to amuse herself as she liked+till tea-time. The evenings were the worst of all, for Aunt March fell+to telling long stories about her youth, which were so unutterably dull+that Amy was always ready to go to bed, intending to cry over her hard+fate, but usually going to sleep before she had squeezed out more than a+tear or two.++If it had not been for Laurie, and old Esther, the maid, she felt that+she never could have got through that dreadful time. The parrot alone+was enough to drive her distracted, for he soon felt that she did not+admire him, and revenged himself by being as mischievous as possible. He+pulled her hair whenever she came near him, upset his bread and milk to+plague her when she had newly cleaned his cage, made Mop bark by pecking+at him while Madam dozed; called her names before company, and behaved+in all respects like a reprehensible old bird. Then she could not endure+the dog,--a fat, cross beast, who snarled and yelped at her when she+made his toilet, and who lay on his back, with all his legs in the air+and a most idiotic expression of countenance when he wanted something to+eat, which was about a dozen times a day. The cook was bad-tempered, the+old coachman deaf, and Esther the only one who ever took any notice of+the young lady.++ [Illustration: On his back, with all his legs in the air]++Esther was a Frenchwoman, who had lived with "Madame," as she called her+mistress, for many years, and who rather tyrannized over the old lady,+who could not get along without her. Her real name was Estelle, but+Aunt March ordered her to change it, and she obeyed, on condition that+she was never asked to change her religion. She took a fancy to+Mademoiselle, and amused her very much, with odd stories of her life in+France, when Amy sat with her while she got up Madame's laces. She also+allowed her to roam about the great house, and examine the curious and+pretty things stored away in the big wardrobes and the ancient chests;+for Aunt March hoarded like a magpie. Amy's chief delight was an Indian+cabinet, full of queer drawers, little pigeon-holes, and secret places,+in which were kept all sorts of ornaments, some precious, some merely+curious, all more or less antique. To examine and arrange these things+gave Amy great satisfaction, especially the jewel-cases, in which, on+velvet cushions, reposed the ornaments which had adorned a belle forty+years ago. There was the garnet set which Aunt March wore when she came+out, the pearls her father gave her on her wedding-day, her lover's+diamonds, the jet mourning rings and pins, the queer lockets, with+portraits of dead friends, and weeping willows made of hair inside; the+baby bracelets her one little daughter had worn; Uncle March's big+watch, with the red seal so many childish hands had played with, and in+a box, all by itself, lay Aunt March's wedding-ring, too small now for+her fat finger, but put carefully away, like the most precious jewel of+them all.++ [Illustration: I should choose this]++"Which would Mademoiselle choose if she had her will?" asked Esther, who+always sat near to watch over and lock up the valuables.++"I like the diamonds best, but there is no necklace among them, and I'm+fond of necklaces, they are so becoming. I should choose this if I+might," replied Amy, looking with great admiration at a string of gold+and ebony beads, from which hung a heavy cross of the same.++"I, too, covet that, but not as a necklace; ah, no! to me it is a+rosary, and as such I should use it like a good Catholic," said Esther,+eying the handsome thing wistfully.++"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. It would be pleasing to the saints if one+used so fine a rosary as this, instead of wearing it as a vain bijou."++"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."++"If Mademoiselle was a Catholic, she would find true comfort; but, as+that is not to be, it would be well if you went apart each day, to+meditate and pray, as did the good mistress whom I served before Madame.+She had a little chapel, and in it found solacement for much trouble."++"Would it be right for me to do so too?" asked Amy, who, in her+loneliness, felt the need of help of some sort, and found that she was+apt to forget her little book, now that Beth was not there to remind her+of it.++"It would be excellent and charming; and I shall gladly arrange the+little dressing-room for you if you like it. Say nothing to Madame, but+when she sleeps go you and sit alone a while to think good thoughts, and+pray the dear God to preserve your sister."++Esther was truly pious, and quite sincere in her advice; for she had an+affectionate heart, and felt much for the sisters in their anxiety. Amy+liked the idea, and gave her leave to arrange the light closet next her+room, hoping it would do her good.++"I wish I knew where all these pretty things would go when Aunt March+dies," she said, as she slowly replaced the shining rosary, and shut the+jewel-cases one by one.++"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. Pro-cras-ti-nation 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. The first+one who is affianced will have the pearls--Madame has said it; and I+have a fancy that the little turquoise ring will be given to you when+you go, for Madame approves your good behavior and charming manners."++"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. Esther fitted up the+closet with a little table, placed a footstool before it, and over it a+picture taken from one of the shut-up rooms. She thought it was of no+great value, but, being appropriate, she borrowed it, well knowing that+Madame would never know it, nor care if she did. It was, however, a very+valuable copy of one of the famous pictures of the world, and Amy's+beauty-loving eyes were never tired of looking up at the sweet face of+the divine mother, while tender thoughts of her own were busy at her+heart. On the table she laid her little Testament and hymn-book, kept a+vase always full of the best flowers Laurie brought her, and came every+day to "sit alone, thinking good thoughts, and praying the dear God to+preserve her sister." Esther had given her a rosary of black beads, with+a silver cross, but Amy hung it up and did not use it, feeling doubtful+as to its fitness for Protestant prayers.++The little girl was very sincere in all this, for, being left alone+outside the safe home-nest, she felt the need of some kind hand to hold+by so sorely, that she instinctively turned to the strong and tender+Friend, whose fatherly love most closely surrounds his little children.+She missed her mother's help to understand and rule herself, but having+been taught where to look, she did her best to find the way, and walk in+it confidingly. But Amy was a young pilgrim, and just now her burden+seemed very heavy. She tried to forget herself, to keep cheerful, and be+satisfied with doing right, though no one saw or praised her for it. In+her first effort at being very, very good, she decided to make her will,+as Aunt March had done; so that if she _did_ fall ill and die, her+possessions might be justly and generously divided. It cost her a pang+even to think of giving up the little treasures which in her eyes were+as precious as the old lady's jewels.++During one of her play-hours she wrote out the important document as+well as she could, with some help from Esther as to certain legal terms,+and, when the good-natured Frenchwoman had signed her name, Amy felt+relieved, and laid it by to show Laurie, whom she wanted as a second+witness. As it was a rainy day, she went upstairs to amuse herself in+one of the large chambers, and took Polly with her for company. In this+room there was a wardrobe full of old-fashioned costumes, with which+Esther allowed her to play, and it was her favorite amusement to array+herself in the faded brocades, and parade up and down before the long+mirror, making stately courtesies, and sweeping her train about, with a+rustle which delighted her ears. So busy was she on this day that she+did not hear Laurie's ring, nor see his face peeping in at her, as she+gravely promenaded to and fro, flirting her fan and tossing her head, on+which she wore a great pink turban, contrasting oddly with her blue+brocade dress and yellow quilted petticoat. She was obliged to walk+carefully, for she had on high-heeled shoes, and, as Laurie told Jo+afterward, it was a comical sight to see her mince along in her gay+suit, with Polly sidling and bridling just behind her, imitating her as+well as he could, and occasionally stopping to laugh or exclaim, "Ain't+we fine? Get along, you fright! Hold your tongue! Kiss me, dear! Ha!+ha!"++ [Illustration: Gravely promenaded to and fro]++Having with difficulty restrained an explosion of merriment, lest it+should offend her majesty, Laurie tapped, and was graciously received.++"Sit down and rest while I put these things away; then I want to consult+you about a very serious matter," said Amy, when she had shown her+splendor, and driven Polly into a corner. "That bird is the trial of my+life," she continued, removing the pink mountain from her head, while+Laurie seated himself astride of a chair. "Yesterday, when aunt was+asleep, and I was trying to be as still as a mouse, Polly began to+squall and flap about in his cage; so I went to let him out, and found a+big spider there. I poked it out, and it ran under the bookcase; Polly+marched straight after it, stooped down and peeped under the bookcase,+saying, in his funny way, with a cock of his eye, 'Come out and take a+walk, my dear.' 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.++"Yes; out it came, and away ran Polly, frightened to death, and+scrambled up on aunt's chair, calling out, 'Catch her! catch her! catch+her!' as I chased the spider.++"That's a lie! Oh lor!" cried the parrot, pecking at Laurie's toes.++"I'd wring your neck if you were mine, you old torment," cried Laurie,+shaking his fist at the bird, who put his head on one side, and gravely+croaked, "Allyluyer! bless your buttons, dear!"++"Now I'm ready," said Amy, shutting the wardrobe, and taking a paper out+of her pocket. "I want you to read that, please, and tell me if it is+legal and right. I felt that I ought to do it, for life is uncertain and+I don't want any ill-feeling over my tomb."++ [Illustration: Amy's Will]++Laurie bit his lips, and turning a little from the pensive speaker, read+the following document, with praiseworthy gravity, considering the+spelling:--++ "MY LAST WILL AND TESTIMENT.++ "I, Amy Curtis March, being in my sane mind, do 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.++ "To my dear sister Margaret, I give my turkquoise ring (if I get+ it), also my green box with the doves on it, also my piece of+ real lace for her neck, and my sketch of her as a memorial of+ her 'little girl.'++ "To Jo I leave my breast-pin, the one mended with sealing wax,+ also my bronze inkstand--she lost the cover--and my most+ precious plaster rabbit, because I am sorry I burnt up her+ story.++ "To Beth (if she lives after me) I give my dolls and the little+ bureau, my fan, my linen collars and my new slippers if she can+ wear them being thin when she gets well. And I herewith also+ leave her my regret that I ever made fun of old Joanna.++ "To my friend and neighbor Theodore Laurence I bequeethe my+ paper marshay portfolio, my clay model of a horse though he did+ say it hadn't any neck. Also in return for his great kindness in+ the hour of affliction any one of my artistic works he likes,+ Noter Dame is the best.++ "To our venerable benefactor Mr. Laurence I leave my purple box+ with a looking glass in the cover which will be nice for his+ pens and remind him of the departed girl who thanks him for his+ favors to her family, specially Beth.++ "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 patch work+ 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 every one,+ 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 1861.+ "AMY CURTIS MARCH.++ {ESTELLE VALNOR,+ "_Witnesses_: {+ {THEODORE LAURENCE."++The last name was written in pencil, and Amy explained that he was to+rewrite it in ink, and seal it up for her properly.++"What put it into your head? Did any one tell you about Beth's giving+away her things?" asked Laurie soberly, as Amy laid a bit of red tape,+with sealing-wax, a taper, and a standish before him.++She explained; and then asked anxiously, "What about Beth?"++"I'm sorry I spoke; but as I did, I'll tell you. She felt so ill one day+that she told Jo she wanted to give her piano to Meg, her cats to you,+and the poor old doll to Jo, who would love it for her sake. She was+sorry she had so little to give, and left locks of hair to the rest of+us, and her best love to grandpa. _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. Amy's face was full of trouble; but she+only said, "Don't people put sort of postscripts to their wills,+sometimes?"++"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. But+when he came to go, Amy held him back to whisper, with trembling lips,+"Is there really any danger about Beth?"++"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.++When he had gone, she went to her little chapel, and, sitting in the+twilight, prayed for Beth, with streaming tears and an aching heart,+feeling that a million turquoise rings would not console her for the+loss of her gentle little sister.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Mrs. March would not leave Beth's side]++ XX.++ CONFIDENTIAL.+++I don't think I have any words in which to tell the meeting of the+mother and daughters; such hours are beautiful to live, but very hard to+describe, so I will leave it to the imagination of my readers, merely+saying that the house was full of genuine happiness, and that Meg's+tender hope was realized; for when Beth woke from that long, healing+sleep, the first objects on which her eyes fell _were_ the little rose+and mother's face. Too weak to wonder at anything, she only smiled, and+nestled close into the loving arms about her, feeling that the hungry+longing was satisfied at last. Then she slept again, and the girls+waited upon their mother, for she would not unclasp the thin hand which+clung to hers even in sleep. Hannah had "dished up" an astonishing+breakfast for the traveller, finding it impossible to vent her+excitement in any other way; and Meg and Jo fed their mother like+dutiful young storks, while they listened to her whispered account of+father's state, Mr. Brooke's promise to stay and nurse him, the delays+which the storm occasioned on the homeward journey, and the unspeakable+comfort Laurie's hopeful face had given her when she arrived, worn out+with fatigue, anxiety, and cold.++What a strange, yet pleasant day that was! so brilliant and gay without,+for all the world seemed abroad to welcome the first snow; so quiet and+reposeful within, for every one slept, spent with watching, and a+Sabbath stillness reigned through the house, while nodding Hannah+mounted guard at the door. With a blissful sense of burdens lifted off,+Meg and Jo closed their weary eyes, and lay at rest, like storm-beaten+boats, safe at anchor in a quiet harbor. Mrs. March would not leave+Beth's side, but rested in the big chair, waking often to look at,+touch, and brood over her child, like a miser over some recovered+treasure.++Laurie, meanwhile, posted off to comfort Amy, and told his story so well+that Aunt March actually "sniffed" herself, and never once said, "I told+you so." Amy came out so strong on this occasion that I think the good+thoughts in the little chapel really began to bear fruit. She dried her+tears quickly, restrained her impatience to see her mother, and never+even thought of the turquoise ring, when the old lady heartily agreed in+Laurie's opinion, that she behaved "like a capital little woman." Even+Polly seemed impressed, for he called her "good girl," blessed her+buttons, and begged her to "come and take a walk, dear," in his most+affable tone. She would very gladly have gone out to enjoy the bright+wintry weather; but, discovering that Laurie was dropping with sleep in+spite of manful efforts to conceal the fact, she persuaded him to rest+on the sofa, while she wrote a note to her mother. She was a long time+about it; and, when she returned, he was stretched out, with both arms+under his head, sound asleep, while Aunt March had pulled down the+curtains, and sat doing nothing in an unusual fit of benignity.++After a while, they began to think he was not going to wake till night,+and I'm not sure that he would, had he not been effectually roused by+Amy's cry of joy at sight of her mother. There probably were a good+many happy little girls in and about the city that day, but it is my+private opinion that Amy was the happiest of all, when she sat in her+mother's lap and told her trials, receiving consolation and compensation+in the shape of approving smiles and fond caresses. They were alone+together in the chapel, to which her mother did not object when its+purpose was explained to her.++"On the contrary, I like it very much, dear," looking from the dusty+rosary to the well-worn little book, and the lovely picture with its+garland of evergreen. "It is an excellent plan to have some place where+we can go to be quiet, when things vex or grieve us. There are a good+many hard times in this life of ours, but we can always bear them if we+ask help in the right way. I think my little girl is learning this?"++"Yes, mother; and when I go home I mean to have a corner in the big+closet to put my books, and the copy of that picture which I've tried to+make. The woman's face is not good,--it's too beautiful for me to+draw,--but the baby is done better, and I love it very much. 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. She said+nothing, but Amy understood the look, and, after a minute's pause, she+added gravely,--++"I wanted to speak to you about this, but I forgot it. Aunt gave me the+ring to-day; she called me to her and kissed me, and put it on my+finger, and said I was a credit to her, and she'd like to keep me+always. She gave that funny guard to keep the turquoise on, as it's too+big. I'd like to wear them, mother; can I?"++"They are very pretty, but I think you're rather too young for such+ornaments, Amy," said Mrs. March, looking at the plump little hand, with+the band of sky-blue stones on the forefinger, and the quaint guard,+formed of two tiny, golden hands clasped together.++"I'll try not to be vain," said Amy. "I don't think I like it only+because it's so pretty; but I want to wear it as the girl in the story+wore her bracelet, to remind me of something."++"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.++"I've thought a great deal lately about my 'bundle of naughties,' and+being selfish is the largest one in it; so I'm going to try hard to cure+it, if I can. Beth isn't selfish, and that's the reason every one loves+her and feels so bad at the thoughts of losing her. People wouldn't feel+half so bad about me if I was sick, and I don't deserve to have them;+but I'd like to be loved and missed by a great many friends, so I'm+going to try and be like Beth all I can. 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 I 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."++That evening, while Meg was writing to her father, to report the+traveller's safe arrival, Jo slipped up stairs into Beth's room, and,+finding her mother in her usual place, stood a minute twisting her+fingers in her hair, with a worried gesture and an undecided look.++"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, I should have shut the door in his face if he had," said Jo,+settling herself on the floor at her mother's feet. "Last summer Meg+left a pair of gloves over at the Laurences', and only one was returned.+We forgot all about it, till Teddy told me that Mr. Brooke had it. He+kept it in his waistcoat pocket, and once it fell out, and Teddy joked+him about it, and Mr. Brooke owned that he liked Meg, but didn't dare+say so, she was so young and he so poor. Now, isn't it a _dread_ful+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: she eats+and drinks and sleeps, like a sensible creature: she looks straight in+my face when I talk about that man, and only blushes a little bit when+Teddy jokes about lovers. 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 was perfectly open+and honorable about Meg, for he told us he loved her, but would earn a+comfortable home before he asked her to marry him. He only wanted our+leave to love her and work for her, and the right to make her love him+if he could. He is a truly excellent young man, and we could not refuse+to listen to him; but I will not consent to Meg's engaging herself so+young."++"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."++This odd arrangement made Mrs. March smile; but she said gravely, "Jo, I+confide in you, and don't wish you to say anything to Meg yet. When John+comes back, and I see them together, I can judge better of her feelings+toward him."++"She'll see his in 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 any one looks sentimentally at her. She read+the short reports he sent more than she did your letters, and pinched me+when I spoke of it, and likes brown eyes, and doesn't think John an ugly+name, and she'll go and fall in love, and there's an end of peace and+fun, and cosy times together. 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; Brooke will scratch up a fortune somehow, carry her off,+and make a hole in the family; and I shall break my heart, and+everything will be abominably uncomfortable. 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. Let's send him about his+business, and not tell Meg a word of it, but all be happy together as we+always have been."++"I did wrong to sigh, Jo. It is natural and right you should all go to+homes of your own, in time; but I do want to keep my girls as long as I+can; and I am sorry that this happened so soon, for Meg is only+seventeen, and it will be some years before John can make a home for+her. 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."++"Hadn't you rather have her marry a rich man?" asked Jo, as her mother's+voice faltered a little over the last words.++"Money is a good and useful thing, Jo; and I hope my girls will never+feel the need of it too bitterly, nor be tempted by too much. I should+like to know that John was firmly established in some good business,+which gave him an income large enough to keep free from debt and make+Meg comfortable. I'm not ambitious for a splendid fortune, a fashionable+position, or a great name for my girls. If rank and money come with+love and virtue, also, I should accept them gratefully, and enjoy your+good fortune; but I know, by experience, how much genuine happiness can+be had in a plain little house, where the daily bread is earned, and+some privations give sweetness to the few pleasures. I am content to see+Meg begin humbly, for, if I am not mistaken, she will be rich in the+possession of a good man's heart, and that is better than a fortune."++"I understand, mother, and quite agree; but I'm disappointed about Meg,+for I'd planned to have her marry Teddy by and by, and sit in the lap of+luxury all her days. 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,--++"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 spoilt."++"I'm afraid Laurie is hardly grown up enough for Meg, and altogether too+much of a weathercock, just now, for any one to depend on. Don't make+plans, Jo; but let time and their own hearts mate your friends. We can't+meddle safely in such matters, and had better not get 'romantic+rubbish,' as you call it, into our heads, lest it spoil our friendship."++"Well, I won't; but I hate to see things going all criss-cross and+getting snarled up, when a pull here and a snip there would straighten+it out. I wish wearing flat-irons 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 flat-irons 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.++"Yes; he has been like a son to us, and we are very fond of him,"+replied Mrs. March, returning the look with a keen one.++"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 quiet answer.++The kiss her mother gave her was a very tender one; and, as she went+away, Mrs. March said, with a mixture of satisfaction and regret, "She+does not love John yet, but will soon learn to."++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Letters]++ XXI.++ LAURIE MAKES MISCHIEF, AND JO MAKES PEACE.+++Jo's face was a study next day, for the secret rather weighed upon her,+and she found it hard not to look mysterious and important. Meg observed+it, but did not trouble herself to make inquiries, for she had learned+that the best way to manage Jo was by the law of contraries, so she felt+sure of being told everything if she did not ask. She was rather+surprised, therefore, when the silence remained unbroken, and Jo assumed+a patronizing air, which decidedly aggravated Meg, who in her turn+assumed an air of dignified reserve, and devoted herself to her mother.+This left Jo to her own devices; for Mrs. March had taken her place as+nurse, and bade her rest, exercise, and amuse herself after her long+confinement. Amy being gone, Laurie was her only refuge; and, much as+she enjoyed his society, she rather dreaded him just then, for he was an+incorrigible tease, and she feared he would coax her secret from her.++She was quite right, for the mischief-loving lad no sooner suspected a+mystery than he set himself to find it out, and led Jo a trying life of+it. He wheedled, bribed, ridiculed, threatened, and scolded; affected+indifference, that he might surprise the truth from her; declared he+knew, then that he didn't care; and, at last, by dint of perseverance,+he satisfied himself that it concerned Meg and Mr. Brooke. Feeling+indignant that he was not taken into his tutor's confidence, he set his+wits to work to devise some proper retaliation for the slight.++Meg meanwhile had apparently forgotten the matter, and was absorbed in+preparations for her father's return; but all of a sudden a change+seemed to come over her, and, for a day or two, she was quite unlike+herself. She started when spoken to, blushed when looked at, was very+quiet, and sat over her sewing, with a timid, troubled look on her face.+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. I caught her singing that song he gave her,+and once she said 'John,' as you do, and then turned as red as a poppy.+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.++Mrs. March and Jo were deep in their own affairs, when a sound from Meg+made them look up to see her staring at her note, with a frightened+face.++"My child, what is it?" cried her mother, running to her, while Jo tried+to take the paper which had done the mischief.++"It's all a mistake--he didn't send it. O Jo, how could you do it?" and+Meg hid her face in her hands, crying as if her heart was quite broken.++"Me! I've done nothing! What's she talking about?" cried Jo, bewildered.++Meg's mild eyes kindled with anger as she pulled a crumpled note from+her pocket, and threw it at Jo, saying reproachfully,--++"You wrote it, and that bad boy helped you. 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.++ [Illustration: Jo and her mother were reading the note]++ "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,--++"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! I never saw that note before, and don't+know anything about it, as true as I live!" said Jo, so earnestly that+they believed her. "If I _had_ taken a 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.++"O 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 manage this, for it is worse than I thought. Margaret,+tell me the whole story," commanded Mrs. March, sitting down by Meg, yet+keeping hold of Jo, lest she should fly off.++"I received the first letter from Laurie, who didn't look as if he knew+anything about it," began Meg, without looking up. "I was worried at+first, and meant to tell you; then I remembered how you liked Mr.+Brooke, so I thought you wouldn't mind if I kept my little secret for a+few days. I'm so silly that I liked to think no one knew; and, while I+was deciding what to say, I felt like the girls in books, who have such+things to do. 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 only said I was too young to do anything about it yet; that I didn't+wish to have secrets from you, and he must speak to father. I was very+grateful for his kindness, and would be his friend, but nothing more,+for a long while."++Mrs. March smiled, as if well pleased, and Jo clapped her hands,+exclaiming, with a laugh,--++"You are almost equal to Caroline Percy, who was a pattern of prudence!+Tell on, Meg. What did he say to that?"++"He writes in a different way entirely, telling me that he never sent+any love-letter at all, and is very sorry that my roguish sister, Jo,+should take such liberties with our names. 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. All of a sudden she+stopped, caught up the two notes, and, after looking at them closely,+said decidedly, "I don't believe Brooke ever saw either of these+letters. 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? Do you love him enough to wait till he+can make a home for you, or will you keep yourself quite free for the+present?"++"I've been so scared and worried, I don't want to have anything to do+with lovers for a long while,--perhaps never," answered Meg petulantly.+"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!"++Seeing that Meg's usually gentle temper was roused and her pride hurt by+this mischievous joke, Mrs. March soothed her by promises of entire+silence, and great discretion for the future. The instant Laurie's step+was heard in the hall, Meg fled into the study, and Mrs. March received+the culprit alone. Jo had not told him why he was wanted, fearing he+wouldn't come; but he knew the minute he saw Mrs. March's face, and+stood twirling his hat, with a guilty air which convicted him at once.+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.++When they were called in, Laurie was standing by their mother, with such+a penitent face that Jo forgave him on the spot, but did not think it+wise to betray the fact. Meg received his humble apology, and was much+comforted by the assurance that Brooke knew nothing of the joke.++"I'll never tell him to my dying day,--wild horses sha'n't drag it out+of me; so you'll forgive me, Meg, and I'll do anything to show how+out-and-out sorry I am," he added, looking very much ashamed of himself.++"I'll try; but it was a very ungentlemanly thing to do. I didn't think+you could be so sly and malicious, Laurie," replied Meg, trying to hide+her maidenly confusion under a gravely reproachful air.++"It was altogether abominable, and I don't deserve to be spoken to for a+month; but you will, though, won't you?" and Laurie folded his hands+together with such an imploring gesture, as he spoke in his irresistibly+persuasive tone, that it was impossible to frown upon him, in spite of+his scandalous behavior. Meg pardoned him, and Mrs. March's grave face+relaxed, in spite of her efforts to keep sober, when she heard him+declare that he would atone for his sins by all sorts of penances, and+abase himself like a worm before the injured damsel.++Jo stood aloof, meanwhile, trying to harden her heart against him, and+succeeding only in primming up her face into an expression of entire+disapprobation. Laurie looked at her once or twice, but, as she showed+no sign of relenting, he felt injured, and turned his back on her till+the others were done with him, when he made her a low bow, and walked+off without a word.++As soon as he had gone, she wished she had been more forgiving; and when+Meg and her mother went upstairs, she felt lonely, and longed for Teddy.+After resisting for some time, she yielded to the impulse, and, armed+with a book to return, went over to the big house.++"Is Mr. Laurence in?" asked Jo, of a housemaid, who was coming down+stairs.++"Yes, miss; but I don't believe he's seeable just yet."++"Why not? is he ill?"++"La, no, miss, but he's had a scene with Mr. Laurie, who is in one of+his tantrums about something, which vexes the old gentleman, so I+dursn't go nigh him."++"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. Seeing that he really+_was_ out of temper, Jo, who knew how to manage him, assumed a contrite+expression, and going artistically down upon her knees, said meekly,+"Please forgive me for being so cross. 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.++ [Illustration: Get up and don't be a goose]++"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 any one else I'd have--" 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 any one would care to try it, if you looked as much like+a thunder-cloud 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 got angry, and 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 every+one, just for a bit of a frolic. I _was_ sorry about Meg, and begged+pardon like a man; but I won't do it again, when I wasn't in the wrong."++"He didn't know that."++"He ought to trust me, and not act as if I was a baby. It's no use, Jo;+he's got to learn that I'm able to take care of myself, and don't need+any one's apron-string to hold on by."++"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, any way. 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! I wish I could run off too," said Jo, forgetting+her part of Mentor in lively visions of martial life at the capital.++"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 be 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. She was tired of care and confinement, longed for+change, and thoughts of her father blended temptingly with the novel+charms of camps and hospitals, liberty and fun. Her eyes kindled as they+turned wistfully toward the window, but they fell on the old house+opposite, and she shook her head with sorrowful decision.++"If I was a boy, we'd run away together, and have a capital time; but as+I'm a miserable girl, I must be proper, and stop at home. Don't tempt+me, Teddy, it's a crazy plan."++"That's the fun of it," began Laurie, who had got a wilful fit on him,+and was possessed to break out of bounds in some way.++"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 about things that make me skip to think of."++ [Illustration: "Hold your tongue!" cried Jo, covering her ears]++"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.++"Yes, but you won't do it," answered Laurie, who wished "to make up,"+but felt that his outraged dignity must be appeased first.++"If I can manage the young one I can the old one," muttered Jo, as she+walked away, leaving Laurie bent over a railroad map, with his head+propped up on both hands.++"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. I like old Sam so well, I think I'll try the second+volume," returned Jo, hoping to propitiate him by accepting a second+dose of Boswell's "Johnson," as he had recommended that lively work.++The shaggy eyebrows unbent a little, as he rolled the steps toward the+shelf where the Johnsonian literature was placed. Jo skipped up, and,+sitting on the top step, affected to be searching for her book, but was+really wondering how best to introduce the dangerous object of her+visit. Mr. Laurence seemed to suspect that something was brewing in her+mind; for, after taking several brisk turns about the room, he faced+round on her, speaking so abruptly that "Rasselas" tumbled face downward+on the floor.++"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. I can't get a+word from him; and when I threatened to shake the truth out of him he+bolted upstairs, and locked himself into his room."++"He did do wrong, but we forgave him, and all promised not to say a word+to any one," began Jo reluctantly.++"That won't do; he shall not shelter himself behind a promise from you+soft-hearted 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."++Mr. Laurence looked so alarming and spoke so sharply that Jo would have+gladly run away, if she could, but she was perched aloft on the steps,+and he stood at the foot, a lion in the path, so she had to stay and+brave it out.++ [Illustration: He stood at the foot, like a lion in the path]++"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 some one 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."++The threat sounded awful, but did not alarm Jo, for she knew the+irascible old gentleman would never lift a finger against his grandson,+whatever he might say to the contrary. She obediently descended, and+made as light of the prank as she could without betraying Meg or+forgetting the truth.++"Hum--ha--well, if the boy held his tongue because he promised, and not+from obstinacy, I'll forgive him. He's a stubborn fellow, and hard to+manage," said Mr. Laurence, rubbing up his hair till it looked as if he+had been out in a gale, and smoothing the frown from his brow with an+air of relief.++"So am I; but a kind word will govern me when all the king's horses and+all the king's men couldn't," said Jo, trying to say a kind word for her+friend, who seemed to get out of one scrape only to fall into another.++"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. To her great relief+and surprise, the old gentleman only threw his spectacles on to the+table with a rattle, and exclaimed frankly,--++"You're right, girl, I am! I love the boy, but he tries my patience past+bearing, and I don't know how it will end, if we go on so."++"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 forbearing with the lad.++Mr. Laurence's ruddy face changed suddenly, and he sat down, with a+troubled glance at the picture of a handsome man, which hung over his+table. 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. I often think I should like+to, especially since my hair was cut; so, if you ever miss us, you may+advertise for two boys, and look among the ships bound for India."++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. "Go and bring that boy down to his dinner, tell him it's+all right, and advise him not to put on tragedy airs with his+grandfather. 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."++Mr. Laurence gave her a sharp look, and put on his spectacles, saying+slowly, "You're a sly puss, but I don't mind being managed by you and+Beth. 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. Jo dropped a kiss on the top of+Mr. Laurence's bald head, and ran up to slip the apology under Laurie's+door, advising him, through the key-hole, to be submissive, decorous,+and a few other agreeable impossibilities. Finding the door locked+again, she left the note to do its work, and was going quietly away,+when the young gentleman slid down the banisters, and waited for her at+the bottom, saying, with his most virtuous expression of countenance,+"What a good fellow you are, Jo! 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 in that way; turn over a new leaf and begin again, Teddy, my+son."++"I keep turning over new leaves, and spoiling them, as I used to spoil+my copy-books; and I make so many beginnings there never will be an+end," he said dolefully.++"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.++"That's a 'label' on my 'sect,'" answered Laurie, quoting Amy, as he+went to partake of humble-pie dutifully with his grandfather, who was+quite saintly in temper and overwhelmingly respectful in manner all the+rest of the day.++Every one thought the matter ended and the little cloud blown over; but+the mischief was done, for, though others forgot it, Meg remembered. She+never alluded to a certain person, but she thought of him a good deal,+dreamed dreams more than ever; and once Jo, rummaging her sister's desk+for stamps, found a bit of paper scribbled over with the words, "Mrs.+John Brooke;" whereat she groaned tragically, and cast it into the fire,+feeling that Laurie's prank had hastened the evil day for her.+++++ [Illustration: Beth was soon able to lie on the study sofa all day]++ XXII.++ PLEASANT MEADOWS.+++Like sunshine after storm were the peaceful weeks which followed. The+invalids improved rapidly, and Mr. March began to talk of returning+early in the new year. Beth was soon able to lie on the study sofa all+day, amusing herself with the well-beloved cats, at first, and, in time,+with doll's sewing, which had fallen sadly behindhand. Her once active+limbs were so stiff and feeble that Jo took her a daily airing about the+house in her strong arms. Meg cheerfully blackened and burnt her white+hands cooking delicate messes for "the dear;" while Amy, a loyal slave+of the ring, celebrated her return by giving away as many of her+treasures as she could prevail on her sisters to accept.++As Christmas approached, the usual mysteries began to haunt the house,+and Jo frequently convulsed the family by proposing utterly impossible+or magnificently absurd ceremonies, in honor of this unusually merry+Christmas. Laurie was equally impracticable, and would have had+bonfires, sky-rockets, and triumphal arches, if he had had his own way.+After many skirmishes and snubbings, the ambitious pair were considered+effectually quenched, and went about with forlorn faces, which were+rather belied by explosions of laughter when the two got together.++Several days of unusually mild weather fitly ushered in a splendid+Christmas Day. Hannah "felt in her bones" that it was going to be an+unusually fine day, and she proved herself a true prophetess, for+everybody and everything seemed bound to produce a grand success. To+begin with, Mr. March wrote that he should soon be with them; then Beth+felt uncommonly well that morning, and, being dressed in her mother's+gift,--a soft crimson merino wrapper,--was borne in triumph to the+window to behold the offering of Jo and Laurie. The Unquenchables had+done their best to be worthy of the name, for, like elves, they had+worked by night, and conjured up a comical surprise. Out in the garden+stood a stately snow-maiden, crowned with holly, bearing a basket of+fruit and flowers in one hand, a great roll of new music in the other, a+perfect rainbow of an Afghan round her chilly shoulders, and a Christmas+carol issuing from her lips, on a pink paper streamer:--++ "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. 2,+ Who labored with great industry+ To make it fair and true.++ "Accept a ribbon red, I beg,+ For Madam Purrer's tail;+ And ice-cream made by lovely Peg,--+ A Mont Blanc in a pail.++ "Their dearest love my makers laid+ Within my breast of snow:+ Accept it, and the Alpine maid,+ From Laurie and from Jo."++ [Illustration: The Jungfrau]++How Beth laughed when she saw it, how Laurie ran up and down to bring in+the gifts, and what ridiculous speeches Jo made as she presented them!++"I'm so full of happiness, that, if father was only here, I couldn't+hold one drop more," said Beth, quite sighing with contentment as Jo+carried her off to the study to rest after the excitement, and to+refresh herself with some of the delicious grapes the "Jungfrau" had+sent her.++"So am I," added Jo, slapping the pocket wherein reposed the+long-desired Undine and Sintram.++"I'm sure I am," echoed Amy, poring over the engraved copy of the+Madonna and Child, which her mother had given her, in a pretty frame.++"Of course I am!" cried Meg, smoothing the silvery folds of her first+silk dress; for Mr. Laurence had insisted on giving it.++"How can _I_ be otherwise?" said Mrs. March gratefully, as her eyes went+from her husband's letter to Beth's smiling face, and her hand caressed+the brooch made of gray and golden, chestnut and dark brown hair, which+the girls had just fastened on her breast.++Now and then, in this work-a-day world, things do happen in the+delightful story-book fashion, and what a comfort that is. Half an hour+after every one 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. He might just as well have turned a somersault and+uttered an Indian war-whoop; for his face was so full of suppressed+excitement and his voice so treacherously joyful, that every one jumped+up, though he only said, in a queer, breathless voice, "Here's another+Christmas present for the March family."++Before the words were well out of his mouth, he was whisked away+somehow, and in his place appeared a tall man, muffled up to the eyes,+leaning on the arm of another tall man, who tried to say something and+couldn't. Of course there was a general stampede; and for several+minutes everybody seemed to lose their wits, for the strangest things+were done, and no one said a word. 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; and Amy, the dignified, tumbled over a stool, and, never+stopping to get up, hugged and cried over her father's boots in the most+touching manner. Mrs. March was the first to recover herself, and held+up her hand with a warning, "Hush! remember Beth!"++But it was too late; the study door flew open, the little red wrapper+appeared on the threshold,--joy put strength into the feeble limbs,--and+Beth ran straight into her father's arms. Never mind what happened just+after that; for the full hearts overflowed, washing away the bitterness+of the past, and leaving only the sweetness of the present.++It was not at all romantic, but a hearty laugh set everybody straight+again, for Hannah was discovered behind the door, sobbing over the fat+turkey, which she had forgotten to put down when she rushed up from the+kitchen. As the laugh subsided, Mrs. March began to thank Mr. Brooke for+his faithful care of her husband, at which Mr. Brooke suddenly+remembered that Mr. March needed rest, and, seizing Laurie, he+precipitately retired. Then the two invalids were ordered to repose,+which they did, by both sitting in one big chair, and talking hard.++Mr. March told how he had longed to surprise them, and how, when the+fine weather came, he had been allowed by his doctor to take advantage+of it; how devoted Brooke had been, and how he was altogether a most+estimable and upright young man. Why Mr. March paused a minute just+there, and, after a glance at Meg, who was violently poking the fire,+looked at his wife with an inquiring lift of the eyebrows, I leave you+to imagine; also why Mrs. March gently nodded her head, and asked,+rather abruptly, if he wouldn't have something to eat. Jo saw and+understood the look; and she stalked grimly away to get wine and+beef-tea, muttering to herself, as she slammed the door, "I hate+estimable young men with brown eyes!"++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; so was the plum-pudding, which quite melted in one's+mouth; likewise the jellies, in which Amy revelled like a fly in a+honey-pot. Everything turned out well, which was a mercy, Hannah said,+"For my mind was that flustered, mum, that it's a merrycle I didn't+roast the pudding, and stuff the turkey with raisins, let alone bilin'+of it in a cloth."++Mr. Laurence and his grandson dined with them, also Mr. Brooke,--at whom+Jo glowered darkly, to Laurie's infinite amusement. Two easy-chairs+stood side by side at the head of the table, in which sat Beth and her+father, feasting modestly on chicken and a little fruit. They drank+healths, told stories, sung songs, "reminisced," as the old folks say,+and had a thoroughly good time. A sleigh-ride had been planned, but the+girls would not leave their father; so the guests departed early, and,+as twilight gathered, the happy family sat together round the fire.++"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.++"Rather a pleasant year on the whole!" said Meg, smiling at the fire,+and congratulating herself on having treated Mr. Brooke with dignity.++"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. But you have got on bravely; and I think the+burdens are in a fair way to tumble off very soon," said Mr. March,+looking with fatherly satisfaction at the four young faces gathered+round him.++"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 to-day."++"Oh, tell us what they are!" cried Meg, who sat beside him.++"Here is one;" and taking up the hand which lay on the arm of his chair,+he pointed to the roughened forefinger, a burn on the back, and two or+three little hard spots on the palm. "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 these seeming+blemishes I read a little history. A burnt-offering has been made of+vanity; this hardened palm has earned something better than blisters;+and I'm sure the sewing done by these pricked fingers will last a long+time, so much good-will went into the stitches. 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."++If Meg had wanted a reward for hours of patient labor, she received it+in the hearty pressure of her father's hand and the approving smile he+gave her.++"What about Jo? Please say something nice; for she has tried so hard,+and been so very, very good to me," said Beth, in her father's ear.++He laughed, and looked across at the tall girl who sat opposite, with an+unusually mild expression in her brown face.++"In spite of the curly crop, I don't see the 'son Jo' whom I left a year+ago," said Mr. March. "I see a young lady who pins her collar straight,+laces her boots neatly, and neither whistles, talks slang, nor lies on+the rug as she used to do. Her face is rather thin and pale, just now,+with watching and anxiety; but I like to look at it, for it has grown+gentler, and her voice is lower; she doesn't bounce, but moves quietly,+and takes care of a certain little person in a motherly way which+delights me. I rather miss my wild girl; but if I get a strong, helpful,+tender-hearted woman in her place, I shall feel quite satisfied. I don't+know whether the shearing sobered our black sheep, but I do know that in+all Washington I couldn't find anything beautiful enough to be bought+with the five-and-twenty dollars which my good girl sent me."++Jo's keen eyes were rather dim for a minute, and her thin face grew rosy+in the firelight, as she received her father's praise, feeling that she+did deserve a portion of it.++"Now Beth," said Amy, longing for her turn, but ready to wait.++"There's so little of her, I'm afraid to say much, for fear she will+slip away altogether, though she is not so shy as she used to be," began+their father cheerfully; but recollecting how nearly he _had_ lost her,+he held her close, saying tenderly, with her cheek against his own,+"I've got you safe, my Beth, and I'll keep you so, please God."++After a minute's silence, he looked down at Amy, who sat on the cricket+at his feet, and said, with a caress of the shining hair,--++"I observed that Amy took drumsticks at dinner, ran errands for her+mother all the afternoon, gave Meg her place to-night, and has waited+on every one with patience and good-humor. I also observe that she does+not fret much nor look in the glass, and has not even mentioned a very+pretty ring which she wears; so I conclude that she has learned to think+of other people more and of herself less, and has decided to try and+mould her character as carefully as she moulds her little clay figures.+I am glad of this; for though I should be very proud of a graceful+statue made by her, I shall be infinitely prouder of a lovable daughter,+with a talent for making life beautiful to herself and others."++"What are you thinking of, Beth?" asked Jo, when Amy had thanked her+father and told about her ring.++"I read in 'Pilgrim's Progress' to-day, how, after many troubles,+Christian and Hopeful came to a pleasant green meadow, where lilies+bloomed all the year round, and there they rested happily, as we do now,+before they went on to their journey's end," answered Beth; adding, as+she slipped out of her father's arms, and went slowly to the instrument,+"It's singing time now, and I want to be in my old place. 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."++So, sitting at the dear little piano, Beth softly touched the keys, and,+in the sweet voice they had never thought to hear again, sung to her own+accompaniment the quaint hymn, which was a singularly fitting song for+her:--++ "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!"+++++ XXIII.++ AUNT MARCH SETTLES THE QUESTION.+++ [Illustration: Popping in her head now and then]++Like bees swarming after their queen, mother and daughters hovered about+Mr. March the next day, neglecting everything to look at, wait upon, and+listen to the new invalid, who was in a fair way to be killed by+kindness. As he sat propped up in a big chair by Beth's sofa, with the+other three close by, and Hannah popping in her head now and then, "to+peek at the dear man," nothing seemed needed to complete their+happiness. 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. Jo had sudden+fits of sobriety, and was seen to shake her fist at Mr. Brooke's+umbrella, which had been left in the hall; Meg was absent-minded, shy,+and silent, started when the bell rang, and colored when John's name was+mentioned; Amy said "Every one seemed waiting for something, and+couldn't settle down, which was queer, since father was safe at home,"+and Beth innocently wondered why their neighbors didn't run over as+usual.++ [Illustration: "He sat in the big chair by Beth's sofa with the other+ three close by."--Page 277.]++Laurie went by in the afternoon, and, seeing Meg at the window, seemed+suddenly possessed with a melodramatic fit, for he fell down upon one+knee in the snow, beat his breast, tore his hair, and clasped his hands+imploringly, as if begging some boon; and when Meg told him to behave+himself and go away, he wrung imaginary tears out of his handkerchief,+and staggered round the corner as if in utter despair.++"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.++"Don't say _my John_, it isn't proper or true;" but Meg's voice lingered+over the words as if they sounded pleasant to her. "Please don't plague+me, Jo; I've told you I don't care _much_ about him, and there isn't to+be anything said, but we are all to be friendly, and go on as before."++"We can't, for something _has_ been said, and Laurie's mischief has+spoilt 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 hate to wait; so if you mean ever to do it, make haste and+have it over quickly," said Jo pettishly.++"_I_ can't say or do anything till he speaks, and he won't, because+father said I was too young," began Meg, bending over her work, with a+queer little smile, which suggested that she did not quite agree with+her father on that point.++"If he did speak, you wouldn't know what to say, but would cry or blush,+or let him have his own way, instead of giving a good, decided, No."++"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."++Jo couldn't help smiling at the important air which Meg had+unconsciously assumed, and which was as becoming as the pretty color+varying in her cheeks.++"Would you mind telling me what you'd say?" asked Jo more respectfully.++"Not at all; you are sixteen now, quite old enough to be my confidant,+and my experience will be useful to you by and by, perhaps, in your own+affairs of this sort."++"Don't mean to have any; it's fun to watch other people philander, but I+should feel like a fool doing it myself," said Jo, looking alarmed at+the thought.++"I think not, if you liked any one 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.++"Oh, I should merely say, quite calmly and decidedly, 'Thank you, Mr.+Brooke, you are very kind, but I agree with father that I am too young+to enter into any engagement at present; so please say no more, but let+us be friends as we were.'"++"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."++Meg rose as she spoke, and was just going to rehearse the dignified+exit, when a step in the hall made her fly into her seat, and begin to+sew as if her life depended on finishing that particular seam in a given+time. Jo smothered a laugh at the sudden change, and, when some one gave+a modest tap, opened the door with a grim aspect, which was anything but+hospitable.++"Good afternoon. I came to get my umbrella,--that is, to see how your+father finds himself to-day," said Mr. Brooke, getting a trifle confused+as his eye went from one tell-tale face to the other.++"It's very well, he's in the rack, I'll get him, and tell it you are+here," and having jumbled her father and the umbrella well together in+her reply, Jo slipped out of the room to give Meg a chance to make her+speech and air her dignity. But the instant she vanished, Meg began to+sidle towards the door, murmuring,--++"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. She+blushed up to the little curls on her forehead, for he had never called+her Margaret before, and she was surprised to find how natural and sweet+it seemed to hear him say it. Anxious to appear friendly and at her+ease, she put out her hand with a confiding gesture, and said+gratefully,--++"How can I be afraid when you have been so kind to father? I only wish I+could thank you for it."++ [Illustration: Shall I tell you how?]++"Shall I tell you how?" asked Mr. Brooke, holding the small hand fast in+both his own, and looking down at Meg with so much love in the brown+eyes, that her heart began to flutter, and she both longed to run away+and to stop and listen.++"Oh no, please don't--I'd rather not," she said, trying to withdraw her+hand, and looking frightened in spite of her denial.++"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;+she forgot every word of it, hung her head, and answered, "I don't+know," so softly, that John had to stoop down to catch the foolish+little reply.++He seemed to think it was worth the trouble, for he smiled to himself as+if quite satisfied, pressed the plump hand gratefully, and said, in his+most persuasive tone, "Will you try and find out? I want to know _so_+much; for I can't go to work with any heart until I learn whether I am+to have my reward in the end or not."++"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. I love to teach, and this is easier than+German," broke in John, getting possession of the other hand, so that+she had no way of hiding her face, as he bent to look into it.++His tone was properly beseeching; but, stealing a shy look at him, Meg+saw that his eyes were merry as well as tender, and that he wore the+satisfied smile of one who had no doubt of his success. This nettled+her; Annie Moffat's foolish lessons in coquetry came into her mind, and+the love of power, which sleeps in the bosoms of the best of little+women, woke up all of a sudden and took possession of her. She felt+excited and strange, and, not knowing what else to do, followed a+capricious impulse, and, withdrawing her hands, said petulantly, "I+_don't_ choose. Please go away and let me be!"++Poor Mr. Brooke looked as if his lovely castle in the air was tumbling+about his ears, for he had never seen Meg in such a mood before, and it+rather bewildered him.++"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 was grave and pale now, and looked decidedly more like the novel+heroes whom she admired; but he neither slapped his forehead nor tramped+about the room, as they did; he just stood looking at her so wistfully,+so tenderly, that she found her heart relenting in spite of her. What+would have happened next I cannot say, if Aunt March had not come+hobbling in at this interesting minute.++The old lady couldn't resist her longing to see her nephew; for she had+met Laurie as she took her airing, and, hearing of Mr. March's arrival,+drove straight out to see him. The family were all busy in the back part+of the house, and she had made her way quietly in, hoping to surprise+them. She did surprise two of them so much that Meg started as if she+had seen a ghost, and Mr. Brooke vanished into the study.++"Bless me, what's all this?" cried the old lady, with a rap of her cane,+as she glanced from the pale young gentleman to the scarlet young lady.++ [Illustration: Bless me, what's all this?]++"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 merely 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. Sha'n'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. If Aunt March had begged Meg to accept John Brooke, she would+probably have declared she couldn't think of it; but as she was+peremptorily ordered _not_ to like him, she immediately made up her mind+that she would. Inclination as well as perversity made the decision+easy, and, being already much excited, Meg opposed the old lady with+unusual spirit.++"I shall marry whom I please, Aunt March, and you can leave your money+to any one you like," she said, nodding her head with a resolute air.++"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. Meg hardly knew herself, she felt so+brave and independent,--so glad to defend John, and assert her right to+love him, if she liked. Aunt March saw that she had begun wrong, and,+after a little pause, made a fresh start, saying, as mildly as she+could, "Now, Meg, my dear, be reasonable, and take my advice. 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 two 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. So you intend to marry a man without money, position,+or business, and go on working harder than you do now, when you might be+comfortable all your days by minding me and doing better? I thought you+had more sense, Meg."++"I couldn't do better if I waited half my life! John is good and wise;+he's got heaps of talent; he's willing to work, and sure to get on, he's+so energetic and brave. Every one likes and respects him, and I'm proud+to think he cares for me, though I'm so poor and young and silly," said+Meg, looking prettier than ever in her earnestness.++"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? John is above such meanness,+and I won't listen to you a minute if you talk so," cried Meg+indignantly, forgetting everything but the injustice of the old lady's+suspicions. "My John wouldn't marry for money, anymore than I would. We+are willing to work, and we mean to wait. I'm not afraid of being poor,+for I've been happy so far, and I know I shall be with him, because he+loves me, and I--"++Meg stopped there, remembering all of a sudden that she hadn't made up+her mind; that she had told "her John" to go away, and that he might be+overhearing her inconsistent remarks.++Aunt March was very angry, for she had set her heart on having her+pretty niece make a fine match, and something in the girl's happy young+face made the lonely old woman feel both sad and sour.++"Well, I wash my hands of the whole affair! You are a wilful 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. Book'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. She seemed to take all the girl's courage with her; for, when+left alone, Meg stood a moment, undecided whether to laugh or cry.+Before she could make up her mind, she was taken possession of by Mr.+Brooke, who said, all in one breath, "I couldn't help hearing, Meg.+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?"++Here was another fine chance to make the crushing speech and the stately+exit, but Meg never thought of doing either, and disgraced herself+forever in Jo's eyes by meekly whispering, "Yes, John," and hiding her+face on Mr. Brooke's waistcoat.++Fifteen minutes after Aunt March's departure, Jo came softly down+stairs, paused an instant at the parlor door, and, hearing no sound+within, nodded and smiled, with a satisfied expression, saying to+herself, "She has sent him away as we planned, and that affair is+settled. I'll go and hear the fun, and have a good laugh over it."++But poor Jo never got her laugh, for she was transfixed upon the+threshold by a spectacle which held her there, staring with her mouth+nearly as wide open as her eyes. Going in to exult over a fallen enemy,+and to praise a strong-minded sister for the banishment of an+objectionable lover, it certainly _was_ a shock to behold the aforesaid+enemy serenely sitting on the sofa, with the strong-minded sister+enthroned upon his knee, and wearing an expression of the most abject+submission. Jo gave a sort of gasp, as if a cold shower-bath had+suddenly fallen upon her,--for such an unexpected turning of the tables+actually took her breath away. At the odd sound, the lovers turned and+saw her. Meg jumped up, looking both proud and shy; but "that man," as+Jo called him, actually laughed, and said coolly, as he kissed the+astonished new-comer, "Sister Jo, congratulate us!"++That was adding insult to injury,--it was altogether too much,--and,+making some wild demonstration with her hands, Jo vanished without a+word. Rushing upstairs, she startled the invalids by exclaiming+tragically, as she burst into the room, "Oh, _do_ somebody go down+quick; John Brooke is acting dreadfully, and Meg likes it!"++Mr. and Mrs. March left the room with speed; and, casting herself upon+the bed, Jo cried and scolded tempestuously as she told the awful news+to Beth and Amy. The little girls, however, considered it a most+agreeable and interesting event, and Jo got little comfort from them; so+she went up to her refuge in the garret, and confided her troubles to+the rats.++Nobody ever knew what went on in the parlor that afternoon; but a great+deal of talking was done, and quiet Mr. Brooke astonished his friends by+the eloquence and spirit with which he pleaded his suit, told his plans,+and persuaded them to arrange everything just as he wanted it.++The tea-bell rang before he had finished describing the paradise which+he meant to earn for Meg, and he proudly took her in to supper, both+looking so happy that Jo hadn't the heart to be jealous or dismal. Amy+was very much impressed by John's devotion and Meg's dignity. Beth+beamed at them from a distance, while Mr. and Mrs. March surveyed the+young couple with such tender satisfaction that it was perfectly evident+Aunt March was right in calling them as "unworldly as a pair of babies."+No one ate much, but every one looked very happy, and the old room+seemed to brighten up amazingly when the first romance of the family+began there.++"You can't say nothing pleasant ever happens now, can you, Meg?" said+Amy, trying to decide how she would group the lovers in the sketch she+was planning to take.++"No, I'm sure I can't. How much has happened since I said that! It seems+a year ago," answered Meg, who was in a blissful dream, lifted far above+such common things as bread and butter.++"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 an one, but it ends+well, after all."++"Hope the next will end better," muttered Jo, who found it very hard to+see Meg absorbed in a stranger before her face; for Jo loved a few+persons very dearly, and dreaded to have their affection lost or+lessened in any way.++"I hope the third year from this _will_ end better; I mean it shall, if+I live to work out my plans," said Mr. Brooke, smiling at Meg, as if+everything had become possible to him now.++"Doesn't it seem very long to wait?" asked Amy, who was in a hurry for+the wedding.++"I've got so much to learn before I shall be ready, it seems a short+time to me," answered Meg, with a sweet gravity in her face, never seen+there before.++"You have only to wait; _I_ am to do the work," said John, beginning his+labors by picking up Meg's napkin, with an expression which caused Jo to+shake her head, and then say to herself, with an air of relief, as the+front door banged, "Here comes Laurie. Now we shall have a little+sensible conversation."++But Jo was mistaken; for Laurie came prancing in, overflowing with+spirits, bearing a great bridal-looking bouquet for "Mrs. John Brooke,"+and evidently laboring under the delusion that the whole affair had been+brought about by his excellent management.++ [Illustration: For Mrs. John Brooke]++"I knew Brooke would have it all his own way, he always does; for when+he makes up his mind to accomplish anything, it's done, though the sky+falls," said Laurie, when he had presented his offering and his+congratulations.++"Much obliged for that recommendation. I take it as a good omen for the+future, and invite you to my wedding on the spot," answered Mr. Brooke,+who felt at peace with all mankind, even his mischievous pupil.++"I'll come if I'm at the ends of the earth; for the sight of Jo's face+alone, on that occasion, would be worth a long journey. You don't look+festive, ma'am; what's the matter?" asked Laurie, following her into a+corner of the parlor, whither all had adjourned to greet Mr. Laurence.++"I don't approve of the match, but I've made up my mind to bear it, and+shall not say a word against it," said Jo solemnly. "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 never can 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. Meg is happy; Brooke will fly round and get settled immediately;+grandpa will attend to him, and it will be very jolly to see Meg in her+own little house. We'll have capital times after she is gone, for I+shall be through college before long, and then we'll go abroad, or some+nice trip or other. 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.++"I think not, for I might see something sad; and every one looks so+happy now, I don't believe they could be much improved," 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 re-living the first chapter of+the romance which for them began some twenty years ago. Amy was drawing+the lovers, who sat apart in a beautiful world of their own, the light+of which touched their faces with a grace the little artist could not+copy. Beth lay on her sofa, talking cheerily with her old friend, who+held her little hand as if he felt that it possessed the power to lead+him along the peaceful way she walked. Jo lounged in her favorite low+seat, with the grave, quiet look which best became her; and Laurie,+leaning on the back of her chair, his chin on a level with her curly+head, smiled with his friendliest aspect, and nodded at her in the long+glass which reflected them both.++ * * * * *++So grouped, the curtain falls upon Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. Whether it+ever rises again, depends upon the reception given to the first act of+the domestic drama called "LITTLE WOMEN."+++++ [Illustration: Home of the Little Women]+++++ The Second Part+++++ [Illustration: The Dove Cote]++ XXIV.++ GOSSIP.+++In order that we may start afresh, and go to Meg's wedding with free+minds, it will be well to begin with a little gossip about the Marches.+And here let me premise, that if any of the elders think there is too+much "lovering" in the story, as I fear they may (I'm not afraid the+young folks will make that objection), I can only say with Mrs. March,+"What _can_ you expect when I have four gay girls in the house, and a+dashing young neighbor over the way?"++The three years that have passed have brought but few changes to the+quiet family. The war is over, and Mr. March safely at home, busy with+his books and the small parish which found in him a minister by nature+as by grace,--a quiet, studious man, rich in the wisdom that is better+than learning, the charity which calls all mankind "brother," the piety+that blossoms into character, making it august and lovely.++These attributes, in spite of poverty and the strict integrity which+shut him out from the more worldly successes, attracted to him many+admirable persons, as naturally as sweet herbs draw bees, and as+naturally he gave them the honey into which fifty years of hard+experience had distilled no bitter drop. Earnest young men found the+gray-headed scholar as young at heart as they; thoughtful or troubled+women instinctively brought their doubts and sorrows to him, sure of+finding the gentlest sympathy, the wisest counsel; sinners told their+sins to the pure-hearted old man, and were both rebuked and saved;+gifted men found a companion in him; ambitious men caught glimpses of+nobler ambitions than their own; and even worldlings confessed that his+beliefs were beautiful and true, although "they wouldn't pay."++To outsiders, the five energetic women seemed to rule the house, and so+they did in many things; but the quiet scholar, sitting among his books,+was still the head of the family, the household conscience, anchor, and+comforter; for to him the busy, anxious women always turned in troublous+times, finding him, in the truest sense of those sacred words, husband+and father.++The girls gave their hearts into their mother's keeping, their souls+into their father's; and to both parents, who lived and labored so+faithfully for them, they gave a love that grew with their growth, and+bound them tenderly together by the sweetest tie which blesses life and+outlives death.++Mrs. March is as brisk and cheery, though rather grayer, than when we+saw her last, and just now so absorbed in Meg's affairs that the+hospitals and homes, still full of wounded "boys" and soldiers' widows,+decidedly miss the motherly missionary's visits.++John Brooke did his duty manfully for a year, got wounded, was sent+home, and not allowed to return. He received no stars or bars, but he+deserved them, for he cheerfully risked all he had; and life and love+are very precious when both are in full bloom. Perfectly resigned to his+discharge, he devoted himself to getting well, preparing for business,+and earning a home for Meg. With the good sense and sturdy independence+that characterized him, he refused Mr. Laurence's more generous offers,+and accepted the place of book-keeper feeling better satisfied to begin+with an honestly-earned salary, than by running any risks with borrowed+money.++Meg had spent the time in working as well as waiting, growing womanly in+character, wise in housewifely arts, and prettier than ever; for love is+a great beautifier. She had her girlish ambitions and hopes, and felt+some disappointment at the humble way in which the new life must begin.+Ned Moffat had just married Sallie Gardiner, and Meg couldn't help+contrasting their fine house and carriage, many gifts, and splendid+outfit, with her own, and secretly wishing she could have the same. But+somehow envy and discontent soon vanished when she thought of all the+patient love and labor John had put into the little home awaiting her;+and when they sat together in the twilight, talking over their small+plans, the future always grew so beautiful and bright that she forgot+Sallie's splendor, and felt herself the richest, happiest girl in+Christendom.++Jo never went back to Aunt March, for the old lady took such a fancy to+Amy that she bribed her with the offer of drawing lessons from one of+the best teachers going; and for the sake of this advantage, Amy would+have served a far harder mistress. 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. Not an invalid exactly, but never again+the rosy, healthy creature she had been; yet always hopeful, happy, and+serene, busy with the quiet duties she loved, every one's friend, and an+angel in the house, long before those who loved her most had learned to+know it.++As long as "The Spread Eagle" paid her a dollar a column for her+"rubbish," as she called it, Jo felt herself a woman of means, and spun+her little romances diligently. But great plans fermented in her busy+brain and ambitious mind, and the old tin kitchen in the garret held a+slowly increasing pile of blotted manuscript, which was one day to place+the name of March upon the roll of fame.++Laurie, having dutifully gone to college to please his grandfather, was+now getting through it in the easiest possible manner to please+himself. A universal favorite, thanks to money, manners, much talent,+and the kindest heart that ever got its owner into scrapes by trying to+get other people out of them, he stood in great danger of being spoilt,+and probably would have been, like many another promising boy, if he had+not possessed a talisman against evil in the memory of the kind old man+who was bound up in his success, the motherly friend who watched over+him as if he were her son, and last, but not least by any means, the+knowledge that four innocent girls loved, admired, and believed in him+with all their hearts.++Being only "a glorious human boy," of course he frolicked and flirted,+grew dandified, aquatic, sentimental, or gymnastic, as college fashions+ordained; hazed and was hazed, talked slang, and more than once came+perilously near suspension and expulsion. But as high spirits and the+love of fun were the causes of these pranks, he always managed to save+himself by frank confession, honorable atonement, or the irresistible+power of persuasion which he possessed in perfection. In fact, he rather+prided himself on his narrow escapes, and liked to thrill the girls with+graphic accounts of his triumphs over wrathful tutors, dignified+professors, and vanquished enemies. The "men of my class" were heroes in+the eyes of the girls, who never wearied of the exploits of "our+fellows," and were frequently allowed to bask in the smiles of these+great creatures, when Laurie brought them home with him.++Amy especially enjoyed this high honor, and became quite a belle among+them; for her ladyship early felt and learned to use the gift of+fascination with which she was endowed. Meg was too much absorbed in her+private and particular John to care for any other lords of creation, and+Beth too shy to do more than peep at them, and wonder how Amy dared to+order them about so; but Jo felt quite in her element, and found it very+difficult to refrain from imitating the gentlemanly attitudes, phrases,+and feats, which seemed more natural to her than the decorums prescribed+for young ladies. They all liked Jo immensely, but never fell in love+with her, though very few escaped without paying the tribute of a+sentimental sigh or two at Amy's shrine. And speaking of sentiment+brings us very naturally to the "Dove-cote."++That was the name of the little brown house which Mr. Brooke had+prepared for Meg's first home. Laurie had christened it, saying it was+highly appropriate to the gentle lovers, who "went on together like a+pair of turtle-doves, with first a bill and then a coo." It was a tiny+house, with a little garden behind, and a lawn about as big as a+pocket-handkerchief in front. Here Meg meant to have a fountain,+shrubbery, and a profusion of lovely flowers; though just at present,+the fountain was represented by a weather-beaten urn, very like a+dilapidated slop-bowl; the shrubbery consisted of several young larches,+undecided whether to live or die; and the profusion of flowers was+merely hinted by regiments of sticks, to show where seeds were planted.+But inside, it was altogether charming, and the happy bride saw no fault+from garret to cellar. To be sure, the hall was so narrow, it was+fortunate that they had no piano, for one never could have been got in+whole; the dining-room was so small that six people were a tight fit;+and the kitchen stairs seemed built for the express purpose of+precipitating both servants and china pell-mell into the coal-bin. But+once get used to these slight blemishes, and nothing could be more+complete, for good sense and good taste had presided over the+furnishing, and the result was highly satisfactory. There were no+marble-topped tables, long mirrors, or lace curtains in the little+parlor, but simple furniture, plenty of books, a fine picture or two, a+stand of flowers in the bay-window, and, scattered all about, the pretty+gifts which came from friendly hands, and were the fairer for the loving+messages they brought.++I don't think the Parian Psyche Laurie gave lost any of its beauty+because John put up the bracket it stood upon; that any upholsterer+could have draped the plain muslin curtains more gracefully than Amy's+artistic hand; or that any store-room was ever better provided with good+wishes, merry words, and happy hopes, than that in which Jo and her+mother put away Meg's few boxes, barrels, and bundles; and I am morally+certain that the spandy-new kitchen never _could_ have looked so cosey+and neat if Hannah had not arranged every pot and pan a dozen times+over, and laid the fire all ready for lighting, the minute "Mis. Brooke+came home." I also doubt if any young matron ever began life with so+rich a supply of dusters, holders, and piece-bags; for Beth made enough+to last till the silver wedding came round, and invented three+different kinds of dishcloths for the express service of the bridal+china.++People who hire all these things done for them never know what they+lose; for the homeliest tasks get beautified if loving hands do them,+and Meg found so many proofs of this, that everything in her small nest,+from the kitchen roller to the silver vase on her parlor table, was+eloquent of home love and tender forethought.++What happy times they had planning together, what solemn shopping+excursions; what funny mistakes they made, and what shouts of laughter+arose over Laurie's ridiculous bargains. In his love of jokes, this+young gentleman, though nearly through college, was as 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. Now a+bag of remarkable clothes-pins; next, a wonderful nutmeg-grater, which+fell to pieces at the first trial; a knife-cleaner that spoilt all the+knives; or a sweeper that picked the nap neatly off the carpet, and left+the dirt; labor-saving soap that took the skin off one's hands;+infallible cements which stuck firmly to nothing but the fingers of the+deluded buyer; and every kind of tin-ware, from a toy savings-bank for+odd pennies, to a wonderful boiler which would wash articles in its own+steam, with every prospect of exploding in the process.++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.++Everything was done at last, even to Amy's arranging different colored+soaps to match the different colored rooms, and Beth's setting the table+for the first meal.++"Are you satisfied? Does it seem like home, and do you feel as if you+should be happy here?" asked Mrs. March, as she and her daughter went+through the new kingdom, arm-in-arm; for just then they seemed to cling+together more tenderly than ever.++"Yes, mother, perfectly satisfied, thanks to you all, and _so_ happy+that I can't talk about it," answered Meg, with a look that was better+than words.++"If she only had a servant or two it would be all right," said Amy,+coming out of the parlor, where she had been trying to decide whether+the bronze Mercury looked best on the whatnot or the mantle-piece.++"Mother and I have talked that over, and I have made up my mind to try+her way first. There will be so little to do, that, with Lotty to run my+errands and help me here and there, I shall only have enough work to+keep me from getting lazy or homesick," answered Meg tranquilly.++"Sallie Moffat has four," began Amy.++"If Meg had four the house wouldn't hold them, and master and missis+would have to camp in the garden," broke in Jo, who, enveloped in a big+blue pinafore, was giving the last polish to the door-handles.++"Sallie isn't a poor man's wife, and many maids are in keeping with her+fine establishment. Meg and John begin humbly, but I have a feeling that+there will be quite as much happiness in the little house as in the big+one. It's a great mistake for young girls like Meg to leave themselves+nothing to do but dress, give orders, and gossip. When I was first+married, I used to long for my new clothes to wear out or get torn, so+that I might have the pleasure of mending them; for I got heartily sick+of doing fancy work and tending my pocket handkerchief."++"Why didn't you go into the kitchen and make messes, as Sallie says she+does, to amuse herself, though they never turn out well, and the+servants laugh at her," said Meg.++"I did, after a while; not to 'mess,' but to learn of Hannah how things+should be done, that my servants need _not_ laugh at me. It was play+then; but there came a time when I was truly grateful that I not only+possessed the will but the power to cook wholesome food for my little+girls, and help myself when I could no longer afford to hire help. You+begin at the other end, Meg, dear; but the lessons you learn now will be+of use to you by and by, when John is a richer man, for the mistress of+a house, however splendid, should know how work ought to be done, if she+wishes to be well and honestly served."++"Yes, mother, I'm sure of that," said Meg, listening respectfully to the+little lecture; for the best of women will hold forth upon the+all-absorbing subject of housekeeping. "Do you know I like this room+most of all in my baby-house," added Meg, a minute after, as they went+upstairs, and she looked into her well-stored linen-closet.++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. You see, having said that if Meg married "that+Brooke" she shouldn't have a cent of her money, Aunt March was rather in+a quandary, when time had appeased her wrath and made her repent her+vow. She never broke her word, and was much exercised in her mind how to+get round it, and at last devised a plan whereby she could satisfy+herself. Mrs. Carrol, Florence's mamma, was ordered to buy, have made,+and marked, a generous supply of house and table linen, and send it as+_her_ present, all of which was faithfully done; but the secret leaked+out, and was greatly enjoyed by the family; for Aunt March tried to look+utterly unconscious, and insisted that she could give nothing but the+old-fashioned pearls, long promised to the first bride.++"That's a housewifely taste which I am glad to see. I had a young friend+who set up housekeeping with six sheets, but she had finger bowls for+company, and that satisfied her," said Mrs. March, patting the damask+table-cloths, with a truly feminine appreciation of their fineness.++"I haven't a single finger-bowl, but this is a 'set out' that will last+me all my days, Hannah says;" and Meg looked quite contented, as well+she might.++"Toodles is coming," cried Jo from below; and they all went down to meet+Laurie, whose weekly visit was an important event in their quiet lives.++A tall, broad-shouldered young fellow, with a cropped head, a felt-basin+of a hat, and a fly-away coat, came tramping down the road at a great+pace, walked over the low fence without stopping to open the gate,+straight up to Mrs. March, with both hands out, and a hearty--++"Here I am, mother! Yes, it's all right."++The last words were in answer to the look the elder lady gave him; a+kindly questioning look, which the handsome eyes met so frankly that the+little ceremony closed, as usual, with a motherly kiss.++"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."++As Laurie spoke, he delivered a brown paper parcel to Meg, pulled Beth's+hair-ribbon, stared at Jo's big pinafore, and fell into an attitude of+mock rapture before Amy, then shook hands all round, and every one began+to talk.++"Where is John?" asked Meg anxiously.++"Stopped to get the license for to-morrow, ma'am."++"Which side won the last match, Teddy?" inquired Jo, who persisted in+feeling an interest in manly sports, despite her nineteen years.++"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.++"It's a useful thing to have in the house in case of fire or thieves,"+observed Laurie, as a watchman's rattle appeared, amid the laughter of+the girls.++ [Illustration: A small watchman's rattle]++"Any time when John is away, and you get frightened, Mrs. Meg, just+swing that out of the front window, and it will rouse the neighborhood+in a jiffy. 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 saw it going into your house as I came by, and if she+hadn't defended it manfully I'd have had a pick at it, for it looked+like a remarkably plummy one."++"I wonder if you will ever grow up, Laurie," said Meg, in a matronly+tone.++"I'm doing my best, ma'am, but can't get much higher, I'm afraid, as six+feet is about all men can do in these degenerate days," responded the+young gentleman, whose head was about level with the little chandelier.+"I suppose it would be profanation to eat anything in this spick and+span new bower, so, as I'm tremendously hungry, I propose an+adjournment," he added presently.++"Mother and I are going to wait for John. There are some last things to+settle," said Meg, bustling away.++"Beth and I are going over to Kitty Bryant's to get more flowers for+to-morrow," added Amy, tying a picturesque hat over her picturesque+curls, and enjoying the effect as much as anybody.++"Come, Jo, don't desert a fellow. I'm in such a state of exhaustion I+can't get home without help. Don't take off your apron, whatever you do;+it's peculiarly becoming," said Laurie, as Jo bestowed his especial+aversion in her capacious pocket, and offered him her arm to support his+feeble steps.++"Now, Teddy, I want to talk seriously to you about to-morrow," 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 a+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.++"Now, Jo, do you think I'd look your mother in the face, and say 'All+right,' if it wasn't?" and Laurie stopped short, with an injured air.++"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 any one. 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 mole-hill. You wouldn't have me let+that fine fellow work himself to death, just for the want of a little+help, when he is worth a dozen of us lazy chaps, would you?"++"Of course not; but I don't see the use of your having seventeen+waistcoats, endless neckties, and a new hat every time you come home. I+thought you'd got over the dandy period; but every now and then it+breaks out in a new spot. Just now it's the fashion to be hideous,--to+make your head look like a scrubbing-brush, wear a strait-jacket,+orange gloves, and clumping, square-toed boots. If it was cheap+ugliness, I'd say nothing; but it costs as much as the other, and I+don't get any satisfaction out of it."++Laurie threw back his head, and laughed so heartily at this attack, that+the felt-basin fell off, and Jo walked on it, which insult only afforded+him an opportunity for expatiating on the advantages of a+rough-and-ready costume, as he folded up the maltreated hat, and stuffed+it into his pocket.++"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, to-morrow, and be a satisfaction to my friends."++"I'll leave you in peace if you'll _only_ let your hair grow. I'm not+aristocratic, but I do object to being seen with a person who looks like+a young prize-fighter," observed Jo severely.++"This unassuming style promotes study; that's why we adopt it," returned+Laurie, who certainly could not be accused of vanity, having voluntarily+sacrificed a handsome curly crop to the demand for+quarter-of-an-inch-long stubble.++"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. He'd better nip his little passion in the bud,+hadn't he?" added Laurie, in a confidential, elder-brotherly tone, after+a minute's silence.++"Of course he had; we don't want any more marrying in this family for+years to come. Mercy on us, what _are_ the children thinking of?" and Jo+looked as much scandalized as if Amy and little Parker were not yet in+their teens.++"It's a fast age, and I don't know what we are coming to, ma'am. You are+a mere infant, but you'll go next, Jo, and we'll be left lamenting,"+said Laurie, shaking his head over the degeneracy of the times.++"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."++"You won't give any one a chance," said Laurie, with a sidelong glance,+and a little more color than before in his sunburnt face. "You won't+show the soft side of your character; and if a fellow gets a peep at it+by accident, and can't help showing that he likes it, you treat him as+Mrs. Gummidge did her sweetheart,--throw cold water over him,--and get+so thorny no one dares touch or look at you."++"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. I don't wish to get+cross, so let's change the subject;" and Jo looked quite ready to fling+cold water on the slightest provocation.++Whatever his feelings might have been, Laurie found a vent for them in a+long low whistle, and the fearful prediction, as they parted at the+gate, "Mark my words, Jo, you'll go next."++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: The First Wedding]++ XXV.++ THE FIRST WEDDING.+++The June roses over the porch were awake bright and early on that+morning, rejoicing with all their hearts in the cloudless sunshine, like+friendly little neighbors, as they were. Quite flushed with excitement+were their ruddy faces, as they swung in the wind, whispering to one+another what they had seen; for some peeped in at the dining-room+windows, where the feast was spread, some climbed up to nod and smile at+the sisters as they dressed the bride, others waved a welcome to those+who came and went on various errands in garden, porch, and hall, and+all, from the rosiest full-blown flower to the palest baby-bud, offered+their tribute of beauty and fragrance to the gentle mistress who had+loved and tended them so long.++Meg looked very like a rose herself; for all that was best and sweetest+in heart and soul seemed to bloom into her face that day, making it fair+and tender, with a charm more beautiful than beauty. Neither silk, lace,+nor orange-flowers would she have. "I don't want to look strange or+fixed up to-day," she said. "I don't want a fashionable wedding, but+only those about me whom I love, and to them I wish to look and be my+familiar self."++So she made her wedding gown herself, sewing into it the tender hopes+and innocent romances of a girlish heart. Her sisters braided up her+pretty hair, and the only ornaments she wore were the lilies of the+valley, which "her John" liked best of all the flowers that grew.++"You _do_ look just like our own dear Meg, only so very sweet and lovely+that I should hug you if it wouldn't crumple your dress," cried Amy,+surveying her with delight, when all was done.++"Then I am satisfied. But please hug and kiss me, every one, and don't+mind my dress; I want a great many crumples of this sort put into it+to-day;" and Meg opened her arms to her sisters, who clung about her+with April faces for a minute, feeling that the new love had not changed+the old.++"Now I'm going to tie John's cravat for him, and then to stay a few+minutes with father quietly in the study;" and Meg ran down to perform+these little ceremonies, and then to follow her mother wherever she+went, conscious that, in spite of the smiles on the motherly face, there+was a secret sorrow hid in the motherly heart at the flight of the first+bird from the nest.++As the younger girls stand together, giving the last touches to their+simple toilet, it may be a good time to tell of a few changes which+three years have wrought in their appearance; for all are looking their+best just now.++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. There is a+fresh color in her brown cheeks, a soft shine in her eyes, and only+gentle words fall from her sharp tongue to-day.++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. It is the shadow of pain which touches+the young face with such pathetic patience; but Beth seldom complains,+and always speaks hopefully of "being better soon."++Amy is with truth considered "the flower of the family;" for at sixteen+she has the air and bearing of a full-grown woman--not beautiful, but+possessed of that indescribable charm called grace. One saw it in the+lines of her figure, the make and motion of her hands, the flow of her+dress, the droop of her hair,--unconscious, yet harmonious, and as+attractive to many as beauty itself. Amy's nose still afflicted her, for+it never _would_ grow Grecian; so did her mouth, being too wide, and+having a decided chin. These offending features gave character to her+whole face, but she never could see it, and consoled herself with her+wonderfully fair complexion, keen blue eyes, and curls, more golden and+abundant than ever.++All three wore suits of thin silver gray (their best gowns for the+summer), with blush-roses in hair and bosom; and all three looked just+what they were,--fresh-faced, happy-hearted girls, pausing a moment in+their busy lives to read with wistful eyes the sweetest chapter in the+romance of womanhood.++There were to be no ceremonious performances, everything was to be as+natural and homelike as possible; so when Aunt March arrived, she was+scandalized to see the bride come running to welcome and lead her in, to+find the bridegroom fastening up a garland that had fallen down, and to+catch a glimpse of the paternal minister marching upstairs with a grave+countenance, and a wine-bottle under each arm.++"Upon my word, here's a state of things!" cried the old lady, taking the+seat of honor prepared for her, and settling the folds of her lavender+_moire_ with a great rustle. "You oughtn't to be seen till the last+minute, child."++"I'm not a show, aunty, and no one is coming to stare at me, to+criticise my dress, or count the cost of my luncheon. I'm too happy to+care what any one 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.++Mr. Brooke didn't even say "Thank you," but as he stooped for the+unromantic tool, he kissed his little bride behind the folding-door,+with a look that made Aunt March whisk out her pocket-handkerchief, with+a sudden dew in her sharp old eyes.++A crash, a cry, and a laugh from Laurie, accompanied by the indecorous+exclamation, "Jupiter Ammon! Jo's upset the cake again!" caused a+momentary flurry, which was hardly over when a flock of cousins arrived,+and "the party came in," as Beth used to say when a child.++"Don't let that young giant come near me; he worries me worse than+mosquitoes," whispered the old lady to Amy, as the rooms filled, and+Laurie's black head towered above the rest.++"He has promised to be very good to-day, and he _can_ be perfectly+elegant if he likes," returned Amy, gliding away to warn Hercules to+beware of the dragon, which warning caused him to haunt the old lady+with a devotion that nearly distracted her.++There was no bridal procession, but a sudden silence fell upon the room+as Mr. March and the young pair took their places under the green arch.+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; but Meg looked straight up in her+husband's eyes, and said, "I will!" with such tender trust in her own+face and voice that her mother's heart rejoiced, and Aunt March sniffed+audibly.++Jo did _not_ cry, though she was very near it once, and was only saved+from a demonstration by the consciousness that Laurie was staring+fixedly at her, with a comical mixture of merriment and emotion in his+wicked black eyes. Beth kept her face hidden on her mother's shoulder,+but Amy stood like a graceful statue, with a most becoming ray of+sunshine touching her white forehead and the flower in her hair.++It wasn't at all the thing, I'm afraid, but the minute she was fairly+married, Meg cried, "The first kiss for Marmee!" and, turning, gave it+with her heart on her lips. During the next fifteen minutes she looked+more like a rose than ever, for every one availed themselves of their+privileges to the fullest extent, from Mr. Laurence to old Hannah, who,+adorned with a head-dress fearfully and wonderfully made, fell upon her+in the hall, crying, with a sob and a chuckle, "Bless you, deary, a+hundred times! The cake ain't hurt a mite, and everything looks lovely."++Everybody cleared up after that, and said something brilliant, or tried+to, which did just as well, for laughter is ready when hearts are light.+There was no display of gifts, for they were already in the little+house, nor was there an elaborate breakfast, but a plentiful lunch of+cake and fruit, dressed with flowers. Mr. Laurence and Aunt March+shrugged and smiled at one another when water, lemonade, and coffee were+found to be the only sorts of nectar which the three Hebes carried+round. No one said anything, however, till Laurie, who insisted on+serving the bride, appeared before her, with a loaded salver in his hand+and a puzzled expression on his face.++"Has Jo smashed all the bottles by accident?" he whispered, "or am I+merely laboring under a delusion that I saw some lying about loose this+morning?"++"No; your grandfather kindly offered us his best, and Aunt March+actually sent some, but father put away a little for Beth, and+despatched the rest to the Soldiers' Home. You know he thinks that wine+should be used only in illness, and mother says that neither she nor her+daughters will ever offer it to any young man under her roof."++Meg spoke seriously, and expected to see Laurie frown or laugh; but he+did neither, for after a quick look at her, he said, in his impetuous+way, "I like that! 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. Being brought up where wine is as common+as water, and almost as harmless, I don't care for it; but when a pretty+girl offers it, one doesn't like to refuse, you see."++"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. Meg knew that if+he gave the promise he would keep it at all costs; and, feeling her+power, used it as a woman may for her friend's good. She did not speak,+but she looked up at him with a face made very eloquent by happiness,+and a smile which said, "No one can refuse me anything to-day." Laurie+certainly could not; and, with an answering smile, he gave her his hand,+saying heartily, "I promise, Mrs. Brooke!"++"I thank you, very, very much."++"And I drink 'long life to your resolution,' Teddy," cried Jo, baptizing+him with a splash of lemonade, as she waved her glass, and beamed+approvingly upon him.++So the toast was drunk, the pledge made, and loyally kept, in spite of+many temptations; for, with instinctive wisdom, the girls had seized a+happy moment to do their friend a service, for which he thanked them all+his life.++After lunch, people strolled about, by twos and threes, through house+and garden, enjoying the sunshine without and within. Meg and John+happened to be standing together in the middle of the grass-plot, when+Laurie was seized with an inspiration which put the finishing touch to+this unfashionable wedding.++"All the married people take hands and dance round the new-made husband+and wife, as the Germans do, while we bachelors and spinsters prance in+couples outside!" cried Laurie, promenading down the path with Amy, with+such infectious spirit and skill that every one else followed their+example without a murmur. Mr. and Mrs. March, Aunt and Uncle Carrol,+began it; others rapidly joined in; even Sallie Moffat, after a moment's+hesitation, threw her train over her arm, and whisked Ned into the ring.+But the crowning joke was Mr. Laurence and Aunt March; for when the+stately old gentleman _chasséed_ solemnly up to the old lady, she just+tucked her cane under her arm, and hopped briskly away to join hands+with the rest, and dance about the bridal pair, while the young folks+pervaded the garden, like butterflies on a midsummer day.++Want of breath brought the impromptu ball to a close, and then people+began to go.++"I wish you well, my dear, I heartily wish you well; but I think you'll+be sorry for it," said Aunt March to Meg, adding to the bridegroom, as+he led her to the carriage, "You've got a treasure, young man, see that+you deserve it."++"That is the prettiest wedding I've been to for an age, Ned, and I don't+see why, for there wasn't a bit of style about it," observed Mrs. Moffat+to her husband, as they drove away.++"Laurie, my lad, if you ever want to indulge in this sort of thing, get+one of those little girls to help you, and I shall be perfectly+satisfied," said Mr. Laurence, settling himself in his easy-chair to+rest, after the excitement of the morning.++"I'll do my best to gratify you, sir," was Laurie's unusually dutiful+reply, as he carefully unpinned the posy Jo had put in his button-hole.++The little house was not far away, and the only bridal journey Meg had+was the quiet walk with John, from the old home to the new. When she+came down, looking like a pretty Quakeress in her dove-colored suit and+straw bonnet tied with white, they all gathered about her to say+"good-by," as tenderly as if she had been going to make the grand tour.++"Don't feel that I am separated from you, Marmee dear, or that I love+you any the less for loving John so much," she said, clinging to her+mother, with full eyes, for a moment. "I shall come every day, father,+and expect to keep my old place in all your hearts, though I _am_+married. Beth is going to be with me a great deal, and the other girls+will drop in now and then to laugh at my housekeeping struggles. Thank+you all for my happy wedding-day. Good-by, good-by!"++They stood watching her, with faces full of love and hope and tender+pride, as she walked away, leaning on her husband's arm, with her hands+full of flowers, and the June sunshine brightening her happy face,--and+so Meg's married life began.+++++ [Illustration: Artistic Attempts]++ XXVI.++ 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.+For a long time there was a lull in the "mud-pie" business, and she+devoted herself to the finest pen-and-ink drawing, in which she showed+such taste and skill that her graceful handiwork proved both pleasant+and profitable. But overstrained eyes soon caused pen and ink to be laid+aside for a bold attempt at poker-sketching. While this attack lasted,+the family lived in constant fear of a conflagration; for the odor of+burning wood pervaded the house at all hours; smoke issued from attic+and shed with alarming frequency, red-hot pokers lay about+promiscuously, and Hannah never went to bed without a pail of water and+the dinner-bell at her door, in case of fire. Raphael's face was found+boldly executed on the under side 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+kindlings for some time.++From fire to oil was a natural transition for burnt fingers, and Amy+fell to painting with undiminished ardor. An artist friend fitted her+out with his cast-off palettes, brushes, and colors; and she daubed+away, producing pastoral and marine views such as were never seen on+land or sea. Her monstrosities in the way of cattle would have taken+prizes at an agricultural fair; and the perilous pitching of her vessels+would have produced sea-sickness in the most nautical observer, if the+utter disregard to all known rules of shipbuilding and rigging had not+convulsed him with laughter at the first glance. Swarthy boys and+dark-eyed Madonnas, staring at you from one corner of the studio,+suggested Murillo; oily-brown shadows of faces, with a lurid streak in+the wrong place, meant Rembrandt; buxom ladies and dropsical infants,+Rubens; and Turner appeared in tempests of blue thunder, orange+lightning, brown rain, and purple clouds, with a tomato-colored splash+in the middle, which might be the sun or a buoy, a sailor's shirt or a+king's robe, as the spectator pleased.++Charcoal portraits came next; and the entire family hung in a row,+looking as wild and crocky as if just evoked from a coal-bin. Softened+into crayon sketches, they did better; for the likenesses were good, and+Amy's hair, Jo's nose, Meg's mouth, and Laurie's eyes were pronounced+"wonderfully fine." A return to clay and plaster followed, and ghostly+casts of her acquaintances haunted corners of the house, or tumbled off+closet-shelves on to people's heads. Children were enticed in as models,+till their incoherent accounts of her mysterious doings caused Miss Amy+to be regarded in the light of a young ogress. Her efforts in this line,+however, were brought to an abrupt close by an untoward accident, which+quenched her ardor. Other models failing her for a time, she undertook+to cast her own pretty foot, and the family were one day alarmed by an+unearthly bumping and screaming, and running to the rescue, found the+young enthusiast hopping wildly about the shed, with her foot held fast+in a pan-full of plaster, which had hardened with unexpected rapidity.+With much difficulty and some danger she was dug out; for Jo was so+overcome with laughter while she excavated, that her knife went too far,+cut the poor foot, and left a lasting memorial of one artistic attempt,+at least.++ [Illustration: Her foot held fast in a panful of plaster]++After this Amy subsided, till a mania for sketching from nature set her+to haunting river, field, and wood, for picturesque studies, and sighing+for ruins to copy. She caught endless colds sitting on damp grass to+book "a delicious bit," composed of a stone, a stump, one mushroom, and+a broken mullein-stalk, or "a heavenly mass of clouds," that looked like+a choice display of feather-beds when done. She sacrificed her+complexion floating on the river in the midsummer sun, to study light+and shade, and got a wrinkle over her nose, trying after "points of+sight," or whatever the squint-and-string performance is called.++If "genius is eternal patience," as Michael Angelo affirms, Amy+certainly had some claim to the divine attribute, for she persevered in+spite of all obstacles, failures, and discouragements, firmly believing+that in time she should do something worthy to be called "high art."++She was learning, doing, and enjoying other things, meanwhile, for she+had resolved to be an attractive and accomplished woman, even if she+never became a great artist. Here she succeeded better; for she was one+of those happily created beings who please without effort, make friends+everywhere, and take life so gracefully and easily that less fortunate+souls are tempted to believe that such are born under a lucky star.+Everybody liked her, for among her good gifts was tact. She had an+instinctive sense of what was pleasing and proper, always said the right+thing to the right person, did just what suited the time and place, and+was so self-possessed that her sisters used to say, "If Amy went to+court without any rehearsal beforehand, she'd know exactly what to do."++One of her weaknesses was a desire to move in "our best society,"+without being quite sure what the _best_ really was. Money, position,+fashionable accomplishments, and elegant manners were most desirable+things in her eyes, and she liked to associate with those who possessed+them, often mistaking the false for the true, and admiring what was not+admirable. Never forgetting that by birth she was a gentlewoman, she+cultivated her aristocratic tastes and feelings, so that when the+opportunity came she might be ready to take the place from which poverty+now excluded her.++"My lady," as her friends called her, sincerely desired to be a genuine+lady, and was so at heart, but had yet to learn that money cannot buy+refinement of nature, that rank does not always confer nobility, and+that true breeding makes itself felt in spite of external drawbacks.++"I want to ask a favor of you, mamma," Amy said, coming in, with an+important air, one day.++"Well, little girl, what is it?" replied her mother, in whose eyes the+stately young lady still remained "the baby."++"Our drawing class breaks up next week, and before the girls separate+for the summer, I want to ask them out here for a day. They are wild to+see the river, sketch the broken bridge, and copy some of the things+they admire in my book. They have been very kind to me in many ways, and+I am grateful, for they are all rich, and know I am poor, yet they never+made any difference."++"Why should they?" and Mrs. March put the question with what the girls+called her "Maria Theresa air."++"You know as well as I that it _does_ make a difference with nearly+every one, so don't ruffle up, like a dear, motherly hen, when your+chickens get pecked by smarter birds; the ugly duckling turned out a+swan, you know;" and Amy smiled without bitterness, for she possessed a+happy temper and hopeful spirit.++Mrs. March laughed, and smoothed down her maternal pride as she asked,--++"Well, my swan, what is your plan?"++"I should like to ask the girls out to lunch next week, to take them a+drive to the places they want to see, a row on the river, perhaps, and+make a little artistic _fête_ for them."++"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. The girls are used to such things, and I want my+lunch to be proper and elegant, though I _do_ work for my living."++"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-à-banc_.)++"All this will be expensive, Amy."++"Not very; I've calculated the cost, and I'll pay for it myself."++"Don't you think, dear, that as these girls are used to such things, and+the best we can do will be nothing new, that some simpler plan would be+pleasanter to them, as a change, if nothing more, and much better for us+than buying or borrowing what we don't need, and attempting a style not+in keeping with our circumstances?"++"If I can't have it as I like, I don't care to have it at all. I know+that I can carry it out perfectly well, if you and the girls will help+a little; and I don't see why I can't if I'm willing to pay for it,"+said Amy, with the decision which opposition was apt to change into+obstinacy.++Mrs. March knew that experience was an excellent teacher, and when it+was possible she left her children to learn alone the lessons which she+would gladly have made easier, if they had not objected to taking advice+as much as they did salts and senna.++"Very well, Amy; if your heart is set upon it, and you see your way+through without too great an outlay of money, time, and temper, I'll say+no more. 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.++Meg agreed at once, and promised her aid, gladly offering anything she+possessed, from her little house itself to her very best salt-spoons.+But Jo frowned upon the whole project, and would have nothing to do with+it at first.++"Why in the world should you spend your money, worry your family, and+turn the house upside down for a parcel of girls who don't care a+sixpence for you? I thought you had too much pride and sense to truckle+to any mortal woman just because she wears French boots and rides in a+_coupé_," said Jo, who, being called from the tragical climax of her+novel, was not in the best mood for social enterprises.++"I _don't_ truckle, and I hate being patronized as much as you do!"+returned Amy indignantly, for the two still jangled when such questions+arose. "The girls do care for me, and I for them, and there's a great+deal of kindness and sense and talent among them, in spite of what you+call fashionable nonsense. 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."++When Amy whetted her tongue and freed her mind she usually got the best+of it, for she seldom failed to have common sense on her side, while Jo+carried her love of liberty and hate of conventionalities to such an+unlimited extent that she naturally found herself worsted in an+argument. Amy's definition of Jo's idea of independence was such a good+hit that both burst out laughing, and the discussion took a more amiable+turn. Much against her will, Jo at length consented to sacrifice a day+to Mrs. Grundy, and help her sister through what she regarded as "a+nonsensical business."++The invitations were sent, nearly all accepted, and the following Monday+was set apart for the grand event. Hannah was out of humor because her+week's work was deranged, and prophesied that "ef the washin' and+ironin' warn't done reg'lar nothin' would go well anywheres." This hitch+in the mainspring of the domestic machinery had a bad effect upon the+whole concern; but Amy's motto was "Nil desperandum," and having made up+her mind what to do, she proceeded to do it in spite of all obstacles.+To begin with, Hannah's cooking didn't turn out well: the chicken was+tough, the tongue too salt, and the chocolate wouldn't froth properly.+Then the cake and ice cost more than Amy expected, so did the wagon; and+various other expenses, which seemed trifling at the outset, counted up+rather alarmingly afterward. Beth got cold and took to her bed, Meg had+an unusual number of callers to keep her at home, and Jo was in such a+divided state of mind that her breakages, accidents, and mistakes were+uncommonly numerous, serious, and trying.++"If it hadn't been for mother I never should have got through," as Amy+declared afterward, and gratefully remembered when "the best joke of the+season" was entirely forgotten by everybody else.++If it was not fair on Monday, the young ladies were to come on+Tuesday,--an arrangement which aggravated Jo and Hannah to the last+degree. On Monday morning the weather was in that undecided state which+is more exasperating than a steady pour. It drizzled a little, shone a+little, blew a little, and didn't make up its mind till it was too late+for any one else to make up theirs. Amy was up at dawn, hustling people+out of their beds and through their breakfasts, that the house might be+got in order. The parlor struck her as looking uncommonly shabby; but+without stopping to sigh for what she had not, she skilfully made the+best of what she had, arranging chairs over the worn places in the+carpet, covering stains on the walls with pictures framed in ivy, and+filling up empty corners with home-made statuary, which gave an artistic+air to the room, as did the lovely vases of flowers Jo scattered about.++The lunch looked charmingly; and as she surveyed it, she sincerely hoped+it would taste well, and that the borrowed glass, china, and silver+would get safely home again. The carriages were promised, Meg and mother+were all ready to do the honors, Beth was able to help Hannah behind the+scenes, Jo had engaged to be as lively and amiable as an absent mind, an+aching head, and a very decided disapproval of everybody and everything+would allow, and, as she wearily dressed, Amy cheered herself with+anticipations of the happy moment, when, lunch safely over, she should+drive away with her friends for an afternoon of artistic delights; for+the "cherry-bounce" and the broken bridge were her strong points.++Then came two hours of suspense, during which she vibrated from parlor+to porch, while public opinion varied like the weathercock. A smart+shower at eleven had evidently quenched the enthusiasm of the young+ladies who were to arrive at twelve, for nobody came; and at two the+exhausted family sat down in a blaze of sunshine to consume the+perishable portions of the feast, that nothing might be lost.++"No doubt about the weather to-day; they will certainly come, so we must+fly round and be ready for them," said Amy, as the sun woke her next+morning. She spoke briskly, but in her secret soul she wished she had+said nothing about Tuesday, for her interest, like her cake, was getting+a little stale.++"I can't get any lobsters, so you will have to do without salad to-day,"+said Mr. March, coming in half an hour later, with an expression of+placid despair.++"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.++Shrouded in a thick veil and armed with a genteel travelling-basket, she+departed, feeling that a cool drive would soothe her ruffled spirit, and+fit her for the labors of the day. After some delay, the object of her+desire was procured, likewise a bottle of dressing, to prevent further+loss of time at home, and off she drove again, well pleased with her own+forethought.++As the omnibus contained only one other passenger, a sleepy old lady,+Amy pocketed her veil, and beguiled the tedium of the way by trying to+find out where all her money had gone to. So busy was she with her card+full of refractory figures that she did not observe a new-comer, who+entered without stopping the vehicle, till a masculine voice said,+"Good-morning, Miss March," and, looking up, she beheld one of Laurie's+most elegant college friends. Fervently hoping that he would get out+before she did, Amy utterly ignored the basket at her feet, and,+congratulating herself that she had on her new travelling dress,+returned the young man's greeting with her usual suavity and spirit.++They got on excellently; for Amy's chief care was soon set at rest by+learning that the gentleman would leave first, and she was chatting away+in a peculiarly lofty strain, when the old lady got out. In stumbling to+the door, she upset the basket, and--oh, horror!--the lobster, in all+its vulgar size and brilliancy, was revealed to the highborn eyes of a+Tudor.++"By Jove, she's forgotten her dinner!" cried the unconscious youth,+poking the scarlet monster into its place with his cane, and preparing+to hand out the basket after the old lady.++"Please don't--it's--it's mine," murmured Amy, with a face nearly as red+as her fish.++ [Illustration: Please don't, it's mine]++"Oh, really, I beg pardon; it's an uncommonly fine one, isn't it?" said+Tudor, with great presence of mind, and an air of sober interest that+did credit to his breeding.++Amy recovered herself in a breath, set her basket boldly on the seat,+and said, laughing,--++"Don't you wish you were to have some of the salad he's to make, and to+see the charming young ladies who are to eat it?"++Now that was tact, for two of the ruling foibles of the masculine mind+were touched: the lobster was instantly surrounded by a halo of pleasing+reminiscences, and curiosity about "the charming young ladies" diverted+his mind from the comical mishap.++"I suppose he'll laugh and joke over it with Laurie, but I sha'n't see+them; that's a comfort," thought Amy, as Tudor bowed and departed.++She did not mention this meeting at home (though she discovered that,+thanks to the upset, her new dress was much damaged by the rivulets of+dressing that meandered down the skirt), but went through with the+preparations which now seemed more irksome than before; and at twelve+o'clock all was ready again. Feeling that the neighbors were interested+in her movements, she wished to efface the memory of yesterday's+failure by a grand success to-day; so she ordered the "cherry-bounce,"+and drove away in state to meet and escort her guests to the banquet.++"There's the rumble, they're coming! I'll go into the porch to meet+them; it looks hospitable, and I want the poor child to have a good time+after all her trouble," said Mrs. March, suiting the action to the word.+But after one glance, she retired, with an indescribable expression,+for, looking quite lost in the big carriage, sat Amy and one young lady.++"Run, Beth, and help Hannah clear half the things off the table; it will+be too absurd to put a luncheon for twelve before a single girl," cried+Jo, hurrying away to the lower regions, too excited to stop even for a+laugh.++In came Amy, quite calm, and delightfully cordial to the one guest who+had kept her promise; the rest of the family, being of a dramatic turn,+played their parts equally well, and Miss Eliott found them a most+hilarious set; for it was impossible to entirely control the merriment+which possessed them. The remodelled lunch being gayly partaken of, the+studio and garden visited, and art discussed with enthusiasm, Amy+ordered a buggy (alas for the elegant cherry-bounce!) and drove her+friend quietly about the neighborhood till sunset, when "the party went+out."++As she came walking in, looking very tired, but as composed as ever, she+observed that every vestige of the unfortunate _fête_ had disappeared,+except a suspicious pucker about the corners of Jo's mouth.++"You've had a lovely afternoon for your drive, dear," said her mother,+as respectfully as if the whole twelve had come.++"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; I'm the only one here who likes sweet things, and it will+mould before I can dispose of it," answered Amy, thinking with a sigh of+the generous store she had laid in for such an end as this.++"It's a pity Laurie isn't here to help us," began Jo, as they sat down+to ice-cream and salad for the second time in two days.++A warning look from her mother checked any further remarks, and the+whole family ate in heroic silence, till Mr. March mildly observed,+"Salad was one of the favorite dishes of the ancients, and Evelyn"--here+a general explosion of laughter cut short the "history of sallets," to+the great surprise of the learned gentleman.++"Bundle everything into a basket and send it to the Hummels: Germans+like messes. I'm sick of the sight of this; and there's no reason you+should all die of a surfeit because I've been a fool," cried Amy, wiping+her eyes.++"I thought I _should_ have died when I saw you two girls rattling about+in the what-you-call-it, like two little kernels in a very big nutshell,+and mother waiting in state to receive the throng," sighed Jo, quite+spent with laughter.++"I'm very sorry you were disappointed, dear, but we all did our best to+satisfy you," said Mrs. March, in a tone full of motherly regret.++"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. "I thank you all very much for helping me, and I'll+thank you still more if you won't allude to it for a month, at least."++No one did for several months; but the word "_fête_" always produced a+general smile, and Laurie's birthday gift to Amy was a tiny coral+lobster in the shape of a charm for her watch-guard.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Literary Lessons]++ XXVII.++ LITERARY LESSONS.+++Fortune suddenly smiled upon Jo, and dropped a good-luck penny in her+path. Not a golden penny, exactly, but I doubt if half a million would+have given more real happiness than did the little sum that came to her+in this wise.++Every few weeks she would shut herself up in her room, put on her+scribbling suit, and "fall into a vortex," as she expressed it, writing+away at her novel with all her heart and soul, for till that was+finished she could find no peace. Her "scribbling suit" consisted of a+black woollen pinafore on which she could wipe her pen at will, and a+cap of the same material, adorned with a cheerful red bow, into which+she bundled her hair when the decks were cleared for action. This cap+was a beacon to the inquiring eyes of her family, who during these+periods kept their distance, merely popping in their heads+semi-occasionally, to ask, with interest, "Does genius burn, Jo?" They+did not always venture even to ask this question, but took an+observation of the cap, and judged accordingly. If this expressive+article of dress was drawn low upon the forehead, it was a sign that+hard work was going on; in exciting moments it was pushed rakishly+askew; and when despair seized the author it was plucked wholly off, and+cast upon the floor. At such times the intruder silently withdrew; and+not until the red bow was seen gayly erect upon the gifted brow, did any+one dare address Jo.++She did not think herself a genius by any means; but when the writing+fit came on, she gave herself up to it with entire abandon, and led a+blissful life, unconscious of want, care, or bad weather, while she sat+safe and happy in an imaginary world, full of friends almost as real and+dear to her as any in the flesh. Sleep forsook her eyes, meals stood+untasted, day and night were all too short to enjoy the happiness which+blessed her only at such times, and made these hours worth living, even+if they bore no other fruit. The divine afflatus usually lasted a week+or two, and then she emerged from her "vortex," hungry, sleepy, cross,+or despondent.++She was just recovering from one of these attacks when she was prevailed+upon to escort Miss Crocker to a lecture, and in return for her virtue+was rewarded with a new idea. It was a People's Course, the lecture on+the Pyramids, and Jo rather wondered at the choice of such a subject for+such an audience, but took it for granted that some great social evil+would be remedied or some great want supplied by unfolding the glories+of the Pharaohs to an audience whose thoughts were busy with the price+of coal and flour, and whose lives were spent in trying to solve harder+riddles than that of the Sphinx.++They were early; and while Miss Crocker set the heel of her stocking, Jo+amused herself by examining the faces of the people who occupied the+seat with them. On her left were two matrons, with massive foreheads,+and bonnets to match, discussing Woman's Rights and making tatting.+Beyond sat a pair of humble lovers, artlessly holding each other by the+hand, a sombre spinster eating peppermints out of a paper bag, and an+old gentleman taking his preparatory nap behind a yellow bandanna. On+her right, her only neighbor was a studious-looking lad absorbed in a+newspaper.++It was a pictorial sheet, and Jo examined the work of art nearest her,+idly wondering what unfortuitous concatenation of circumstances needed+the melodramatic illustration of an Indian in full war costume, tumbling+over a precipice with a wolf at his throat, while two infuriated young+gentlemen, with unnaturally small feet and big eyes, were stabbing each+other close by, and a dishevelled female was flying away in the+background with her mouth wide open. Pausing to turn a page, the lad saw+her looking, and, with boyish good-nature, offered half his paper,+saying bluntly, "Want to read it? That's a first-rate story."++Jo accepted it with a smile, for she had never outgrown her liking for+lads, and soon found herself involved in the usual labyrinth of love,+mystery, and murder, for the story belonged to that class of light+literature in which the passions have a holiday, and when the author's+invention fails, a grand catastrophe clears the stage of one half the+_dramatis personæ_, leaving the other half to exult over their downfall.++"Prime, isn't it?" asked the boy, as her eye went down the last+paragraph of her portion.++"I think you and I could do as well as that if we tried," returned Jo,+amused at his admiration of the trash.++"I should think I was a pretty lucky chap if I could. She makes a good+living out of such stories, they say;" and he pointed to the name of+Mrs. S. L. A. N. G. Northbury, under the title of the tale.++"Do you know her?" asked Jo, with sudden interest.++"No; but I read all her pieces, and I know a fellow who works in the+office where this paper is printed."++"Do you say she makes a good living out of stories like this?" and Jo+looked more respectfully at the agitated group and thickly-sprinkled+exclamation-points that adorned the page.++"Guess she does! She knows just what folks like, and gets paid well for+writing it."++Here the lecture began, but Jo heard very little of it, for while Prof.+Sands was prosing away about Belzoni, Cheops, scarabei, and+hieroglyphics, she was covertly taking down the address of the paper,+and boldly resolving to try for the hundred-dollar prize offered in its+columns for a sensational story. By the time the lecture ended and the+audience awoke, she had built up a splendid fortune for herself (not the+first founded upon paper), and was already deep in the concoction of her+story, being unable to decide whether the duel should come before the+elopement or after the murder.++She said nothing of her plan at home, but fell to work next day, much to+the disquiet of her mother, who always looked a little anxious when+"genius took to burning." Jo had never tried this style before,+contenting herself with very mild romances for the "Spread Eagle." Her+theatrical experience and miscellaneous reading were of service now, for+they gave her some idea of dramatic effect, and supplied plot, language,+and costumes. Her story was as full of desperation and despair as her+limited acquaintance with those uncomfortable emotions enabled her to+make it, and, having located it in Lisbon, she wound up with an+earthquake, as a striking and appropriate _dénouement_. The manuscript+was privately despatched, accompanied by a note, modestly saying that if+the tale didn't get the prize, which the writer hardly dared expect, she+would be very glad to receive any sum it might be considered worth.++Six weeks is a long time to wait, and a still longer time for a girl to+keep a secret; but Jo did both, and was just beginning to give up all+hope of ever seeing her manuscript again, when a letter arrived which+almost took her breath away; for on opening it, a check for a hundred+dollars fell into her lap. For a minute she stared at it as if it had+been a snake, then she read her letter and began to cry. If the amiable+gentleman who wrote that kindly note could have known what intense+happiness he was giving a fellow-creature, I think he would devote his+leisure hours, if he has any, to that amusement; for Jo valued the+letter more than the money, because it was encouraging; and after years+of effort it was _so_ pleasant to find that she had learned to do+something, though it was only to write a sensation story.++ [Illustration: A check for one hundred dollars]++A prouder young woman was seldom seen than she, when, having composed+herself, she electrified the family by appearing before them with the+letter in one hand, the check in the other, announcing that she had won+the prize. Of course there was a great jubilee, and when the story came+every one read and praised it; though after her father had told her that+the language was good, the romance fresh and hearty, and the tragedy+quite thrilling, he shook his head, and said in his unworldly way,--++"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.++"Oh, how splendid! No, I can't do it, dear, it would be so selfish,"+cried Beth, who had clapped her thin hands, and taken a long breath, as+if pining for fresh ocean-breezes; then stopped herself, and motioned+away the check which her sister waved before her.++"Ah, but you shall go, I've set my heart on it; that's what I tried for,+and that's why I succeeded. I never get on when I think of myself alone,+so it will help me to work for you, don't you see? Besides, Marmee needs+the change, and she won't leave you, so you _must_ go. Won't it be fun+to see you come home plump and rosy again? Hurrah for Dr. Jo, who always+cures her patients!"++To the sea side they went, after much discussion; and though Beth didn't+come home as plump and rosy as could be desired, she was much better,+while Mrs. March declared she felt ten years younger; so Jo was+satisfied with the investment of her prize money, and fell to work with+a cheery spirit, bent on earning more of those delightful checks. She+did earn several that year, and began to feel herself a power in the+house; for by the magic of a pen, her "rubbish" turned into comforts for+them all. "The Duke's Daughter" paid the butcher's bill, "A Phantom+Hand" put down a new carpet, and the "Curse of the Coventrys" proved the+blessing of the Marches in the way of groceries and gowns.++Wealth is certainly a most desirable thing, but poverty has its sunny+side, and one of the sweet uses of adversity is the genuine satisfaction+which comes from hearty work of head or hand; and to the inspiration of+necessity, we owe half the wise, beautiful, and useful blessings of the+world. Jo enjoyed a taste of this satisfaction, and ceased to envy+richer girls, taking great comfort in the knowledge that she could+supply her own wants, and need ask no one for a penny.++Little notice was taken of her stories, but they found a market; and,+encouraged by this fact, she resolved to make a bold stroke for fame and+fortune. Having copied her novel for the fourth time, read it to all her+confidential friends, and submitted it with fear and trembling to three+publishers, she at last disposed of it, on condition that she would cut+it down one third, and omit all the parts which she particularly+admired.++"Now I must either bundle it back into my tin-kitchen to mould, pay for+printing it myself, or chop it up to suit purchasers, and get what I can+for it. Fame is a very good thing to have in the house, but cash is more+convenient; so I wish to take the sense of the meeting on this important+subject," said Jo, calling a family council.++"Don't spoil your book, my girl, for there is more in it than you know,+and the idea is well worked out. Let it wait and ripen," was her+father's advice; and he practised as he preached, having waited+patiently thirty years for fruit of his own to ripen, and being in no+haste to gather it, even now, when it was sweet and mellow.++"It seems to me that Jo will profit more by making the trial than by+waiting," said Mrs. March. "Criticism is the best test of such work, for+it will show her both unsuspected merits and faults, and help her to do+better next time. 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. It will be a great help to have cool, impartial persons+take a look at it, and tell me what they think of it."++"I wouldn't leave out a word of it; you'll spoil it if you do, for the+interest of the story is more in the minds than in the actions of the+people, and it will be all a muddle if you don't explain as you go on,"+said Meg, who firmly believed that this book was the most remarkable+novel ever written.++"But Mr. Allen says, 'Leave out the explanations, make it brief and+dramatic, and let the characters tell the story,'" interrupted Jo,+turning to the publisher's note.++"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. By and by, when, you've+got a name, you can afford to digress, and have philosophical and+metaphysical people in your novels," said Amy, who took a strictly+practical view of the subject.++"Well," said Jo, laughing, "if my people _are_ 'philosophical and+metaphysical,' it isn't my fault, for I know nothing about such things,+except what I hear father say, sometimes. 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; but there was an unconscious emphasis on the last+word, and a wistful look in the eyes that never lost their childlike+candor, which chilled Jo's heart, for a minute, with a foreboding fear,+and decided her to make her little venture "soon."++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 every one, she took every one's advice; and, like the old man+and his donkey in the fable, suited nobody.++Her father liked the metaphysical streak which had unconsciously got+into it; so that was allowed to remain, though she had her doubts about+it. Her mother thought that there _was_ a trifle too much description;+out, therefore, it nearly all came, and with it many necessary links in+the story. Meg admired the tragedy; so Jo piled up the agony to suit+her, while Amy objected to the fun, and, with the best intentions in+life, Jo quenched the sprightly scenes which relieved the sombre+character of the story. Then, to complete the ruin, she cut it down one+third, and confidingly sent the poor little romance, like a picked+robin, out into the big, busy world, to try its fate.++Well, it was printed, and she got three hundred dollars for it; likewise+plenty of praise and blame, both so much greater than she expected that+she was thrown into a state of bewilderment, from which it took her some+time to recover.++"You said, mother, that criticism would help me; but how can it, when+it's so contradictory that I don't know whether I've written a promising+book or broken all the ten commandments?" cried poor Jo, turning over a+heap of notices, the perusal of which filled her with pride and joy one+minute, wrath and dire dismay the next. "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.' Now, as I had no theory of any kind, don't+believe in Spiritualism, and copied my characters from life, I don't see+how this critic _can_ be right. Another says, 'It's one of the best+American novels which has appeared for years' (I know better than that);+and the next asserts that 'though it is original, and written with great+force and feeling, it is a dangerous book.' 'Tisn't! Some make fun of+it, some over-praise, and nearly all insist that I had a deep theory to+expound, when I only wrote it for the pleasure and the money. I wish I'd+printed it 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. But it did her good, for those+whose opinion had real value gave her the criticism which is an author's+best education; and when the first soreness was over, she could laugh at+her poor little book, yet believe in it still, and feel herself the+wiser and stronger for the buffeting she had received.++"Not being a genius, like Keats, it won't kill me," she said stoutly;+"and I've got the joke on my side, after all; for the parts that were+taken straight out of real life are denounced as impossible and absurd,+and the scenes that I made up out of my own silly head are pronounced+'charmingly natural, tender, and true.' So I'll comfort myself with+that; and when I'm ready, I'll up again and take another."++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Domestic Experiences]++ XXVIII.++ DOMESTIC EXPERIENCES.+++Like most other young matrons, Meg began her married life with the+determination to be a model housekeeper. John should find home a+paradise; he should always see a smiling face, should fare sumptuously+every day, and never know the loss of a button. She brought so much+love, energy, and cheerfulness to the work that she could not but+succeed, in spite of some obstacles. Her paradise was not a tranquil+one; for the little woman fussed, was over-anxious to please, and+bustled about like a true Martha, cumbered with many cares. She was too+tired, sometimes, even to smile; John grew dyspeptic after a course of+dainty dishes, and ungratefully demanded plain fare. As for buttons, she+soon learned to wonder where they went, to shake her head over the+carelessness of men, and to threaten to make him sew them on himself,+and then see if _his_ work would stand impatient tugs and clumsy fingers+any better than hers.++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; nor did Meg miss any+of the romance from the daily parting, when her husband followed up his+kiss with the tender inquiry, "Shall I send home veal or mutton for+dinner, darling?" The little house ceased to be a glorified bower, but+it became a home, and the young couple soon felt that it was a change+for the better. At first they played keep-house, and frolicked over it+like children; then John took steadily to business, feeling the cares of+the head of a family upon his shoulders; and Meg laid by her cambric+wrappers, put on a big apron, and fell to work, as before said, with+more energy than discretion.++While the cooking mania lasted she went through Mrs. Cornelius's Receipt+Book as if it were a mathematical exercise, working out the problems+with patience and care. Sometimes her family were invited in to help eat+up a too bounteous feast of successes, or Lotty would be privately+despatched with a batch of failures, which were to be concealed from all+eyes in the convenient stomachs of the little Hummels. An evening with+John over the account-books usually produced a temporary lull in the+culinary enthusiasm, and a frugal fit would ensue, during which the poor+man was put through a course of bread-pudding, hash, and warmed-over+coffee, which tried his soul, although he bore it with praiseworthy+fortitude. Before the golden mean was found, however, Meg added to her+domestic possessions what young couples seldom get on long without,--a+family jar.++Fired with a housewifely wish to see her store-room stocked with+home-made preserves, she undertook to put up her own currant jelly. John+was requested to order home a dozen or so of little pots, and an extra+quantity of sugar, for their own currants were ripe, and were to be+attended to at once. As John firmly believed that "my wife" was equal to+anything, and took a natural pride in her skill, he resolved that she+should be gratified, and their only crop of fruit laid by in a most+pleasing form for winter use. Home came four dozen delightful little+pots, half a barrel of sugar, and a small boy to pick the currants for+her. With her pretty hair tucked into a little cap, arms bared to the+elbow, and a checked apron which had a coquettish look in spite of the+bib, the young housewife fell to work, feeling no doubts about her+success; for hadn't she seen Hannah do it hundreds of times? The array+of pots rather amazed her at first, but John was so fond of jelly, and+the nice little jars would look so well on the top shelf, that Meg+resolved to fill them all, and spent a long day picking, boiling,+straining, and fussing over her jelly. She did her best; she asked+advice of Mrs. Cornelius; she racked her brain to remember what Hannah+did that she had left undone; she reboiled, resugared, and restrained,+but that dreadful stuff wouldn't "_jell_."++She longed to run home, bib and all, and ask mother to lend a hand, but+John and she had agreed that they would never annoy any one with their+private worries, experiments, or quarrels. They had laughed over that+last word as if the idea it suggested was a most preposterous one; but+they had held to their resolve, and whenever they could get on without+help they did so, and no one interfered, for Mrs. March had advised the+plan. So Meg wrestled alone with the refractory sweetmeats all that hot+summer day, and at five o'clock sat down in her topsy-turvy kitchen,+wrung her bedaubed hands, lifted up her voice and wept.++Now, in the first flush of the new life, she had often said,--++"My husband shall always feel free to bring a friend home whenever he+likes. 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. But, although they had had company from time to time, it never+happened to be unexpected, and Meg had never had an opportunity to+distinguish herself till now. It always happens so in this vale of+tears; there is an inevitability about such things which we can only+wonder at, deplore, and bear as we best can.++If John had not forgotten all about the jelly, it really would have been+unpardonable in him to choose that day, of all the days in the year, to+bring a friend home to dinner unexpectedly. Congratulating himself that+a handsome repast had been ordered that morning, feeling sure that it+would be ready to the minute, and indulging in pleasant anticipations of+the charming effect it would produce, when his pretty wife came running+out to meet him, he escorted his friend to his mansion, with the+irrepressible satisfaction of a young host and husband.++It is a world of disappointments, as John discovered when he reached the+Dove-cote. The front door usually stood hospitably open; now it was not+only shut, but locked, and yesterday's mud still adorned the steps. The+parlor-windows were closed and curtained, no picture of the pretty wife+sewing on the piazza, in white, with a distracting little bow in her+hair, or a bright-eyed hostess, smiling a shy welcome as she greeted her+guest. Nothing of the sort, for not a soul appeared, but a+sanguinary-looking boy asleep under the currant-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.++Round the house he hurried, led by a pungent smell of burnt sugar, and+Mr. Scott strolled after him, with a queer look on his face. He paused+discreetly at a distance when Brooke disappeared; but he could both see+and hear, and, being a bachelor, enjoyed the prospect mightily.++In the kitchen reigned confusion and despair; one edition of jelly was+trickled from pot to pot, another lay upon the floor, and a third was+burning gayly on the stove. Lotty, with Teutonic phlegm, was calmly+eating bread and currant wine, for the jelly was still in a hopelessly+liquid state, while Mrs. Brooke, with her apron over her head, sat+sobbing dismally.++"My dearest girl, what is the matter?" cried John, rushing in, with+awful visions of scalded hands, sudden news of affliction, and secret+consternation at the thought of the guest in the garden.++"O John, I _am_ so tired and hot and cross and worried! I've been at it+till I'm all worn out. Do come and help me or I _shall_ die!" and the+exhausted housewife cast herself upon his breast, giving him a sweet+welcome in every sense of the word, for her pinafore had been baptized+at the same time as the floor.++"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!"++John Brooke laughed then as he never dared to laugh afterward; and the+derisive Scott smiled involuntarily as he heard the hearty peal, which+put the finishing stroke to poor Meg's woe.++"Is that all? Fling it out of window, and don't bother any more about+it. I'll buy you quarts if you want it; but for heaven's sake don't have+hysterics, for I've brought Jack Scott home to dinner, and--"++John got no further, for Meg cast him off, and clasped her hands with a+tragic gesture as she fell into a chair, exclaiming in a tone of mingled+indignation, reproach, and dismay,--++"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.++"You ought to have sent word, or told me this morning, and you ought to+have remembered how busy I was," continued Meg petulantly; for even+turtle-doves will peck when ruffled.++"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.++John was a mild man, but he was human; and after a long day's work, to+come home tired, hungry, and hopeful, to find a chaotic house, an empty+table, and a cross wife was not exactly conducive to repose of mind or+manner. 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 knock us up something to eat. We're both as hungry+as hunters, so we sha'n't mind what it is. Give us the cold meat, and+bread and cheese; we won't ask for jelly."++He meant it for 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 any one. 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: you won't have anything else here;" and+having delivered her defiance all in one breath, Meg cast away her+pinafore, and precipitately left the field to bemoan herself in her own+room.++What those two creatures did in her absence, she never knew; but Mr.+Scott was not taken "up to mother's," and when Meg descended, after they+had strolled away together, she found traces of a promiscuous lunch+which filled her with horror. Lotty reported that they had eaten "a+much, and greatly laughed, and the master bid her throw away all the+sweet stuff, and hide the pots."++Meg longed to go and tell mother; but a sense of shame at her own+short-comings, of loyalty to John, "who might be cruel, but nobody+should know it," restrained her; and after a summary clearing up, she+dressed herself prettily, and sat down to wait for John to come and be+forgiven.++Unfortunately, John didn't come, not seeing the matter in that light. He+had carried it off as a good joke with Scott, excused his little wife as+well as he could, and played the host so hospitably that his friend+enjoyed the impromptu dinner, and promised to come again. But John was+angry, though he did not show it; he felt that Meg had got him into a+scrape, and then deserted him in his hour of need. "It wasn't fair to+tell a man to bring folks home any time, with perfect freedom, and when+he took you at your word, to flame up and blame him, and leave him in+the lurch, to be laughed at or pitied. No, by George, it wasn't! and Meg+must know it." He had fumed inwardly during the feast, but when the+flurry was over, and he strolled home, after seeing Scott off, a milder+mood came over him. "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. For a minute he was ruffled+again at the mere thought of it; and then the fear that Meg would cry+herself sick softened his heart, and sent him on at a quicker pace,+resolving to be calm and kind, but firm, quite firm, and show her where+she had failed in her duty to her spouse.++Meg likewise resolved to be "calm and kind, but firm," and show _him_+his duty. She longed to run to meet him, and beg pardon, and be kissed+and comforted, as she was sure of being; but, of course, she did nothing+of the sort, and when she saw John coming, began to hum quite naturally,+as she rocked and sewed, like a lady of leisure in her best parlor.++John was a little disappointed not to find a tender Niobe; but, feeling+that his dignity demanded the first apology, he made none, only came+leisurely in, and laid himself upon the sofa, with the singularly+relevant remark,--++"We are going to have a new moon, my dear."++"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 her slippers were among the necessaries of life. Neither+spoke; both looked quite "calm and firm," and both felt desperately+uncomfortable.++ [Illustration: Both felt desperately uncomfortable]++"Oh dear," thought Meg, "married life is very trying, and does need+infinite patience, as well as love, as mother says." The word "mother"+suggested other maternal counsels, given long ago, and received with+unbelieving protests.++"John is a good man, but he has his faults, and you must learn to see+and bear with them, remembering your own. 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. He has a+temper, not like ours,--one flash, and then all over,--but the white,+still anger, that is seldom stirred, but once kindled, is hard to+quench. Be careful, very careful, not to wake this anger against+yourself, for peace and happiness depend on keeping his respect. Watch+yourself, be the first to ask pardon if you both err, and guard against+the little piques, misunderstandings, and hasty words that often pave+the way for bitter sorrow and regret."++These words came back to Meg, as she sat sewing in the sunset,+especially the last. This was the first serious disagreement; her own+hasty speeches sounded both silly and unkind, as she recalled them, her+own anger looked childish now, and thoughts of poor John coming home to+such a scene quite melted her heart. She glanced at him with tears in+her eyes, but he did not see them; she put down her work and got up,+thinking, "I _will_ be the first to say, 'Forgive me,'" but he did not+seem to hear her; she went very slowly across the room, for pride was+hard to swallow, and stood by him, but he did not turn his head. For a+minute she felt as if she really couldn't do it; then came the thought,+"This is the beginning, I'll do my part, and have nothing to reproach+myself with," and stooping down, she softly kissed her husband on the+forehead. 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,--++"It was too bad to laugh at the poor little jelly-pots. Forgive me,+dear, I never will again!"++But he did, oh bless you, yes, hundreds of times, and so did Meg, both+declaring that it was the sweetest jelly they ever made; for family+peace was preserved in that little family jar.++After this, Meg had Mr. Scott to dinner by special invitation, and+served him up a pleasant feast without a cooked wife for the first+course; on which occasion she was so gay and gracious, and made+everything go off so charmingly, that Mr. Scott told John he was a happy+fellow, and shook his head over the hardships of bachelorhood all the+way home.++In the autumn, new trials and experiences came to Meg. Sallie Moffat+renewed her friendship, was always running out for a dish of gossip at+the little house, or inviting "that poor dear" to come in and spend the+day at the big house. 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. Sallie was very kind, and often offered her the+coveted trifles; but Meg declined them, knowing that John wouldn't like+it; and then this foolish little woman went and did what John disliked+infinitely worse.++She knew her husband's income, and she loved to feel that he trusted+her, not only with his happiness, but what some men seem to value+more,--his money. She knew where it was, was free to take what she+liked, and all he asked was that she should keep account of every penny,+pay bills once a month, and remember that she was a poor man's wife.+Till now, she had done well, been prudent and exact, kept her little+account-books neatly, and showed them to him monthly without fear. But+that autumn the serpent got into Meg's paradise, and tempted her, like+many a modern Eve, not with apples, but with dress. Meg didn't like to+be pitied and made to feel poor; it irritated her, but she was ashamed+to confess it, and now and then she tried to console herself by buying+something pretty, so that Sallie needn't think she had to economize. She+always felt wicked after it, for the pretty things were seldom+necessaries; but then they cost so little, it wasn't worth worrying+about; so the trifles increased unconsciously, and in the shopping+excursions she was no longer a passive looker-on.++But the trifles cost more than one would imagine; and when she cast up+her accounts at the end of the month, the sum total rather scared her.+John was busy that month, and left the bills to her; the next month he+was absent; but the third he had a grand quarterly settling up, and Meg+never forgot it. A few days before she had done a dreadful thing, and it+weighed upon her conscience. Sallie had been buying silks, and Meg+longed for a new one,--just a handsome light one for parties, her black+silk was so common, and thin things for evening wear were only proper+for girls. Aunt March usually gave the sisters a present of twenty-five+dollars apiece at New Year; that was only a month to wait, and here was+a lovely violet silk going at a bargain, and she had the money, if she+only dared to take it. John always said what was his was hers; but would+he think it right to spend not only the prospective five-and-twenty, but+another five-and-twenty out of the household fund? That was the+question. Sallie had urged her to do it, had offered to loan the money,+and with the best intentions in life, had tempted Meg beyond her+strength. In an evil moment the shopman held up the lovely, shimmering+folds, and said, "A bargain, I assure you, ma'am." She answered, "I'll+take it;" and it was cut off and paid for, and Sallie had exulted, and+she had laughed as if it were a thing of no consequence, and driven+away, feeling as if she had stolen something, and the police were after+her.++ [Illustration: A bargain, I assure you, ma'am]++When she got home, she tried to assuage the pangs of remorse by+spreading forth the lovely silk; but it looked less silvery now, didn't+become her, after all, and the words "fifty dollars" seemed stamped like+a pattern down each breadth. She put it away; but it haunted her, not+delightfully, as a new dress should, but dreadfully, like the ghost of a+folly that was not easily laid. When John got out his books that night,+Meg's heart sank, and for the first time in her married life, she was+afraid of her husband. The kind, brown eyes looked as if they could be+stern; and though he was unusually merry, she fancied he had found her+out, but didn't mean to let her know it. The house-bills were all paid,+the books all in order. John had praised her, and was undoing the old+pocket-book which they called the "bank," when Meg, knowing that it was+quite empty, stopped his hand, saying nervously,--++"You haven't seen my private expense book yet."++John never asked to see it; but she always insisted on his doing so, and+used to enjoy his masculine amazement at the queer things women wanted,+and made him guess what "piping" was, demand fiercely the meaning of a+"hug-me-tight," or wonder how a little thing composed of three rosebuds,+a bit of velvet, and a pair of strings, could possibly be a bonnet, and+cost five or six dollars. That night he looked as if he would like the+fun of quizzing her figures and pretending to be horrified at her+extravagance, as he often did, being particularly proud of his prudent+wife.++The little book was brought slowly out, and laid down before him. Meg+got behind his chair under pretence of smoothing the wrinkles out of his+tired forehead, and standing there, she said, with her panic increasing+with every word,--++"John, dear, I'm ashamed to show you my book, for I've really been+dreadfully extravagant lately. I go about so much I must have things,+you know, and Sallie advised my getting it, so I did; and my New-Year's+money will partly pay for it: but I was sorry after I'd done it, for I+knew you'd think it wrong in me."++John laughed, and drew her round beside him, saying good-humoredly,+"Don't go and hide. I won't beat you if you _have_ got a pair of killing+boots; I'm rather proud of my wife's feet, and don't mind if she does+pay eight or nine dollars for her boots, if they are good ones."++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.++"It's worse than boots, it's a silk dress," she said, with the calmness+of desperation, for she wanted the worst over.++"Well, dear, what is the 'dem'd total,' as Mr. Mantalini says?"++That didn't sound like John, and she knew he was looking up at her with+the straightforward look that she had always been ready to meet and+answer with one as frank till now. She turned the page and her head at+the same time, pointing to the sum which would have been bad enough+without the fifty, but which was appalling to her with that added. For a+minute the room was very still; then John said slowly,--but she could+feel it cost him an effort to express no displeasure,--++"Well, I don't know that fifty is much for a dress, with all the+furbelows and notions you have to have to finish it off these days."++"It isn't made or trimmed," sighed Meg faintly, for a sudden+recollection of the cost still to be incurred quite overwhelmed her.++"Twenty-five yards of silk seems a good deal to cover one small woman,+but I've no doubt my wife will look as fine as Ned Moffat's when she+gets it on," said John dryly.++"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."++The last words were spoken so low she thought he did not hear them, but+he did, and they wounded him deeply, for he had denied himself many+pleasures for Meg's sake. She could have bitten her tongue out the+minute she had said it, for John pushed the books away, and got up,+saying, with a little quiver in his voice, "I was afraid of this; 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. She ran to him and held him+close, crying, with repentant tears, "O John, my dear, kind,+hard-working boy, 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 was very kind, forgave her readily, and did not utter one reproach;+but Meg knew that she had done and said a thing which would not be+forgotten soon, although he might never allude to it again. She had+promised to love him for better for worse; and then she, his wife, had+reproached him with his poverty, after spending his earnings recklessly.+It was dreadful; and the worst of it was John went on so quietly+afterward, just as if nothing had happened, except that he stayed in+town later, and worked at night when she had gone to cry herself to+sleep. A week of remorse nearly made Meg sick; and the discovery that+John had countermanded the order for his new great-coat reduced her to a+state of despair which was pathetic to behold. He had simply said, in+answer to her surprised inquiries as to the change, "I can't afford it,+my dear."++Meg said no more, but a few minutes after he found her in the hall, with+her face buried in the old great-coat, crying as if her heart would+break.++They had a long talk that night, and Meg learned to love her husband+better for his poverty, because it seemed to have made a man of him,+given him the strength and courage to fight his own way, and taught him+a tender patience with which to bear and comfort the natural longings+and failures of those he loved.++Next day she put her pride in her pocket, went to Sallie, told the+truth, and asked her to buy the silk as a favor. The good-natured Mrs.+Moffat willingly did so, and had the delicacy not to make her a present+of it immediately afterward. Then Meg ordered home the great-coat, and,+when John arrived, she put it on, and asked him how he liked her new+silk gown. One can imagine what answer he made, how he received his+present, and what a blissful state of things ensued. John came home+early, Meg gadded no more; and that great-coat was put on in the morning+by a very happy husband, and taken off at night by a most devoted little+wife. So the year rolled round, and at midsummer there came to Meg a new+experience,--the deepest and tenderest of a woman's life.++Laurie came sneaking into the kitchen of the Dove-cote, one Saturday,+with an excited face, and was received with the clash of cymbals; for+Hannah clapped her hands with a saucepan in one and the cover in the+other.++"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. Now you go into the parlor, and I'll+send 'em down to you," with which somewhat involved reply Hannah+vanished, chuckling ecstatically.++Presently Jo appeared, proudly bearing a flannel bundle laid forth upon+a large pillow. Jo's face was very sober, but her eyes twinkled, and+there was an odd sound in her voice of repressed emotion of some sort.++"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 sha'n'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. A peal of laughter from Jo, Amy, Mrs. March, Hannah, and John+caused him to open them the next minute, to find himself invested with+two babies instead of one.++[Illustration: Laurie heroically shut his eyes while something was put+ into his arms]++No wonder they laughed, for the expression of his face was droll enough+to convulse a Quaker, as he stood and stared wildly from the unconscious+innocents to the hilarious spectators, with such dismay that Jo sat down+on the floor and screamed.++"Twins, by Jupiter!" was all he said for a minute; then, turning to the+women with an appealing look that was comically piteous, he added, "Take+'em quick, somebody! I'm going to laugh, and I shall drop 'em."++John rescued his babies, and marched up and down, with one on each arm,+as if already initiated into the mysteries of baby-tending, while Laurie+laughed till the tears ran down his cheeks.++"It's the best joke of the season, isn't it? I wouldn't have you told,+for I set my heart on surprising you, and I flatter myself I've done+it," said Jo, when she got her breath.++"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. Hold me up,+Jo; for upon my life it's one too many for me," returned Laurie,+regarding the infants with the air of a big, benevolent Newfoundland+looking at a pair of infantile kittens.++"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. Now then, young Brooke, pitch+into a man of your own size, will you?" cried Laurie, delighted with a+poke in the face from a tiny fist, flapping aimlessly about.++"He's to be named John Laurence, and the girl Margaret, after mother and+grandmother. We shall call her Daisy, so as not to have two Megs, and I+suppose the mannie will be Jack, unless we find a better name," said+Amy, with aunt-like interest.++"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.+++++ XXIX.++ CALLS.+++ [Illustration: 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 to-day?"++"I've done a good many rash and foolish things in my life, but I don't+think I ever was mad enough to say I'd make six calls in one day, when a+single one upsets me for a week."++"Yes, you did; it was a bargain between us. I was to finish the crayon+of Beth for you, and you were to go properly with me, and return our+neighbors' visits."++"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. It's a lovely day, no prospect of rain, and you+pride yourself on keeping promises; so be honorable; come and do your+duty, and then be at peace for another six months."++At that minute Jo was particularly absorbed in dressmaking; for she was+mantua-maker general to the family, and took especial credit to herself+because she could use a needle as well as a pen. It was very provoking+to be arrested in the act of a first trying-on, and ordered out to make+calls in her best array, on a warm July day. She hated calls of the+formal sort, and never made any till Amy compelled her with a bargain,+bribe, or promise. In the present instance, there was no escape; and+having clashed her scissors rebelliously, while protesting that she+smelt thunder, she gave in, put away her work, and taking up her hat and+gloves with an air of resignation, told Amy the victim was ready.++"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."++"Oh dear!" sighed Amy; "now she's in a contrary fit, and will drive me+distracted before I can get her properly ready. I'm sure it's no+pleasure to me to go to-day, but it's a debt we owe society, and there's+no one to pay it but you and me. I'll do anything for you, Jo, if you'll+only dress yourself nicely, and come and help me do the civil. You can+talk so well, look so aristocratic in your best things, and behave so+beautifully, if you try, that I'm proud of you. 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 shall be commander+of the expedition, and I'll obey blindly; will that satisfy you?" said+Jo, with a sudden change from perversity to lamb-like submission.++"You're a perfect cherub! Now put on all your best things, and I'll tell+you how to behave at each place, so that you will make a good+impression. 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."++While Amy dressed, she issued her orders, and Jo obeyed them; not+without entering her protest, however, for she sighed as she rustled+into her new organdie, frowned darkly at herself as she tied her bonnet+strings in an irreproachable bow, wrestled viciously with pins as she+put on her collar, wrinkled up her features generally as she shook out+the handkerchief, whose embroidery was as irritating to her nose as the+present mission was to her feelings; and when she had squeezed her hands+into tight gloves with three buttons and a tassel, as the last touch of+elegance, she turned to Amy with an imbecile expression of countenance,+saying meekly,--++"I'm perfectly miserable; but if you consider me presentable, I die+happy."++"You are highly satisfactory; turn slowly round, and let me get a+careful view." Jo revolved, and Amy gave a touch here and there, then+fell back, with her head on one side, observing graciously, "Yes, you'll+do; 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."++"You are a thing of beauty and a joy forever," said Jo, looking through+her hand with the air of a connoisseur at the blue feather against the+gold hair. "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."++Jo sighed, and proceeded to burst the buttons off her glove, in doing up+her cuff; but at last both were ready, and sailed away, looking as+"pretty as picters," Hannah said, as she hung out of the upper window to+watch them.++"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? Just be calm, cool, and+quiet,--that's safe and ladylike; and you can easily do it for fifteen+minutes," said Amy, as they approached the first place, having borrowed+the white parasol and been inspected by Meg, with a baby on each arm.++"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."++Amy looked relieved, but naughty Jo took her at her word; for, during+the first call, she sat with every limb gracefully composed, every fold+correctly draped, calm as a summer sea, cool as a snow-bank, and as+silent as a sphinx. In vain Mrs. Chester alluded to her "charming+novel," and the Misses Chester introduced parties, picnics, the opera,+and the fashions; each and all were answered by a smile, a bow, and a+demure "Yes" or "No," with the chill on. 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."++"What a haughty, uninteresting creature that oldest Miss March is!" was+the unfortunately audible remark of one of the ladies, as the door+closed upon their guests. Jo laughed noiselessly all through the hall,+but Amy looked disgusted at the failure of her instructions, and very+naturally laid the blame upon Jo.++"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.+They move in the best society, are valuable persons for us to know, and+I wouldn't fail to make a good impression there for anything."++"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. Amy's face was a study when she saw+her sister skim into the next drawing-room, kiss all the young ladies+with effusion, beam graciously upon the young gentlemen, and join in the+chat with a spirit which amazed the beholder. Amy was taken possession+of by Mrs. Lamb, with whom she was a favorite, and forced to hear a long+account of Lucretia's last attack, while three delightful young+gentlemen hovered near, waiting for a pause when they might rush in and+rescue her. So situated, she was powerless to check Jo, who seemed+possessed by a spirit of mischief, and talked away as volubly as the old+lady. A knot of heads gathered about her, and Amy strained her ears to+hear what was going on; for broken sentences filled her with alarm,+round eyes and uplifted hands tormented her with curiosity, and frequent+peals of laughter made her wild to share the fun. One may imagine her+suffering on overhearing fragments of this sort of conversation:--++"She rides splendidly,--who taught her?"++"No one; she used to practise mounting, holding the reins, and sitting+straight on an old saddle in a tree. Now she rides anything, for she+doesn't know what fear is, and the stable-man lets her have horses+cheap, because she trains them to carry ladies so well. She has such a+passion for it, I often tell her if everything else fails she can be a+horse-breaker, and get her living so."++At this awful speech Amy contained herself with difficulty, for the+impression was being given that she was rather a fast young lady, which+was her especial aversion. But what could she do? for the old lady was+in the middle of her story, and long before it was done Jo was off+again, making more droll revelations, and committing still more fearful+blunders.++"Yes, Amy was in despair that day, for all the good beasts were gone,+and of three left, one was lame, one blind, and the other so balky that+you had to put dirt in his mouth before he would start. 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; she heard of a young horse at the farmhouse over the+river, and, though a lady had never ridden him, she resolved to try,+because he was handsome and spirited. Her struggles were really+pathetic; there was no one to bring the horse to the saddle, so she took+the saddle to the horse. My dear creature, she actually rowed it over+the river, put it on her head, and marched up to the barn to the utter+amazement of the old man!"++ [Illustration: 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."++"Well, I call that plucky!" and young Mr. Lamb turned an approving+glance upon Amy, wondering what his mother could be saying to make the+girl look so red and uncomfortable.++She was still redder and more uncomfortable a moment after, when a+sudden turn in the conversation introduced the subject of dress. One of+the young ladies asked Jo where she got the pretty drab hat she wore to+the picnic; and stupid Jo, instead of mentioning the place where it was+bought two years ago, must needs answer, with unnecessary frankness,+"Oh, Amy painted it; 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. Why, she wanted a pair of blue boots for+Sallie's party, so she just painted her soiled white ones the loveliest+shade of sky-blue you ever saw, and they looked exactly like satin,"+added Jo, with an air of pride in her sister's accomplishments that+exasperated Amy till she felt that it would be a relief to throw her+card-case at her.++"We read a story of yours the other day, and enjoyed it very much,"+observed the elder Miss Lamb, wishing to compliment the literary lady,+who did not look the character just then, it must be confessed.++Any mention of her "works" always had a bad effect upon Jo, who either+grew rigid and looked offended, or changed the subject with a _brusque_+remark, as now. "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. The minute it was made Jo saw her mistake;+but, fearing to make the matter worse, suddenly remembered that it was+for her to make the first move toward departure, and did so with an+abruptness that left three people with half-finished sentences in their+mouths.++"Amy, we _must_ go. _Good_-by, dear; _do_ come and see us; we are+_pining_ for a visit. I don't dare to ask _you_, Mr. Lamb; but if you+_should_ come, I don't think I shall have the heart to send you away."++Jo said this with such a droll imitation of May Chester's gushing style+that Amy got out of the room as rapidly as possible, feeling a strong+desire to laugh and cry at the same time.++"Didn't I do that well?" asked Jo, with a satisfied air, as they walked+away.++"Nothing could have been worse," was Amy's crushing reply. "What+possessed you to tell those stories about my saddle, and the hats and+boots, and all the rest of it?"++"Why, it's funny, and amuses people. They know we are poor, so it's no+use pretending that we have grooms, buy three or four hats a season, and+have things as easy and fine as they do."++"You needn't go and tell them all our little shifts, and expose our+poverty in that perfectly unnecessary way. You haven't a bit of proper+pride, and never will learn when to hold your tongue and when to speak,"+said Amy despairingly.++Poor Jo looked abashed, and silently chafed the end of her nose with the+stiff handkerchief, as if performing a penance for her misdemeanors.++"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. Goodness knows I need a little change, for elegance+has a bad effect upon my constitution," returned Jo gruffly, being+disturbed by her failures to suit.++An enthusiastic welcome from three big boys and several pretty children+speedily soothed her ruffled feelings; and, leaving Amy to entertain the+hostess and Mr. Tudor, who happened to be calling likewise, Jo devoted+herself to the young folks, and found the change refreshing. She+listened to college stories with deep interest, caressed pointers and+poodles without a murmur, agreed heartily that "Tom Brown was a brick,"+regardless of the improper form of praise; and when one lad proposed a+visit to his turtle-tank, she went with an alacrity which caused mamma+to smile upon her, as that motherly lady settled the cap which was left+in a ruinous condition by filial hugs, bear-like but affectionate, and+dearer to her than the most faultless _coiffure_ from the hands of an+inspired Frenchwoman.++Leaving her sister to her own devices, Amy proceeded to enjoy herself to+her heart's content. Mr. Tudor's uncle had married an English lady who+was third cousin to a living lord, and Amy regarded the whole family+with great respect; for, in spite of her American birth and breeding,+she possessed that reverence for titles which haunts the best of+us,--that unacknowledged loyalty to the early faith in kings which set+the most democratic nation under the sun in a ferment at the coming of a+royal yellow-haired laddie, some years ago, and which still has+something to do with the love the young country bears the old, like that+of a big son for an imperious little mother, who held him while she+could, and let him go with a farewell scolding when he rebelled. But+even the satisfaction of talking with a distant connection of the+British nobility did not render Amy forgetful of time; and when the+proper number of minutes had passed, she reluctantly tore herself from+this aristocratic society, and looked about for Jo, fervently hoping+that her incorrigible sister would not be found in any position which+should bring disgrace upon the name of March.++ [Illustration: It might have been worse]++It might have been worse, but Amy considered it bad; for Jo sat on the+grass, with an encampment of boys about her, and a dirty-footed dog+reposing on the skirt of her state and festival dress, as she related+one of Laurie's pranks to her admiring audience. One small child was+poking turtles with Amy's cherished parasol, a second was eating+gingerbread over Jo's best bonnet, and a third playing ball with her+gloves. But all were enjoying themselves; and when Jo collected her+damaged property to go, her escort accompanied her, begging her to come+again, "it was such fun to hear about Laurie's larks."++"Capital boys, aren't they? I feel quite young and brisk again after+that," said Jo, strolling along with her hands behind her, partly from+habit, partly to conceal the bespattered parasol.++"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. You gave him a cool nod; and+just now you bowed and smiled in the politest way to Tommy Chamberlain,+whose father keeps a grocery store. If you had just reversed the nod and+the bow, it would have been right," said Amy reprovingly.++"No, it wouldn't," returned perverse Jo; "I neither like, respect, nor+admire Tudor, though his grandfather's uncle's nephew's niece _was_+third cousin to a lord. Tommy is poor and bashful and good and very+clever; I think well of him, and like to show that I do, for he _is_ a+gentleman in spite of the brown-paper parcels."++"It's no use trying to argue with you," began Amy.++"Not the least, my dear," interrupted Jo; "so let us look amiable, and+drop a card here, as the Kings are evidently out, for which I'm deeply+grateful."++The family card-case having done its duty, the girls walked on, and Jo+uttered another thanksgiving on reaching the fifth house, and being told+that the young ladies were engaged.++"Now let us go home, and never mind Aunt March to-day. We can run down+there any time, and it's really a pity to trail through the dust in our+best bibs and tuckers, when we are tired and cross."++"Speak for yourself, if you please. Aunt likes to have us pay her the+compliment of coming in style, and making a formal call; it's a little+thing to do, but it gives her pleasure, and I don't believe it will hurt+your things half so much as letting dirty dogs and clumping boys spoil+them. Stoop down, and let me take the crumbs off of your bonnet."++"What a good girl you are, Amy!" said Jo, with a repentant glance from+her own damaged costume to that of her sister, which was fresh and+spotless still. "I wish it was as easy for me to do little things to+please people as it is for you. I think of them, but it takes too much+time to do them; so I wait for a chance to confer a great favor, and let+the small ones slip; but they tell best in the end, I fancy."++Amy smiled, and was mollified at once, saying with a maternal air,--++"Women should learn to be agreeable, particularly poor ones; for they+have no other way of repaying the kindnesses they receive. If you'd+remember that, and practise it, you'd be better liked than I am, because+there is more of you."++"I'm a crotchety old thing, and always shall be, but I'm willing to own+that you are right; only it's easier for me to risk my life for a person+than to be pleasant to him when I don't feel like it. 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."++"But I think girls ought to show when they disapprove of young men; and+how can they do it except by their manners? Preaching does not do any+good, as I know to my sorrow, since I've had Teddy to manage; but there+are many little ways in which I can influence him without a word, and I+say we _ought_ to do it to others if we can."++"Teddy is a remarkable boy, and can't be taken as a sample of other+boys," said Amy, in a tone of solemn conviction, which would have+convulsed the "remarkable boy," if he had heard it. "If we were belles,+or women of wealth and position, we might do something, perhaps; but for+us to frown at one set of young gentlemen because we don't approve of+them, and smile upon another set because we do, wouldn't have a particle+of effect, and we should only be considered odd and puritanical."++"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 can't argue about it, I only know that it's the way of the world; and+people who set themselves against it only get laughed at for their+pains. I don't like reformers, and I hope you will never try to be one."++"I do like them, and I shall be one if I can; for in spite of the+laughing, the world would never get on without them. 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."++They found Aunt Carrol with the old lady, both absorbed in some very+interesting subject; but they dropped it as the girls came in, with a+conscious look which betrayed that they had been talking about their+nieces. Jo was not in a good humor, and the perverse fit returned; but+Amy, who had virtuously done her duty, kept her temper, and pleased+everybody, was in a most angelic frame of mind. This amiable spirit was+felt at once, and both the aunts "my deared" her affectionately, looking+what they afterwards said emphatically,--"That child improves every+day."++"Are you going to help about the fair, dear?" asked Mrs. Carrol, as Amy+sat down beside her with the confiding air elderly people like so well+in the young.++"Yes, aunt. Mrs. Chester asked me if I would, and I offered to tend a+table, as I have nothing but my time to give."++"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: it's for the freedmen as well as the Chesters,+and I think it very kind of them to let me share the labor and the fun.+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: some do not, and+that is trying," observed Aunt March, looking over her spectacles at Jo,+who sat apart, rocking herself, with a somewhat morose expression.++ [Illustration: The call at Aunt March's]++If Jo had only known what a great happiness was wavering in the balance+for one of them, she would have turned dovelike in a minute; but,+unfortunately, we don't have windows in our breasts, and cannot see what+goes on in the minds of our friends; better for us that we cannot as a+general thing, but now and then it would be such a comfort, such a+saving of time and temper. By her next speech, Jo deprived herself of+several years of pleasure, and received a timely lesson in the art of+holding her tongue.++"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.++Mercifully unconscious of what she had done, Jo sat with her nose in the+air, and a revolutionary aspect which was anything but inviting.++"Do you speak French, dear?" asked Mrs. Carrol, laying her hand on+Amy's.++"Pretty well, thanks to Aunt March, who lets Esther talk to me as often+as I like," replied Amy, with a grateful look, which caused the old lady+to smile affably.++"How are you about languages?" asked Mrs. Carrol of Jo.++"Don't know a word; I'm very stupid about studying anything; can't bear+French, it's such a slippery, silly sort of language," was the _brusque_+reply.++Another look passed between the ladies, and Aunt March said to Amy, "You+are quite strong and well, now, dear, I believe? Eyes don't trouble you+any more, do they?"++"Not at all, thank you, ma'am. I'm very well, and mean to do great+things next winter, so that I may be ready for Rome, whenever that+joyful time arrives."++"Good girl! You deserve to go, and I'm sure you will some day," said+Aunt March, with an approving pat on the head, as Amy picked up her ball+for her.++ "Cross-patch, draw the latch,+ Sit by the fire and spin,"++squalled Polly, bending down from his perch on the back of her chair to+peep into Jo's face, with such a comical air of impertinent inquiry that+it was impossible to help laughing.++"Most observing bird," said the old lady.++"Come and take a walk, my dear?" cried Polly, hopping toward the+china-closet, with a look suggestive of lump-sugar.++"Thank you, I will. Come, Amy;" and Jo brought the visit to an end,+feeling more strongly than ever that calls did have a bad effect upon+her constitution. She shook hands in a gentlemanly manner, but Amy+kissed both the aunts, and the girls departed, leaving behind them the+impression of shadow and sunshine; which impression caused Aunt March to+say, as they vanished,--++"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."++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: You shall have another table]++ XXX.++ CONSEQUENCES.+++Mrs. Chester's fair was so very elegant and select that it was+considered a great honor by the young ladies of the neighborhood to be+invited to take a table, and every one was much interested in the+matter. Amy was asked, but Jo was not, which was fortunate for all+parties, as her elbows were decidedly akimbo at this period of her life,+and it took a good many hard knocks to teach her how to get on easily.+The "haughty, uninteresting creature" was let severely alone; but Amy's+talent and taste were duly complimented by the offer of the art-table,+and she exerted herself to prepare and secure appropriate and valuable+contributions to it.++Everything went on smoothly till the day before the fair opened; then+there occurred one of the little skirmishes which it is almost+impossible to avoid, when some five and twenty women, old and young,+with all their private piques and prejudices, try to work together.++May Chester was rather jealous of Amy because the latter was a greater+favorite than herself, and, just at this time, several trifling+circumstances occurred to increase the feeling. 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; but the chief+grievance that rankled in her soul, and gave her an excuse for her+unfriendly conduct, was a rumor which some obliging gossip had whispered+to her, that the March girls had made fun of her at the Lambs'. All the+blame of this should have fallen upon Jo, for her naughty imitation had+been too lifelike to escape detection, and the frolicsome Lambs had+permitted the joke to escape. No hint of this had reached the culprits,+however, and Amy's dismay can be imagined, when, the very evening before+the fair, as she was putting the last touches to her pretty table, Mrs.+Chester, who, of course, resented the supposed ridicule of her daughter,+said, in a bland tone, but with a cold look,--++"I find, dear, that there is some feeling among the young ladies about+my giving this table to any one but my girls. As this is the most+prominent, and some say the most attractive table of all, and they are+the chief getters-up of the fair, it is thought best for them to take+this place. I'm sorry, but I know you are too sincerely interested in+the cause to mind a little personal disappointment, and you shall have+another table if you like."++Mrs. Chester had fancied beforehand that it would be easy to deliver+this little speech; but when the time came, she found it rather+difficult to utter it naturally, with Amy's unsuspicious eyes looking+straight at her, full of surprise and trouble.++Amy felt that there was something behind this, but could not guess what,+and said quietly, feeling hurt, and showing that she did,--++"Perhaps you had rather I took no table at all?"++"Now, my dear, don't have any ill feeling, I beg; it's merely a matter+of expediency, you see; my girls will naturally take the lead, and this+table is considered their proper place. _I_ think it very appropriate+to you, and feel very grateful for your efforts to make it so pretty;+but we must give up our private wishes, of course, and I will see that+you have a good place elsewhere. 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,--++"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."++"You can put your own things on your own table, if you prefer," began+May, feeling a little conscience-stricken, as she looked at the pretty+racks, the painted shells, and quaint illuminations Amy had so carefully+made and so gracefully arranged. She meant it kindly, but Amy mistook+her meaning, and said quickly,--++"Oh, certainly, if they are in your way;" and sweeping her contributions+into her apron, pell-mell, she walked off, feeling that herself and her+works of art had been insulted past forgiveness.++"Now she's mad. Oh, dear, I wish I hadn't asked you to speak, mamma,"+said May, looking disconsolately at the empty spaces on her table.++"Girls' quarrels are soon over," returned her mother, feeling a trifle+ashamed of her own part in this one, as well she might.++The little girls hailed Amy and her treasures with delight, which+cordial reception somewhat soothed her perturbed spirit, and she fell to+work, determined to succeed florally, if she could not artistically. But+everything seemed against her: it was late, and she was tired; every one+was too busy with their own affairs to help her; and the little girls+were only hindrances, for the dears fussed and chattered like so many+magpies, making a great deal of confusion in their artless efforts to+preserve the most perfect order. The evergreen arch wouldn't stay firm+after she got it up, but wiggled and threatened to tumble down on her+head when the hanging baskets were filled; 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 draught, 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 with 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; Beth declared she wouldn't go to the fair at all; and Jo demanded+why she didn't take all her pretty things and leave those mean people to+get on without her.++"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; a kiss for a blow is always best,+though it's not very easy to give it sometimes," said her mother, with+the air of one who had learned the difference between preaching and+practising.++In spite of various very natural temptations to resent and retaliate,+Amy adhered to her resolution all the next day, bent on conquering her+enemy by kindness. She began well, thanks to a silent reminder that came+to her unexpectedly, but most opportunely. As she arranged her table+that morning, while the little girls were in an ante-room filling the+baskets, she took up her pet production,--a little book, the antique+cover of which her father had found among his treasures, and in which,+on leaves of vellum, she had beautifully illuminated different texts. As+she turned the pages, rich in dainty devices, with very pardonable+pride, her eye fell upon one verse that made her stop and think. Framed+in a brilliant scroll-work of scarlet, blue, and gold, with little+spirits of good-will helping one another up and down among the thorns+and flowers, were the words, "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."++"I ought, but I don't," thought Amy, as her eye went from the bright+page to May's discontented face behind the big vases, that could not+hide the vacancies her pretty work had once filled. Amy stood a minute,+turning the leaves in her hand, reading on each some sweet rebuke for+all heart-burnings 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.+Amy's conscience preached her a little sermon from that text, then and+there; and she did what many of us do not always do,--took the sermon to+heart, and straightway put it in practice.++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,--++"It's too bad, for there is no time to make other things, and I don't+want to fill up with odds and ends. The table was just complete then:+now it's spoilt."++"I dare say she'd put them back if you asked her," suggested some one.++"How could I after all the fuss?" began May, but she did not finish, for+Amy's voice came across the hall, saying pleasantly,--++"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."++As she spoke, Amy returned her contribution, with a nod and a smile, and+hurried away again, feeling that it was easier to do a friendly thing+than it was to stay and be thanked for it.++"Now, I call that lovely of her, don't you?" cried one girl.++May's answer was inaudible; but another young lady, whose temper was+evidently a little soured by making lemonade, added, with a disagreeable+laugh, "Very lovely; for she knew she wouldn't sell them at her own+table."++Now, that was hard; when we make little sacrifices we like to have them+appreciated, at least; and for a minute Amy was sorry she had done it,+feeling that virtue was not always its own reward. But it is,--as she+presently discovered; for her spirits began to rise, and her table to+blossom under her skilful hands; the girls were very kind, and that one+little act seemed to have cleared the atmosphere amazingly.++It was a very long day, and a hard one to Amy, as she sat behind her+table, often quite alone, for the little girls deserted very soon: 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; there was a crowd+about it all day long, and the tenders were constantly flying to and fro+with important faces and rattling money-boxes. Amy often looked+wistfully across, longing to be there, where she felt at home and happy,+instead of in a corner with nothing to do. It might seem no hardship to+some of us; but to a pretty, blithe young girl, it was not only tedious,+but very trying; and the thought of being found there in the evening by+her family, and Laurie and his friends, made it a real martyrdom.++She did not go home till night, and then she looked so pale and quiet+that they knew the day had been a hard one, though she made no+complaint, and did not even tell what she had done. Her mother gave her+an extra cordial cup of tea, Beth helped her dress, and made a charming+little wreath for her hair, while Jo astonished her family by getting+herself up with unusual care, and hinting darkly that the tables were+about to be turned.++"Don't do anything rude, pray, Jo. I won't have any fuss made, so let it+all pass, and behave yourself," begged Amy, as she departed early,+hoping to find a reinforcement of flowers to refresh her poor little+table.++"I merely intend to make myself entrancingly agreeable to every one I+know, and to keep them in your corner as long as possible. Teddy and his+boys will lend a hand, and we'll have a good time yet," returned Jo,+leaning over the gate to watch for Laurie. Presently the familiar tramp+was heard in the dusk, and she ran out to meet him.++"Is that my boy?"++"As sure as this is my girl!" and Laurie tucked her hand under his arm,+with the air of a man whose every wish was gratified.++"O Teddy, such doings!" and Jo told Amy's wrongs with sisterly zeal.++"A flock of our fellows are going to drive over by and by, and I'll be+hanged if I don't make them buy every flower she's got, and camp down+before her table afterward," said Laurie, espousing her cause with+warmth.++"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."++"I didn't know that; he forgot, I suppose; and, as your grandpa was+poorly, I didn't like to worry him by asking, though I did want some."++"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; I've got to help Amy, so+you go and make yourself splendid; and if you'll be so very kind as to+let Hayes take a few nice flowers up to the Hall, I'll bless you+forever."++"Couldn't you do it now?" asked Laurie, so suggestively that Jo shut the+gate in his face with inhospitable haste, and called through the bars,+"Go away, Teddy; I'm busy."++Thanks to the conspirators, the tables _were_ turned that night; for+Hayes sent up a wilderness of flowers, with a lovely basket, arranged in+his best manner, for a centre-piece; then the March family turned out+_en masse_, and Jo exerted herself to some purpose, for people not only+came, but stayed, laughing at her nonsense, admiring Amy's taste, and+apparently enjoying themselves very much. Laurie and his friends+gallantly threw themselves into the breach, bought up the bouquets,+encamped before the table, and made that corner the liveliest spot in+the room. Amy was in her element now, and, out of gratitude, if nothing+more, was as sprightly and gracious as possible,--coming to the+conclusion, about that time, that virtue _was_ its own reward, after+all.++ [Illustration: Bought up the bouquets]++Jo behaved herself with exemplary propriety; and when Amy was happily+surrounded by her guard of honor, Jo circulated about the hall, picking+up various bits of gossip, which enlightened her upon the subject of the+Chester change of base. 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 signs of them.+"Tucked away out of sight, I dare say," thought Jo, who could forgive+her own wrongs, but hotly resented any insult offered to her family.++"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.'"++Jo _couldn't_ resist giving that little slap, but May took it so meekly+she regretted it a minute after, and fell to praising the great vases,+which still remained unsold.++"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; I took care that the right people+saw them, and they made a nice little sum of money for us," returned+May, who had overcome sundry small temptations, as well as Amy, that+day.++Much gratified, Jo rushed back to tell the good news; and Amy looked+both touched and surprised by the report of May's words and manner.++"Now, gentlemen, I want you to go and do your duty by the other tables+as generously as you have by mine--especially the art-table," she said,+ordering out "Teddy's Own," as the girls called the college friends.++"'Charge, Chester, charge!' is the motto for that table; but do your+duty like men, and you'll get your money's worth of _art_ in every sense+of the word," said the irrepressible Jo, as the devoted phalanx prepared+to take the field.++"To hear is to obey, but March is fairer far than May," said little+Parker, making a frantic effort to be both witty and tender, and getting+promptly quenched by Laurie, who said, "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. The other gentlemen+speculated with equal rashness in all sorts of frail trifles, and+wandered helplessly about afterward, burdened with wax flowers, painted+fans, filigree portfolios, and other useful and appropriate purchases.++Aunt Carrol was there, heard the story, looked pleased, and said+something to Mrs. March in a corner, which made the latter lady beam+with satisfaction, and watch Amy with a face full of mingled pride and+anxiety, though she did not betray the cause of her pleasure till+several days later.++The fair was pronounced a success; and when May bade Amy good night, she+did not "gush" as usual, but gave her an affectionate kiss, and a look+which said, "Forgive and forget." 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. You've behaved sweetly, and I+respect you with all my heart," said Jo warmly, as they brushed their+hair together late that night.++"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. You+laugh at me when I say I want to be a lady, but I mean a true+gentlewoman in mind and manners, and I try to do it as far as I know+how. 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."++Amy spoke earnestly, and Jo said, with a cordial hug,--++"I understand now what you mean, and I'll never laugh at you again. You+are getting on faster than you think, and I'll take lessons of you in+true politeness, for you've learned the secret, I believe. 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. A letter came from Aunt Carrol, and Mrs. March's face was+illuminated to such a degree, when she read it, that Jo and Beth, who+were with her, demanded what the glad tidings were.++"Aunt Carrol is going abroad next month, and wants--"++"Me to go with her!" burst in Jo, flying out of her chair in an+uncontrollable rapture.++"No, dear, not you; it's Amy."++"O 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 is partly your own fault, dear. When Aunt spoke to me the+other day, she regretted your blunt manners and too independent spirit;+and here she writes, as if quoting something you had said,--'I planned+at first to ask Jo; but as "favors burden her," and she "hates French,"+I think I won't venture to invite her. 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,--++"I wish you could have gone, but there is no hope of it this time; so+try to bear it cheerfully, and don't sadden Amy's pleasure by reproaches+or regrets."++"I'll try," said Jo, winking hard, as she knelt down to pick up the+basket she had joyfully upset. "I'll take a leaf out of her book, and+try not only to seem glad, but to be so, and not grudge her one minute+of happiness; but it won't be easy, for it is a dreadful+disappointment;" and poor Jo bedewed the little fat pincushion she held+with several very bitter tears.++"Jo, dear, I'm very selfish, but I couldn't spare you, and I'm glad you+are not going quite yet," whispered Beth, embracing her, basket and all,+with such a clinging touch and loving face, that Jo felt comforted in+spite of the sharp regret that made her want to box her own ears, and+humbly beg Aunt Carrol to burden her with this favor, and see how+gratefully she would bear it.++By the time Amy came in, Jo was able to take her part in the family+jubilation; not quite as heartily as usual, perhaps, but without+repinings at Amy's good fortune. The young lady herself received the+news as tidings of great joy, went about in a solemn sort of rapture,+and began to sort her colors and pack her pencils that evening, leaving+such trifles as clothes, money, and passports to those less absorbed in+visions of art than herself.++"It isn't a mere pleasure trip to me, girls," she said impressively, as+she scraped her best palette. "It will decide my career; for if I have+any genius, I shall find it out in Rome, and will do something to prove+it."++"Suppose you haven't?" said Jo, sewing away, with red eyes, at the new+collars which were to be handed over to Amy.++"Then I shall come home and teach drawing for my living," replied the+aspirant for fame, with philosophic composure; but she made a wry face+at the prospect, and scratched away at her palette as if bent on+vigorous measures before she gave up her hopes.++"No, you won't; you hate hard work, and you'll marry some rich man, and+come home to sit in the lap of luxury all your days," said Jo.++"Your predictions sometimes come to pass, but I don't believe that one+will. I'm sure I wish it would, for if I can't be an artist myself, I+should like to be able to help those who are," said Amy, smiling, as if+the part of Lady Bountiful would suit her better than that of a poor+drawing-teacher.++"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!"++"Well, in a year or two I'll send for you, and we'll dig in the Forum+for relics, and carry out all the plans we've made so many times."++"Thank you; I'll remind you of your promise when that joyful day comes,+if it ever does," returned Jo, accepting the vague but magnificent offer+as gratefully as she could.++There was not much time for preparation, and the house was in a ferment+till Amy was off. Jo bore up very well till the last flutter of blue+ribbon vanished, when she retired to her refuge, the garret, and cried+till she couldn't cry any more. Amy likewise bore up stoutly till the+steamer sailed; then, just as the gangway was about to be withdrawn, it+suddenly came over her that a whole ocean was soon to roll between her+and those who loved her best, and she clung to Laurie, the last+lingerer, saying with a sob,--++"Oh, take care of them for me; and if anything should happen--"++"I will, dear, I will; and if anything happens, I'll come and comfort+you," whispered Laurie, little dreaming that he would be called upon to+keep his word.++So Amy sailed away to find the old world, which is always new and+beautiful to young eyes, while her father and friend watched her from+the shore, fervently hoping that none but gentle fortunes would befall+the happy-hearted girl, who waved her hand to them till they could see+nothing but the summer sunshine dazzling on the sea.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Flo and I ordered a hansom-cab]++ XXXI.++ 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! I never can, so I'll only give you bits+ out of my note-book, for I've done nothing but sketch and+ scribble since I started.++ "I sent a line from Halifax, when I felt pretty miserable, but+ after that I got on delightfully, seldom ill, on deck all day,+ with plenty of pleasant people to amuse me. Every one was very+ kind to me, especially the officers. Don't laugh, Jo; gentlemen+ really are very necessary aboard ship, to hold on to, or to wait+ upon one; and as they have nothing to do, it's a mercy to make+ them useful, otherwise they would smoke themselves to death, I'm+ afraid.++ [Illustration: "Every one was very kind, especially the+ officers."--Page 378.]++ "Aunt and Flo were poorly all the way, and liked to be let+ alone, so when I had done what I could for them, I went and+ enjoyed myself. 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; as for Jo, she+ would have gone up and sat on the main-top jib, or whatever the+ high thing is called, made friends with the engineers, and+ tooted on the captain's speaking-trumpet, she'd have been in+ such a state of rapture.++ "It was all heavenly, but I was glad to see the Irish coast, and+ found it very lovely, so green and sunny, with brown cabins here+ and there, ruins on some of the hills, and gentlemen's+ country-seats in the valleys, with deer feeding in the parks. It+ was early in the morning, but I didn't regret getting up to see+ it, for the bay was full of little boats, the shore _so_+ picturesque, and a rosy sky overhead. I never shall forget it.++ "At Queenstown one of my new acquaintances left us,--Mr.+ Lennox,--and when I said something about the Lakes of Killarney,+ he sighed and sung, with a look at me,--++ 'Oh, have you e'er heard of Kate Kearney?+ She lives on the banks of Killarney;+ From the glance of her eye,+ Shun danger and fly,+ For fatal's the glance 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. Uncle rushed out and bought a+ pair of dog-skin gloves, some ugly, thick shoes, and an+ umbrella, and got shaved _à la_ mutton-chop, the first thing.+ Then he flattered himself that he looked like a true Briton; but+ the first time he had the mud cleaned off his shoes, the little+ bootblack knew that an American stood in them, and said, with a+ grin, 'There yer har, sir. I've give 'em the latest Yankee+ shine.' It amused uncle immensely. Oh, I _must_ tell you what+ that absurd Lennox did! He got his friend Ward, who came on with+ us, to order a bouquet for me, and the first thing I saw in my+ room was a lovely one, with 'Robert Lennox's compliments,' on+ the card. Wasn't that fun, girls? I like travelling.++ "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. The farmhouses were my delight; with thatched roofs,+ ivy up to the eaves, latticed windows, and stout women with rosy+ children at the doors. The very cattle looked more tranquil than+ ours, as they stood knee-deep in clover, and the hens had a+ contented cluck, as if they never got nervous, like Yankee+ biddies. Such perfect color I never saw,--the grass so green,+ sky so blue, grain so yellow, woods so dark,--I was in a rapture+ all the way. So was Flo; and we kept bouncing from one side to+ the other, trying to see everything while we were whisking along+ at the rate of sixty miles an hour. Aunt was tired and went to+ sleep, but uncle read his guide-book, 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 some time,+ 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 cross-beam 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. 'Geese, young+ ladies,' returns uncle, in a tone that keeps us quiet till Flo+ settles down to enjoy 'The Flirtations of Capt. Cavendish,' and+ I have the scenery all to myself.++ "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?++ "Flo and I, for the fun of it, ordered a hansom cab, while aunt+ and uncle were out, and went for a drive, though we learned+ afterward that it wasn't the thing for young ladies to ride in+ them alone. It was so droll! for when we were shut in by the+ wooden apron, the man drove so fast that Flo was frightened, and+ told me to stop him. But he was up outside behind somewhere, and+ I couldn't get at him. He didn't hear me call, nor see me flap+ my parasol in front, and there we were, quite helpless, rattling+ away, and whirling around corners at a break-neck pace. At last,+ in my despair, I saw a little door in the roof, and on poking it+ open, a red eye appeared, and a beery voice said,--++ "'Now then, mum?'++ "I gave my order as soberly as I could, and slamming down the+ door, with an 'Aye, aye, mum,' the man made his horse walk, as+ if going to a funeral. I poked again, and said, 'A little+ faster;' then off he went, helter-skelter, as before, and we+ resigned ourselves to our fate.++ "To-day 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! It was as good as Punch, for there were fat dowagers+ rolling about in their red and yellow coaches, with gorgeous+ Jeameses in silk stockings and velvet coats, up behind, and+ powdered coachmen in front. Smart maids, with the rosiest+ children I ever saw; handsome girls, looking half asleep;+ dandies, in queer English hats and lavender kids, lounging+ about, and tall soldiers, in short red jackets and muffin caps+ stuck on one side, looking so funny I longed to sketch them.++ "Rotten Row means '_Route de Roi_,' or the king's way; but now+ it's more like a riding-school than anything else. The horses+ are splendid, and the men, especially the grooms, ride well; but+ the women are stiff, and bounce, which isn't according to our+ rules. I longed to show them a tearing American gallop, for they+ trotted solemnly up and down, in their scant habits and high+ hats, looking like the women in a toy Noah's Ark. Every one+ rides,--old men, stout ladies, little children,--and the young+ folks do a deal of flirting here; I saw a pair exchange+ rosebuds, for it's the thing to wear one in the button-hole, and+ I thought it rather a nice little idea.++ "In the P.M. to Westminster Abbey; but don't expect me to+ describe it, that's impossible--so I'll only say it was sublime!+ This evening we are going to see Fechter, which will be an+ appropriate end to the happiest day of my life.++ "MIDNIGHT.++ "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. Both are tall fellows, with whiskers;+ Fred handsome in the English style, and Frank much better, for+ he only limps slightly, and uses no crutches. They had heard+ from Laurie where we were to be, and came to ask us to their+ house; but uncle won't go, so we shall return the call, and see+ them as we can. They went to the theatre with us, and we did+ have _such_ a good time, for Frank devoted himself to Flo, and+ Fred and I talked over past, present, and future fun as if we+ had known each other all our days. 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 really feel like a dissipated London fine lady, writing+ here so late, with my room full of pretty things, and my head a+ jumble of parks, theatres, new gowns, and gallant creatures who+ say 'Ah!' and twirl their blond mustaches with the true English+ lordliness. I long to see you all, and in spite of my nonsense+ am, as ever, your loving+ AMY."+++ "DEAR GIRLS,-- "PARIS.++ "In my last I told you about our London visit,--how kind the+ Vaughns were, and what pleasant parties they made for us. I+ enjoyed the trips to Hampton Court and the Kensington Museum+ more than anything else,--for at Hampton I saw Raphael's+ cartoons, and, at the Museum, rooms full of pictures by Turner,+ Lawrence, Reynolds, Hogarth, and the other great creatures. The+ day in Richmond Park was charming, for we had a regular English+ picnic, and I had more splendid oaks and groups of deer than I+ could copy; also heard a nightingale, and saw larks go up. We+ 'did' London to our hearts' content, thanks to Fred and Frank,+ and were sorry to go away; for, though English people are slow+ to take you in, when they once make up their minds to do it they+ cannot be outdone in hospitality, _I_ think. The Vaughns hope to+ meet us in Rome next winter, and I shall be dreadfully+ disappointed if they don't, for Grace and I are great friends,+ and the boys very nice fellows,--especially Fred.++ "Well, we were hardly settled here, when he turned up again,+ saying he had come for a holiday, and was going to Switzerland.+ Aunt looked sober at first, but he was so cool about it she+ couldn't say a word; and now we get on nicely, and are very glad+ he came, for he speaks French like a native, and I don't know+ what we should do without him. Uncle doesn't know ten words, and+ insists on talking English very loud, as if that would make+ people understand him. Aunt's pronunciation is old-fashioned,+ and Flo and I, though we flattered ourselves that we knew a good+ deal, find we don't, and are very grateful to have Fred do the+ '_parley vooing_,' as uncle calls it.++ "Such delightful times as we are having! sight-seeing from+ morning till night, stopping for nice lunches in the gay+ _cafés_, and meeting with all sorts of droll adventures. Rainy+ days I spend in the Louvre, revelling in pictures. Jo would turn+ up her naughty nose at some of the finest, because she has no+ soul for art; but _I_ have, and I'm cultivating eye and taste as+ fast as I can. She would like the relics of great people better,+ for I've seen her Napoleon's cocked hat and gray coat, his+ baby's cradle and his old toothbrush; also Marie Antoinette's+ little shoe, the ring of Saint Denis, Charlemagne's sword, and+ many other interesting things. 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 the Champs Elysées are _très magnifique_.+ I've seen the imperial family several times,--the emperor an+ ugly, hard-looking man, the empress pale and pretty, but dressed+ in bad taste, _I_ thought,--purple dress, green hat, and yellow+ gloves. Little Nap. is a handsome boy, who sits chatting to his+ tutor, and kisses his hand to the people as he passes in his+ four-horse barouche, with postilions in red satin jackets, and a+ mounted guard before and behind.++ [Illustration: I've seen the imperial family several times]++ "We often walk in the Tuileries Gardens, for they are lovely,+ though the antique Luxembourg Gardens suit me better. Père la+ Chaise is very curious, for many of the tombs are like small+ rooms, and, looking in, one sees a table, with images or+ pictures of the dead, and chairs for the mourners to sit in+ when they come to lament. That is so Frenchy.++ "Our rooms are on the Rue de Rivoli, and, sitting in 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 wish+ Fred was dark, for I don't fancy light men; however, the Vaughns+ are very rich, and come of an excellent family, so I won't find+ fault with their yellow hair, as my own is yellower.++ "Next week we are off to Germany and Switzerland; and, as we+ shall travel fast, I shall only be able to give you hasty+ letters. 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 sketch-book, will give+ you a better idea of my tour than these scribbles.++ "Adieu; I embrace you tenderly. VOTRE AMIE."+++ "MY DEAR MAMMA,-- "HEIDELBERG.++ "Having a quiet hour before we leave for Berne, I'll try to tell+ you what has happened, for some of it is very important, as you+ will see.++ "The sail up the Rhine was perfect, and I just sat and enjoyed+ it with all my might. Get father's old guide-books, and read+ about it; I haven't words beautiful enough to describe it. At+ Coblentz we had a lovely time, for some students from Bonn, with+ whom Fred got acquainted on the boat, gave us a serenade. 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. It was the most romantic thing+ I ever saw,--the river, the bridge of boats, the great fortress+ opposite, moonlight everywhere, and music fit to melt a heart of+ stone.++ "When they were done we threw down some flowers, and saw them+ scramble for them, kiss their hands to the invisible ladies, and+ go laughing away,--to smoke and drink beer, I suppose. Next+ morning Fred showed me one of the crumpled flowers in his+ vest-pocket, and looked very sentimental. I laughed at him, and+ said I didn't throw it, but Flo, which seemed to disgust him,+ for he tossed it out of the window, and turned sensible again.+ 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 some one 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. Frankfort 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 every one 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 is+ just gone. He has been so kind and jolly that we all got quite+ fond of him; I never thought of anything but a travelling+ 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+ don't try to make them, and it worries me if I don't care for+ them, though Jo says I haven't got any heart. Now I know mother+ will shake her head, and the girls say, 'Oh, the mercenary+ little wretch!' but I've made up my mind, and, if Fred asks me,+ I shall accept him, though I'm not madly in love. 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. I don't think his family would object, and I should+ be very happy, for they are all kind, well-bred, generous+ people, and they like me. Fred, as the eldest twin, will have+ the estate, I suppose, and such a splendid one as it is! A city+ house in a fashionable street, not so showy as our big houses,+ but twice as comfortable, and full of solid luxury, such as+ English people believe in. I like it, for it's genuine. I've+ seen the plate, the family jewels, the old servants, and+ pictures of the country place, with its park, great house,+ lovely grounds, and fine horses. 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 cosey all round.+ I wouldn't marry a man I hated or despised. You may be sure of+ that; and, though Fred is not my model hero, he does very well,+ and, in time, I should get fond enough of him if he was very+ fond of me, and let me do just as I liked. 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; he never goes with Flo, always gets on my side+ of the carriage, table, or promenade, looks sentimental when we+ are alone, and frowns at any one else who ventures to speak to+ me. Yesterday, at dinner, when an Austrian officer stared at us,+ and then said something to his friend,--a rakish-looking+ baron,--about '_ein wonderschönes Blöndchen_,' Fred looked as+ fierce as a lion, and cut his meat so savagely, it nearly flew+ off his plate. He isn't one of the cool, stiff Englishmen, but+ is rather peppery, for he has Scotch blood in him, as one might+ guess from his bonnie blue eyes.++ "Well, last evening we went up to the castle about sunset,--at+ least all of us but Fred, who was to meet us there, after going+ to the Post Restante for letters. We had a charming time poking+ about the ruins, the vaults where the monster tun is, and the+ beautiful gardens made by the elector, long ago, for his English+ wife. I liked the great terrace best, for the view was divine;+ so, while the rest went to see the rooms inside, I sat there+ trying to sketch the gray stone lion's head on the wall, with+ scarlet woodbine sprays hanging round it. I felt as if I'd got+ into a romance, sitting there, watching the Neckar rolling+ through the valley, listening to the music of the Austrian band+ below, and waiting for my lover, like a real story-book girl. 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.++[Illustration: Trying to sketch the gray-stone lion's head on the wall]++ "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, in the night train, and only+ had time to say good-by. I was very sorry for him, and+ disappointed for myself, but only for a minute, because he+ said, as he shook hands,--and said it in a way that I could not+ mistake,--'I shall soon come back; you won't forget me, Amy?'++ "I didn't promise, but I looked at him, and he seemed satisfied,+ and there was no time for anything but messages and good-byes,+ for he was off in an hour, and we all miss him very much. I know+ he wanted to speak, but I think, from something he once hinted,+ that he had promised his father not to do anything of the sort+ yet awhile, for he is a rash boy, and the old gentleman dreads a+ foreign daughter-in-law. We shall soon meet in Rome; and then,+ if I don't change my mind, I'll say 'Yes, thank you,' when he+ says 'Will you, please?'++ "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."+++++ XXXII.++ 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. When she+sings, the songs are always sad ones, and now and then I see a look in+her face that I don't understand. 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 it long."++Mrs. March glanced at Jo as she spoke, but the face opposite seemed+quite unconscious of any secret disquietude but Beth's; and, after+sewing thoughtfully for a minute, Jo said,--++"I think she is growing up, and so begins to dream dreams, and have+hopes and fears and fidgets, without knowing why, or being able to+explain them. 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.++"Can't be helped, Marmee, so you must resign yourself to all sorts of+worries, and let your birds hop out of the nest, one by one. I promise+never to hop very far, if that is any comfort to you."++"It is 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 splendid in fine works, and I'm not; but I+feel in my element when all the carpets are to be taken up, or half the+family fall sick at once. Amy is distinguishing herself abroad; but if+anything is amiss at home, I'm your man."++"I leave Beth to your hands, then, for she will open her tender little+heart to her Jo sooner than to any one else. Be very kind, and don't let+her think any one 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. They are not+very wearing, so they'll keep;" and Jo stitched away, with a wise nod+which set her mother's heart at rest about her, for the present at+least.++While apparently absorbed in her own affairs, Jo watched Beth; and,+after many conflicting conjectures, finally settled upon one which+seemed to explain the change in her. 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. Sitting at the window, Beth's+work often dropped into her lap, and she leaned her head upon her hand,+in a dejected attitude, while her eyes rested on the dull, autumnal+landscape. Suddenly some one passed below, whistling like an operatic+blackbird, and a voice called out,--++ [Illustration: She leaned her head upon her hands]++"All serene! Coming in to-night."++Beth started, leaned forward, smiled and nodded, watched the passer-by+till his quick tramp died away, then said softly, as if to herself,--++"How strong and well and happy that dear boy looks."++"Hum!" said Jo, still intent upon her sister's face; for the bright+color faded as quickly as it came, the smile vanished, and presently a+tear lay shining on the window-ledge. Beth whisked it off, and glanced+apprehensively at Jo; but she was scratching away at a tremendous rate,+apparently engrossed in "Olympia's Oath." The instant Beth turned, Jo+began her watch again, saw Beth's hand go quietly to her eyes more than+once, 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.++"Mercy on me, Beth loves Laurie!" she said, sitting down in her own+room, pale with the shock of the discovery which she believed she had+just made. "I never dreamt of such a thing. What _will_ mother say? I+wonder if he--" 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." Jo thought intently for+a minute, with her eyes fixed on the picture; then she smoothed out her+wrinkled forehead, and said, with a decided nod at the face opposite,+"No, thank you, sir; you're very charming, but you've no more stability+than a weathercock; so you needn't write touching notes, and smile in+that insinuating way, for it won't do a bit of good, and I won't have+it."++Then she sighed, and fell into a reverie, from which she did not wake+till the early twilight sent her down to take new observations, which+only confirmed her suspicion. Though Laurie flirted with Amy and joked+with Jo, his manner to Beth had always been peculiarly kind and gentle,+but so was everybody's; therefore, no one thought of imagining that he+cared more for her than for the others. Indeed, a general impression had+prevailed in the family, of late, that "our boy" was getting fonder than+ever of Jo, who, however, wouldn't hear a word upon the subject, and+scolded violently if any one dared to suggest it. If they had known the+various tender passages of the past year, or rather attempts at tender+passages which had been nipped in the bud, they would have had the+immense satisfaction of saying, "I told you so." But Jo hated+"philandering," and wouldn't allow it, always having a joke or a smile+ready at the least sign of impending danger.++When Laurie first went to college, he fell in love about once a month;+but these small flames were as brief as ardent, did no damage, and much+amused Jo, who took great interest in the alternations of hope, despair,+and resignation, which were confided to her in their weekly+conferences. But there came a time when Laurie ceased to worship at many+shrines, hinted darkly at one all-absorbing passion, and indulged+occasionally in Byronic fits of gloom. Then he avoided the tender+subject altogether, wrote philosophical notes to Jo, turned studious,+and gave out that he was going to "dig," intending to graduate in a+blaze of glory. This suited the young lady better than twilight+confidences, tender pressures of the hand, and eloquent glances of the+eye; for with Jo, brain developed earlier than heart, and she preferred+imaginary heroes to real ones, because, when tired of them, the former+could be shut up in the tin-kitchen till called for, and the latter were+less manageable.++Things were in this state when the grand discovery was made, and Jo+watched Laurie that night as she had never done before. If she had not+got the new idea into her head, she would have seen nothing unusual in+the fact that Beth was very quiet, and Laurie very kind to her. But+having given the rein to her lively fancy, it galloped away with her at+a great pace; and common sense, being rather weakened by a long course+of romance writing, did not come to the rescue. As usual, Beth lay on+the sofa, and Laurie sat in a low chair close by, amusing her with all+sorts of gossip; for she depended on her weekly "spin," and he never+disappointed her. But that evening, Jo fancied that Beth's eyes rested+on the lively, dark face beside her with peculiar pleasure, and that she+listened with intense interest to an account of some exciting+cricket-match, though the phrases, "caught off a tice," "stumped off his+ground," and "the leg hit for three," were as intelligible to her as+Sanscrit. She also fancied, having set her heart upon seeing it, that+she saw a certain increase of gentleness in Laurie's manner, that he+dropped his voice now and then, laughed less than usual, was a little+absent-minded, and settled the afghan over Beth's feet with an assiduity+that was really almost tender.++"Who knows? stranger things have happened," thought Jo, as she fussed+about the room. "She will make quite an angel of him, and he will make+life delightfully easy and pleasant for the dear, if they only love each+other. I don't see how he can help it; and I do believe he would if the+rest of us were out of the way."++As every one _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.++Now, the old sofa was a regular patriarch of a sofa,--long, broad,+well-cushioned, and low; a trifle shabby, as well it might be, for the+girls had slept and sprawled on it as babies, fished over the back, rode+on the arms, and had menageries under it as children, and rested tired+heads, dreamed dreams, and listened to tender talk on it as young women.+They all loved it, for it was a family refuge, and one corner had always+been Jo's favorite lounging-place. Among the many pillows that adorned+the venerable couch was one, hard, round, covered with prickly+horsehair, and furnished with a knobby button at each end; this+repulsive pillow was her especial property, being used as a weapon of+defence, a barricade, or a stern preventive of too much slumber.++Laurie knew this pillow well, and had cause to regard it with deep+aversion, having been unmercifully pummelled with it in former days,+when romping was allowed, and now frequently debarred by it from taking+the seat he most coveted, next to Jo in the sofa corner. If "the+sausage" as they called it, stood on end, it was a sign that he might+approach and repose; but if it lay flat across the sofa, woe to the man,+woman, or child who dared disturb it! That evening Jo forgot to+barricade her corner, and had not been in her seat five minutes, before+a massive form appeared beside her, and, with both arms spread over the+sofa-back, both long legs stretched out before him, Laurie exclaimed,+with a sigh of satisfaction,--++"Now, _this_ is filling at the price."++ [Illustration: Now, this is filling at the price]++"No slang," snapped Jo, slamming down the pillow. But it was too late,+there was no room for it; and, coasting on to the floor, it disappeared+in a most mysterious manner.++"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."++"No, she's not to be bothered with me; but you like that sort of thing,+unless you've suddenly lost your taste for it. Have you? Do you hate+your boy, and want to fire pillows at him?"++Anything more wheedlesome than that touching appeal was seldom heard,+but Jo quenched "her boy" by turning on him with the stern query,--++"How many bouquets have you sent Miss Randal this week?"++"Not one, upon my word. She's engaged. Now then."++"I'm glad of it; that's one of your foolish extravagances,--sending+flowers and things to girls for whom you don't care two pins," continued+Jo reprovingly.++"Sensible girls, for whom I do care whole papers of pins, won't let me+send them 'flowers and things,' so what can I do? My feelings must have+a _went_."++"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.' As I can't, I'll+merely say that I don't see any harm in that pleasant little game, if+all parties understand that it's only play."++"Well, it does look pleasant, but I can't learn how it's done. I've+tried, because one feels awkward in company, not to do as everybody else+is doing; but I don't seem to get on," said Jo, forgetting to play+Mentor.++"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+suppose it's natural to some people to please without trying, and others+to always say and do the wrong thing in the wrong place."++"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. They don't mean any harm, I'm sure;+but if they knew how we fellows talked about them afterward, they'd mend+their ways, I fancy."++"They do the same; and, as their tongues are the sharpest, you fellows+get the worst of it, for you are as silly as they, every bit. If you+behaved properly, they would; but, knowing you like their nonsense, they+keep it up, and then you blame 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 gentlemen. 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,--++ "'Out upon you, fie upon you,+ Bold-faced jig!'"++It was impossible to help laughing at the funny conflict between+Laurie's chivalrous reluctance to speak ill of womankind, and his very+natural dislike of the unfeminine folly of which fashionable society+showed him many samples. Jo knew that "young Laurence" was regarded as a+most eligible _parti_ by worldly mammas, was much smiled upon by their+daughters, and flattered enough by ladies of all ages to make a coxcomb+of him; so she watched him rather jealously, fearing he would be spoilt,+and rejoiced more than she confessed to find that he still believed in+modest girls. Returning suddenly to her admonitory tone, she said,+dropping her voice, "If you _must_ have a 'went,' Teddy, go and devote+yourself to one of the 'pretty, modest girls' whom you do respect, and+not waste your time with the silly ones."++"You really advise it?" and Laurie looked at her with an odd mixture of+anxiety and merriment in his face.++"Yes, I do; but you'd better wait till you are through college, on the+whole, and be fitting yourself for the place meantime. You're not half+good enough for--well, whoever the modest girl maybe," and Jo looked a+little queer likewise, for a name had almost escaped her.++"That I'm not!" acquiesced Laurie, with an expression of humility quite+new to him, as he dropped his eyes, and absently wound Jo's apron-tassel+round his finger.++"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.++He fled at once, and the minute it was well "Up with the bonnets of+bonnie Dundee," she slipped away, to return no more till the young+gentleman had departed in high dudgeon.++ [Illustration: Up with the Bonnets of Bonnie Dundee]++Jo lay long awake that night, and was just dropping off when the sound+of a stifled sob made her fly to Beth's bedside, with the anxious+inquiry, "What is it, dear?"++"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?"++Beth did not answer the first question; but in the dark one hand went+involuntarily to her heart, as if the pain were there; with the other+she held Jo fast, whispering eagerly, "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."++Jo obeyed; but as her hand went softly to and fro across Beth's hot+forehead and wet eyelids, her heart was very full, and she longed to+speak. But young as she was, Jo had learned that hearts, like flowers,+cannot be rudely handled, but must open naturally; so, though she+believed she knew the cause of Beth's new pain, she only said, in her+tenderest tone, "Does anything trouble you, deary?"++"Yes, Jo," after a long pause.++"Wouldn't it comfort you to tell me what it is?"++"Not now, not yet."++"Then I won't ask; but remember, Bethy, that mother and Jo are always+glad to hear and help you, if they can."++"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."++So cheek to cheek they fell asleep, and on the morrow Beth seemed quite+herself again; for at eighteen, neither heads nor hearts ache long, and+a loving word can medicine most ills.++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 alone 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. I brood too much over my own small affairs, and need stirring up,+so, as I can be spared this winter, I'd like to hop a little way, and+try my wings."++"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.+March looked surprised, but not displeased.++"It's not exactly going out to service; for Mrs. Kirke is your+friend,--the kindest soul that ever lived,--and would make things+pleasant for me, I know. 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; but your writing?"++"All the better for the change. I shall see and hear new things, get new+ideas, and, even if I haven't much time there, I shall bring home+quantities of material for my rubbish."++"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."++"Then you don't care for him in the way it is evident he begins to care+for you?" and Mrs. March looked anxious as she put the question.++"Mercy, no! I love the dear boy, as I always have, and am immensely+proud of him; but as for anything more, it's out of the question."++"I'm glad of that, Jo."++"Why, please?"++"Because, dear, I don't think you suited to one another. As friends you+are very happy, and your frequent quarrels soon blow over; but I fear+you would both rebel if you were mated for life. You are too much alike+and too fond of freedom, not to mention hot tempers and strong wills, to+get on happily together, in a relation which needs infinite patience and+forbearance, as well as love."++"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. It would trouble me sadly+to make him unhappy; for I couldn't fall in love with the dear old+fellow merely out of gratitude, could I?"++"You are sure of his feeling for you?"++The color deepened in Jo's cheeks, as she answered, with the look of+mingled pleasure, pride, and pain which young girls wear when speaking+of first lovers,--++"I'm afraid it is so, mother; 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."++Jo looked relieved, and, after a pause, said, smiling, "How Mrs. Moffat+would wonder at your want of management, if she knew; and how she will+rejoice that Annie still may hope."++"Ah, Jo, mothers may differ in their management, but the hope is the+same in all,--the desire to see their children happy. 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.++Mrs. March shook her head, and did not take so romantic a view of the+case, but looked grave, and repeated her opinion that, for Laurie's+sake, Jo should go away for a time.++"Let us say nothing about it to him till the plan is settled; then I'll+run away before he can collect his wits and be tragical. 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 love-lornity."++Jo spoke hopefully, but could not rid herself of the foreboding fear+that this "little trial" would be harder than the others, and that+Laurie would not get over his "love-lornity" as easily as heretofore.++The plan was talked over in a family council, and agreed upon; for Mrs.+Kirke gladly accepted Jo, and promised to make a pleasant home for her.+The teaching would render her independent; and such leisure as she got+might be made profitable by writing, while the new scenes and society+would be both useful and agreeable. Jo liked the prospect and was eager+to be gone, for the home-nest was growing too narrow for her restless+nature and adventurous spirit. When all was settled, with fear and+trembling she told Laurie; but to her surprise he took it very quietly.+He had been graver than usual of late, but very pleasant; and, when+jokingly accused of turning over a new leaf, he answered soberly, "So I+am; and I mean this one shall stay turned."++Jo was very much relieved that one of his virtuous fits should come on+just then, and made her preparations with a lightened heart,--for Beth+seemed more cheerful,--and hoped she was doing the best for all.++"One thing I leave to 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."++"It won't hurt him; so remember, I leave him in your charge, to plague,+pet, and keep in order."++"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."+++++ [Illustration: I amused myself by dropping gingerbread nuts over the+ seat]++ XXXIII.++ JO'S JOURNAL.+++ "NEW YORK, November.++ "DEAR MARMEE AND BETH,--++ "I'm going to write you a regular volume, for I've got heaps to+ tell, though I'm not a fine young lady travelling on the+ continent. When I lost sight of father's dear old face, I felt a+ trifle blue, and might have shed a briny drop or two, if an+ Irish lady with four small children, all crying more or less,+ hadn't diverted my mind; for I amused myself by dropping+ gingerbread nuts over the seat every time they opened their+ mouths to roar.++ "Soon the sun came out, and taking it as a good omen, I cleared+ up likewise, and enjoyed my journey with all my heart.++ "Mrs. Kirke welcomed me so kindly I felt at home at once, even+ in that big house full of strangers. She gave me a funny little+ sky-parlor--all she had; but there is a stove in it, and a nice+ table in a sunny window, so I can sit here and write whenever I+ like. A fine view and a church-tower opposite atone for the many+ stairs, and I took a fancy to my den on the spot. The nursery,+ where I am to teach and sew, is a pleasant room next Mrs.+ Kirke's private parlor, and the two little girls are pretty+ children,--rather spoilt, I fancy, but they took to me after+ telling them 'The Seven Bad Pigs;' and I've no doubt I shall+ make a model governess.++ "I am to have my meals with the children, if I prefer it to the+ great table, and for the present I do, for I _am_ bashful,+ though no one will believe it.++ "'Now, my dear, make yourself at home,' said Mrs. K. in her+ motherly way; 'I'm on the drive from morning to night, as you+ may suppose with such a family; but a great anxiety will be off+ my mind if I know the children are safe with you. 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+ flights are very long in this tall house, and as I stood waiting+ at the head of the third one for a little servant girl to lumber+ up, I saw a gentleman come along behind her, take the heavy hod+ of coal out of her hand, carry it all the way up, put it down at+ a door near by, and walk away, saying, with a kind nod and a+ foreign accent,--++ "'It goes better so. 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. When I mentioned it to Mrs. K., that+ evening, she laughed, and said,--++ "'That must have been Professor Bhaer; he's always doing things+ of that sort.'++ "Mrs. K. told me he was from Berlin; very learned and good, but+ poor as a church-mouse, and gives lessons to support himself and+ two little orphan nephews whom he is educating here, according+ to the wishes of his sister, who married an American. Not a very+ romantic story, but it interested me; and I was glad to hear+ that Mrs. K. lends him her parlor for some of his scholars.+ There is a glass door between it and the nursery, and I mean to+ peep at him, and then I'll tell you how he looks. He's almost+ forty, so it's no harm, Marmee.++ "After tea and a go-to-bed romp with the little girls, I+ attacked the big work-basket, and had a quiet evening chatting+ with my new friend. I shall keep a journal-letter, and send it+ once a week; so good-night, and more to-morrow."++ "_Tuesday Eve._++ "Had a lively time in my seminary, this morning, for the+ children acted like Sancho; and at one time I really thought I+ should shake them all round. Some good angel inspired me to try+ gymnastics, and I kept it up till they were glad to sit down and+ keep still. After luncheon, the girl took them out for a walk,+ and I went to my needle-work, like little Mabel, 'with a willing+ mind.' I was thanking my stars that I'd learned to make nice+ button-holes, when the parlor-door opened and shut, and some one+ began to hum,--++ 'Kennst du das land,'++ like a big bumble-bee. It was dreadfully improper, I know, but I+ couldn't resist the temptation; and lifting one end of the+ curtain before the glass door, I peeped in. Professor Bhaer was+ there; and while he arranged his books, I took a good look at+ him. A regular German,--rather stout, with brown hair tumbled+ all over his head, a bushy beard, good nose, the kindest eyes I+ ever saw, and a splendid big voice that does one's ears good,+ after our sharp or slipshod American gabble. His clothes were+ rusty, his hands were large, and he hadn't a really handsome+ feature in his face, except his beautiful teeth; yet I liked+ him, for he had a fine head; his linen was very nice, and he+ looked like a gentleman, though two buttons were off his coat,+ and there was a patch on one shoe. He looked sober in spite of+ his humming, till he went to the window to turn the hyacinth+ bulbs toward the sun, and stroke the cat, who received him like+ an old friend. Then he smiled; and when a tap came at the door,+ called out in a loud, brisk tone,--++ "'Herein!'++ "I was just going to run, when I caught sight of a morsel of a+ child carrying a big book, and stopped to see what was going on.++ "'Me wants my Bhaer,' said the mite, slamming down her book, and+ running to meet him.++ "'Thou shalt haf thy Bhaer; come, then, and take a goot hug from+ him, my Tina,' said the Professor, catching her up, with a+ laugh, and holding her so high over his head that she had to+ stoop her little face to kiss him.++ [Illustration: Thou shalt haf thy Bhaer]++ "'Now me mus tuddy my lessin,' went on the funny little thing;+ so he put her up at the table, opened the great dictionary she+ had brought, and gave her a paper and pencil, and she scribbled+ away, turning a leaf now and then, and passing her little fat+ finger down the page, as if finding a word, so soberly that I+ nearly betrayed myself by a laugh, while Mr. Bhaer stood+ stroking her pretty hair, with a fatherly look, that made me+ think she must be his own, though she looked more French than+ German.++ "Another knock and the appearance of two young ladies sent me+ back to my work, and there I virtuously remained through all the+ noise and gabbling that went on next door. One of the girls kept+ laughing affectedly, and saying 'Now Professor,' in a+ coquettish tone, and the other pronounced her German with an+ accent that must have made it hard for him to keep sober.++ "Both seemed to try his patience sorely; for more than once I+ heard him say emphatically, 'No, no, it is _not_ so; you haf not+ attend to what I say;' and once there was a loud rap, as if he+ struck the table with his book, followed by the despairing+ exclamation, 'Prut! 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. He seemed to have+ thrown himself back in his chair, tired out, and sat there with+ his eyes shut till the clock struck two, when he jumped up, put+ his books in his pocket, as if ready for another lesson, and,+ taking little Tina, who had fallen asleep on the sofa, in his+ arms, he carried her quietly away. I fancy he has a hard life of+ it.++ "Mrs. Kirke asked me if I wouldn't go down to the five o'clock+ dinner; and, feeling a little bit homesick, I thought I would,+ just to see what sort of people are under the same roof with me.+ So I made myself respectable, and tried to slip in behind Mrs.+ Kirke; but as she is short, and I'm tall, my efforts at+ concealment were rather a failure. She gave me a seat by her,+ and after my face cooled off, I plucked up courage, and looked+ about me. The long table was full, and every one intent on+ getting their dinner,--the gentlemen especially, who seemed to+ be eating on time, for they _bolted_ in every sense of the word,+ vanishing as soon as they were done. There was the usual+ assortment of young men absorbed in themselves; young couples+ absorbed in each other; married ladies in their babies, and old+ gentlemen in politics. I don't think I shall care to have much+ to do with any of them, except one sweet-faced maiden lady, who+ looks as if she had something in her.++ "Cast away at the very bottom of the table was the Professor,+ shouting answers to the questions of a very inquisitive, deaf+ old gentleman on one side, and talking philosophy with a+ Frenchman on the other. If Amy had been here, she'd have turned+ her back on him forever, because, sad to relate, he had a great+ appetite, and shovelled in his dinner in a manner which would+ have horrified 'her ladyship.' I didn't mind, for I like 'to see+ folks eat with a relish,' as Hannah says, and the poor man must+ have needed a deal of food after teaching idiots all day.++ "As I went upstairs after dinner, two of the young men were+ settling their hats before the hall-mirror, and I heard one say+ low to the other, 'Who's the new party?'++ "'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 felt angry at first, and then I didn't care, for a governess+ is as good as a clerk, and I've got sense, if I haven't style,+ which is more than some people have, judging from the remarks of+ the elegant beings who clattered away, smoking like bad+ chimneys. I hate ordinary people!"++ "_Thursday._++ "Yesterday was a quiet day, spent in teaching, sewing, and+ writing in my little room, which is very cosey, with a light and+ fire. 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 little thing+ has lost her heart to Mr. Bhaer, and follows him about the house+ like a dog whenever he is at home, which delights him, as he is+ very fond of children, though a 'bacheldore.' Kitty and Minnie+ Kirke likewise regard him with affection, and tell all sorts of+ stories about the plays he invents, the presents he brings, and+ the splendid tales he tells. The young men quiz him, it seems,+ call him Old Fritz, Lager Beer, Ursa Major, and make all manner+ of jokes on his name. But he enjoys it like a boy, Mrs. K. says,+ and takes it so good-naturedly that they all like him, in spite+ of his foreign ways.++ "The maiden lady is a Miss Norton,--rich, cultivated, and kind.+ She spoke to me at dinner to-day (for I went to table again,+ it's such fun to watch people), and asked me to come and see her+ at her room. She has fine books and pictures, knows interesting+ persons, and seems friendly; so I shall make myself agreeable,+ for I _do_ want to get into good society, only it isn't the same+ sort that Amy likes.++ "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.++ "I promised I would, and he departed; but it seems as if I was+ doomed to see a good deal of him, for to-day, as I passed his+ door on my way out, by accident I knocked against it with my+ umbrella. It flew open, and there he stood in his dressing gown,+ with a big blue sock on one hand, and a darning-needle in the+ other; he didn't seem at all ashamed of it, for when I explained+ and hurried on, he waved his hand, sock and all, saying in his+ loud, cheerful way,--++ [Illustration: He waved his hand, sock and all]++ "'You haf a fine day to make your walk. _Bon voyage,+ mademoiselle._'++ "I laughed all the way downstairs; but it was a little pathetic,+ also, to think of the poor man having to mend his own clothes.+ The German gentlemen embroider, I know; but darning hose is+ another thing, and not so pretty."++ "_Saturday._++ "Nothing has happened to write about, except a call on Miss+ Norton, who has a room full of lovely things, and who was very+ charming, for she showed me all her treasures, and asked me if I+ would sometimes go with her to lectures and concerts, as her+ escort,--if I enjoyed them. She put it as a favor, but I'm sure+ Mrs. Kirke has told her about us, and she does it out of+ kindness to me. I'm as proud as Lucifer, but such favors from+ such people don't burden me, and I accepted gratefully.++ "When I got back to the nursery there was such an uproar in the+ parlor that I looked in; and there was Mr. Bhaer down on his+ hands and knees, with Tina on his back, Kitty leading him with a+ jump-rope, and Minnie feeding two small boys with seed-cakes, as+ they roared and ramped in cages built of chairs.++ "'We are playing _nargerie_,' explained Kitty.++ "'Dis is mine effalunt!' added Tina, holding on by the+ Professor's hair.++ [Illustration: Dis is mine effalunt]++ "'Mamma always allows us to do what we like Saturday afternoon,+ when Franz and Emil come, doesn't she, Mr. Bhaer?' said+ Minnie.++ "The 'effalunt' sat up, looking as much in earnest as any of+ them, and said soberly to me,--++ "'I gif you my wort it is so. If we make too large a noise you+ shall say "Hush!" to us, and we go more softly.'++ "I promised to do so, but left the door open, and enjoyed the+ fun as much as they did,--for a more glorious frolic I never+ witnessed. They played tag and soldiers, danced and sung, and+ when it began to grow dark they all piled on to the sofa about+ the Professor, while he told charming fairy stories of the+ storks on the chimney-tops, and the little 'kobolds,' who ride+ the snow-flakes as they fall. I wish Americans were as simple+ and natural as Germans, don't you?++ "I'm so fond of writing, I should go spinning on forever if+ motives of economy didn't stop me, for though I've used thin+ paper and written fine, I tremble to think of the stamps this+ long letter will need. 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 every one.++ "From your faithful JO.++ "P. S. On reading over my letter it strikes me as rather Bhaery;+ but I am always interested in odd people, and I really had+ nothing else to write about. Bless you!"++ "DECEMBER.++ "MY PRECIOUS BETSEY,--++ "As this is to be a scribble-scrabble letter, I direct it to+ you, for it may amuse you, and give you some idea of my goings+ on; for, though quiet, they are rather amusing, for which, oh,+ be joyful! After what Amy would call Herculaneum efforts, in the+ way of mental and moral agriculture, my young ideas begin to+ shoot and my little twigs to bend as I could wish. They are not+ so interesting to me as Tina and the boys, but I do my duty by+ them, and they are fond of me. Franz and Emil are jolly little+ lads, quite after my own heart; for the mixture of German and+ American spirit in them produces a constant state of+ effervescence. Saturday afternoons are riotous times, whether+ spent in the house or out; for on pleasant days they all go to+ walk, like a seminary, with the Professor and myself to keep+ order; and then such fun!++ "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? Just come and help me+ put these books to rights, for I've turned everything upside+ down, trying to discover what he has done with the six new+ handkerchiefs I gave him not long ago.'++ "I went in, and while we worked I looked about me, for it was 'a+ den,' to be sure. Books and papers everywhere; a broken+ meerschaum, and an old flute over the mantel-piece as if done+ with; a ragged bird, without any tail, chirped on one+ window-seat, and a box of white mice adorned the other;+ half-finished boats and bits of string lay among the+ manuscripts; dirty little boots stood drying before the fire;+ and traces of the dearly beloved boys, for whom he makes a slave+ of himself, were to be seen all over the room. After a grand+ rummage three of the missing articles were found,--one over the+ bird-cage, one covered with ink, and a third burnt brown, having+ been used as a holder.++ "'Such a man!' laughed good-natured Mrs. K., 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 good-natured,+ he lets those boys ride over him rough-shod. I agreed to do his+ washing and mending, but he forgets to give out his things and I+ forget to look them over, so he comes to a sad pass sometimes.'++ "'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.'++ "So I have got his things in order, and knit heels into two+ pairs of the socks,--for they were boggled out of shape with his+ queer darns. Nothing was said, and I hoped he wouldn't find it+ out, but one day last week he caught me at it. Hearing the+ lessons he gives to others has interested and amused me so much+ that I took a fancy to learn; for Tina runs in and out, leaving+ the door open, and I can hear. I had been sitting near this+ door, finishing off the last sock, and trying to understand what+ he said to a new scholar, who is as stupid as I am. The girl had+ gone, and I thought he had also, it was so still, and I was+ busily gabbling over a verb, and rocking to and fro in a most+ absurd way, when a little crow made me look up, and there was+ Mr. Bhaer looking and laughing quietly, while he made signs to+ Tina not to betray him.++ "'So!' he said, as I stopped and stared like a goose, 'you peep+ at me, I peep at you, and that is not bad; but see, I am not+ pleasanting when I say, haf you a wish for German?'++ "'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. At efening I shall gif a little lesson with much+ gladness; for, look you, Mees Marsch, I haf this debt to pay,'+ and he pointed to my work. 'Yes, they say to one another, these+ so kind ladies, "he is a stupid old fellow; he will see not what+ we do; he will never opserve that his sock-heels go not in holes+ any more, he will think his buttons grow out new when they fall,+ and believe that strings make theirselves." Ah! but I haf an+ eye, and I see much. I haf a heart, and I feel the thanks for+ this. Come, a little lesson then and now, or no more good fairy+ works for me and mine.'++ "Of course I couldn't say anything after that, and as it really+ is a splendid opportunity, I made the bargain, and we began. I+ took four lessons, and then I stuck fast in a grammatical bog.+ The Professor was very patient with me, but it must have been+ torment to him, and now and then he'd look at me with such an+ expression of mild despair that it was a toss-up with me whether+ to laugh or cry. I tried both ways; and when it came to a sniff+ of utter mortification and woe, he just threw the grammar on to+ the floor, and marched out of the room. I felt myself disgraced+ and deserted forever, but didn't blame him a particle, and was+ scrambling my papers together, meaning to rush upstairs and+ shake myself hard, when in he came, as brisk and beaming as if+ I'd covered myself with glory.++ "'Now we shall try a new way. You and I will read these pleasant+ little Märchen together, and dig no more in that dry book, that+ goes in the corner for making us trouble.'++ "He spoke so kindly, and opened Hans Andersen's fairy tales so+ invitingly before me, that I was more ashamed than ever, and+ went at my lesson in a neck-or-nothing style that seemed to+ amuse him immensely. I forgot my bashfulness, and pegged away+ (no other word will express it) with all my might, tumbling over+ long words, pronouncing according to the inspiration of the+ minute, and doing my very best. When I finished reading my first+ page, and stopped for breath, he clapped his hands and cried+ out, in his hearty way, 'Das ist gute! 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. Fortunately the story was the 'Constant+ Tin Soldier,' which is droll, you know, so I could laugh,--and I+ did,--though I didn't understand half he read, for I couldn't+ help it, he was so earnest, I so excited, and the whole thing so+ comical.++ "After that we got on better, and now I read my lessons pretty+ well; for this way of studying suits me, and I can see that the+ grammar gets tucked into the tales and poetry as one gives pills+ in jelly. 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.++ "A Happy New Year to you all, my dearest family, which of course+ includes Mr. L. and a young man by the name of Teddy. 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. Your letter came in+ the morning, but you said nothing about a parcel, meaning it+ for a surprise; so I was disappointed, for I'd had a 'kind of a+ feeling' that you wouldn't forget me. I felt a little low in my+ mind, as I sat up in my room, after tea; and when the big,+ muddy, battered-looking bundle was brought to me, I just hugged+ it, and pranced. It was so _homey_ and refreshing, that I sat+ down on the floor and read and looked and ate and laughed and+ cried, in my usual absurd way. 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!++ [Illustration: I sat down upon the floor and read and looked and ate]++ "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. It is one he values much, and I've often admired+ it, set up in the place of honor, with his German Bible, Plato,+ Homer, and Milton; so you may imagine how I felt when he+ brought it down, without its cover, and showed me my name in+ it, 'from my friend Friedrich Bhaer.'++ "'You say often you wish a library: here I gif you one; for+ between these lids (he meant covers) is many books in one. Read+ him well, and he will help you much; for the study of character+ in this book will help you to read it in the world and paint it+ with your pen.'++ "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; it isn't+ pronounced either Bear or Beer, as people _will_ say it, but+ something between the two, as only Germans can give it. 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.'++ "Not having much money, or knowing what he'd like, I got several+ little things, and put them about the room, where he would find+ them unexpectedly. They were useful, pretty, or funny,--a new+ standish on his table, a little vase for his flower,--he always+ has one, or a bit of green in a glass, to keep him fresh, he+ says,--and a holder for his blower, so that he needn't burn up+ what Amy calls 'mouchoirs.' I made it like those Beth+ invented,--a big butterfly with a fat body, and black and yellow+ wings, worsted feelers, and bead eyes. It took his fancy+ immensely, and he put it on his mantel-piece as an article of+ _vertu_; so it was rather a failure after all. Poor as he is, he+ didn't forget a servant or a child in the house; and not a soul+ here, from the French laundry-woman to Miss Norton, forgot him.+ 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. No one knew me, for I disguised my voice, and+ no one dreamed of the silent, haughty Miss March (for they think+ I am very stiff and cool, most of them; and so I am to+ whipper-snappers) could dance and dress, and burst out into a+ 'nice derangement of epitaphs, like an allegory on the banks of+ the Nile.' I enjoyed it very much; and when we unmasked, it was+ fun to see them stare at me. I heard one of the young men tell+ another that he knew I'd been an actress; in fact, he thought he+ remembered seeing me at one of the minor theatres. 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.++ "I had a very happy New Year, after all; and when I thought it+ over in my room, I felt as if I was getting on a little in spite+ of my many failures; for I'm cheerful all the time now, work+ with a will, and take more interest in other people than I used+ to, which is satisfactory. Bless you all! Ever your loving++ JO."++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: In the presence of three gentlemen]++ XXXIV.++ A FRIEND.+++Though very happy in the social atmosphere about her, and very busy with+the daily work that earned her bread, and made it sweeter for the+effort, Jo still found time for literary labors. The purpose which now+took possession of her was a natural one to a poor and ambitious girl;+but the means she took to gain her end were not the best. She saw that+money conferred power: money and power, therefore, she resolved to have;+not to be used for herself alone, but for those whom she loved more than+self.++The dream of filling home with comforts, giving Beth everything she+wanted, from strawberries in winter to an organ in her bedroom; going+abroad herself, and always having _more_ than enough, so that she might+indulge in the luxury of charity, had been for years Jo's most cherished+castle in the air.++The prize-story experience had seemed to open a way which might, after+long travelling and much up-hill work lead to this delightful _château+en Espagne_. But the novel disaster quenched her courage for a time, for+public opinion is a giant which has frightened stouter-hearted Jacks on+bigger bean-stalks than hers. Like that immortal hero, she reposed+awhile after the first attempt, which resulted in a tumble, and the+least lovely of the giant's treasures, if I remember rightly. But the+"up again and take another" spirit was as strong in Jo as in Jack; so+she scrambled up, on the shady side this time, and got more booty, but+nearly left behind her what was far more precious than the money-bags.++She took to writing sensation stories; for in those dark ages, even+all-perfect America read rubbish. She told no one, but concocted a+"thrilling tale," and boldly carried it herself to Mr. Dashwood, editor+of the "Weekly Volcano." She had never read "Sartor Resartus," but she+had a womanly instinct that clothes possess an influence more powerful+over many than the worth of character or the magic of manners. So she+dressed herself in her best, and, trying to persuade herself that she+was neither excited nor nervous, bravely climbed two pairs of dark and+dirty stairs to find herself in a disorderly room, a cloud of+cigar-smoke, and the presence of three gentlemen, sitting with their+heels rather higher than their hats, which articles of dress none of+them took the trouble to remove on her appearance. Somewhat daunted by+this reception, Jo hesitated on the threshold, murmuring in much+embarrassment,--++"Excuse me, I was looking for the 'Weekly Volcano' office; I wished to+see Mr. Dashwood."++Down went the highest pair of heels, up rose the smokiest gentleman,+and, carefully cherishing his cigar between his fingers, he advanced,+with a nod, and a countenance expressive of nothing but sleep. Feeling+that she must get through the matter somehow, Jo produced her+manuscript, and, blushing redder and redder with each sentence,+blundered out fragments of the little speech carefully prepared for the+occasion.++"A friend of mine desired me to offer--a story--just as an+experiment--would like your opinion--be glad to write more if this+suits."++While she blushed and blundered, Mr. Dashwood had taken the manuscript,+and was turning over the leaves with a pair of rather dirty fingers, and+casting critical glances up and down the neat pages.++"Not a first attempt, I take it?" observing that the pages were+numbered, covered only on one side, and not tied up with a ribbon,--sure+sign of a novice.++"No, sir; she has had some experience, and got a prize for a tale in the+'Blarneystone Banner.'"++"Oh, did she?" and Mr. Dashwood gave Jo a quick look, which seemed to+take note of everything she had on, from the bow in her bonnet to the+buttons on her boots. "Well, you can leave it, if you like. We've more+of this sort of thing on hand than we know what to do with at present;+but I'll run my eye over it, and give you an answer next week."++Now, Jo did _not_ like to leave it, for Mr. Dashwood didn't suit her at+all; but, under the circumstances, there was nothing for her to do but+bow and walk away, looking particularly tall and dignified, as she was+apt to do when nettled or abashed. Just then she was both; for it was+perfectly evident, from the knowing glances exchanged among the+gentlemen, that her little fiction of "my friend" was considered a good+joke; and a laugh, produced by some inaudible remark of the editor, as+he closed the door, completed her discomfiture. Half resolving never to+return, she went home, and worked off her irritation by stitching+pinafores vigorously; and in an hour or two was cool enough to laugh+over the scene, and long for next week.++When she went again, Mr. Dashwood was alone, whereat she rejoiced; Mr.+Dashwood was much wider awake than before, which was agreeable; and Mr.+Dashwood was not too deeply absorbed in a cigar to remember his manners:+so the second interview was much more comfortable than the first.++"We'll take this" (editors never say I), "if you don't object to a few+alterations. It's too long, but omitting the passages I've marked will+make it just the right length," he said, in a business-like tone.++Jo hardly knew her own MS. again, so crumpled and underscored were its+pages and paragraphs; but, feeling as a tender parent might on being+asked to cut off her baby's legs in order that it might fit into a new+cradle, she looked at the marked passages, and was surprised to find+that all the moral reflections--which she had carefully put in as+ballast for much romance--had been stricken out.++"But, sir, I thought every story should have some sort of a moral, so I+took care to have a few of my sinners repent."++Mr. Dashwood'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?"++"Yes; it's a new plot, and pretty well worked up--language good, and so+on," was Mr. Dashwood's affable reply.++"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 often do escape the editorial mind, it is+said.++"Very well; you can have it," said Jo, handing back the story, with a+satisfied air; for, after the dollar-a-column work, even twenty-five+seemed good pay.++"Shall I tell my friend you will take another if she has one better than+this?" asked Jo, unconscious of her little slip of the tongue, and+emboldened by her success.++"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 to it?" in a careless tone.++"None at all, if you please; she doesn't wish her name to appear, and+has no _nom de plume_," said Jo, blushing in spite of herself.++"Just as she likes, of course. The tale will be out next week; will you+call for the money, or shall I send it?" asked Mr. Dashwood, who felt a+natural desire to know who his new contributor might be.++"I'll call. Good morning, sir."++As she departed, Mr. Dashwood put up his feet, with the graceful remark,+"Poor and proud, as usual, but she'll do."++Following Mr. Dashwood's directions, and making Mrs. Northbury her+model, Jo rashly took a plunge into the frothy sea of sensational+literature; but, thanks to the life-preserver thrown her by a friend,+she came up again, not much the worse for her ducking.++Like most young scribblers, she went abroad for her characters and+scenery; and banditti, counts, gypsies, nuns, and duchesses appeared+upon her stage, and played their parts with as much accuracy and spirit+as could be expected. Her readers were not particular about such trifles+as grammar, punctuation, and probability, and Mr. Dashwood graciously+permitted her to fill his columns at the lowest prices, not thinking it+necessary to tell her that the real cause of his hospitality was the+fact that one of his hacks, on being offered higher wages, had basely+left him in the lurch.++She soon became interested in her work, for her emaciated purse grew+stout, and the little hoard she was making to take Beth to the mountains+next summer grew slowly but surely as the weeks passed. 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 thought it would do her no harm, for she sincerely meant to write+nothing of which she should be ashamed, and quieted all pricks of+conscience by anticipations of the happy minute when she should show her+earnings and laugh over her well-kept secret.++But Mr. Dashwood rejected any but thrilling tales; and, as thrills could+not be produced except by harrowing up the souls of the readers, history+and romance, land and sea, science and art, police records and lunatic+asylums, had to be ransacked for the purpose. Jo soon found that her+innocent experience had given her but few glimpses of the tragic world+which underlies society; so, regarding it in a business light, she set+about supplying her deficiencies with characteristic energy. Eager to+find material for stories, and bent on making them original in plot, if+not masterly in execution, she searched newspapers for accidents,+incidents, and crimes; 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 delved in the+dust of ancient times for facts or fictions so old that they were as+good as new, and introduced herself to folly, sin, and misery, as well+as her limited opportunities allowed. She thought she was prospering+finely; but, unconsciously, she was beginning to desecrate some of the+womanliest attributes of a woman's character. She was living in bad+society; and, imaginary though it was, its influence affected her, for+she was feeding heart and fancy on dangerous and unsubstantial food, and+was fast brushing the innocent bloom from her nature by a premature+acquaintance with the darker side of life, which comes soon enough to+all of us.++She was beginning to feel rather than see this, for much describing of+other people's passions and feelings set her to studying and speculating+about her own,--a morbid amusement, in which healthy young minds do not+voluntarily indulge. Wrong-doing always brings its own punishment; and,+when Jo most needed hers, she got it.++I don't know whether the study of Shakespeare helped her to read+character, or the natural instinct of a woman for what was honest,+brave, and strong; but while endowing her imaginary heroes with every+perfection under the sun, Jo was discovering a live hero, who interested+her in spite of many human imperfections. Mr. Bhaer, in one of their+conversations, had advised her to study simple, true, and lovely+characters, wherever she found them, as good training for a writer. Jo+took him at his word, for she coolly turned round and studied him,--a+proceeding which would have much surprised him, had he known it, for the+worthy Professor was very humble in his own conceit.++Why everybody liked him was what puzzled Jo, at first. He was neither+rich nor great, young nor handsome; in no respect what is called+fascinating, imposing, or brilliant; and yet he was as attractive as a+genial fire, and people seemed to gather about him as naturally as about+a warm hearth. He was poor, yet always appeared to be giving something+away; a stranger, yet every one was his friend; no longer young, but as+happy-hearted as a boy; plain and peculiar, yet his face looked+beautiful to many, and his oddities were freely forgiven for his sake.+Jo often watched him, trying to discover the charm, and, at last,+decided that it was benevolence which worked the miracle. If he had any+sorrow, "it sat with its head under its wing," and he turned only his+sunny side to the world. There were lines upon his forehead, but Time+seemed to have touched him gently, remembering how kind he was to+others. The pleasant curves about his mouth were the memorials of many+friendly words and cheery laughs; his eyes were never cold or hard, and+his big hand had a warm, strong grasp that was more expressive than+words.++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.++"That's it!" said Jo to herself, when she at length discovered that+genuine good-will towards one's fellow-men could beautify and dignify+even a stout German teacher, who shovelled in his dinner, darned his own+socks, and was burdened with the name of Bhaer.++Jo valued goodness highly, but she also possessed a most feminine+respect for intellect, and a little discovery which she made about the+Professor added much to her regard for him. He never spoke of himself,+and no one ever knew that in his native city he had been a man much+honored and esteemed for learning and integrity, till a countryman came+to see him, 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. She felt proud to know that he was+an honored Professor in Berlin, though only a poor language-master in+America; and his homely, hard-working life was much beautified by the+spice of romance which this discovery gave it.++Another and a better gift than intellect was shown her in a most+unexpected manner. Miss Norton had the _entrée_ into literary 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.++ [Illustration: A select symposium]++Jo went prepared to bow down and adore the mighty ones whom she had+worshipped with youthful enthusiasm afar off. But her reverence for+genius received a severe shock that night, and it took her some time to+recover from the discovery that the great creatures were only men and+women after all. Imagine her dismay, on stealing a glance of timid+admiration at the poet whose lines suggested an ethereal being fed on+"spirit, fire, and dew," to behold him devouring his supper with an+ardor which flushed his intellectual countenance. Turning as from a+fallen idol, she made other discoveries which rapidly dispelled her+romantic illusions. The great novelist vibrated between two decanters+with the regularity of a pendulum; the famous divine flirted openly with+one of the Madame de Staëls of the age, who looked daggers at another+Corinne, who was amiably satirizing her, after out-manœuvring her in+efforts to absorb the profound philosopher, who imbibed tea Johnsonianly+and appeared to slumber, the loquacity of the lady rendering speech+impossible. The scientific celebrities, forgetting their mollusks and+glacial periods, gossiped about art, while devoting themselves to+oysters and ices with characteristic energy; the young musician, who was+charming the city like a second Orpheus, talked horses; and the specimen+of the British nobility present happened to be the most ordinary man of+the party.++Before the evening was half over, Jo felt so completely _désillusionée_,+that she sat down in a corner to recover herself. Mr. Bhaer soon joined+her, looking rather out of his element, and presently several of the+philosophers, each mounted on his hobby, came ambling up to hold an+intellectual tournament in the recess. The conversation was miles beyond+Jo's comprehension, but she enjoyed it, though Kant and Hegel were+unknown gods, the Subjective and Objective unintelligible terms; and the+only thing "evolved from her inner consciousness," was a bad headache+after it was all over. It dawned upon her gradually that the world was+being picked to pieces, and put together on new, and, according to the+talkers, on infinitely better principles than before; that religion was+in a fair way to be reasoned into nothingness, and intellect was to be+the only God. Jo knew nothing about philosophy or metaphysics of any+sort, but a curious excitement, half pleasurable, half painful, came+over her, as she listened with a sense of being turned adrift into time+and space, like a young balloon out on a holiday.++She looked round to see how the Professor liked it, and found him+looking at her with the grimmest expression she had ever seen him wear.+He shook his head, and beckoned her to come away; but she was+fascinated, just then, by the freedom of Speculative Philosophy, and+kept her seat, trying to find out what the wise gentlemen intended to+rely upon after they had annihilated all the old beliefs.++Now, Mr. Bhaer was a diffident man, and slow to offer his own opinions,+not because they were unsettled, but too sincere and earnest to be+lightly spoken. As he glanced from Jo to several other young people,+attracted by the brilliancy of the philosophic pyrotechnics, he knit his+brows, and longed to speak, fearing that some inflammable young soul+would be led astray by the rockets, to find, when the display was over,+that they had only an empty stick or a scorched hand.++He bore it as long as he could; but when he was appealed to for an+opinion, he blazed up with honest indignation, and defended religion+with all the eloquence of truth,--an eloquence which made his broken+English musical, and his plain face beautiful. He had a hard fight, for+the wise men argued well; but he didn't know when he was beaten, and+stood to his colors like a man. 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. She felt as if she had solid ground+under her feet again; and when Mr. Bhaer paused, out-talked, but not one+whit convinced, Jo wanted to clap her hands and thank him.++She did neither; but she remembered this scene, and gave the Professor+her heartiest respect, for she knew it cost him an effort to speak out+then and there, because his conscience would not let him be silent. She+began to see that character is a better possession than money, rank,+intellect, or beauty; and to feel that if greatness is what a wise man+has defined it to be, "truth, reverence, and good-will," then her friend+Friedrich Bhaer was not only good, but great.++This belief strengthened daily. She valued his esteem, she coveted his+respect, she wanted to be worthy of his friendship; and, just when the+wish was sincerest, she came near losing everything. It all grew out of+a cocked hat; for one evening the Professor came in to give Jo her+lesson, with a paper soldier-cap on his head, which Tina had put there,+and he had forgotten to take off.++"It's evident he doesn't look in his glass before coming down," thought+Jo, with a smile, as he said "Goot efening," and sat soberly down, quite+unconscious of the ludicrous contrast between his subject and his+head-gear, for he was going to read her the "Death of Wallenstein."++ [Illustration: He doesn't prink at his glass before coming]++She said nothing at first, for she liked to hear him laugh out his big,+hearty laugh, when anything funny happened, so she left him to discover+it for himself, and presently forgot all about it; for to hear a German+read Schiller is rather an absorbing occupation. After the reading came+the lesson, which was a lively one, for Jo was in a gay mood that night,+and the cocked-hat kept her eyes dancing with merriment. The Professor+didn't know what to make of her, and stopped at last, to ask, with an+air of mild surprise that was irresistible,--++"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.++Lifting his hand to his head, the absent-minded Professor gravely felt+and removed the little cocked-hat, looked at it a minute, and then threw+back his head, and laughed like a merry bass-viol.++"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."++But the lesson did not go at all for a few minutes, because Mr. Bhaer+caught sight of a picture on the hat, and, unfolding it, said, with an+air of great disgust,--++"I wish these papers did not come in the house; 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. She did not like it; but the+impulse that made her turn it over was not one of displeasure, but fear,+because, for a minute, she fancied the paper was the "Volcano." It was+not, however, and her panic subsided as she remembered that, even if it+had been, and one of her own tales in it, there would have been no name+to betray her. She had betrayed herself, however, by a look and a blush;+for, though an absent man, the Professor saw a good deal more than+people fancied. He knew that Jo wrote, and had met her down among the+newspaper offices more than once; but as she never spoke of it, he asked+no questions, in spite of a strong desire to see her work. 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; he only+remembered that she was young and poor, a girl far away from mother's+love and father's care; and he was moved to help her with an impulse as+quick and natural as that which would prompt him to put out his hand to+save a baby from a puddle. All this flashed through his mind in a+minute, but not a trace of it appeared in his face; and by the time the+paper was turned, and Jo's needle threaded, he was ready to say quite+naturally, but very gravely,--++"Yes, you are right to put it from you. I do not like to 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."++"All may not be bad, only silly, you know; and if there is a demand for+it, I don't see any harm in supplying it. Many very respectable people+make an honest living out of what are called sensation stories," said+Jo, scratching gathers so energetically that a row of little slits+followed her pin.++"There is a demand for whiskey, 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 sugar-plum, 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. Jo sat still, looking as if the fire had come to her; for her+cheeks burned long after the cocked hat had turned to smoke, and gone+harmlessly up the chimney.++"I should like much to send all the rest after him," muttered the+Professor, coming back with a relieved air.++Jo thought what a blaze her pile of papers upstairs would make, and her+hard-earned money lay rather heavily on her conscience at that minute.+Then she thought consolingly to herself, "Mine are not like that; they+are only silly, never bad, so I won't be worried;" and taking up her+book, she said, with a studious face,--++"Shall we go on, sir? I'll be very good and proper now."++"I shall hope so," was all he said, but he meant more than she imagined;+and the grave, kind look he gave her made her feel as if the words+"Weekly Volcano" were printed in large type on her forehead.++As soon as she went to her room, she got out her papers, and carefully+re-read every one of her stories. Being a little short-sighted, Mr.+Bhaer sometimes used eye-glasses, and Jo had tried them once, smiling to+see how they magnified the fine print of her book; now she seemed to+have got on the Professor's mental or moral spectacles also; for the+faults of these poor stories glared at her dreadfully, and filled her+with dismay.++"They _are_ trash, and will soon be worse than 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; I know it's so, for I+can't read this stuff in sober earnest without being horribly ashamed of+it; and what _should_ I do if they were seen at home, or Mr. Bhaer got+hold of them?"++Jo turned hot at the bare idea, and stuffed the whole bundle into her+stove, nearly setting the chimney afire with the blaze.++ [Illustration: Jo stuffed the whole bundle into the stove]++"Yes, that's the best place for such inflammable nonsense; I'd better+burn the house down, I suppose, than let other people blow themselves up+with my gunpowder," she thought, as she watched the "Demon of the Jura"+whisk away, a little black cinder with fiery eyes.++But when nothing remained of all her three months' work except a heap of+ashes, and the money in her lap, Jo looked sober, as she sat on the+floor, wondering what she ought to do about her wages.++"I think I haven't done much harm _yet_, and may keep this to pay for my+time," she said, after a long meditation, adding impatiently, "I almost+wish I hadn't any conscience, it's so inconvenient. 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 father and+mother hadn't been so particular about such things."++Ah, Jo, instead of wishing that, thank God that "father and mother+_were_ particular," and pity from your heart those who have no such+guardians to hedge them round with principles which may seem like+prison-walls to impatient youth, but which will prove sure foundations+to build character upon in womanhood.++Jo wrote no more sensational stories, deciding that the money did not+pay for her share of the sensation; but, going to the other extreme, as+is the way with people of her stamp, she took a course of Mrs. Sherwood,+Miss Edgeworth, and Hannah More; and then produced a tale which might+have been more properly called an essay or a sermon, so intensely moral+was it. She had her doubts about it from the beginning; for her lively+fancy and girlish romance felt as ill at ease in the new style as she+would have done masquerading in the stiff and cumbrous costume of the+last century. She sent this didactic gem to several markets, but it+found no purchaser; and she was inclined to agree with Mr. Dashwood,+that morals didn't sell.++Then she tried a child's story, which she could easily have disposed of+if she had not been mercenary enough to demand filthy lucre for it. The+only person who offered enough to make it worth her while to try+juvenile literature was a worthy gentleman who felt it his mission to+convert all the world to his particular belief. But much as she liked to+write for children, Jo could not consent to depict all her naughty boys+as being eaten by bears or tossed by mad bulls, because they did not go+to a particular Sabbath-school, nor all the good infants, who did go, as+rewarded by every kind of bliss, from gilded gingerbread to escorts of+angels, when they departed this life with psalms or sermons on their+lisping tongues. So nothing came of these trials; and Jo corked up her+inkstand, and said, in a fit of very wholesome humility,--++"I don't know anything; I'll wait till I do before I try again, and,+meantime, 'sweep mud in the street,' if I can't do better; that's+honest, at least;" which decision proved that her second tumble down the+bean-stalk had done her some good.++While these internal revolutions were going on, her external life had+been as busy and uneventful as usual; and if she sometimes looked+serious or a little sad no one observed it but Professor Bhaer. He did+it so quietly that Jo never knew he was watching to see if she would+accept and profit by his reproof; but she stood the test, and he was+satisfied; for, though no words passed between them, he knew that she+had given up writing. Not only did he guess it by the fact that the+second finger of her right hand was no longer inky, but she spent her+evenings downstairs now, was met no more among newspaper offices, and+studied with a dogged patience, which assured him that she was bent on+occupying her mind with something useful, if not pleasant.++He helped her in many ways, proving himself a true friend, and Jo was+happy; for, while her pen lay idle, she was learning other lessons+beside German, and laying a foundation for the sensation story of her+own life.++It was a pleasant winter and a long one, for she did not leave Mrs.+Kirke till June. Every one seemed sorry when the time came; the children+were inconsolable, and Mr. Bhaer's hair stuck straight up all over his+head, for he always rumpled it wildly when disturbed in mind.++"Going home? Ah, you are happy that you haf a home to go in," he said,+when she told him, and sat silently pulling his beard, in the corner,+while she held a little levee on that last evening.++She was going early, so she bade them all good-by over night; and when+his turn came, she said warmly,--++"Now, sir, you won't forget to come and see us, if you ever travel our+way, will you? 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. Something in Mr. Bhaer's+face suddenly recalled the fact that she might find Laurie more than a+"best friend," and, simply because she particularly wished not to look+as if anything was the matter, she involuntarily began to blush; and the+more she tried not to, the redder she grew. If it had not been for Tina+on her knee, she didn't know what would have become of her. Fortunately,+the child was moved to hug her; so she managed to hide her face an+instant, hoping the Professor did not see it. But he did, and his own+changed again from that momentary anxiety to its usual expression, as he+said cordially,--++"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.++But after the boys were abed, he sat long before his fire, with the+tired look on his face, and the "_heimweh_," or homesickness, lying+heavy at his heart. Once, when he remembered Jo, as she sat with the+little child in her lap and that new softness in her face, he leaned his+head on his hands a minute, and then roamed about the room, as if in+search of something that he could not find.++"It is not for me; I must not hope it now," he said to himself, with a+sigh that was almost a groan; then, as if reproaching himself for the+longing that he could not repress, he went and kissed the two towzled+heads upon the pillow, took down his seldom-used meerschaum, and opened+his Plato.++He did his best, and did it manfully; but I don't think he found that a+pair of rampant boys, a pipe, or even the divine Plato, were very+satisfactory substitutes for wife and child and home.++Early as it was, he was at the station, next morning, to see Jo off;+and, thanks to him, she began her solitary journey with the pleasant+memory of a familiar face smiling its farewell, a bunch of violets to+keep her company, and, best of all, the happy thought,--++"Well, the winter's gone, and I've written no books, earned no fortune;+but I've made a friend worth having, and I'll try to keep him all my+life."+++++ [Illustration: He put the sisters into the carriage]++ XXXV.++ HEARTACHE.+++Whatever his motive might have been, Laurie studied to some purpose that+year, for he graduated with honor, and gave the Latin oration with the+grace of a Phillips and the eloquence of a Demosthenes, so his friends+said. They were all there, his grandfather,--oh, so proud!--Mr. and Mrs.+March, John and Meg, Jo and Beth, and all exulted over him with the+sincere admiration which boys make light of at the time, but fail to win+from the world by any after-triumphs.++"I've got to stay for this confounded supper, but I shall be home early+to-morrow; 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,--++"I'll come, Teddy, rain or shine, and march before you, playing '_Hail+the conquering hero comes_,' on a jews-harp."++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?"++Evening meditation and morning work somewhat allayed her fears, and+having decided that she wouldn't be vain enough to think people were+going to propose when she had given them every reason to know what her+answer would be, she set forth at the appointed time, hoping Teddy+wouldn't do anything to make her hurt his poor little feelings. A call+at Meg's, and a refreshing sniff and sip at the Daisy and Demijohn,+still further fortified her for the _tête-à-tête_, but when she saw a+stalwart figure looming in the distance, she had a strong desire to turn+about and run away.++"Where's the jews-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.++She always used to take his arm on these occasions; now she did not, and+he made no complaint, which was a bad sign, but talked on rapidly about+all sorts of far-away subjects, till they turned from the road into the+little path that led homeward through the grove. Then he walked more+slowly, suddenly lost his fine flow of language, and, now and then, a+dreadful pause occurred. To rescue the conversation from one of the+wells of silence into which it kept falling, Jo said hastily,--++"Now you must have a good long holiday!"++"I intend to."++Something in his resolute tone made Jo look up quickly to find him+looking down at her with an expression that assured her the dreaded+moment had come, and made her put out her hand with an imploring,--++"No, Teddy, please don't!"++"I will, and you _must_ hear me. It's no use, Jo; we've got to have it+out, and the sooner the better for both of us," he answered, getting+flushed and excited all at once.++"Say what you like, then; I'll listen," said Jo, with a desperate sort+of patience.++Laurie was a young lover, but he was in earnest, and meant to "have it+out," if he died in the attempt; so he plunged into the subject with+characteristic impetuosity, saying in a voice that _would_ get choky now+and then, in spite of manful efforts to keep it steady,--++"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--" began Jo,+finding it a great deal harder than she expected.++"I know you did; but girls are so queer you never know what they mean.+They say No when they mean Yes, and drive a man out of his wits just for+the fun of it," returned Laurie, entrenching himself behind an+undeniable fact.++"_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. I only loved you all+the more, and I worked hard to please you, and I gave up billiards and+everything you didn't like, and waited and never complained, for I hoped+you'd love me, though I'm not half good enough--" here there was a choke+that couldn't be controlled, so he decapitated buttercups while he+cleared his "confounded throat."++"Yes, you are; you're a great deal too good for me, and I'm so grateful+to you, and so proud and fond of you, I don't see why I can't love you+as you want me to. 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."++They were in the grove now, close by the stile; and when the last words+fell reluctantly from Jo's lips, Laurie dropped her hands and turned as+if to go on, but for once in his life that fence was too much for him;+so he just laid his head down on the mossy post, and stood so still that+Jo was frightened.++ [Illustration: He laid his head down on the mossy post]++"O Teddy, I'm so 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;+you know it's impossible for people to make themselves love other people+if they don't," cried Jo inelegantly but remorsefully, as she softly+patted his shoulder, remembering the time when he had comforted her so+long ago.++"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.++There was a long pause, while a blackbird sung blithely on the willow by+the river, and the tall grass rustled in the wind. Presently Jo said+very soberly, as she sat down on the step of the stile,--++"Laurie, I want to tell you something."++He started as if he had been shot, threw up his head, and cried out, in+a fierce tone--++"_Don't_ tell me that, Jo; I can't bear it now!"++"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. If you say you+love him, I know I shall do something desperate;" and he looked as if he+would keep his word, as he clenched his hands, with a wrathful spark in+his eyes.++Jo wanted to laugh, but restrained herself, and said warmly, for she,+too, was getting excited with all this,--++"Don't swear, Teddy! 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 some one else too, like a sensible boy, and forget all this+trouble."++"I _can't_ love any one 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+unmanageable than she expected. "You haven't heard what I wanted to tell+you. Sit down and listen; for indeed I want to do right and make you+happy," she said, hoping to soothe him with a little reason, which+proved that she knew nothing about love.++Seeing a ray of hope in that last speech, Laurie threw himself down on+the grass at her feet, leaned his arm on the lower step of the stile,+and looked up at her with an expectant face. Now that arrangement was+not conducive to calm speech or clear thought on Jo's part; for how+_could_ she say hard things to her boy while he watched her with eyes+full of love and longing, and lashes still wet with the bitter drop or+two her hardness of heart had wrung from him? She gently turned his head+away, saying, as she stroked the wavy hair which had been allowed to+grow for her sake,--how touching that was, to be sure!--++"I agree with mother that you and I are not suited to each other,+because our quick tempers and strong wills would probably make us very+miserable, if we were so foolish as to--" 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 it and failed, and I won't risk our happiness+by such a serious experiment. We don't agree and we never shall; so+we'll be good friends all our lives, but we won't go and do anything+rash."++"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 you harder. I don't believe+you've got any heart."++"I wish I hadn't!"++There was a little quiver in Jo's voice, and, thinking it a good omen,+Laurie turned round, bringing all his persuasive powers to bear as he+said, in the wheedlesome tone that had never been so dangerously+wheedlesome before,--++"Don't disappoint us, dear! Every one 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!"++Not until months afterward did Jo understand how she had the strength of+mind to hold fast to the resolution she had made when she decided that+she did not love her boy, and never could. 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"--she began solemnly.++"I'll be hanged if I do!" and Laurie bounced up off the grass, burning+with indignation at the bare idea.++"Yes, you will!" persisted Jo; "you'll get over this after a while, and+find some lovely, accomplished girl, who will adore you, and make a fine+mistress for your fine house. I shouldn't. I'm homely and awkward and+odd and old, and you'd be ashamed of me, and we should quarrel,--we+can't help it even now, you see,--and I shouldn't like elegant society+and you would, and you'd hate my scribbling, and I couldn't get on+without it, and we should be unhappy, and wish we hadn't done it, and+everything would be horrid!"++"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'm happy+as I am, and love my liberty too well to be in any hurry to give it up+for any mortal man."++"I know better!" broke in Laurie. "You think so now; but there'll come a+time when you _will_ care for somebody, and you'll love him+tremendously, and live and die for him. I know you will, it's your way,+and I shall have to stand by and see it;" and the despairing lover cast+his hat upon the ground with a gesture that would have seemed comical,+if his face had not been so tragical.++"Yes, I _will_ live and die for him, if he ever comes and makes me love+him in spite of myself, and you must do the best you can!" cried Jo,+losing patience with poor Teddy. "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. I shall always be fond of you, very fond indeed, as a friend, but+I'll never marry you; and the sooner you believe it, the better for both+of us,--so now!"++That speech was like fire to gunpowder. Laurie looked at her a minute as+if he did not quite know what to do with himself, then turned sharply+away, saying, in a desperate sort of tone,--++"You'll be sorry some day, Jo."++"Oh, where are you going?" she cried, for his face frightened her.++"To the devil!" was the consoling answer.++For a minute Jo's heart stood still, as he swung himself down the bank,+toward the river; but it takes much folly, sin, or misery to send a+young man to a violent death, and Laurie was not one of the weak sort+who are conquered by a single failure. He had no thought of a+melodramatic plunge, but some blind instinct led him to fling hat and+coat into his boat, and row away with all his might, making better time+up the river than he had done in many a race. Jo drew a long breath and+unclasped her hands as she watched the poor fellow trying to outstrip+the trouble which he carried in his heart.++"That will do him good, and he'll come home in such a tender, penitent+state of mind, that I sha'n't dare to see him," she said; adding, as she+went slowly home, feeling as if she had murdered some innocent thing,+and buried it under the leaves,--++"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."++Being sure that no one could do it so well as herself, she went straight+to Mr. Laurence, told the hard story bravely through, and then broke+down, crying so dismally over her own insensibility that the kind old+gentleman, though sorely disappointed, did not utter a reproach. He+found it difficult to understand how any girl could help loving Laurie,+and hoped she would change her mind, but he knew even better than Jo+that love cannot be forced, so he shook his head sadly, and resolved to+carry his boy out of harm's way; for Young Impetuosity's parting words+to Jo disturbed him more than he would confess.++When Laurie came home, dead tired, but quite composed, his grandfather+met him as if he knew nothing, and kept up the delusion very+successfully for an hour or two. But when they sat together in the+twilight, the time they used to enjoy so much, it was hard work for the+old man to ramble on as usual, and harder still for the young one to+listen to praises of the last year's success, which to him now seemed+love's labor lost. He bore it as long as he could, then went to his+piano, and began to play. The windows were open; and Jo, walking in the+garden with Beth, for once understood music better than her sister, for+he played the "Sonata Pathétique," and played it as he never did before.++"That's very fine, I dare say, but it's sad enough to make one cry; give+us something gayer, lad," said Mr. Laurence, whose kind old heart was+full of sympathy, which he longed to show, but knew not how.++Laurie dashed into a livelier strain, played stormily for several+minutes, and would have got through bravely, if, in a momentary lull,+Mrs. March's voice had not been heard calling,--++"Jo, dear, come in; 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. Up he got, groped his+way to the piano, laid a kind hand on either of the broad shoulders, and+said, as gently as a woman,--++"I know, my boy, I know."++No answer for an instant; then Laurie asked sharply,--++"Who told you?"++"Jo herself."++"Then there's an end of it!" and he shook off his grandfather's hands+with an impatient motion; for, though grateful for the sympathy, his+man's pride could not bear a man's pity.++"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 just now, perhaps?"++"I don't intend to run away from a girl. Jo can't prevent my seeing her,+and I shall stay and do it as long as I like," interrupted Laurie, in a+defiant tone.++"Not if you are the gentleman I think you. I'm disappointed, but the+girl can't help it; and the only thing left for you to do is to go away+for a time. 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."++"Ah, but I didn't mean to go alone!" and Laurie walked fast through the+room, with an expression which it was well his grandfather did not see.++"I don't ask you to go alone; there's some one ready and glad to go with+you, anywhere in the world."++"Who, sir?" stopping to listen.++"Myself."++Laurie came back as quickly as he went, and put out his hand, saying+huskily,--++"I'm a selfish brute; but--you know--grandfather--"++"Lord help me, yes, I do know, for I've been through it all before, once+in my own young days, and then with your father. Now, my dear boy, just+sit quietly down, and hear my plan. It's all settled, and can be carried+out at once," said Mr. Laurence, keeping hold of the young man, as if+fearful that he would break away, as his father had done before him.++"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; I meant you+should attend to it; but I can do it better myself, and things here will+get on very well with Brooke to manage them. My partners do almost+everything; I'm merely holding on till you take my place, and can be off+at any time."++"But you hate travelling, sir; I can't ask it of you at your age," began+Laurie, who was grateful for the sacrifice, but much preferred to go+alone, if he went at all.++The old gentleman knew that perfectly well, and particularly desired to+prevent it; for the mood in which he found his grandson assured him that+it would not be wise to leave him to his own devices. So, stifling a+natural regret at the thought of the home comforts he would leave behind+him, he said stoutly,--++"Bless your soul, I'm not superannuated yet. I quite enjoy the idea; it+will do me good, and my old bones won't suffer, for travelling nowadays+is almost as easy as sitting in a chair."++A restless movement from Laurie suggested that _his_ chair was not easy,+or that he did not like the plan, and made the old man add hastily,--++"I don't mean to be a marplot or a burden; I go because I think you'd+feel happier than if I was left behind. I don't intend to gad about with+you, but leave you free to go where you like, while I amuse myself in my+own way. I've friends in London and Paris, and should like to visit+them; meantime you can go to Italy, Germany, Switzerland, where you+will, and enjoy pictures, music, scenery, and adventures to your heart's+content."++Now, Laurie felt just then that his heart was entirely broken, and the+world a howling wilderness; but at the sound of certain words which the+old gentleman artfully introduced into his closing sentence, the broken+heart gave an unexpected leap, and a green oasis or two suddenly+appeared in the howling wilderness. 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. "You don't care now, but there'll+come a time when that promise will keep you out of mischief, or I'm much+mistaken."++Being an energetic individual, Mr. Laurence struck while the iron was+hot; and before the blighted being recovered spirit enough to rebel,+they were off. During the time necessary for preparation, Laurie bore+himself as young gentlemen usually do in such cases. He was moody,+irritable, and pensive by turns; lost his appetite, neglected his dress,+and devoted much time to playing tempestuously on his piano; avoided Jo,+but consoled himself by staring at her from his window, with a tragical+face that haunted her dreams by night, and oppressed her with a heavy+sense of guilt by day. Unlike some sufferers, he never spoke of his+unrequited passion, and would allow no one, not even Mrs. March, to+attempt consolation or offer sympathy. On some accounts, this was a+relief to his friends; but the weeks before his departure were very+uncomfortable, and every one rejoiced that the "poor, dear fellow was+going away to forget his trouble, and come home happy." Of course, he+smiled darkly at their delusion, but passed it by, with the sad+superiority of one who knew that his fidelity, like his love, was+unalterable.++When the parting came he affected high spirits, to conceal certain+inconvenient emotions which seemed inclined to assert themselves. This+gayety did not impose upon anybody, but they tried to look as if it did,+for his sake, and he got on very well till Mrs. March kissed him, with+a whisper full of motherly solicitude; then, feeling that he was going+very fast, he hastily embraced them all round, not forgetting the+afflicted Hannah, and ran downstairs as if for his life. Jo followed a+minute after to wave her hand to him if he looked round. He did look+round, came back, put his arms about her, as she stood on the step above+him, and looked up at her with a face that made his short appeal both+eloquent and pathetic.++"O Jo, can't you?"++ [Illustration: O 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. Ah, but it wasn't all right, and Jo _did_ mind; for while the+curly head lay on her arm a minute after her hard answer, she felt as if+she had stabbed her dearest friend; and when he left her without a look+behind him, she knew that the boy Laurie never would come again.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ XXXVI.++ BETH'S SECRET.+++When Jo came home that spring, she had been struck with the change in+Beth. No one spoke of it or seemed aware of it, for it had come too+gradually to startle those who saw her daily; but to eyes sharpened by+absence, it was very plain; and a heavy weight fell on Jo's heart as she+saw her sister's face. It was no paler and but little thinner than in+the autumn; yet there was a strange, transparent look about it, as if+the mortal was being slowly refined away, and the immortal shining+through the frail flesh with an indescribably pathetic beauty. Jo saw+and felt it, but said nothing at the time, and soon the first impression+lost much of its power; for Beth seemed happy, no one appeared to doubt+that she was better; and, presently, in other cares, Jo for a time+forgot her fear.++But when Laurie was gone, and peace prevailed again, the vague anxiety+returned and haunted her. She had confessed her sins and been forgiven;+but when she showed her savings and proposed the mountain trip, Beth had+thanked her heartily, but begged not to go so far away from home.+Another little visit to the seashore would suit her better, and, as+grandma could not be prevailed upon to leave the babies, Jo took Beth+down to the quiet place, where she could live much in the open air, and+let the fresh sea-breezes blow a little color into her pale cheeks.++It was not a fashionable place, but, even among the pleasant people+there, the girls made few friends, preferring to live for one another.+Beth was too shy to enjoy society, and Jo too wrapped up in her to care+for any one else; so they were all in all to each other, and came and+went, quite unconscious of the interest they excited in those about+them, who watched with sympathetic eyes the strong sister and the feeble+one, always together, as if they felt instinctively that a long+separation was not far away.++They did feel it, yet neither spoke of it; for often between ourselves+and those nearest and dearest to us there exists a reserve which it is+very hard to overcome. Jo felt as if a veil had fallen between her heart+and Beth's; but when she put out her hand to lift it up, there seemed+something sacred in the silence, and she waited for Beth to speak. She+wondered, and was thankful also, that her parents did not seem to see+what she saw; and, during the quiet weeks, when the shadow grew so plain+to her, she said nothing of it to those at home, believing that it would+tell itself when Beth came back no better. She wondered still more if+her sister really guessed the hard truth, and what thoughts were passing+through her mind during the long hours when she lay on the warm rocks,+with her head in Jo's lap, while the winds blew healthfully over her,+and the sea made music at her feet.++ [Illustration: With her head in Jo's lap, while the wind blew+ healthfully over her]++One day Beth told her. Jo thought she was asleep, she lay so still; and,+putting down her book, sat looking at her with wistful eyes, trying to+see signs of hope in the faint color on Beth's cheeks. But she could not+find enough to satisfy her, for the cheeks were very thin, and the hands+seemed too feeble to hold even the rosy little shells they had been+gathering. It came to her then more bitterly than ever that Beth was+slowly drifting away from her, and her arms instinctively tightened+their hold upon the dearest treasure she possessed. For a minute her+eyes were too dim for seeing, and, when they cleared, Beth was looking+up at her so tenderly that there was hardly any need for her to say,--++"Jo, dear, I'm glad you know it. I've tried to tell you, but I+couldn't."++There was no answer except her sister's cheek against her own, not even+tears; for when most deeply moved, Jo did not cry. She was the weaker,+then, and Beth tried to comfort and sustain her, with her arms about+her, and the soothing words she whispered in her ear.++"I've known it for a good while, dear, and, now I'm used to it, it isn't+hard to think of or to bear. 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? You did not feel+it then, and keep it to yourself so long, did you?" asked Jo, refusing+to see or say that it _was_ best, but glad to know that Laurie had no+part in Beth's trouble.++"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 any one. But+when I saw you all so well and strong, and full of happy plans, it was+hard to feel that I could never be like you, and then I was miserable,+Jo."++"O Beth, and you didn't tell me, didn't let me comfort and help you! How+could you shut me out, and bear it all alone?"++Jo's voice was full of tender reproach, and her heart ached to think of+the solitary struggle that must have gone on while Beth learned to say+good-by to health, love, and life, and take up her cross so cheerfully.++"Perhaps it was wrong, but I tried to do right; I wasn't sure, no one+said anything, and I hoped I was mistaken. It would have been selfish to+frighten you all when Marmee was so anxious about Meg, and Amy away, and+you so happy with Laurie,--at least, I thought so then."++"And I thought that you loved him, Beth, and I went away because I+couldn't," cried Jo, glad to say all the truth.++Beth looked so amazed at the idea that Jo smiled in spite of her pain,+and added softly,--++"Then you didn't, deary? I was afraid it was so, and imagined your poor+little heart full of love-lornity all that while."++"Why, Jo, how could I, when he was so fond of you?" asked Beth, as+innocently as a child. "I do love him dearly; he is so good to me, how+can I help it? But he never could 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. God won't be so cruel as to take you from me," cried poor+Jo rebelliously, for her spirit was far less piously submissive than+Beth's.++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.+Like a confiding child, she asked no questions, but left everything to+God and nature, Father and mother of us all, feeling sure that they, and+they only, could teach and strengthen heart and spirit for this life and+the life to come. She did not rebuke Jo with saintly speeches, only+loved her better for her passionate affection, and clung more closely to+the dear human love, from which our Father never means us to be weaned,+but through which He draws us closer to Himself. She could not say, "I'm+glad to go," for life was very sweet to her; she could only sob out, "I+try to be willing," while she held fast to Jo, as the first bitter wave+of this great sorrow broke over them together.++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'm going to believe that it+_is_ a sick fancy, and not let you think it's true," said Jo, trying to+speak cheerfully.++Beth lay a minute thinking, and then said in her quiet way,--++"I don't know how to express myself, and shouldn't try, to any one but+you, because I can't speak out, except to my Jo. 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; it came quite close to Beth,+looked at her with a friendly eye, and sat upon a warm stone, dressing+its wet feathers, quite at home. Beth smiled, and felt comforted, for+the tiny thing seemed to offer its small friendship, and remind her that+a pleasant world was still to be enjoyed.++"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. I used to call them my birds, last summer; and mother+said they reminded her of me,--busy, quaker-colored creatures, always+near the shore, and always chirping that contented little song of+theirs. You are the gull, Jo, strong and wild, fond of the storm and the+wind, flying far out to sea, and happy all alone. Meg is the+turtle-dove, and Amy is like the lark she writes about, trying to get up+among the clouds, but always dropping down into its nest again. 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. I'm going to have you well and rosy by that time,"+began Jo, feeling that of all the changes in Beth, the talking change+was the greatest, for it seemed to cost no effort now, and she thought+aloud in a way quite unlike bashful Beth.++"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. We'll+have happy times, for I don't suffer much, and I think the tide will go+out easily, if you help me."++Jo leaned down to kiss the tranquil face; and with that silent kiss, she+dedicated herself soul and body to Beth.++She was right: there was no need of any words when they got home, for+father and mother saw plainly, now, what they had prayed to be saved+from seeing. Tired with her short journey, Beth went at once to bed,+saying how glad she was to be at home; and when Jo went down, she found+that she would be spared the hard task of telling Beth's secret. Her+father stood leaning his head on the mantel-piece, and did not turn as+she came in; but her mother stretched out her arms as if for help, and+Jo went to comfort her without a word.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: He hurried forward to meet her]++ XXXVII.++ NEW IMPRESSIONS.+++At three o'clock in the afternoon, all the fashionable world at Nice may+be seen on the Promenade des Anglais,--a charming place; for the wide+walk, bordered with palms, flowers, and tropical shrubs, is bounded on+one side by the sea, on the other by the grand drive, lined with hotels+and villas, while beyond lie orange-orchards and the hills. Many nations+are represented, many languages spoken, many costumes worn; and, on a+sunny day, the spectacle is as gay and brilliant as a carnival. Haughty+English, lively French, sober Germans, handsome Spaniards, ugly+Russians, meek Jews, free-and-easy Americans, all drive, sit, or saunter+here, chatting over the news, and criticising the latest celebrity who+has arrived,--Ristori or Dickens, Victor Emmanuel or the Queen of the+Sandwich Islands. The equipages are as varied as the company, and+attract as much attention, especially the low basket-barouches in which+ladies drive themselves, with a pair of dashing ponies, gay nets to keep+their voluminous flounces from overflowing the diminutive vehicles, and+little grooms on the perch behind.++Along this walk, on Christmas Day, a tall young man walked slowly, with+his hands behind him, and a somewhat absent expression of countenance.+He looked like an Italian, was dressed like an Englishman, and had the+independent air of an American,--a combination which caused sundry pairs+of feminine eyes to look approvingly after him, and sundry dandies in+black velvet suits, with rose-colored neckties, buff gloves, and+orange-flowers in their button-holes, to shrug their shoulders, and then+envy him his inches. There were plenty of pretty faces to admire, but+the young man took little notice of them, except to glance, now and+then, at some blonde girl, or lady in blue. Presently he strolled out of+the promenade, and stood a moment at the crossing, as if undecided+whether to go and listen to the band in the Jardin Publique, or to+wander along the beach toward Castle Hill. The quick trot of ponies'+feet made him look up, as one of the little carriages, containing a+single lady, came rapidly down the street. The lady was young, blonde,+and dressed in blue. He stared a minute, then his whole face woke up,+and, waving his hat like a boy, he hurried forward to meet her.++"O Laurie, is it really you? I thought you'd never come!" cried Amy,+dropping the reins, and holding out both hands, to the great+scandalization of a French mamma, who hastened her daughter's steps,+lest she should be demoralized by beholding the free manners of these+"mad English."++"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 all 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 to-night."++"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. Where now?" asked Laurie, leaning back and folding his arms,+a proceeding which suited Amy, who preferred to drive; for her+parasol-whip and blue reins over the white ponies' backs, afforded her+infinite satisfaction.++"I'm going to the banker's 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.++"Why, you see he hates to travel, and I hate to keep still; so we each+suit ourselves, and there is no trouble. I am often with him, and he+enjoys my adventures, while I like to feel that some one is glad to see+me when I get back from my wanderings. Dirty old hole, isn't it?" he+added, with a look of disgust, as they drove along the boulevard to the+Place Napoleon, in the old city.++"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."++While Laurie listlessly watched the procession of priests under their+canopies, white-veiled nuns bearing lighted tapers, and some brotherhood+in blue, chanting as they walked, Amy watched him, and felt a new sort+of shyness steal over her; for he was changed, and she could not find+the merry-faced boy she left in the moody-looking man beside her. He was+handsomer than ever, and greatly improved, she thought; but now that the+flush of pleasure at meeting her was over, he looked tired and+spiritless,--not sick, nor exactly unhappy, but older and graver than a+year or two of prosperous life should have made him. She couldn't+understand it, and did not venture to ask questions; so she shook her+head, and touched up her ponies, as the procession wound away across the+arches of the Paglioni bridge, and vanished in the church.++"_Que pensez vous_?" she said, airing her French, which had improved in+quantity, if not in quality, since she came abroad.++"That mademoiselle has made good use of her time, and the result is+charming," replied Laurie, bowing, with his hand on his heart, and an+admiring look.++She blushed with pleasure, but somehow the compliment did not satisfy+her like the blunt praises he used to give her at home, when he+promenaded round her on festival occasions, and told her she was+"altogether jolly," with a hearty smile and an approving pat on the+head. She didn't like the new tone; for, though not _blasé_, it sounded+indifferent in spite of the look.++"If that's the way he's going to grow up, I wish he'd stay a boy," she+thought, with a curious sense of disappointment and discomfort, trying+meantime to seem quite easy and gay.++At Avigdor's she found the precious home-letters, and, giving the reins+to Laurie, read them luxuriously as they wound up the shady road between+green hedges, where tea-roses bloomed as freshly as in June.++"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; you could do nothing at home, and it is a+great comfort to them to know that you are well and happy, and enjoying+so much, my dear."++He drew a little nearer, and looked more like his old self, as he said+that; and the fear that sometimes weighed on Amy's heart was lightened,+for the look, the act, the brotherly "my dear," seemed to assure her+that if any trouble did come, she would not be alone in a strange land.+Presently she laughed, and showed him a small sketch of Jo in her+scribbling-suit, with the bow rampantly erect upon her cap, and issuing+from her mouth the words, "Genius burns!"++Laurie smiled, took it, put it in his vest-pocket, "to keep it from+blowing away," and listened with interest to the lively letter Amy read+him.++"This will be a regularly merry Christmas to me, with presents in the+morning, you and letters in the afternoon, and a party at night," said+Amy, as they alighted among the ruins of the old fort, and a flock of+splendid peacocks came trooping about them, tamely waiting to be fed.+While Amy stood laughing on the bank above him as she scattered crumbs+to the brilliant birds, Laurie looked at her as she had looked at him,+with a natural curiosity to see what changes time and absence had+wrought. He found nothing to perplex or disappoint, much to admire and+approve; for, overlooking a few little affectations of speech and+manner, she was as sprightly and graceful as ever, with the addition of+that indescribable something in dress and bearing which we call+elegance. Always mature for her age, she had gained a certain _aplomb_+in both carriage and conversation, which made her seem more of a woman+of the world than she was; but her old petulance now and then showed+itself, her strong will still held its own, and her native frankness was+unspoiled by foreign polish.++Laurie did not read all this while he watched her feed the peacocks, but+he saw enough to satisfy and interest him, and carried away a pretty+little picture of a bright-faced girl standing in the sunshine, which+brought out the soft hue of her dress, the fresh color of her cheeks,+the golden gloss of her hair, and made her a prominent figure in the+pleasant scene.++As they came up on to the stone plateau that crowns the hill, Amy waved+her hand as if welcoming him to her favorite haunt, and said, pointing+here and there,--++"Do you remember the Cathedral and the Corso, the fishermen dragging+their nets in the bay, and the lovely road to Villa Franca, Schubert's+Tower, just below, and, best of all, that speck far out to sea which+they say is Corsica?"++"I remember; it's not much changed," he answered, without enthusiasm.++"What Jo would give for a sight of that famous speck!" said Amy, feeling+in good spirits, and anxious to see him so also.++"Yes," was all he said, but he turned and strained his eyes to see the+island which a greater usurper than even Napoleon now made interesting+in his sight.++"Take a good look at it for her sake, and then come and tell me what you+have been doing with yourself all this while," said Amy, seating+herself, ready for a good talk.++But she did not get it; for, though he joined her, and answered all her+questions freely, she could only learn that he had roved about the+continent and been to Greece. So, after idling away an hour, they drove+home again; and, having paid his respects to Mrs. Carrol, Laurie left+them, promising to return in the evening.++It must be recorded of Amy that she deliberately "prinked" that night.+Time and absence had done its work on both the young people; she had+seen her old friend in a new light, not as "our boy," but as a handsome+and agreeable man, and she was conscious of a very natural desire to+find favor in his sight. Amy knew her good points, and made the most of+them, with the taste and skill which is a fortune to a poor and pretty+woman.++Tarlatan and tulle were cheap at Nice, so she enveloped herself in them+on such occasions, and, following the sensible English fashion of simple+dress for young girls, got up charming little toilettes with fresh+flowers, a few trinkets, and all manner of dainty devices, which were+both inexpensive and effective. It must be confessed that the artist+sometimes got possession of the woman, and indulged in antique+_coiffures_, statuesque attitudes, and classic draperies. But, dear+heart, we all have our little weaknesses, and find it easy to pardon+such in the young, who satisfy our eyes with their comeliness, and keep+our hearts merry with their artless vanities.++"I do want him to think I look well, and tell them so at home," said Amy+to herself, as she put on Flo's old white silk ball-dress, and covered+it with a cloud of fresh illusion, out of which her white shoulders and+golden head emerged with a most artistic effect. Her hair she had the+sense to let alone, after gathering up the thick waves and curls into a+Hebe-like knot at the back of her head.++"It's not the fashion, but it's becoming, and I can't afford to make a+fright of myself," she used to say, when advised to frizzle, puff, or+braid, as the latest style commanded.++Having no ornaments fine enough for this important occasion, Amy looped+her fleecy skirts with rosy clusters of azalea, and framed the white+shoulders in delicate green vines. Remembering the painted boots, she+surveyed her white satin slippers with girlish satisfaction, and+_chasséed_ down the room, admiring her aristocratic feet all by herself.++"My new fan just matches my flowers, my gloves fit to a charm, and the+real lace on aunt's _mouchoir_ gives an air to my whole dress. If I only+had a classical nose and mouth I should be perfectly happy," she said,+surveying herself with a critical eye, and a candle in each hand.++In spite of this affliction, she looked unusually gay and graceful as+she glided away; she seldom ran,--it did not suit her style, she+thought, for, being tall, the stately and Junoesque was more appropriate+than the sportive or piquante. She walked up and down the long saloon+while waiting for Laurie, and once arranged herself under the+chandelier, which had a good effect upon her hair; then she thought+better of it, and went away to the other end of the room, as if ashamed+of the girlish desire to have the first view a propitious one. It so+happened that she could not have done a better thing, for Laurie came in+so quietly she did not hear him; and, as she stood at the distant+window, with her head half turned, and one hand gathering up her dress,+the slender, white figure against the red curtains was as effective as a+well-placed statue.++"Good evening, Diana!" said Laurie, with the look of satisfaction she+liked to see in his eyes when they rested on her.++"Good evening, Apollo!" she answered, smiling back at him, for he, too,+looked unusually _debonnaire_, and the thought of entering the ball-room+on the arm of such a personable man caused Amy to pity the four plain+Misses Davis from the bottom of her heart.++"Here are your flowers; I arranged them myself, remembering that you+didn't like what Hannah calls a 'sot-bookay,'" said Laurie, handing her+a delicate nosegay, in a holder that she had long coveted as she daily+passed it in Cardiglia's window.++ [Illustration: Here are your flowers]++"How kind you are!" she exclaimed gratefully. "If I'd known you were+coming I'd have had something ready for you to-day, though not as pretty+as this, I'm afraid."++"Thank you; it isn't what it should be, but you have improved it," he+added, as she snapped the silver bracelet on her wrist.++"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."++"I'm glad of it," he answered, with a look of relief; then buttoned her+gloves for her, and asked if his tie was straight, just as he used to do+when they went to parties together, at home.++The company assembled in the long _salle à manger_, that evening, was+such as one sees nowhere but on the Continent. The hospitable Americans+had invited every acquaintance they had in Nice, and, having no+prejudice against titles, secured a few to add lustre to their Christmas+ball.++A Russian prince condescended to sit in a corner for an hour, and talk+with a massive lady, dressed like Hamlet's mother, in black velvet, with+a pearl bridle under her chin. A Polish count, aged eighteen, devoted+himself to the ladies, who pronounced him "a fascinating dear," and a+German Serene Something, having come for the supper alone, roamed+vaguely about, seeking what he might devour. Baron Rothschild's private+secretary, a large-nosed Jew, in tight boots, affably beamed upon the+world, as if his master's name crowned him with a golden halo; a stout+Frenchman, who knew the Emperor, came to indulge his mania for dancing,+and Lady de Jones, a British matron, adorned the scene with her little+family of eight. Of course, there were many light-footed, shrill-voiced+American girls, handsome, lifeless-looking English ditto, and a few+plain but piquante French demoiselles; likewise the usual set of+travelling young gentlemen, who disported themselves gayly, while mammas+of all nations lined the walls, and smiled upon them benignly when they+danced with their daughters.++Any young girl can imagine Amy's state of mind when she "took the stage"+that night, leaning on Laurie's arm. She knew she looked well, she loved+to dance, she felt that her foot was on her native heath in a ball-room,+and enjoyed the delightful sense of power which comes when young girls+first discover the new and lovely kingdom they are born to rule by+virtue of beauty, youth, and womanhood. She did pity the Davis girls,+who were awkward, plain, and destitute of escort, except a grim papa and+three grimmer maiden aunts, and she bowed to them in her friendliest+manner as she passed; which was good of her, as it permitted them to see+her dress, and burn with curiosity to know who her distinguished-looking+friend might be. With the first burst of the band, Amy's color rose, her+eyes began to sparkle, and her feet to tap the floor impatiently; for+she danced well, and wanted Laurie to know it: therefore the shock she+received can better be imagined than described, when he said, in a+perfectly tranquil tone,--++"Do you care to dance?"++"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. He dances divinely; but he+will excuse me, as you are an old friend," said Amy, hoping that the+name would have a good effect, and show Laurie that she was not to be+trifled with.++"Nice little boy, but rather a short Pole to support++ "'A daughter of the gods,+ Divinely tall, and most divinely fair,'"++was all the satisfaction she got, however.++The set in which they found themselves was composed of English, and Amy+was compelled to walk decorously through a cotillon, feeling all the+while as if she could dance the Tarantula with a relish. Laurie resigned+her to the "nice little boy," and went to do his duty to Flo, without+securing Amy for the joys to come, which reprehensible want of+forethought was properly punished, for she immediately engaged herself+till supper, meaning to relent if he then gave any signs of penitence.+She showed him her ball-book with demure satisfaction when he strolled,+instead of rushing, up to claim her for the next, a glorious+polka-redowa; but his polite regrets didn't impose upon her, and when+she gallopaded away with the Count, she saw Laurie sit down by her aunt+with an actual expression of relief.++That was unpardonable; and Amy took no more notice of him for a long+while, except a word now and then, when she came to her chaperon,+between the dances, for a necessary pin or a moment's rest. Her anger+had a good effect, however, for she hid it under a smiling face, and+seemed unusually blithe and brilliant. Laurie's eyes followed her with+pleasure, for she neither romped nor sauntered, but danced with spirit+and grace, making the delightsome pastime what it should be. He very+naturally fell to studying her from this new point of view; and, before+the evening was half over, had decided that "little Amy was going to+make a very charming woman."++It was a lively scene, for soon the spirit of the social season took+possession of every one, and Christmas merriment made all faces shine,+hearts happy, and heels light. The musicians fiddled, tooted, and banged+as if they enjoyed it; everybody danced who could, and those who+couldn't admired their neighbors with uncommon warmth. The air was dark+with Davises, and many Joneses gambolled like a flock of young giraffes.+The golden secretary darted through the room like a meteor, with a+dashing Frenchwoman, who carpeted the floor with her pink satin train.+The Serene Teuton found the supper-table, and was happy, eating steadily+through the bill of fare, and dismayed the _garçons_ by the ravages he+committed. But the Emperor's friend covered himself with glory, for he+danced everything, whether he knew it or not, and introduced impromptu+pirouettes when the figures bewildered him. The boyish abandon of that+stout man was charming to behold; for, though he "carried weight," he+danced like an india-rubber ball. He ran, he flew, he pranced; his face+glowed, his bald head shone; his coat-tails waved wildly, his pumps+actually twinkled in the air, and when the music stopped, he wiped the+drops from his brow, and beamed upon his fellow-men like a French+Pickwick without glasses.++Amy and her Pole distinguished themselves by equal enthusiasm, but more+graceful agility; and Laurie found himself involuntarily keeping time to+the rhythmic rise and fall of the white slippers as they flew by as+indefatigably as if winged. When little Vladimir finally relinquished+her, with assurances that he was "desolated to leave so early," she was+ready to rest, and see how her recreant knight had borne his punishment.++It had been successful; for, at three-and-twenty, blighted affections+find a balm in friendly society, and young nerves will thrill, young+blood dance, and healthy young spirits rise, when subjected to the+enchantment of beauty, light, music, and motion. Laurie had a waked-up+look as he rose to give her his seat; and when he hurried away to bring+her some supper, she said to herself, with a satisfied smile,--++"Ah, I thought that would do him good!"++"You look like Balzac's 'Femme peinte par elle-même,'" he said, as he+fanned her with one hand, and held her coffee-cup in the other.++"My rouge won't come off;" and Amy rubbed her brilliant cheek, and+showed him her white glove with a sober simplicity that made him laugh+outright.++"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."++Laurie sat bolt upright, and meekly took her empty plate, feeling an odd+sort of pleasure in having "little Amy" order him about; for she had+lost her shyness now, and felt an irresistible desire to trample on him,+as girls have a delightful way of doing when lords of creation show any+signs of subjection.++"Where did you learn all this sort of thing?" he asked, with a quizzical+look.++"As 'this sort of thing' is rather a vague expression, would you kindly+explain?" returned Amy, knowing perfectly well what he meant, but+wickedly leaving him to describe what is indescribable.++"Well--the general air, the style, the self-possession,+the--the--illusion--you know," laughed Laurie, breaking down, and+helping himself out of his quandary with the new word.++Amy was gratified, but, of course, didn't show it, and demurely+answered, "Foreign life polishes one in spite of one's self; I study as+well as play; and as for this"--with a little gesture toward her+dress--"why, tulle is cheap, posies to be had for nothing, and I am used+to making the most of my poor little things."++Amy rather regretted that last sentence, fearing it wasn't in good+taste; but Laurie liked her the better for it, and found himself both+admiring and respecting the brave patience that made the most of+opportunity, and the cheerful spirit that covered poverty with flowers.+Amy did not know why he looked at her so kindly, nor why he filled up+her book with his own name, and devoted himself to her for the rest of+the evening, in the most delightful manner; but the impulse that wrought+this agreeable change was the result of one of the new impressions which+both of them were unconsciously giving and receiving.+++++ [Illustration: Demi and Daisy]++ XXXVIII.++ ON THE SHELF.+++In France the young girls have a dull time of it till they are married,+when "_Vive la liberté_" becomes their motto. In America, as every one+knows, girls early sign the declaration of independence, and enjoy their+freedom with republican zest; but the young matrons usually abdicate+with the first heir to the throne, and go into a seclusion almost as+close as a French nunnery, though by no means as quiet. Whether they+like it or not, they are virtually put upon the shelf as soon as the+wedding excitement is over, and most of them might exclaim, as did a+very pretty woman the other day, "I'm as handsome as ever, but no one+takes any notice of me because I'm married."++Not being a belle or even a fashionable lady, Meg did not experience+this affliction till her babies were a year old, for in her little world+primitive customs prevailed, and she found herself more admired and+beloved than ever.++As she was a womanly little woman, the maternal instinct was very+strong, and she was entirely absorbed in her children, to the utter+exclusion of everything and everybody else. Day and night she brooded+over them with tireless devotion and anxiety, leaving John to the tender+mercies of the help, for an Irish lady now presided over the kitchen+department. Being a domestic man, John decidedly missed the wifely+attentions he had been accustomed to receive; but, as he adored his+babies, he cheerfully relinquished his comfort for a time, supposing,+with masculine ignorance, that peace would soon be restored. But three+months passed, and there was no return of repose; Meg looked worn and+nervous, the babies absorbed every minute of her time, the house was+neglected, and Kitty, the cook, who took life "aisy," kept him on short+commons. When he went out in the morning he was bewildered by small+commissions for the captive mamma; if he came gayly in at night, eager+to embrace his family, he was quenched by a "Hush! they are just asleep+after worrying all day." If he proposed a little amusement at home, "No,+it would disturb the babies." If he hinted at a lecture or concert, he+was answered with a reproachful look, and a decided "Leave my children+for pleasure, never!" His sleep was broken by infant wails and visions+of a phantom figure pacing noiselessly to and fro in the watches of the+night; his meals were interrupted by the frequent flight of the+presiding genius, who deserted him, half-helped, if a muffled chirp+sounded from the nest above; and when he read his paper of an evening,+Demi's colic got into the shipping-list, and Daisy's fall affected the+price of stocks, for Mrs. Brooke was only interested in domestic news.++The poor man was very uncomfortable, for the children had bereft him of+his wife; home was merely a nursery, and the perpetual "hushing" made+him feel like a brutal intruder whenever he entered the sacred precincts+of Babyland. He bore it very patiently for six months, and, when no+signs of amendment appeared, he did what other paternal exiles+do,--tried to get a little comfort elsewhere. Scott had married and gone+to housekeeping not far off, and John fell into the way of running over+for an hour or two of an evening, when his own parlor was empty, and his+own wife singing lullabies that seemed to have no end. Mrs. Scott was a+lively, pretty girl, with nothing to do but be agreeable, and she+performed her mission most successfully. The parlor was always bright+and attractive, the chess-board ready, the piano in tune, plenty of gay+gossip, and a nice little supper set forth in tempting style.++John would have preferred his own fireside if it had not been so lonely;+but as it was, he gratefully took the next best thing, and enjoyed his+neighbor's society.++Meg rather approved of the new arrangement at first, and found it a+relief to know that John was having a good time instead of dozing in the+parlor, or tramping about the house and waking the children. But by and+by, when the teething worry was over, and the idols went to sleep at+proper hours, leaving mamma time to rest, she began to miss John, and+find her work-basket dull company, when he was not sitting opposite in+his old dressing-gown, comfortably scorching his slippers on the fender.+She would not ask him to stay at home, but felt injured because he did+not know that she wanted him without being told, entirely forgetting the+many evenings he had waited for her in vain. She was nervous and worn+out with watching and worry, and in that unreasonable frame of mind+which the best of mothers occasionally experience when domestic cares+oppress them. Want of exercise robs them of cheerfulness, and too much+devotion to that idol of American women, the teapot, makes them feel as+if they were all nerve and no muscle.++"Yes," she would say, looking in the glass, "I'm getting old and ugly;+John doesn't find me interesting any longer, so he leaves his faded wife+and goes to see his pretty neighbor, who has no incumbrances. Well, the+babies love me; they don't care if I am thin and pale, and haven't time+to crimp my hair; they are my comfort, and some day John will see what+I've gladly sacrificed for them, won't he, my precious?"++To which pathetic appeal Daisy would answer with a coo, or Demi with a+crow, and Meg would put by her lamentations for a maternal revel, which+soothed her solitude for the time being. But the pain increased as+politics absorbed John, who was always running over to discuss+interesting points with Scott, quite unconscious that Meg missed him.+Not a word did she say, however, till her mother found her in tears one+day, and insisted on knowing what the matter was, for Meg's drooping+spirits had not escaped her observation.++"I wouldn't tell any one except you, mother; but I really do need+advice, for, if John goes on so much longer I might as well be widowed,"+replied Mrs. Brooke, drying her tears on Daisy's bib, with an injured+air.++"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. Did John ever neglect you, as you call it, while you+made it a point to give him your society of an evening, his only leisure+time?"++"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."++Meg drew her low chair beside her mother's, and, with a little+interruption in either lap, the two women rocked and talked lovingly+together, feeling that the tie of motherhood made them more one than+ever.++"You have only made the mistake that most young wives make,--forgotten+your duty to your husband in your love for your children. A very natural+and forgivable mistake, Meg, but one that had better be remedied before+you take to different ways; for children should draw you nearer than+ever, not separate you, as if they were all yours, and John had nothing+to do but support them. 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; let him feel that he has his+part to do, and he will do it gladly and faithfully, and it will be+better for you all."++"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. When you and Jo were little, I went on just+as you are, feeling as if I didn't do my duty unless I devoted myself+wholly to you. 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 spoilt+her by indulgence. You were poorly, and I worried about you till I fell+sick myself. Then father came to the rescue, quietly managed everything,+and made himself so helpful that I saw my mistake, and never have been+able to get on without him since. That is the secret of our home+happiness: he does not let business wean him from the little cares and+duties that affect us all, and I try not to let domestic worries destroy+my interest in his pursuits. 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. Well, dear, if I were you, I'd let+John have more to do with the management of Demi, for the boy needs+training, and it's none too soon to begin. 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. Go out more; keep cheerful as well as busy, for you are the+sunshine-maker of the family, and if you get dismal there is no fair+weather. Then I'd try to take an interest in whatever John likes,--talk+with him, let him read to you, exchange ideas, and help each other in+that way. Don't shut yourself up in a bandbox because you are a woman,+but understand what is going on, and educate yourself to take your part+in the world's work, for it all affects you and yours."++"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.+This is just the time, Meg, when young married people are apt to grow+apart, and the very time when they ought to be most together; for the+first tenderness soon wears off, unless care is taken to preserve it;+and no time is so beautiful and precious to parents as the first years+of the little lives given them to train. Don't let John be a stranger to+the babies, for they will do more to keep him safe and happy in this+world of trial and temptation than anything else, and through them you+will learn to know and love one another as you should. Now, dear,+good-by; think over mother's preachment, act upon it if it seems good,+and God bless you all!"++Meg did think it over, found it good, and acted upon it, though the+first attempt was not made exactly as she planned to have it. Of course+the children tyrannized over her, and ruled the house as soon as they+found out that kicking and squalling brought them whatever they wanted.+Mamma was an abject slave to their caprices, but papa was not so easily+subjugated, and occasionally afflicted his tender spouse by an attempt+at paternal discipline with his obstreperous son. For Demi inherited a+trifle of his sire's firmness of character,--we won't call it+obstinacy,--and when he made up his little mind to have or to do+anything, all the king's horses and all the king's men could not change+that pertinacious little mind. Mamma thought the dear too young to be+taught to conquer his prejudices, but papa believed that it never was+too soon to learn obedience; so Master Demi early discovered that when+he undertook to "wrastle" with "parpar," he always got the worst of it;+yet, like the Englishman, Baby respected the man who conquered him, and+loved the father whose grave "No, no," was more impressive than all+mamma's love-pats.++A few days after the talk with her mother, Meg resolved to try a social+evening with John; so she ordered a nice supper, set the parlor in+order, dressed herself prettily, and put the children to bed early, that+nothing should interfere with her experiment. But, unfortunately, Demi's+most unconquerable prejudice was against going to bed, and that night he+decided to go on a rampage; so poor Meg sung and rocked, told stories+and tried every sleep-provoking wile she could devise, but all in vain,+the big eyes wouldn't shut; and long after Daisy had gone to byelow,+like the chubby little bunch of good-nature she was, naughty Demi lay+staring at the light, with the most discouragingly wide-awake expression+of countenance.++"Will Demi lie still like a good boy, while mamma runs down and gives+poor papa his tea?" asked Meg, as the hall-door softly closed, and the+well-known step went tiptoeing into the dining-room.++"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-by like Daisy. Will you, lovey?"++"Iss!" and Demi shut his eyes tight, as if to catch sleep and hurry the+desired day.++Taking advantage of the propitious moment, Meg slipped away, and ran+down to greet her husband with a smiling face, and the little blue bow+in her hair which was his especial admiration. He saw it at once, and+said, with pleased surprise,--++"Why, little mother, how gay we are to-night. Do you expect company?"++"Only you, dear."++"Is it a birthday, anniversary, or anything?"++"No; I'm tired of being a dowdy, so I dressed up as a change. You always+make yourself nice for table, no matter how tired you are; so why+shouldn't I when I have the time?"++"I do it out of respect to you, my dear," said old-fashioned John.++"Ditto, ditto, Mr. Brooke," laughed Meg, looking young and pretty again,+as she nodded to him over the teapot.++"Well, it's altogether delightful, and like old times. This tastes+right. I drink your health, dear." And John sipped his tea with an air+of reposeful rapture, which was of very short duration, however; for, as+he put down his cup, the door-handle rattled mysteriously, and a little+voice was heard, saying impatiently,--++"Opy doy; me's tummin!"++"It's that naughty boy. I told him to go to sleep alone, and here he is,+downstairs, getting his death a-cold pattering over that canvas," said+Meg, answering the call.++ [Illustration: Mornin' now]++"Mornin' now," announced Demi, in a joyful tone, as he entered, with his+long night-gown gracefully festooned over his arm, and every curl+bobbing gayly as he pranced about the table, eying the "cakies" with+loving glances.++"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,--++"If you told him to stay up there, and go to sleep alone, make him do+it, or he will never learn to mind you."++"Yes, of course. Come, Demi;" and Meg led her son away, feeling a+strong desire to spank the little marplot who hopped beside her,+laboring under the delusion that the bribe was to be administered as+soon as they reached the nursery.++Nor was he disappointed; for that short-sighted woman actually gave him+a lump of sugar, tucked him into his bed, and forbade any more+promenades till morning.++"Iss!" said Demi the perjured, blissfully sucking his sugar, and+regarding his first attempt as eminently successful.++Meg returned to her place, and supper was progressing pleasantly, when+the little ghost walked again, and exposed the maternal delinquencies by+boldly demanding,--++"More sudar, marmar."++"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."++"S'ant!" replied the young rebel, helping himself to the coveted+"cakie," and beginning to eat the same with calm audacity.++"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.++But even that refuge proved unavailing, for he was delivered over to the+enemy, with a "Be gentle with him, John," which struck the culprit with+dismay; for when mamma deserted him, then the judgment-day was at hand.+Bereft of his cake, defrauded of his frolic, and borne away by a strong+hand to that detested bed, poor Demi could not restrain his wrath, but+openly defied papa, and kicked and screamed lustily all the way+upstairs. The minute he was put into bed on one side, he rolled out on+the other, and made for the door, only to be ignominiously caught up by+the tail of his little toga, and put back again, which lively+performance was kept up till the young man's strength gave out, when he+devoted himself to roaring at the top of his voice. This vocal exercise+usually conquered Meg; but John sat as unmoved as the post which is+popularly believed to be deaf. No coaxing, no sugar, no lullaby, no+story; even the light was put out, and only the red glow of the fire+enlivened the "big dark" which Demi regarded with curiosity rather than+fear. This new order of things disgusted him, and he howled dismally for+"marmar," as his angry passions subsided, and recollections of his+tender bondwoman returned to the captive autocrat. The plaintive wail+which succeeded the passionate roar went to Meg's heart, and she ran up+to say beseechingly,--++"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.++"No, he won't, he's so tired he will soon drop off, and then the matter+is settled; for he will understand that he has got to mind. 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 spoilt 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. Demi, say 'good-night' to mamma, and let her go and rest,+for she is very tired with taking care of you all day."++Meg always insisted upon it that the kiss won the victory; for after it+was given, Demi sobbed more quietly, and lay quite still at the bottom+of the bed, whither he had wriggled in his anguish of mind.++"Poor little man, he's worn out with sleep and crying. I'll cover him+up, and then go and set Meg's heart at rest," thought John, creeping to+the bedside, hoping to find his rebellious heir asleep.++But he wasn't; for the moment his father peeped at him, Demi's eyes+opened, his little chin began to quiver, and he put up his arms, saying,+with a penitent hiccough, "Me's dood, now."++Sitting on the stairs, outside, Meg wondered at the long silence which+followed the uproar; and, after imagining all sorts of impossible+accidents, she slipped into the room, to set her fears at rest. Demi lay+fast asleep; not in his usual spread-eagle attitude, but in a subdued+bunch, cuddled close in the circle of his father's arm and holding his+father's finger, as if he felt that justice was tempered with mercy, and+had gone to sleep a sadder and a wiser baby. So held, John had waited+with womanly patience till the little hand relaxed its hold; and, while+waiting, had fallen asleep, more tired by that tussle with his son than+with his whole day's work.++As Meg stood watching the two faces on the pillow, she smiled to+herself, and then slipped away again, saying, in a satisfied tone,--++"I never need fear that John will be too harsh with my babies: he _does_+know how to manage them, and will be a great help, for Demi _is_ getting+too much for me."++When John came down at last, expecting to find a pensive or reproachful+wife, he was agreeably surprised to find Meg placidly trimming a bonnet,+and to be greeted with the request to read something about the election,+if he was not too tired. John saw in a minute that a revolution of some+kind was going on, but wisely asked no questions, knowing that Meg was+such a transparent little person, she couldn't keep a secret to save her+life, and therefore the clew would soon appear. He read a long debate+with the most amiable readiness, and then explained it in his most lucid+manner, while Meg tried to look deeply interested, to ask intelligent+questions, and keep her thoughts from wandering from the state of the+nation to the state of her bonnet. In her secret soul, however, she+decided that politics were as bad as mathematics, and that the mission+of politicians seemed to be calling each other names; but she kept these+feminine ideas to herself, and when John paused, shook her head, and+said with what she thought diplomatic ambiguity,--++"Well, I really don't see what we are coming to."++John laughed, and watched her for a minute, as she poised a pretty+little preparation of lace and flowers on her hand, and regarded it with+the genuine interest which his harangue had failed to waken.++"She is trying to like politics for my sake, so I'll try and like+millinery for hers, that's only fair," thought John the Just, adding+aloud,--++"That's very pretty; is it what you call a breakfast-cap?"++ [Illustration: My dear man, it's a bonnet]++"My dear man, it's a bonnet! My very best go-to-concert-and-theatre+bonnet."++"I beg your pardon; it was so small, I naturally mistook it for one of+the fly-away things you sometimes wear. How do you keep it on?"++"These bits of lace are fastened under the chin with a rosebud, so;" and+Meg illustrated by putting on the bonnet, and regarding him with an air+of calm satisfaction that was irresistible.++"It's a love of a bonnet, but I prefer the face inside, for it looks+young and happy again," and John kissed the smiling face, to the great+detriment of the rosebud under the chin.++"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. You+have been shut up so long, it will do you no end of good, and I shall+enjoy it, of all things. What put it into your head, little mother?"++"Well, I had a talk with Marmee the other day, and told her how nervous+and cross and out of sorts I felt, and she said I needed change and less+care; so Hannah is to help me with the children, and I'm to see to+things about the house more, and now and then have a little fun, just to+keep me from getting to be a fidgety, broken-down old woman before my+time. It's only an experiment, John, and I want to try it for your sake+as much as for mine, because I've neglected you shamefully lately, and+I'm going to make home what it used to be, if I can. You don't object, I+hope?"++Never mind what John said, or what a very narrow escape the little+bonnet had from utter ruin; all that we have any business to know, is+that John did _not_ appear to object, judging from the changes which+gradually took place in the house and its inmates. It was not all+Paradise by any means, but every one was better for the division of+labor system; the children throve under the paternal rule, for accurate,+steadfast John brought order and obedience into Babydom, while Meg+recovered her spirits and composed her nerves by plenty of wholesome+exercise, a little pleasure, and much confidential conversation with her+sensible husband. Home grew home-like again, and John had no wish to+leave it, unless he took Meg with him. The Scotts came to the Brookes'+now, and every one found the little house a cheerful place, full of+happiness, content, and family love. Even gay Sallie Moffatt liked to go+there. "It is always so quiet and pleasant here; it does me good, Meg,"+she used to say, looking about her with wistful eyes, as if trying to+discover the charm, that she might use it in her great house, full of+splendid loneliness; for there were no riotous, sunny-faced babies+there, and Ned lived in a world of his own, where there was no place for+her.++This household happiness did not come all at once, but John and Meg had+found the key to it, and each year of married life taught them how to+use it, unlocking the treasuries of real home-love and mutual+helpfulness, which the poorest may possess, and the richest cannot buy.+This is the sort of shelf on which young wives and mothers may consent+to be laid, safe from the restless fret and fever of the world, finding+loyal lovers in the little sons and daughters who cling to them,+undaunted by sorrow, poverty, or age; walking side by side, through fair+and stormy weather, with a faithful friend, who is, in the true sense of+the good old Saxon word, the "house-band," and learning, as Meg learned,+that a woman's happiest kingdom is home, her highest honor the art of+ruling it, not as a queen, but a wise wife and mother.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Sat piping on a stone while his goats skipped]++ XXXIX.++ LAZY LAURENCE.+++Laurie went to Nice intending to stay a week, and remained a month. He+was tired of wandering about alone, and Amy's familiar presence seemed+to give a home-like charm to the foreign scenes in which she bore a+part. He rather missed the "petting" he used to receive, and enjoyed a+taste of it again; for no attentions, however flattering, from+strangers, were half so pleasant as the sisterly adoration of the girls+at home. Amy never would pet him like the others, but she was very glad+to see him now, and quite clung to him, feeling that he was the+representative of the dear family for whom she longed more than she+would confess. They naturally took comfort in each other's society, and+were much together, riding, walking, dancing, or dawdling, for, at Nice,+no one can be very industrious during the gay season. But, while+apparently amusing themselves in the most careless fashion, they were+half-consciously making discoveries and forming opinions about each+other. Amy rose daily in the estimation of her friend, but he sunk in+hers, and each felt the truth before a word was spoken. Amy tried to+please, and succeeded, for she was grateful for the many pleasures he+gave her, and repaid him with the little services to which womanly women+know how to lend an indescribable charm. Laurie made no effort of any+kind, but just let himself drift along as comfortably as possible,+trying to forget, and feeling that all women owed him a kind word+because one had been cold to him. It cost him no effort to be generous,+and he would have given Amy all the trinkets in Nice if she would have+taken them; but, at the same time, he felt that he could not change the+opinion she was forming of him, and he rather dreaded the keen blue eyes+that seemed to watch him with such half-sorrowful, half-scornful+surprise.++"All the rest have gone to Monaco for the day; I preferred to stay at+home and write letters. They are done now, and I am going to Valrosa to+sketch; will you come?" said Amy, as she joined Laurie one lovely day+when he lounged in as usual, about noon.++"Well, yes; but isn't it rather warm for such a long walk?" he answered+slowly, for the shaded _salon_ looked inviting, after the glare without.++"I'm going to have the little carriage, and Baptiste can drive, so+you'll have nothing to do but hold your umbrella and keep your gloves+nice," returned Amy, with a sarcastic glance at the immaculate kids,+which were a weak point with Laurie.++"Then I'll go with pleasure;" and he put out his hand for her+sketch-book. But she tucked it under her arm with a sharp--++"Don't trouble yourself; it's no exertion to me, but _you_ don't look+equal to it."++Laurie lifted his eyebrows, and followed at a leisurely pace as she ran+downstairs; but when they got into the carriage he took the reins+himself, and left little Baptiste nothing to do but fold his arms and+fall asleep on his perch.++The two never quarrelled,--Amy was too well-bred, and just now Laurie+was too lazy; so, in a minute he peeped under her hat-brim with an+inquiring air; she answered 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. There a+bare-legged shepherd, in wooden shoes, pointed hat, and rough jacket+over one shoulder, sat piping on a stone, while his goats skipped among+the rocks or lay at his feet. Meek, mouse-colored donkeys, laden with+panniers of freshly-cut grass, passed by, with a pretty girl in a+_capaline_ sitting between the green piles, or an old woman spinning+with a distaff as she went. Brown, soft-eyed children ran out from the+quaint stone hovels to offer nosegays, or bunches of oranges still on+the bough. Gnarled olive-trees covered the hills with their dusky+foliage, fruit hung golden in the orchard, and great scarlet anemones+fringed the roadside; while beyond green slopes and craggy heights, the+Maritime Alps rose sharp and white against the blue Italian sky.++Valrosa well deserved its name, for, in that climate of perpetual+summer, roses blossomed everywhere. They overhung the archway, thrust+themselves between the bars of the great gate with a sweet welcome to+passers-by, and lined the avenue, winding through lemon-trees and+feathery palms up to the villa on the hill. Every shadowy nook, where+seats invited one to stop and rest, was a mass of bloom; every cool+grotto had its marble nymph smiling from a veil of flowers, and every+fountain reflected crimson, white, or pale pink roses, leaning down to+smile at their own beauty. Roses covered the walls of the house, draped+the cornices, climbed the pillars, and ran riot over the balustrade of+the wide terrace, whence one looked down on the sunny Mediterranean, and+the white-walled city on its shore.++"This is a regular honeymoon Paradise, isn't it? Did you ever see such+roses?" asked Amy, pausing on the terrace to enjoy the view, and a+luxurious whiff of perfume that came wandering by.++"No, nor felt such thorns," returned Laurie, with his thumb in his+mouth, after a vain attempt to capture a solitary scarlet flower that+grew just beyond his reach.++"Try lower down, and pick those that have no thorns," said Amy,+gathering three of the tiny cream-colored ones that starred the wall+behind her. She put them in his button-hole, as a peace-offering, and he+stood a minute looking down at them with a curious expression, for in+the Italian part of his nature there was a touch of superstition, and+he was just then in that state of half-sweet, half-bitter melancholy,+when imaginative young men find significance in trifles, and food for+romance everywhere. He had thought of Jo in reaching after the thorny+red rose, for vivid flowers became her, and she had often worn ones like+that from the greenhouse at home. The pale roses Amy gave him were the+sort that the Italians lay in dead hands, never in bridal wreaths, and,+for a moment, he wondered if the omen was for Jo or for himself; but the+next instant his American common-sense got the better of sentimentality,+and he laughed a heartier laugh than Amy had heard since he came.++"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.++"Not so bad as it seems, for I should only plague him if I went, so I+might as well stay, and plague you a little longer, you can bear it+better; in fact, I think it agrees with you excellently;" and Laurie+composed himself for a lounge on the broad ledge of the balustrade.++Amy shook her head, and opened her sketch-book with an air of+resignation; but she had made up her mind to lecture "that boy," and in+a minute she began again.++"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.++"What would Jo say if she saw you now?" asked Amy impatiently, hoping to+stir him up by the mention of her still more energetic sister's name.++"As usual, 'Go away, Teddy, I'm busy!'" He laughed as he spoke, but the+laugh was not natural, and a shade passed over his face, for the+utterance of the familiar name touched the wound that was not healed+yet. Both tone and shadow struck Amy, for she had seen and heard them+before, and now she looked up in time to catch a new expression on+Laurie's face,--a hard, bitter look, full of pain, dissatisfaction, and+regret. It was gone before she could study it, and the listless+expression back again. She watched him for a moment with artistic+pleasure, thinking how like an Italian he looked, as he lay basking in+the sun with uncovered head, and eyes full of southern dreaminess; for+he seemed to have forgotten her, and fallen into a reverie.++"You look like the effigy of a young knight asleep on his tomb," she+said, carefully tracing the well-cut profile defined against the dark+stone.++"Wish I was!"++"That's a foolish wish, unless you have spoilt your life. You are so+changed, I sometimes think--" there Amy stopped, with a half-timid,+half-wistful look, more significant than her unfinished speech.++Laurie saw and understood the affectionate anxiety which she hesitated+to express, and looking straight into her eyes, said, just as he used to+say it to her mother,--++"It's all right, ma'am."++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,--++"I'm glad of that! I didn't think you'd been a very bad boy, but I+fancied you might have wasted money at that wicked Baden-Baden, lost+your heart to some charming Frenchwoman with a husband, or got into some+of the scrapes that young men seem to consider a necessary part of a+foreign tour. Don't stay out there in the sun; come and lie on the grass+here, and 'let us be friendly,' as Jo used to say when we got in the+sofa-corner and told secrets."++ [Illustration: Laurie threw himself down on the turf]++Laurie obediently threw himself down on the turf, and began to amuse+himself by sticking daisies into the ribbons of Amy's hat, that lay+there.++"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. When do you begin your great work of art, Raphaella?" he+asked, changing the subject abruptly after another pause, in which he+had been wondering if Amy knew his secret, and wanted to talk about it.++"Never," she answered, with a despondent but decided air. "Rome took all+the vanity out of me; for after seeing the wonders there, I felt too+insignificant to live, and gave up all my foolish hopes in despair."++"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. Laurie smiled,+but he liked the spirit with which she took up a new purpose when a+long-cherished one died, and spent no time lamenting.++"Good! and here is where Fred Vaughn comes in, I fancy."++Amy preserved a discreet silence, but there was a conscious look in her+downcast face, that made Laurie sit up and say gravely,--++"Now I'm going to play brother, and ask questions. 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. I heard rumors about Fred and+you last year, and it's my private opinion that, if he had not been+called home so suddenly and detained so long, something would have come+of it--hey?"++"That's not for me to say," was Amy's prim reply; but her lips would+smile, and there was a traitorous sparkle of the eye, which betrayed+that she knew her power and enjoyed the knowledge.++"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 upon 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."++"He is rich, a gentleman, and has delightful manners," began Amy, trying+to be quite cool and dignified, but feeling a little ashamed of herself,+in spite of the sincerity of her intentions.++"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. His look and silence, as well+as a certain inward self-disapproval, ruffled Amy, and made her resolve+to deliver her lecture without delay.++"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 some+one 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. Regard me in the light of a husband or a+carpet, and beat till you are tired, if that sort of exercise agrees+with you."++Being decidedly nettled herself, and longing to see him shake off the+apathy that so altered him, Amy sharpened both tongue and pencil, and+began:--++"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."++If she had even said "I hate you," in a petulant or coquettish tone, he+would have laughed, and rather liked it; but the grave, almost sad,+accent of her voice made him open his eyes, and ask quickly,--++"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."++"Am _I_ selfish?" The question slipped out involuntarily and in a tone+of surprise, for the one virtue on which he prided himself was+generosity.++"Yes, very selfish," continued Amy, in a calm, cool voice, twice as+effective, just then, as an angry one. "I'll show you how, for I've+studied you while we have been 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-years 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. You have grown abominably lazy; you like+gossip, and waste time on frivolous things; you are contented to be+petted and admired by silly people, instead of being loved and respected+by wise ones. With money, talent, position, health, and beauty,--ah, you+like that, Old Vanity! but it's the truth, so I can't help saying+it,--with all these splendid things to use and enjoy, you can find+nothing to do but dawdle; and, instead of being the man you might and+ought to be, you are only--" There she stopped, with a look that had+both pain and pity in it.++"Saint Laurence on a gridiron," added Laurie, blandly finishing the+sentence. But the lecture began to take effect, for there was a+wide-awake sparkle in his eyes now, and a half-angry, half-injured+expression replaced the former indifference.++"I supposed you'd take it so. You men tell us we are angels, and say we+can make you what we will; but the instant we honestly try to do you+good, you laugh at us, and won't listen, which proves how much your+flattery is worth." Amy spoke bitterly, and turned her back on the+exasperating martyr at her feet.++In a minute a hand came down over the page, so that she could not draw,+and Laurie's voice said, with a droll imitation of a penitent child,--++"I will be good, oh, I will be good!"++But Amy did not laugh, for she was in earnest; and, tapping on the+outspread hand with her pencil, said soberly,--++"Aren't you ashamed of a hand like that? It's as soft and white as a+woman's, and looks as if it never did anything but wear Jouvin's best+gloves, and pick flowers for ladies. You are not a dandy, thank Heaven!+so I'm glad to see there are no diamonds or big seal-rings on it, only+the little old one Jo gave you so long ago. 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. She glanced down at him with a+new thought in her mind; but he was lying with his hat half over his+face, as if for shade, and his mustache hid his mouth. She only saw his+chest rise and fall, with a long breath that might have been a sigh, and+the hand that wore the ring nestled down into the grass, as if to hide+something too precious or too tender to be spoken of. All in a minute+various hints and trifles assumed shape and significance in Amy's mind,+and told her what her sister never had confided to her. She remembered+that Laurie never spoke voluntarily of Jo; she recalled the shadow on+his face just now, the change in his character, and the wearing of the+little old ring, which was no ornament to a handsome hand. 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. Her keen eyes filled, and, when she spoke again, it was+in a voice that could be beautifully soft and kind when she chose to+make it so.++"I know I have no right to talk so to you, Laurie; and if you weren't+the sweetest-tempered fellow in the world, you'd be very angry with me.+But we are all so fond and proud of you, I couldn't bear to think they+should be disappointed in you at home as I have been, though, perhaps,+they would understand the change better than I do."++"I think they would," came from under the hat, in a grim tone, quite as+touching as a broken one.++"They ought to have told me, and not let me go blundering and scolding,+when I should have been more kind and patient than ever. I never did+like that Miss Randal, and now I hate her!" said artful Amy, wishing to+be sure of her facts this time.++"Hang Miss Randal!" and Laurie knocked the hat off his face with a look+that left no doubt of his sentiments toward that young lady.++"I beg pardon; I thought--" and there she paused diplomatically.++"No, you didn't; you knew perfectly well I never cared for any one but+Jo." Laurie said that in his old, impetuous tone, and turned his face+away as he spoke.++"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."++"She _was_ kind, but not in the right way; and it's lucky for her she+didn't love me, if I'm the good-for-nothing fellow you think me. It's+her fault, though, and you may tell her so."++The hard, bitter look came back again as he said that, and it troubled+Amy, for she did not know what balm to apply.++"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."++"Don't, that's her name for me!" and Laurie put up his hand with a quick+gesture to stop the words spoken in Jo's half-kind, half-reproachful+tone. "Wait till you've tried it yourself," he added, in a low voice, as+he pulled up the grass by the handful.++"I'd take it manfully, and be respected if I couldn't be loved," said+Amy, with the decision of one who knew nothing about it.++Now, Laurie flattered himself that he _had_ borne it remarkably well,+making no moan, asking no sympathy, and taking his trouble away to live+it down alone. Amy's lecture put the matter in a new light, and for the+first time it did look weak and selfish to lose heart at the first+failure, and shut himself up in moody indifference. 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 every one knew you _could_+do well."++"I did fail, say what you will, for Jo wouldn't love me," began Laurie,+leaning his head on his hand in a despondent attitude.++"No, you didn't, and you'll say so in the end, for it did you good, and+proved that you could do something if you tried. If you'd only set about+another task of some sort, you'd soon be your hearty, happy self again,+and forget your trouble."++"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. Love+Jo all your days, if you choose, but don't let it spoil you, for it's+wicked to throw away so many good gifts because you can't have the one+you want. 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. Laurie sat turning the little ring on+his finger, and Amy put the last touches to the hasty sketch she had+been working at while she talked. Presently she put it on his knee,+merely saying,--++"How do you like that?"++He looked and then he smiled, as he could not well help doing, for it+was capitally done,--the long, lazy figure on the grass, with listless+face, half-shut eyes, and one hand holding a cigar, from which came the+little wreath of smoke that encircled the dreamer's head.++"How well you draw!" he said, with genuine surprise and pleasure at her+skill, adding, with a half-laugh,--++"Yes, that's me."++"As you are: this is as you were;" and Amy laid another sketch beside+the one he held.++It was not nearly so well done, but there was a life and spirit in it+which atoned for many faults, and it recalled the past so vividly that a+sudden change swept over the young man's face as he looked. Only a rough+sketch of Laurie taming a horse; hat and coat were off, and every line+of the active figure, resolute face, and commanding attitude, was full+of energy and meaning. The handsome brute, just subdued, stood arching+his neck under the tightly drawn rein, with one foot impatiently pawing+the ground, and ears pricked up as if listening for the voice that had+mastered him. In the ruffled mane, the rider's breezy hair and erect+attitude, there was a suggestion of suddenly arrested motion, of+strength, courage, and youthful buoyancy, that contrasted sharply with+the supine grace of the "_Dolce far niente_" sketch. Laurie said+nothing; but, as his eye went from one to the other, Amy saw him flush+up and fold his lips together as if he read and accepted the little+lesson she had given him. That satisfied her; and, without waiting for+him to speak, she said, in her sprightly way,--++ [Illustration: A rough sketch of Laurie taming a horse]++"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?"++Laurie rose as he spoke, returned the pictures with a smile and a bow,+and looked at his watch, as if to remind her that even moral lectures+should have an end. He tried to resume his former easy, indifferent air,+but it _was_ an affectation now, for the rousing had been more+efficacious than he would confess. Amy felt the shade of coldness in his+manner, and said to herself,--++"Now I've offended him. Well, if it does him good, I'm glad; if it makes+him hate me, I'm sorry; but it's true, and I can't take back a word of+it."++They laughed and chatted all the way home; and little Baptiste, up+behind, thought that monsieur and mademoiselle were in charming spirits.+But both felt ill at ease; the friendly frankness was disturbed, the+sunshine had a shadow over it, and despite their apparent gayety, there+was a secret discontent in the heart of each.++"Shall we see you this evening, _mon frère_?" asked Amy as they parted+at her aunt's door.++"Unfortunately I have an engagement. _Au revoir, mademoiselle_," and+Laurie bent as if to kiss her hand, in the foreign fashion, which became+him better than many men. Something in his face made Amy say quickly and+warmly,--++"No; be yourself with me, Laurie, and part in the good old way. I'd+rather have a hearty English hand-shake than all the sentimental+salutations in France."++"Good-by, dear," and with these words, uttered in the tone she liked,+Laurie left her, after a hand-shake almost painful in its heartiness.++Next morning, instead of the usual call, Amy received a note which made+her smile at the beginning and sigh at the end:--++ "MY DEAR MENTOR,--++ "Please make my adieux to your aunt, and exult within yourself,+ for 'Lazy Laurence' has gone to his grandpa, like the best of+ boys. 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; the+next minute her face fell as she glanced about the empty room, adding,+with an involuntary sigh,--++"Yes, I _am_ glad, but how I shall miss him!"+++++ [Illustration: The Valley of the Shadow]++ XL.++ THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW.+++When the first bitterness was over, the family accepted the inevitable,+and tried to bear it cheerfully, helping one another by the increased+affection which comes to bind households tenderly together in times of+trouble. They put away their grief, and each did his or her part toward+making that last year a happy one.++The pleasantest room in the house was set apart for Beth, and in it was+gathered everything that she most loved,--flowers, pictures, her piano,+the little work-table, and the beloved pussies. Father's best books+found their way there, mother's easy-chair, Jo's desk, Amy's finest+sketches; and every day Meg brought her babies on a loving pilgrimage,+to make sunshine for Aunty Beth. John quietly set apart a little sum,+that he might enjoy the pleasure of keeping the invalid supplied with+the fruit she loved and longed for; old Hannah never wearied of+concocting dainty dishes to tempt a capricious appetite, dropping tears+as she worked; and from across the sea came little gifts and cheerful+letters, seeming to bring breaths of warmth and fragrance from lands+that know no winter.++Here, cherished like a household saint in its shrine, sat Beth, tranquil+and busy as ever; for nothing could change the sweet, unselfish nature,+and even while preparing to leave life, she tried to make it happier for+those who should remain behind. The feeble fingers were never idle, and+one of her pleasures was to make little things for the school-children+daily passing to and fro,--to drop a pair of mittens from her window for+a pair of purple hands, a needle-book for some small mother of many+dolls, pen-wipers for young penmen toiling through forests of pot-hooks,+scrap-books for picture-loving eyes, and all manner of pleasant devices,+till the reluctant climbers up the ladder of learning found their way+strewn with flowers, as it were, and came to regard the gentle giver as+a sort of fairy godmother, who sat above there, and showered down gifts+miraculously suited to their tastes and needs. If Beth had wanted any+reward, she found it in the bright little faces always turned up to her+window, with nods and smiles, and the droll little letters which came to+her, full of blots and gratitude.++The first few months were very happy ones, and Beth often used to look+round, and say "How beautiful this is!" as they all sat together in her+sunny room, the babies kicking and crowing on the floor, mother and+sisters working near, and father reading, in his pleasant voice, from+the wise old books which seemed rich in good and comfortable words, as+applicable now as when written centuries ago; a little chapel, where a+paternal priest taught his flock the hard lessons all must learn, trying+to show them that hope can comfort love, and faith make resignation+possible. Simple sermons, that went straight to the souls of those who+listened; for the father's heart was in the minister's religion, and the+frequent falter in the voice gave a double eloquence to the words he+spoke or read.++It was well for all that this peaceful time was given them as+preparation for the sad hours to come; for, by and by, Beth said the+needle was "so heavy," and put it down forever; talking wearied her,+faces troubled her, pain claimed her for its own, and her tranquil+spirit was sorrowfully perturbed by the ills that vexed her feeble+flesh. Ah me! such heavy days, such long, long nights, such aching+hearts and imploring prayers, when those who loved her best were forced+to see the thin hands stretched out to them beseechingly, to hear the+bitter cry, "Help me, help me!" and to feel that there was no help. A+sad eclipse of the serene soul, a sharp struggle of the young life with+death; but both were mercifully brief, and then, the natural rebellion+over, the old peace returned more beautiful than ever. With the wreck of+her frail body, Beth's soul grew strong; and, though she said little,+those about her felt that she was ready, saw that the first pilgrim+called was likewise the fittest, and waited with her on the shore,+trying to see the Shining Ones coming to receive her when she crossed+the river.++Jo never left her for an hour since Beth had said, "I feel stronger when+you are here." She slept on a couch in the room, waking often to renew+the fire, to feed, lift, or wait upon the patient creature who seldom+asked for anything, and "tried not to be a trouble." All day she haunted+the room, jealous of any other nurse, and prouder of being chosen then+than of any honor her life ever brought her. Precious and helpful hours+to Jo, for now her heart received the teaching that it needed; lessons+in patience were so sweetly taught her that she could not fail to learn+them; charity for all, the lovely spirit that can forgive and truly+forget unkindness, the loyalty to duty that makes the hardest easy, and+the sincere faith that fears nothing, but trusts undoubtingly.++Often, when she woke, Jo found Beth reading in her well-worn little+book, heard her singing softly, to beguile the sleepless night, or saw+her lean her face upon her hands, while slow tears dropped through the+transparent fingers; and Jo would lie watching her, with thoughts too+deep for tears, feeling that Beth, in her simple, unselfish way, was+trying to wean herself from the dear old life, and fit herself for the+life to come, by sacred words of comfort, quiet prayers, and the music+she loved so well.++Seeing this did more for Jo than the wisest sermons, the saintliest+hymns, the most fervent prayers that any voice could utter; for, with+eyes made clear by many tears, and a heart softened by the tenderest+sorrow, she recognized the beauty of her sister's life,--uneventful,+unambitious, yet full of the genuine virtues which "smell sweet, and+blossom in the dust," the self-forgetfulness that makes the humblest on+earth remembered soonest in heaven, the true success which is possible+to all.++One night, when Beth looked among the books upon her table, to find+something to make her forget the mortal weariness that was almost as+hard to bear as pain, as she turned the leaves of her old favorite+Pilgrim's Progress, she found a little paper, scribbled over in Jo's+hand. 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; she shows+me all her things, and I don't think she'll mind if I look at this,"+thought Beth, with a glance at her sister, who lay on the rug, with the+tongs beside her, ready to wake up the minute the log fell apart.+++ "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.++ "O my sister, passing from me,+ Out of human care and strife,+ Leave me, as a gift, those virtues+ Which have beautified your life.+ Dear, bequeath me that great patience+ Which has power to sustain+ A cheerful, uncomplaining spirit+ In its prison-house of pain.++ "Give me, for I need it sorely,+ Of that courage, wise and sweet,+ Which has made the path of duty+ Green beneath your willing feet.+ 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 forevermore+ A beloved, household spirit+ Waiting for me on the shore.+ Hope and faith, born of my sorrow,+ Guardian angels shall become,+ And the sister gone before me+ By their hands shall lead me home."++Blurred and blotted, faulty and feeble, as the lines were, they brought+a look of inexpressible comfort to Beth's face, for her one regret had+been that she had done so little; and this seemed to assure her that her+life had not been useless, that her death would not bring the despair+she feared. 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.++"O 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; and now, when it's too late to+begin even to do better, it's such a comfort to know that some one loves+me so much, and feels as if I'd helped them."++"More than any one in the world, Beth. I used to think I couldn't let+you go; but I'm learning to feel that I don't lose you; that you'll be+more to me than ever, and death can't part us, though it seems to."++"I know it cannot, and I don't fear it any longer, for I'm sure I shall+be your Beth still, to love and help you more than ever. You must take+my place, Jo, and be everything to father and mother when I'm gone. They+will turn to you, don't fail them; and if it's hard to work alone,+remember that I don't forget you, and that you'll be happier in doing+that than writing splendid books or seeing all the world; for love is+the only thing that we can carry with us when we go, and it makes the+end so easy."++"I'll try, Beth;" and then and there Jo renounced her old ambition,+pledged herself to a new and better one, acknowledging the poverty of+other desires, and feeling the blessed solace of a belief in the+immortality of love.++So the spring days came and went, the sky grew clearer, the earth+greener, the flowers were up fair and early, and the birds came back in+time to say good-by to Beth, who, like a tired but trustful child, clung+to the hands that had led her all her life, as father and mother guided+her tenderly through the Valley of the Shadow, and gave her up to God.++Seldom, except in books, do the dying utter memorable words, see+visions, or depart with beatified countenances; and those who have sped+many parting souls know that to most the end comes as naturally and+simply as sleep. As Beth had hoped, the "tide went out easily;" and in+the dark hour before the dawn, on the bosom where she had drawn her+first breath, she quietly drew her last, with no farewell but one loving+look, one little sigh.++With tears and prayers and tender hands, mother and sisters made her+ready for the long sleep that pain would never mar again, seeing with+grateful eyes the beautiful serenity that soon replaced the pathetic+patience that had wrung their hearts so long, and feeling, with reverent+joy, that to their darling death was a benignant angel, not a phantom+full of dread.++When morning came, for the first time in many months the fire was out,+Jo's place was empty, and the room was very still. But a bird sang+blithely on a budding bough, close by, the snow-drops blossomed freshly+at the window, and the spring sunshine streamed in like a benediction+over the placid face upon the pillow,--a face so full of painless peace+that those who loved it best smiled through their tears, and thanked God+that Beth was well at last.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Sat staring up at the busts]++ XLI.++ LEARNING TO FORGET.+++Amy's lecture did Laurie good, though, of course, he did not own it till+long afterward; men seldom do, for when women are the advisers, the+lords of creation don't take the advice till they have persuaded+themselves that it is just what they intended to do; 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. Laurie went back to+his grandfather, and was so dutifully devoted for several weeks that the+old gentleman declared the climate of Nice had improved him wonderfully,+and he had better try it again. There was nothing the young gentleman+would have liked better, but elephants could not have dragged him back+after the scolding he had received; pride forbid, and whenever the+longing grew very strong, he fortified his resolution by repeating the+words that had made the deepest impression, "I despise you;" "Go and do+something splendid that will _make_ her love you."++Laurie turned the matter over in his mind so often that he soon brought+himself to confess that he _had_ been selfish and lazy; but then when a+man has a great sorrow, he should be indulged in all sorts of vagaries+till he has lived it down. He felt that his blighted affections were+quite dead now; and, though he should never cease to be a faithful+mourner, there was no occasion to wear his weeds ostentatiously. Jo+_wouldn't_ love him, but he might _make_ her respect and admire him by+doing something which should prove that a girl's "No" had not spoilt his+life. 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."++As Goethe, when he had a joy or a grief, put it into a song, so Laurie+resolved to embalm his love-sorrow in music, and compose a Requiem which+should harrow up Jo's soul and melt the heart of every hearer. Therefore+the next time the old gentleman found him getting restless and moody,+and ordered him off, he went to Vienna, where he had musical friends,+and fell to work with the firm determination to distinguish himself.+But, whether the sorrow was too vast to be embodied in music, or music+too ethereal to uplift a mortal woe, he soon discovered that the Requiem+was beyond him, just at present. It was evident that his mind was not in+working order yet, and his ideas needed clarifying; for often in the+middle of a plaintive strain, he would find himself humming a dancing+tune that vividly recalled the Christmas ball at Nice, especially the+stout Frenchman, and put an effectual stop to tragic composition for the+time being.++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. But memory turned+traitor; and, as if possessed by the perverse spirit of the girl, would+only recall Jo's oddities, faults, and freaks, would only show her in+the most unsentimental aspects,--beating mats with her head tied up in+a bandanna, barricading herself with the sofa-pillow, or throwing cold+water over his passion _à la_ Gummidge,--and an irresistible laugh+spoilt the pensive picture he was endeavoring to paint. Jo wouldn't be+put into the Opera at any price, and he had to give her up with a "Bless+that girl, what a torment she is!" and a clutch at his hair, as became a+distracted composer.++When he looked about him for another and a less intractable damsel to+immortalize in melody, memory produced one with the most obliging+readiness. This phantom wore many faces, but it always had golden hair,+was enveloped in a diaphanous cloud, and floated airily before his+mind's eye in a pleasing chaos of roses, peacocks, white ponies, and+blue ribbons. He did not give the complacent wraith any name, but he+took her for his heroine, and grew quite fond of her, as well he might;+for he gifted her with every gift and grace under the sun, and escorted+her, unscathed, through trials which would have annihilated any mortal+woman.++Thanks to this inspiration, he got on swimmingly for a time, but+gradually the work lost its charm, and he forgot to compose, while he+sat musing, pen in hand, or roamed about the gay city to get new ideas+and refresh his mind, which seemed to be in a somewhat unsettled state+that winter. He did not do much, but he thought a great deal and was+conscious of a change of some sort going on in spite of himself. "It's+genius simmering, perhaps. I'll let it simmer, and see what comes of+it," he said, with a secret suspicion, all the while, that it wasn't+genius, but something far more common. Whatever it was, it simmered to+some purpose, for he grew more and more discontented with his desultory+life, began to long for some real and earnest work to go at, soul and+body, and finally came to the wise conclusion that every one who loved+music was not a composer. Returning from one of Mozart's grand operas,+splendidly performed at the Royal Theatre, he looked over his own,+played a few of the best parts, sat staring up at the busts of+Mendelssohn, Beethoven, and Bach, who stared benignly back again; then+suddenly he tore up his music-sheets, one by one, and, as the last+fluttered out of his hand, he said soberly to himself,--++"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. Now, if ever, occurred an eligible+opportunity for "going to the devil," as he once forcibly expressed it,+for he had plenty of money and nothing to do, and Satan is proverbially+fond of providing employment for full and idle hands. The poor fellow+had temptations enough from without and from within, but he withstood+them pretty well; for, much as he valued liberty, he valued good faith+and confidence more, so his promise to his grandfather, and his desire+to be able to look honestly into the eyes of the women who loved him,+and say "All's well," kept him safe and steady.++Very likely some Mrs. Grundy will observe, "I don't believe it; boys+will be boys, young men must sow their wild oats, and women must not+expect miracles." I dare say _you_ don't, Mrs. Grundy, but it's true+nevertheless. Women work a good many miracles, and I have a persuasion+that they may perform even that of raising the standard of manhood by+refusing to echo such sayings. Let the boys be boys, the longer the+better, and let the young men sow their wild oats if they must; but+mothers, sisters, and friends may help to make the crop a small one, and+keep many tares from spoiling the harvest, by believing, and showing+that they believe, in the possibility of loyalty to the virtues which+make men manliest in good women's eyes. If it _is_ a feminine delusion,+leave us to enjoy it while we may, for without it half the beauty and+the romance of life is lost, and sorrowful forebodings would embitter+all our hopes of the brave, tender-hearted little lads, who still love+their mothers better than themselves, and are not ashamed to own it.++Laurie thought that the task of forgetting his love for Jo would absorb+all his powers for years; but, to his great surprise, he discovered it+grew easier every day. He refused to believe it at first, got angry with+himself, and couldn't understand it; but these hearts of ours are+curious and contrary things, and time and nature work their will in+spite of us. 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 was disgusted with+himself, surprised at his own fickleness, and full of a queer mixture of+disappointment and relief that he could recover from such a tremendous+blow so soon. He carefully stirred up the embers of his lost love, but+they refused to burst into a blaze: there was only a comfortable glow+that warmed and did him good without putting him into a fever, and he+was reluctantly obliged to confess that the boyish passion was slowly+subsiding into a more tranquil sentiment, very tender, a little sad and+resentful still, but that was sure to pass away in time, leaving a+brotherly affection which would last unbroken to the end.++As the word "brotherly" passed through his mind in one of these+reveries, he smiled, and glanced up at the picture of Mozart that was+before him:--++"Well, he was a great man; and when he couldn't have one sister he took+the other, and was happy."++Laurie did not utter the words, but he thought them; and the next+instant kissed the little old ring, saying to himself,--++"No, I won't! I haven't forgotten, I never can. I'll try again, and if+that fails, why, then--"++Leaving his sentence unfinished, he seized pen and paper and wrote to+Jo, telling her that he could not settle to anything while there was the+least hope of her changing her mind. 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 to keep a little corner of his heart for+his loving sister Jo. In a postscript she desired him not to tell Amy+that Beth was worse; she was coming home in the spring, and there was no+need of saddening the remainder of her stay. That would be time enough,+please God, but Laurie must write to her often, and not let her feel+lonely, homesick, or anxious.++"So I will, at once. Poor little girl; it will be a sad going home for+her, I'm afraid;" and Laurie opened his desk, as if writing to Amy had+been the proper conclusion of the sentence left unfinished some weeks+before.++But he did not write the letter that day; for, as he rummaged out his+best paper, he came across something which changed his purpose. Tumbling+about in one part of the desk, among bills, passports, and business+documents of various kinds, were several of Jo's letters, and in another+compartment were three notes from Amy, carefully tied up with one of her+blue ribbons, and sweetly suggestive of the little dead roses put away+inside. With a half-repentant, half-amused expression, Laurie gathered+up all Jo's letters, smoothed, folded, and put them neatly into a small+drawer of the desk, stood a minute turning the ring thoughtfully on his+finger, then slowly drew it off, laid it with the letters, locked the+drawer, and went out to hear High Mass at Saint Stefan's, feeling as if+there had been a funeral; and, though not overwhelmed with affliction,+this seemed a more proper way to spend the rest of the day than in+writing letters to charming young ladies.++ [Illustration: Turning the ring thoughtfully upon his finger]++The letter went very soon, however, and was promptly answered, for Amy+_was_ homesick, and confessed it in the most delightfully confiding+manner. 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. He wanted desperately to go to+Nice, but would not till he was asked; and Amy would not ask him, for+just then she was having little experiences of her own, which made her+rather wish to avoid the quizzical eyes of "our boy."++Fred Vaughn had returned, and put the question to which she had once+decided to answer "Yes, thank you;" but now she said, "No, thank you,"+kindly but steadily; for, when the time came, her courage failed her,+and she found that something more than money and position was needed to+satisfy the new longing that filled her heart so full of tender hopes+and fears. The words, "Fred is a good fellow, but not at all the man I+fancied you would ever like," and Laurie's face when he uttered them,+kept returning to her as pertinaciously as her own did when she said in+look, if not in words, "I shall marry for money." 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 were not half so satisfactory as his when they+did come. It was not only a pleasure, but a duty to answer them, for the+poor fellow was forlorn, and needed petting, since Jo persisted in being+stony-hearted. 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.++If all brothers were treated as well as Laurie was at this period, they+would be a much happier race of beings than they are. Amy never lectured+now; she asked his opinion on all subjects; she was interested in+everything he did, made charming little presents for him, and sent him+two letters a week, full of lively gossip, sisterly confidences, and+captivating sketches of the lovely scenes about her. As few brothers are+complimented by having their letters carried about in their sisters'+pockets, read and reread diligently, cried over when short, kissed when+long, and treasured carefully, we will not hint that Amy did any of+these fond and foolish things. But she certainly did grow a little pale+and pensive that spring, lost much of her relish for society, and went+out sketching alone a good deal. She never had much to show when she+came home, but was studying nature, I dare say, while she sat for hours,+with her hands folded, on the terrace at Valrosa, or absently sketched+any fancy that occurred to her,--a stalwart knight carved on a tomb, a+young man asleep in the grass, with his hat over his eyes, or a+curly-haired girl in gorgeous array, promenading down a ball-room on the+arm of a tall gentleman, both faces being left a blur according to the+last fashion in art, which was safe, but not altogether satisfactory.++Her aunt thought that she regretted her answer to Fred; and, finding+denials useless and explanations impossible, Amy left her to think what+she liked, taking care that Laurie should know that Fred had gone to+Egypt. That was all, but he understood it, and looked relieved, as he+said to himself, with a venerable air,--++"I was sure she would think better of it. Poor old fellow! I've been+through it all, and I can sympathize."++With that he heaved a great sigh, and then, as if he had discharged his+duty to the past, put his feet up on the sofa, and enjoyed Amy's letter+luxuriously.++While these changes were going on abroad, trouble had come at home; but+the letter telling that Beth was failing never reached Amy, and when the+next found her, the grass was green above her sister. The sad news met+her at Vevay, for the heat had driven them from Nice in May, and they+had travelled slowly to Switzerland, by way of Genoa and the Italian+lakes. She bore it very well, and quietly submitted to the family decree+that she should not shorten her visit, for, since it was too late to say+good-by to Beth, she had better stay, and let absence soften her sorrow.+But her heart was very heavy; she longed to be at home, and every day+looked wistfully across the lake, waiting for Laurie to come and comfort+her.++He did come very soon; for the same mail brought letters to them both,+but he was in Germany, and it took some days to reach him. The moment he+read it, he packed his knapsack, bade adieu to his fellow-pedestrians,+and was off to keep his promise, with a heart full of joy and sorrow,+hope and suspense.++He knew Vevay well; and as soon as the boat touched the little quay, he+hurried along the shore to La Tour, where the Carrols were living _en+pension_. The _garçon_ was in despair that the whole family had gone to+take a promenade on the lake; but no, the blond mademoiselle might be in+the chateau garden. 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.++A pleasant old garden on the borders of the lovely lake, with chestnuts+rustling overhead, ivy climbing everywhere, and the black shadow of the+tower falling far across the sunny water. At one corner of the wide, low+wall was a seat, and here Amy often came to read or work, or console+herself with the beauty all about her. She was sitting here that day,+leaning her head on her hand, with a homesick heart and heavy eyes,+thinking of Beth, and wondering why Laurie did not come. She did not+hear him cross the court-yard beyond, nor see him pause in the archway+that led from the subterranean path into the garden. He stood a minute,+looking at her with new eyes, seeing what no one had ever seen+before,--the tender side of Amy's character. Everything about her mutely+suggested love and sorrow,--the blotted letters in her lap, the black+ribbon that tied up her hair, the womanly pain and patience in her face;+even the little ebony cross at her throat seemed pathetic to Laurie, for+he had given it to her, and she wore it as her only ornament. If he had+any doubts about the reception she would give him, they were set at+rest the minute she looked up and saw him; for, dropping everything, she+ran to him, exclaiming, in a tone of unmistakable love and longing,--++"O Laurie, Laurie, I knew you'd come to me!"++ [Illustration: O Laurie, Laurie, I knew you'd come]++I think everything was said and settled then; for, as they stood+together quite silent for a moment, with the dark head bent down+protectingly over the light one, Amy felt that no one could comfort and+sustain her so well as Laurie, and Laurie decided that Amy was the only+woman in the world who could fill Jo's place, and make him happy. He did+not tell her so; but she was not disappointed, for both felt the truth,+were satisfied, and gladly left the rest to silence.++In a minute Amy went back to her place; and, while she dried her tears,+Laurie gathered up the scattered papers, finding in the sight of sundry+well-worn letters and suggestive sketches good omens for the future. 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. It was such a surprise to look up and find you, just as I was+beginning to fear you wouldn't come," she said, trying in vain to speak+quite naturally.++"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--" He could+not get any further, for he, too, turned bashful all of a sudden, and+did not quite know what to say. He longed to lay Amy's head down on his+shoulder, and tell her to have a good cry, but he did not dare; so took+her hand instead, and gave it a sympathetic squeeze that was better than+words.++"You needn't say anything; this comforts me," she said softly. "Beth is+well and happy, and I mustn't wish her back; but I dread the going home,+much as I long to see them all. 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. Aunt and Flo are very kind; but you seem like one of the+family, and it would be so comfortable to have you for a little while."++Amy spoke and looked so like a homesick child, whose heart was full,+that Laurie forgot his bashfulness all at once, and gave her just what+she wanted,--the petting she was used to and the cheerful conversation+she needed.++"Poor little soul, you look as if you'd grieved yourself half-sick! I'm+going to take care of you, so don't cry any more, but come and walk+about with me; the wind is too chilly for you to sit still," he said, in+the half-caressing, half-commanding way that Amy liked, as he tied on+her hat, drew her arm through his, and began to pace up and down the+sunny walk, under the new-leaved chestnuts. He felt more at ease upon+his legs; and Amy found it very pleasant to have a strong arm to lean+upon, a familiar face to smile at her, and a kind voice to talk+delightfully for her alone.++The quaint old garden had sheltered many pairs of lovers, and seemed+expressly made for them, so sunny and secluded was it, with nothing but+the tower to overlook them, and the wide lake to carry away the echo of+their words, as it rippled by below. For an hour this new pair walked+and talked, or rested on the wall, enjoying the sweet influences which+gave such a charm to time and place; and when an unromantic dinner-bell+warned them away, Amy felt as if she left her burden of loneliness and+sorrow behind her in the chateau garden.++The moment Mrs. Carrol saw the girl's altered face, she was illuminated+with a new idea, and exclaimed to herself, "Now I understand it+all,--the child has been pining for young Laurence. Bless my heart, I+never thought of such a thing!"++With praiseworthy discretion, the good lady said nothing, and betrayed+no sign of enlightenment; but cordially urged Laurie to stay, and begged+Amy to enjoy his society, for it would do her more good than so much+solitude. Amy was a model of docility; and, as her aunt was a good deal+occupied with Flo, she was left to entertain her friend, and did it with+more than her usual success.++At Nice, Laurie had lounged and Amy had scolded; at Vevay, Laurie was+never idle, but always walking, riding, boating, or studying, in the+most energetic manner, while Amy admired everything he did, and followed+his example as far and as fast as she could. He said the change was+owing to the climate, and she did not contradict him, being glad of a+like excuse for her own recovered health and spirits.++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; the lake seemed to wash away the troubles of+the past, and the grand old mountains to look benignly down upon them,+saying, "Little children, love one another."++In spite of the new sorrow, it was a very happy time, so happy that+Laurie could not bear to disturb it by a word. It took him a little+while to recover from his surprise at the rapid cure of his first, and,+as he had firmly believed, his last and only love. He consoled himself+for the seeming disloyalty by the thought that Jo's sister was almost+the same as Jo's self, and the conviction that it would have been+impossible to love any other woman but Amy so soon and so well. His+first wooing had been of the tempestuous order, and he looked back upon+it as if through a long vista of years, with a feeling of compassion+blended with regret. He was not ashamed of it, but put it away as one of+the bitter-sweet experiences of his life, for which he could be grateful+when the pain was over. His second wooing he resolved should be as calm+and simple as possible; there was no need of having a scene, hardly any+need of telling Amy that he loved her; she knew it without words, and+had given him his answer long ago. It all came about so naturally that+no one could complain, and he knew that everybody would be pleased, even+Jo. But when our first little passion has been crushed, we are apt to be+wary and slow in making a second trial; so Laurie let the days pass,+enjoying every hour, and leaving to chance the utterance of the word+that would put an end to the first and sweetest part of his new romance.++He had rather imagined that the _dénouement_ would take place in the+chateau garden by moonlight, and in the most graceful and decorous+manner; but it turned out exactly the reverse, for the matter was+settled on the lake, at noonday, in a few blunt words. They had been+floating about all the morning, from gloomy St. Gingolf to sunny+Montreux, with the Alps of Savoy on one side, Mont St. Bernard and the+Dent du Midi on the other, pretty Vevay in the valley, and Lausanne upon+the hill beyond, a cloudless blue sky overhead, and the bluer lake+below, dotted with the picturesque boats that look like white-winged+gulls.++They had been talking of Bonnivard, as they glided past Chillon, and of+Rousseau, as they looked up at Clarens, where he wrote his "Héloise."+Neither had read it, but they knew it was a love-story, and each+privately wondered if it was half as interesting as their own. Amy had+been dabbling her hand in the water during the little pause that fell+between them, and, when she looked up, Laurie was leaning on his oars,+with an expression in his eyes that made her say hastily, merely for the+sake of saying something,--++"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. There's room+enough, though I have to sit nearly in the middle, else the boat won't+trim," returned Laurie, as if he rather liked the arrangement.++Feeling that she had not mended matters much, Amy took the offered third+of a seat, shook her hair over her face, and accepted an oar. She rowed+as well as she did many other things; and, though she used both hands,+and Laurie but one, the oars kept time, and the boat went smoothly+through the water.++ [Illustration: How well we pull together]++"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.++Then they both stopped rowing, and unconsciously added a pretty little+_tableau_ of human love and happiness to the dissolving views reflected+in the lake.+++++ XLII.++ 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; but when+the helpful voice was silent, the daily lesson over, the beloved+presence gone, and nothing remained but loneliness and grief, then Jo+found her promise very hard to keep. How could she "comfort father and+mother," when her own heart ached with a ceaseless longing for her+sister; how could she "make the house cheerful," when all its light and+warmth and beauty seemed to have deserted it when Beth left the old home+for the new; and where in all the world could she "find some useful,+happy work to do," that would take the place of the loving service which+had been its own reward? She tried in a blind, hopeless way to do her+duty, secretly rebelling against it all the while, for it seemed unjust+that her few joys should be lessened, her burdens made heavier, and life+get harder and harder as she toiled along. Some people seemed to get all+sunshine, and some all shadow; it was not fair, for she tried more than+Amy to be good, but never got any reward, only disappointment, trouble,+and hard work.++Poor Jo, these were dark days to her, for something like despair came+over her when she thought of spending all her life in that quiet house,+devoted to humdrum cares, a few small pleasures, and the duty that never+seemed to grow any easier. "I can't do it. I wasn't meant for a life+like this, and I know I shall break away and do something desperate if+somebody don't come and help me," she said to herself, when her first+efforts failed, and she fell into the moody, miserable state of mind+which often comes when strong wills have to yield to the inevitable.++But some one did come and help her, though Jo did not recognize her good+angels at once, because they wore familiar shapes, and used the simple+spells best fitted to poor humanity. Often she started up at night,+thinking Beth called her; and when the sight of the little empty bed+made her cry with the bitter cry of an unsubmissive sorrow, "O Beth,+come back! come back!" she did not stretch out her yearning arms in+vain; for, as quick to hear her sobbing as she had been to hear her+sister's faintest whisper, her mother came to comfort her, not with+words only, but the patient tenderness that soothes by a touch, tears+that were mute reminders of a greater grief than Jo's, and broken+whispers, more eloquent than prayers, because hopeful resignation went+hand-in-hand with natural sorrow. Sacred moments, when heart talked to+heart in the silence of the night, turning affliction to a blessing,+which chastened grief and strengthened love. Feeling this, Jo's burden+seemed easier to bear, duty grew sweeter, and life looked more+endurable, seen from the safe shelter of her mother's arms.++When aching heart was a little comforted, troubled mind likewise found+help; for one day she went to the study, and, leaning over the good gray+head lifted to welcome her with a tranquil smile, she said, very+humbly,--++"Father, talk to me as you did to Beth. I need it more than she did, for+I'm all wrong."++"My dear, nothing can comfort me like this," he answered, with a falter+in his voice, and both arms round her, as if he, too, needed help, and+did not fear to ask it.++ [Illustration: Jo and her father]++Then, sitting in Beth's little chair close beside him, Jo told her+troubles,--the resentful sorrow for her loss, the fruitless efforts that+discouraged her, the want of faith that made life look so dark, and all+the sad bewilderment which we call despair. She gave him entire+confidence, he gave her the help she needed, and both found consolation+in the act; for the time had come when they could talk together not only+as father and daughter, but as man and woman, able and glad to serve+each other with mutual sympathy as well as mutual love. Happy,+thoughtful times there in the old study which Jo called "the church of+one member," and from which she came with fresh courage, recovered+cheerfulness, and a more submissive spirit; for the parents who had+taught one child to meet death without fear, were trying now to teach+another to accept life without despondency or distrust, and to use its+beautiful opportunities with gratitude and power.++Other helps had Jo,--humble, wholesome duties and delights that would+not be denied their part in serving her, and which she slowly learned to+see and value. Brooms and dishcloths never could be as distasteful as+they once had been, for Beth had presided over both; and something of+her housewifely spirit seemed to linger round the little mop and the old+brush, that was never thrown away. As she used them, Jo found herself+humming the songs Beth used to hum, imitating Beth's orderly ways, and+giving the little touches here and there that kept everything fresh and+cosey, which was the first step toward making home happy, though she+didn't know it, till Hannah said with an approving squeeze of the+hand,--++"You thoughtful creter, you're determined we sha'n'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."++As they sat sewing together, Jo discovered how much improved her sister+Meg was; how well she could talk, how much she knew about good, womanly+impulses, thoughts, and feelings, how happy she was in husband and+children, and how much they were all doing for each other.++"Marriage is an excellent thing, after all. I wonder if I should blossom+out half as well as you have, if I tried it?" said Jo, as she+constructed a kite for Demi, in the topsy-turvy nursery.++"It's just what you need to bring out the tender, womanly half of your+nature, Jo. You are like a chestnut-burr, prickly outside, but+silky-soft within, and a sweet kernel, if one can only get at it. Love+will make you show your heart some 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. Boys go nutting, and I don't care to be bagged by them,"+returned Jo, pasting away at the kite which no wind that blows would+ever carry up, for Daisy had tied herself on as a bob.++Meg laughed, for she was glad to see a glimmer of Jo's old spirit, but+she felt it her duty to enforce her opinion by every argument in her+power; and the sisterly chats were not wasted, especially as two of+Meg's most effective arguments were the babies, whom Jo loved tenderly.+Grief is the best opener for some hearts, and Jo's was nearly ready for+the bag: a little more sunshine to ripen the nut, then, not a boy's+impatient shake, but a man's hand reached up to pick it gently from the+burr, and find the kernel sound and sweet. If she had suspected this,+she would have shut up tight, and been more prickly than ever;+fortunately she wasn't thinking about herself, so, when the time came,+down she dropped.++Now, if she had been the heroine of a moral story-book, she ought at+this period of her life to have become quite saintly, renounced the+world, and gone about doing good in a mortified bonnet, with tracts in+her pocket. But, you see, Jo wasn't a heroine; she was only a struggling+human girl, like hundreds of others, and she just acted out her nature,+being sad, cross, listless, or energetic, as the mood suggested. It's+highly virtuous to say we'll be good, but we can't do it all at once,+and it takes a long pull, a strong pull, and a pull all together,+before some of us even get our feet set in the right way. Jo had got so+far, she was learning to do her duty, and to feel unhappy if she did+not; but to do it cheerfully--ah, that was another thing! She had often+said she wanted to do something splendid, no matter how hard; and now+she had her wish, for what could be more beautiful than to devote her+life to father and mother, trying to make home as happy to them as they+had to her? And, if difficulties were necessary to increase the splendor+of the effort, what could be harder for a restless, ambitious girl than+to give up her own hopes, plans, and desires, and cheerfully live for+others?++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. Still another was given her, and she+took it, not as a reward, but as a comfort, as Christian took the+refreshment afforded by the little arbor where he rested, as he climbed+the hill called Difficulty.++"Why don't you write? That always used to make you happy," said her+mother, once, when the desponding fit overshadowed 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.++An hour afterward her mother peeped in, and there she was, scratching+away, with her black pinafore on, and an absorbed expression, which+caused Mrs. March to smile, and slip away, well pleased with the success+of her suggestion. Jo never knew how it happened, but something got into+that story that went straight to the hearts of those who read it; for,+when her family had laughed and cried over it, her father sent it, much+against her will, to one of the popular magazines, and, to her utter+surprise, it was not only paid for, but others requested. Letters from+several persons, whose praise was honor, followed the appearance of the+little story, newspapers copied it, and strangers as well as friends+admired it. For a small thing it was a great success; and Jo was more+astonished than when her novel was commended and condemned all at once.++"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 thought+of fame or 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; I+owe it all to you and mother and to Beth," said Jo, more touched by her+father's words than by any amount of praise from the world.++So, taught by love and sorrow, Jo wrote her little stories, and sent+them away to make friends for themselves and her, finding it a very+charitable world to such humble wanderers; for they were kindly+welcomed, and sent home comfortable tokens to their mother, like dutiful+children whom good fortune overtakes.++When Amy and Laurie wrote of their engagement, Mrs. March feared that Jo+would find it difficult to rejoice over it, but her fears were soon set+at rest; for, though Jo looked grave at first, she took it very quietly,+and was full of hopes and plans for "the children" before she read the+letter twice. It was a sort of written duet, wherein each glorified the+other in lover-like fashion, very pleasant to read and satisfactory to+think of, for no one had any objection to make.++"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. I felt sure then that something better than what you call the+'mercenary spirit' had come over her, and a hint here and there in her+letters made me suspect that love and Laurie would win the day."++"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 scatter-brain I was; you may trust me, I'm sober and+sensible enough for any one's _confidante_ now."++"So you are, dear, and I should have made you mine, only I fancied it+might pain you to learn that your Teddy loved any one else."++"Now, mother, did you really think I could be so silly and selfish,+after I'd refused his love, when it was freshest, if not best?"++"I knew you were sincere then, Jo, but lately I have thought that if he+came back, and asked again, you might, perhaps, feel like giving another+answer. Forgive me, dear, I can't help seeing that you are very lonely,+and sometimes there is a hungry look in your eyes that goes to my heart;+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 _am_ lonely, and perhaps if Teddy+had tried again, I might have said 'Yes,' not because I love him any+more, but because I care more to be loved than when he went away."++"I'm glad of that, Jo, for it shows that you are getting on. There are+plenty to love you, so try to be satisfied with father and mother,+sisters and brothers, friends and babies, till the best lover of all+comes to give you your reward."++"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."++"I do;" and Mrs. March smiled her wise smile, as Jo turned back the+leaves to read what Amy said of Laurie.++"It is so beautiful to be loved as Laurie loves me; he isn't+sentimental, doesn't say much about it, but I see and feel it in all he+says and does, and it makes me so happy and so humble that I don't seem+to be the same girl I was. I never knew how good and generous and tender+he was till now, for he lets me read his heart, and I find it full of+noble impulses and hopes and purposes, and am so proud to know it's+mine. He says he feels as if he 'could make a prosperous voyage now+with me aboard as mate, and lots of love for ballast.' I pray he may,+and try to be all he believes me, for I love my gallant captain with all+my heart and soul and might, and never will desert him, while God lets+us be together. O mother, I never knew how much like heaven this world+could be, when two people love and live for one another!"++"And that's our cool, reserved, and worldly Amy! Truly, love does work+miracles. How very, very happy they must be!" And Jo laid the rustling+sheets together with a careful hand, as one might shut the covers of a+lovely romance, which holds the reader fast till the end comes, and he+finds himself alone in the work-a-day world again.++By and by Jo roamed away upstairs, for it was rainy, and she could not+walk. A restless spirit possessed her, and the old feeling came again,+not bitter as it once was, but a sorrowfully patient wonder why one+sister should have all she asked, the other nothing. It was not true;+she knew that, and tried to put it away, but the natural craving for+affection was strong, and Amy's happiness woke the hungry longing for+some one to "love with heart and soul, and cling to while God let them+be together."++Up in the garret, where Jo's unquiet wanderings ended, stood four little+wooden chests in a row, each marked with its owner's name, and each+filled with relics of the childhood and girlhood ended now for all. Jo+glanced into them, and when she came to her own, leaned her chin on the+edge, and stared absently at the chaotic collection, till a bundle of+old exercise-books caught her eye. She drew them out, turned them over,+and re-lived that pleasant winter at kind Mrs. Kirke's. She had smiled+at first, then she looked thoughtful, next sad, and when she came to a+little message written in the Professor's hand, her lips began to+tremble, the books slid out of her lap, and she sat looking at the+friendly words, as if they took a new meaning, and touched a tender spot+in her heart.++"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, I didn't value him half enough when I had him, but now+how I should love to see him, for every one seems going away from me,+and I'm all alone."++And holding the little paper fast, as if it were a promise yet to be+fulfilled, Jo laid her head down on a comfortable rag-bag, and cried, as+if in opposition to the rain pattering on the roof.++ [Illustration: Jo laid her head on a comfortable rag-bag and cried]++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?+++++ [Illustration: A substantial lifelike ghost leaning over her]++ XLIII.++ 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; no one disturbed her, and she used to lie there on Beth's little+red pillow, planning stories, dreaming dreams, or thinking tender+thoughts of the sister who never seemed far away. Her face looked tired,+grave, and rather sad; for to-morrow was her birthday, and she was+thinking how fast the years went by, how old she was getting, and how+little she seemed to have accomplished. 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. A literary spinster, with a pen for+a spouse, a family of stories for children, and twenty years hence a+morsel of fame, perhaps; when, like poor Johnson, I'm old, and can't+enjoy it, solitary, and can't share it, independent, and don't need it.+Well, I needn't be a sour saint nor a selfish sinner; and, I dare say,+old maids are very comfortable when they get used to it; but--" and+there Jo sighed, as if the prospect was not inviting.++It seldom is, at first, and thirty seems the end of all things to+five-and-twenty; but it's not so bad as it looks, and one can get on+quite happily if one has something in one's self to fall back upon. At+twenty-five, girls begin to talk about being old maids, but secretly+resolve that they never will be; at thirty they say nothing about it,+but quietly accept the fact, and, if sensible, console themselves by+remembering that they have twenty more useful, happy years, in which+they may be learning to grow old gracefully. Don't laugh at the+spinsters, dear girls, for often very tender, tragical romances are+hidden away in the hearts that beat so quietly under the sober gowns,+and many silent sacrifices of youth, health, ambition, love itself, make+the faded faces beautiful in God's sight. Even the sad, sour sisters+should be kindly dealt with, because they have missed the sweetest part+of life, if for no other reason; and, looking at them with compassion,+not contempt, girls in their bloom should remember that they too may+miss the blossom time; that rosy cheeks don't last forever, that silver+threads will come in the bonnie brown hair, and that, by and by,+kindness and respect will be as sweet as love and admiration now.++Gentlemen, which means boys, be courteous to the old maids, no matter+how poor and plain and prim, for the only chivalry worth having is that+which is the readiest to pay deference to the old, protect the feeble,+and serve womankind, regardless of rank, age, or color. Just recollect+the good aunts who have not only lectured and fussed, but nursed and+petted, too often without thanks; the scrapes they have helped you out+of, the "tips" they have given you from their small store, the stitches+the patient old fingers have set for you, the steps the willing old feet+have taken, and gratefully pay the dear old ladies the little attentions+that women love to receive as long as they live. The bright-eyed girls+are quick to see such traits, and will like you all the better for them;+and if death, almost the only power that can part mother and son,+should rob you of yours, you will be sure to find a tender welcome and+maternal cherishing from some Aunt Priscilla, who has kept the warmest+corner of her lonely old heart for the "the best nevvy in the world."++Jo must have fallen asleep (as I dare say my reader has during this+little homily), for suddenly Laurie's ghost seemed to stand before+her,--a substantial, lifelike ghost,--leaning over her, with the very+look he used to wear when he felt a good deal and didn't like to show+it. But, like Jenny in the ballad,--++ "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,--++"O my Teddy! O 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 upon him like a flash.++"You've gone and got married!"++"Yes, please, but I never will again;" and he went down upon his knees,+with a penitent clasping of hands, and a face full of mischief, mirth,+and triumph.++"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.++"What can you expect, when you take one's breath away, creeping in like+a burglar, and letting cats out of bags like that? 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."++Jo laughed at that as she had not done for many a long day, and patted+the sofa invitingly, as she said, in a cordial tone,--++"The old pillow is up garret, and we don't need it now; 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 eyes plainly betrayed+that she found her boy comelier than ever.++The pillow was gone, but there _was_ a barricade, nevertheless,--a+natural one, raised by time, absence, and change of heart. 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,--++"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.++"How can I, when the mere idea of you, married and settled, is so+irresistibly funny that I can't keep sober!" answered Jo, smiling all+over her face, so infectiously that they had another laugh, and then+settled down for a good talk, quite in the pleasant old fashion.++"It's no use your going out in the cold to get Amy, for they are all+coming up presently. I couldn't wait; I wanted to be the one to tell you+the grand surprise, and have 'first skim,' as we used to say when we+squabbled about the cream."++"Of course you did, and spoilt 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,--++"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. We planned to+come home with the Carrols, a month or more ago, but they suddenly+changed their minds, and decided to pass another winter in Paris. But+grandpa wanted to come home; he went to please me, and I couldn't let+him go alone, neither could I leave Amy; and Mrs. Carrol had got English+notions about chaperons and such nonsense, and wouldn't let Amy come+with us. 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,--++"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. There wasn't time to write and ask leave,+but you all liked it, had consented to it by and by, and it was only+'taking Time by the fetlock,' as my wife says."++"Aren't we proud of those two words, and don't we like to say them?"+interrupted Jo, addressing the fire in her turn, and watching with+delight the happy light it seemed to kindle in the eyes that had been so+tragically gloomy when she saw them last.++"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; we were so absorbed in one another we were of no mortal use+apart, and that charming arrangement would make everything easy all+round; so we did it."++"When, where, how?" asked Jo, in a fever of feminine interest and+curiosity, for she could not realize it a particle.++"Six weeks ago, at the American consul's, in Paris; a very quiet+wedding, of course, for even in our happiness we didn't forget dear+little Beth."++Jo put her hand in his as he said that, and Laurie gently smoothed the+little red pillow, which he remembered well.++"Why didn't you let us know afterward?" asked Jo, in a quieter tone,+when they had sat quite still a minute.++"We wanted to surprise you; we thought we were coming directly home, at+first; but the dear old gentleman, as soon as we were married, found he+couldn't be ready under a month, at least, and sent us off to spend our+honeymoon wherever we liked. Amy had once called Valrosa a regular+honeymoon home, so we went there, and were as happy as people are but+once in their lives. My faith! wasn't it love among the roses!"++Laurie seemed to forget Jo for a minute, and Jo was glad of it; for the+fact that he told her these things so freely and naturally assured her+that he had quite forgiven and forgotten. She tried to draw away her+hand; but, as if he guessed the thought that prompted the+half-involuntary impulse, Laurie held it fast, and said, with a manly+gravity she had never seen in him before,--++"Jo, dear, I want to say one thing, and then we'll put it by forever. As+I told you in my letter, when I wrote that Amy had been so kind to me, I+never shall stop loving you; but the love is altered, and I have learned+to see that it is better as it is. Amy and you change places in my+heart, that's all. I think it was meant to be so, and would have come+about naturally, if I had waited, as you tried to make me; but I never+could be patient, and so I got a heartache. 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. Upon my word, I was so tumbled up in my mind, at one time, that+I didn't know which I loved best, you or Amy, and tried to love both+alike; but I couldn't, and when I saw her in Switzerland, everything+seemed to clear up all at once. You both got into your right places, and+I felt sure that it was well off with the old love before it was on with+the new; that I could honestly share my heart between sister Jo and wife+Amy, and love them both dearly. 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. I shall miss my boy, but I+shall love the man as much, and admire him more, because he means to be+what I hoped he would. We can't be little playmates any longer, but we+will be brother and sister, to love and help one another all our lives,+won't we, Laurie?"++He did not say a word, but took the hand she offered him, and laid his+face down on it for a minute, feeling that out of the grave of a boyish+passion, there had risen a beautiful, strong friendship to bless them+both. Presently Jo said cheerfully, for she didn't want the coming home+to be a sad one,--++"I can't make it true that you children are really married, and going to+set up housekeeping. 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. I flatter myself I'm a 'gentleman growed,' as Peggotty said+of David; and when you see Amy, you'll find her rather a precocious+infant," said Laurie, looking amused at her maternal air.++"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.++But Jo only turned over the traitorous pillow, and answered, in a tone+which she tried to make quite cheerful,--++"No, I had father and mother to help me, the dear babies to comfort me,+and the thought that you and Amy were safe and happy, to make the+troubles here easier to bear. I _am_ lonely, sometimes, but I dare say+it's good for me, and--"++"You never shall be again," broke in Laurie, putting his arm about her,+as if to fence out every human ill. "Amy and I can't get on without+you, so you must come and teach 'the children' to keep house, and go+halves in everything, just as we used to do, and let us pet you, and all+be blissfully happy and friendly together."++"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 always were a comfort, Teddy;" and Jo leaned her+head on his shoulder, just as she did years ago, when Beth lay ill, and+Laurie told her to hold on to him.++He looked down at her, wondering if she remembered the time, but Jo was+smiling to herself, as if, in truth, her troubles _had_ all vanished at+his coming.++"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, at first; 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; in fact, I+rather like it, for she winds one round her finger as softly and+prettily as a skein of silk, and makes you feel as if she was doing you+a favor all the while."++"That ever I should live to see you a henpecked husband and enjoying+it!" cried Jo, with uplifted hands.++It was good to see Laurie square his shoulders, and smile with masculine+scorn at that insinuation, as he replied, with his "high and mighty"+air,--++"Amy is too well-bred for that, and I am not the sort of man to submit+to it. My wife and I respect ourselves and one another too much ever to+tyrannize or quarrel."++Jo liked that, and thought the new dignity very becoming, but the boy+seemed changing very fast into the man, and regret mingled with her+pleasure.++"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. I'll tell you all about it+sometime,--_she_ never will, because, after telling me that she despised+and was ashamed of me, she lost her heart to the despicable party and+married the good-for-nothing."++"What baseness! Well, if she abuses you, come to me, and I'll defend+you."++"I look as if I needed it, don't I?" said Laurie, getting up and+striking an attitude which suddenly changed from the imposing to the+rapturous, as Amy's voice was heard calling,--++"Where is she? Where's my dear old Jo?"++In trooped the whole family, and every one was hugged and kissed all+over again, and, after several vain attempts, the three wanderers were+set down to be looked at and exulted over. Mr. Laurence, hale and hearty+as ever, was quite as much improved as the others by his foreign tour,+for the crustiness seemed to be nearly gone, and the old-fashioned+courtliness had received a polish which made it kindlier than ever. It+was good to see him beam at "my children," as he called the young pair;+it was better still to see Amy pay him the daughterly duty and affection+which completely won his old heart; and best of all, to watch Laurie+revolve about the two, as if never tired of enjoying the pretty picture+they made.++The minute she put her eyes upon Amy, Meg became conscious that her own+dress hadn't a Parisian air, that young Mrs. Moffat would be entirely+eclipsed by young Mrs. Laurence, and that "her ladyship" was altogether+a most elegant and graceful woman. Jo thought, as she watched the pair,+"How well they look together! I was right, and Laurie has found the+beautiful, accomplished girl who will become his home better than clumsy+old Jo, and be a pride, not a torment to him." Mrs. March and her+husband smiled and nodded at each other with happy faces, for they saw+that their youngest had done well, not only in worldly things, but the+better wealth of love, confidence, and happiness.++For Amy's face was full of the soft brightness which betokens a peaceful+heart, her voice had a new tenderness in it, and the cool, prim carriage+was changed to a gentle dignity, both womanly and winning. No little+affectations marred it, and the cordial sweetness of her manner was more+charming than the new beauty or the old grace, for it stamped her at+once with the unmistakable sign of the true gentlewoman she had hoped to+become.++"Love has done much for our little girl," said her mother softly.++"She has had a good example before her all her life, my dear," Mr. March+whispered back, with a loving look at the worn face and gray head beside+him.++Daisy found it impossible to keep her eyes off her "pitty aunty," but+attached herself like a lap-dog to the wonderful châtelaine full of+delightful charms. Demi paused to consider the new relationship before+he compromised himself by the rash acceptance of a bribe, which took the+tempting form of a family of wooden bears from Berne. 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: now I demand the satisfaction of a gentleman;" and+with that the tall uncle proceeded to toss and tousle the small nephew+in a way that damaged his philosophical dignity as much as it delighted+his boyish soul.++ [Illustration: The tall uncle proceeded to toss and tousle the small+ nephew]++"Blest if she ain't in silk from head to foot? Ain't it a relishin'+sight to see her settin' there as fine as a fiddle, and hear folks+calling little Amy, Mis. Laurence?" muttered old Hannah, who could not+resist frequent "peeks" through the slide as she set the table in a most+decidedly promiscuous manner.++Mercy on us, how they did talk! first one, then the other, then all+burst out together, trying to tell the history of three years in half an+hour. It was fortunate that tea was at hand, to produce a lull and+provide refreshment, for they would have been hoarse and faint if they+had gone on much longer. Such a happy procession as filed away into the+little dining-room! Mr. March proudly escorted "Mrs. Laurence;" Mrs.+March as proudly leaned on the arm of "my son;" the old gentleman took+Jo, with a whispered "You must be my girl now," and a glance at the+empty corner by the fire, that made Jo whisper back, with trembling+lips, "I'll try to fill her place, sir."++The twins pranced behind, feeling that the millennium was at hand, for+every one was so busy with the new-comers that they were left to revel+at their own sweet will, and you may be sure they made the most of the+opportunity. Didn't they steal sips of tea, stuff gingerbread _ab+libitum_, get a hot biscuit apiece, and, as a crowning trespass, didn't+they each whisk a captivating little tart into their tiny pockets, there+to stick and crumble treacherously, teaching them that both human nature+and pastry are frail? Burdened with the guilty consciousness of the+sequestered tarts, and fearing that Dodo's sharp eyes would pierce the+thin disguise of cambric and merino which hid their booty, the little+sinners attached themselves to "Dranpa," who hadn't his spectacles on.+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,--++"Will Miss Amy ride in her coop (_coupé_), and use all them lovely+silver dishes that's stored away over yander?"++"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 fish-balls 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. She stood a minute looking at the party+vanishing above, and, as Demi's short plaid legs toiled up the last+stair, a sudden sense of loneliness came over her so strongly that she+looked about her with dim eyes, as if to find something to lean upon,+for even Teddy had deserted her. If she had known what birthday gift was+coming every minute nearer and nearer, she would not have said to+herself, "I'll weep a little weep when I go to bed; it won't do to be+dismal now." Then she drew her hand over her eyes,--for one of her+boyish habits was never to know where her handkerchief was,--and had+just managed to call up a smile when there came a knock at the+porch-door.++She opened it with hospitable haste, and started as if another ghost had+come to surprise her; for there stood a tall, bearded gentleman, beaming+on her from the darkness like a midnight sun.++"O Mr. Bhaer, I _am_ so glad to see you!" cried Jo, with a clutch, as if+she feared the night would swallow him up before she could get him in.++ [Illustration: O Mr. Bhaer, I am so glad to see you]++"And I to see Miss Marsch,--but no, you haf a party--" and the Professor+paused as the sound of voices and the tap of dancing feet came down to+them.++"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."++Though a very social man, I think Mr. Bhaer would have gone decorously+away, and come again another day; but how could he, when Jo shut the+door behind him, and bereft him of his hat? Perhaps her face had+something to do with it, for she forgot to hide her joy at seeing him,+and showed it with a frankness that proved irresistible to the solitary+man, whose welcome far exceeded his boldest hopes.++"If I shall not be Monsieur de Trop, I will so gladly see them all. You+haf been ill, my friend?"++He put the question abruptly, for, as Jo hung up his coat, the light+fell on her face, and he saw a change in it.++"Not ill, but tired and sorrowful. We have had trouble since I saw you+last."++"Ah, yes, I know. My heart was sore for you when I heard that;" and he+shook hands again, with such a sympathetic face that Jo felt as if no+comfort could equal the look of the kind eyes, the grasp of the big,+warm hand.++"Father, mother, this is my friend, Professor Bhaer," she said, with a+face and tone of such irrepressible pride and pleasure that she might as+well have blown a trumpet and opened the door with a flourish.++If the stranger had had any doubts about his reception, they were set at+rest in a minute by the cordial welcome he received. Every one greeted+him kindly, for Jo's sake at first, but very soon they liked him for his+own. They could not help it, for he carried the talisman that opens all+hearts, and these simple people warmed to him at once, feeling even the+more friendly because he was poor; for poverty enriches those who live+above it, and is a sure passport to truly hospitable spirits. Mr. Bhaer+sat looking about him with the air of a traveller who knocks at a+strange door, and, when it opens, finds himself at home. The children+went to him like bees to a honey-pot; and, establishing themselves on+each knee, proceeded to captivate him by rifling his pockets, pulling+his beard, and investigating his watch, with juvenile audacity. The+women telegraphed their approval to one another, and Mr. March, feeling+that he had got a kindred spirit, opened his choicest stores for his+guest's benefit, while silent John listened and enjoyed the talk, but+said not a word, and Mr. Laurence found it impossible to go to sleep.++If Jo had not been otherwise engaged, Laurie's behavior would have+amused her; for a faint twinge, not of jealousy, but something like+suspicion, caused that gentleman to stand aloof at first, and observe+the new-comer with brotherly circumspection. 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. He seldom spoke to Laurie, but he looked at him+often, and a shadow would pass across his face, as if regretting his own+lost youth, as he watched the young man in his prime. Then his eye would+turn to Jo so wistfully that she would have surely answered the mute+inquiry if she had seen it; but Jo had her own eyes to take care of,+and, feeling that they could not be trusted, she prudently kept them on+the little sock she was knitting, like a model maiden aunt.++A stealthy glance now and then refreshed her like sips of fresh water+after a dusty walk, for the sidelong peeps showed her several propitious+omens. Mr. Bhaer's face had lost the absent-minded expression, and+looked all alive with interest in the present moment, actually young and+handsome, she thought, forgetting to compare him with Laurie, as she+usually did strange men, to their great detriment. Then he seemed quite+inspired, though the burial customs of the ancients, to which the+conversation had strayed, might not be considered an exhilarating topic.+Jo quite glowed with triumph when Teddy got quenched in an argument, and+thought to herself, as she watched her father's absorbed face, "How he+would enjoy having such a man as my Professor to talk with every day!"+Lastly, Mr. Bhaer was dressed in a new suit of black, which made him+look more like a gentleman than ever. His bushy hair had been cut and+smoothly brushed, but didn't stay in order long, for, in exciting+moments, he rumpled it up in the droll way he used to do; and Jo liked+it rampantly erect better than flat, because she thought it gave his+fine forehead a Jove-like aspect. Poor Jo, how she did glorify that+plain man, as she sat knitting away so quietly, yet letting nothing+escape her, not even the fact that Mr. Bhaer actually had gold+sleeve-buttons in his immaculate wristbands!++"Dear old fellow! He couldn't have got himself up with more care if he'd+been going a-wooing," said Jo to herself; and then a sudden thought,+born of the words, made her blush so dreadfully that she had to drop her+ball, and go down after it to hide her face.++The manœuvre did not succeed as well as she expected, however; for,+though just in the act of setting fire to a funeral-pile, the Professor+dropped his torch, metaphorically speaking, and made a dive after the+little blue ball. Of course they bumped their heads smartly together,+saw stars, and both came up flushed and laughing, without the ball, to+resume their seats, wishing they had not left them.++Nobody knew where the evening went to; for Hannah skilfully abstracted+the babies at an early hour, nodding like two rosy poppies, and Mr.+Laurence went home to rest. The others sat round the fire, talking+away, utterly regardless of the lapse of time, till Meg, whose maternal+mind was impressed with a firm conviction that Daisy had tumbled out of+bed, and Demi set his night-gown afire studying the structure of+matches, made a move to go.++"We must have our sing, in the good old way, for we are all together+again once more," said Jo, feeling that a good shout would be a safe and+pleasant vent for the jubilant emotions of her soul.++They were not _all_ there. But no one found the words thoughtless or+untrue; for Beth still seemed among them, a peaceful presence,+invisible, but dearer than ever, since death could not break the+household league that love made indissoluble. The little chair stood in+its old place; the tidy basket, with the bit of work she left unfinished+when the needle grew "so heavy," was still on its accustomed shelf; the+beloved instrument, seldom touched now, had not been moved; and above it+Beth's face, serene and smiling, as in the early days, looked down upon+them, seeming to say, "Be happy. 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 to-night, dear. I can't show off to-night."++But she did show something better than brilliancy or skill; for she sung+Beth's songs with a tender music in her voice which the best master+could not have taught, and touched the listeners' hearts with a sweeter+power than any other inspiration could have given her. 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,--++ "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,--++"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.+It didn't much matter; for Mr. Bhaer sang like a true German, heartily+and well; and Jo soon subsided into a subdued hum, that she might listen+to the mellow voice that seemed to sing for her alone.++ [Illustration: Mr. Bhaer sang heartily]++ "Know'st thou the land where the citron blooms,"++used to be the Professor's favorite line, for "das land" meant Germany+to him; but now he seemed to dwell, with peculiar warmth and melody,+upon the words,--++ "There, oh there, might I with thee,+ O my beloved, go!"++and one listener was so thrilled by the tender invitation that she+longed to say she did know the land, and would joyfully depart thither+whenever he liked.++The song was considered a great success, and the singer retired covered+with laurels. But a few minutes afterward, he forgot his manners+entirely, and stared at Amy putting on her bonnet; for she had been+introduced simply as "my sister," and no one had called her by her new+name since he came. He forgot himself still further when Laurie said, in+his most gracious manner, at parting,--++"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."++Then the Professor thanked him so heartily, and looked so suddenly+illuminated with satisfaction, that Laurie thought him the most+delightfully demonstrative old fellow he ever met.++"I too shall go; but I shall gladly come again, if you will gif me+leave, dear madame, for a little business in the city will keep me here+some days."++He spoke to Mrs. March, but he looked at Jo; and the mother's voice gave+as cordial an assent as did the daughter's eyes; for Mrs. March was not+so blind to her children's interest as Mrs. Moffat supposed.++"I suspect that is a wise man," remarked Mr. March, with placid+satisfaction, from the hearth-rug, after the last guest had gone.++"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.++She wondered what the business was that brought Mr. Bhaer to the city,+and finally decided that he had been appointed to some great honor,+somewhere, but had been too modest to mention the fact. If she had seen+his face when, safe in his own room, he looked at the picture of a+severe and rigid young lady, with a good deal of hair, who appeared to+be gazing darkly into futurity, it might have thrown some light upon the+subject, especially when he turned off the gas, and kissed the picture+in the dark.+++++ [Illustration: Mrs. Laurence sitting in her mother's lap]++ XLIV.++ MY LORD AND LADY.+++"Please, Madam Mother, could you lend me my wife for half an hour? The+luggage has come, and I've been making hay of Amy's Paris finery, trying+to find some things I want," said Laurie, coming in the next day to find+Mrs. Laurence sitting in her mother's lap, as if being made "the baby"+again.++"Certainly. Go, dear; I forget that you have any home but this," and+Mrs. March pressed the white hand that wore the wedding-ring, as if+asking pardon for her maternal covetousness.++"I shouldn't have come over if I could have helped it; but I can't get+on without my little woman any more than a--"++"Weathercock can without wind," suggested Jo, as he paused for a simile;+Jo had grown quite her own saucy self again since Teddy came home.++"Exactly; for Amy keeps me pointing due west most of the time, with only+an occasional whiffle round to the south, and I haven't had an easterly+spell since I was married; 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.++"What are you going to do with yourselves after you get settled?" asked+Jo, buttoning Amy's cloak as she used to button her pinafores.++"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 spoilt. I need something of the sort to keep me steady.+I'm tired of dawdling, and mean to work like a man."++"And Amy, what is she going to do?" asked Mrs. March, well pleased at+Laurie's decision, and the energy with which he spoke.++"After doing the civil all round, and airing our best bonnet, we shall+astonish you by the elegant hospitalities of our mansion, the brilliant+society we shall draw about us, and the beneficial influence we shall+exert over the world at large. That's about it, isn't it, Madame+Récamier?" asked Laurie, with a quizzical look at Amy.++"Time will show. Come away, Impertinence, and don't shock my family by+calling me names before their faces," answered Amy, resolving that there+should be a home with a good wife in it before she set up a _salon_ as a+queen of society.++"How happy those children seem together!" observed Mr. March, finding it+difficult to become absorbed in his Aristotle after the young couple had+gone.++"Yes, and I think it will last," added Mrs. March, with the restful+expression of a pilot who has brought a ship safely into port.++"I know it will. Happy Amy!" and Jo sighed, then smiled brightly as+Professor Bhaer opened the gate with an impatient push.++Later in the evening, when his mind had been set at rest about the+bootjack, Laurie said suddenly to his wife, who was flitting about,+arranging her new art treasures,--++"Mrs. Laurence."++"My lord!"++"That man intends to marry our Jo!"++"I hope so; don't you, dear?"++"Well, my love, I consider him a trump, in the fullest sense of that+expressive word, but I do wish he was a little younger and a good deal+richer."++"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--" Amy caught herself up short as+the words escaped her, and looked at her husband, who replied, with+malicious gravity,--++"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."++"O my dearest boy, don't, don't say that! I forgot you were rich when I+said 'Yes.' I'd have married you if you hadn't a penny, and I sometimes+wish you _were_ poor that I might show how much I love you;" 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? It would break my heart if you didn't believe that I'd+gladly pull in the same boat with you, even if you had to get your+living by rowing on the lake."++"Am I an idiot and a brute? How could I think so, when you refused a+richer man for me, and won't let me give you half I want to now, when I+have the right? Girls do it every day, poor things, and are taught to+think it is their only salvation; but you had better lessons, and,+though I trembled for you at one time, I was not disappointed, for the+daughter was true to the mother's teaching. I told mamma so yesterday,+and she looked as glad and grateful as if I'd given her a check for a+million, to be spent in charity. You are not listening to my moral+remarks, Mrs. Laurence;" and Laurie paused, for Amy's eyes had an absent+look, though fixed upon his face.++"Yes, I am, and admiring the dimple 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.++Laurie had received many compliments in his life, but never one that+suited him better, as he plainly showed, though he did laugh at his+wife's peculiar taste, while she said slowly,--++"May I ask you a question, dear?"++"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 suit you. Not being a dog in the manger, but the+happiest fellow alive, I assure you I can dance at Jo's wedding with a+heart as light as my heels. Do you doubt it, my darling?"++Amy looked up at him, and was satisfied; her last 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. Couldn't+we invent a rich relation, who shall obligingly die out there in+Germany, and leave him a tidy little fortune?" said Laurie, when they+began to pace up and down the long drawing-room, arm-in-arm, as they+were fond of doing, in memory of the chateau garden.++ [Illustration: They began to pace up and down]++"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. I owe Jo for a part of my education, and she+believes in people's paying their honest debts, so I'll get round her in+that way."++"How delightful it is to be able to help others, isn't it? That was+always one of my dreams, to have the power of giving freely; and, thanks+to you, the dream has come true."++"Ah! we'll do quantities of good, won't we? There's one sort of poverty+that I particularly like to help. Out-and-out beggars get taken care of,+but poor gentlefolks fare badly, because they won't ask, and people+don't dare to offer charity; 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+blarneying 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. But I was+going to say that while I was dawdling about abroad, I saw a good many+talented young fellows making all sorts of sacrifices, and enduring real+hardships, that they might realize their dreams. Splendid fellows, some+of them, working like heroes, poor and friendless, but so full of+courage, patience, and ambition, that I was ashamed of myself, and+longed to give them a right good lift. Those are people whom it's a+satisfaction to help, for if they've got genius, it's an honor to be+allowed to serve them, and not let it be lost or delayed for want of+fuel to keep the pot boiling; 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. I know something of it, for I belonged to it before you made a+princess of me, as the king does the beggar-maid in the old story.+Ambitious girls have a hard time, Laurie, and often have to see youth,+health, and precious opportunities go by, just for want of a little help+at the right minute. People have been very kind to me; and whenever I+see girls struggling along, as we used to do, I want to put out my hand+and help them, as I was helped."++"And so you shall, like an angel as you are!" cried Laurie, resolving,+with a glow of philanthropic zeal, to found and endow an institution for+the express benefit of young women with artistic tendencies. "Rich+people have no right to sit down and enjoy themselves, or let their+money accumulate for others to waste. It's not half so sensible to leave+legacies when one dies as it is to use the money wisely while alive, and+enjoy making one's fellow-creatures happy with it. 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?"++"With all my heart, if you will be a brave St. Martin, stopping, as you+ride gallantly through the world, to share your cloak with the beggar."++"It's a bargain, and we shall get the best of it!"++So the young pair shook hands upon it, and then paced happily on again,+feeling that their pleasant home was more home-like because they hoped+to brighten other homes, believing that their own feet would walk more+uprightly along the flowery path before them, if they smoothed rough+ways for other feet, and feeling that their hearts were more closely+knit together by a love which could tenderly remember those less blest+than they.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ XLV.++ DAISY AND DEMI.+++I cannot feel that I have done my duty as humble historian of the March+family, without devoting at least one chapter to the two most precious+and important members of it. Daisy and Demi had now arrived at years of+discretion; for in this fast age babies of three or four assert their+rights, and get them, too, which is more than many of their elders do.+If there ever were a pair of twins in danger of being utterly spoilt by+adoration, it was these prattling Brookes. Of course they were the most+remarkable children ever born, as will be shown when I mention that they+walked at eight months, talked fluently at twelve months, and at two+years they took their places at table, and behaved with a propriety+which charmed all beholders. At three, Daisy demanded a "needler," and+actually made a bag with four stitches in it; she likewise set up+housekeeping in the sideboard, and managed a microscopic cooking-stove+with a skill that brought tears of pride to Hannah's eyes, while Demi+learned his letters with his grandfather, who invented a new mode of+teaching the alphabet by forming the letters with his arms and legs,+thus uniting gymnastics for head and heels. The boy early developed a+mechanical genius which delighted his father and distracted his mother,+for he tried to imitate every machine he saw, and kept the nursery in a+chaotic condition, with his "sewin-sheen,"--a mysterious structure of+string, chairs, clothes-pins, and spools, for wheels to go "wound and+wound;" also a basket hung over the back of a big chair, in which he+vainly tried to hoist his too confiding sister, who, with feminine+devotion, allowed her little head to be bumped till rescued, when the+young inventor indignantly remarked, "Why, marmar, dat's my lellywaiter,+and me's trying to pull her up."++Though utterly unlike in character, the twins got on remarkably well+together, and seldom quarrelled more than thrice a day. Of course, Demi+tyrannized over Daisy, and gallantly defended her from every other+aggressor; while Daisy made a galley-slave of herself, and adored her+brother as the one perfect being in the world. A rosy, chubby, sunshiny+little soul was Daisy, who found her way to everybody's heart, and+nestled there. One of the captivating children, who seem made to be+kissed and cuddled, adorned and adored like little goddesses, and+produced for general approval on all festive occasions. 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 was all fair+weather in her world, and every morning she scrambled up to the window+in her little night-gown to look out, and say, no matter whether it+rained or shone, "Oh, pitty day, oh, pitty day!" Every one was a friend,+and she offered kisses to a stranger so confidingly that the most+inveterate bachelor relented, and baby-lovers became faithful+worshippers.++ [Illustration: Me loves evvybody]++"Me loves evvybody," she once said, opening her arms, with her spoon in+one hand, and her mug in the other, as if eager to embrace and nourish+the whole world.++As she grew, her mother began to feel that the Dove-cote would be blest+by the presence of an inmate as serene and loving as that which had+helped to make the old house home, and to pray that she might be spared+a loss like that which had lately taught them how long they had+entertained an angel unawares. Her grandfather often called her "Beth,"+and her grandmother watched over her with untiring devotion, as if+trying to atone for some past mistake, which no eye but her own could+see.++Demi, like a true Yankee, was of an inquiring turn, wanting to know+everything, and often getting much disturbed because he could not get+satisfactory answers to his perpetual "What for?"++He also possessed a philosophic bent, to the great delight of his+grandfather, who used to hold Socratic conversations with him, in which+the precocious pupil occasionally posed his teacher, to the undisguised+satisfaction of the womenfolk.++ [Illustration: What makes my legs go, dranpa?]++"What makes my legs go, dranpa?" asked the young philosopher, surveying+those active portions of his frame with a meditative air, while resting+after a go-to-bed frolic one night.++"It's your little mind, Demi," replied the sage, stroking the yellow+head respectfully.++"What is a little mine?"++"It is something which makes your body move, as the spring made the+wheels go in my watch when I showed it to you."++"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."++Demi felt of his back, as if expecting to find it like that of the+watch, and then gravely remarked,--++"I dess Dod does it when I's asleep."++A careful explanation followed, to which he listened so attentively that+his anxious grandmother said,--++"My dear, do you think it wise to talk about such things to that baby?+He's getting great bumps over his eyes, and learning to ask the most+unanswerable questions."++"If he is old enough to ask the questions 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?"++If the boy had replied like Alcibiades, "By the gods, Socrates, I cannot+tell," his grandfather would not have been surprised; but when, after+standing a moment on one leg, like a meditative young stork, he+answered, in a tone of calm conviction, "In my little belly," the old+gentleman could only join in grandma's laugh, and dismiss the class in+metaphysics.++There might have been cause for maternal anxiety, if Demi had not given+convincing proofs that he was a true boy, as well as a budding+philosopher; for, often, after a discussion which caused Hannah to+prophesy, with ominous nods, "That child ain't long for this world," he+would turn about and set her fears at rest by some of the pranks with+which dear, dirty, naughty little rascals distract and delight their+parents' souls.++Meg made many moral rules, and tried to keep them; but what mother was+ever proof against the winning wiles, the ingenious evasions, or the+tranquil audacity of the miniature men and women who so early show+themselves accomplished Artful Dodgers?++"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."++He reluctantly departs, but his wrongs weigh upon his spirit; and, by+and by, when an opportunity comes to redress them, he outwits mamma by a+shrewd bargain.++"Now you have been good children, and I'll play anything you like," says+Meg, as she leads her assistant cooks upstairs, when the pudding is+safely bouncing in the pot.++"Truly, marmar?" asks Demi, with a brilliant idea in his well-powdered+head.++"Yes, truly; anything you say," replies the short-sighted parent,+preparing herself to sing "The Three Little Kittens" half a dozen times+over, or to take her family to "Buy a penny bun," regardless of wind or+limb. But Demi corners her by the cool reply,--++"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. Aunt Amy was as yet only a+name to them, Aunt Beth soon faded into a pleasantly vague memory, but+Aunt Dodo was a living reality, and they made the most of her, for which+compliment she was deeply grateful. 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; Demi, with infantile penetration,+soon discovered that Dodo liked to play with "the bear-man" better than+she did with him; but, though hurt, he concealed his anguish, for he+hadn't the heart to insult a rival who kept a mine of chocolate-drops in+his waistcoat-pocket, and a watch that could be taken out of its case+and freely shaken by ardent admirers.++Some persons might have considered these pleasing liberties as bribes;+but Demi didn't see it in that light, and continued to patronize the+"bear-man" with pensive affability, while Daisy bestowed her small+affections upon him at the third call, and considered his shoulder her+throne, his arm her refuge, his gifts treasures of surpassing worth.++Gentlemen are sometimes seized with sudden fits of admiration for the+young relatives of ladies whom they honor with their regard; but this+counterfeit philoprogenitiveness sits uneasily upon them, and does not+deceive anybody a particle. Mr. Bhaer's devotion was sincere, however+likewise effective,--for honesty is the best policy in love as in law;+he was one of the men who are at home with children, and looked+particularly well when little faces made a pleasant contrast with his+manly one. His business, whatever it was, detained him from day to day,+but evening seldom failed to bring him out to see--well, he always asked+for Mr. March, so I suppose _he_ was the attraction. The excellent papa+labored under the delusion that he was, and revelled in long discussions+with the kindred spirit, till a chance remark of his more observing+grandson suddenly enlightened him.++Mr. Bhaer came in one evening to pause on the threshold of the study,+astonished by the spectacle that met his eye. Prone upon the floor lay+Mr. March, with his respectable legs in the air, and beside him,+likewise prone, was Demi, trying to imitate the attitude with his own+short, scarlet-stockinged legs, both grovellers so seriously absorbed+that they were unconscious of spectators, till Mr. Bhaer laughed his+sonorous laugh, and Jo cried out, with a scandalized face,--++"Father, father, here's the Professor!"++Down went the black legs and up came the gray head, as the preceptor+said, with undisturbed dignity,--++"Good evening, Mr. Bhaer. Excuse me for a moment; we are just finishing+our lesson. Now, Demi, make the letter and tell its name."++"I knows him!" and, after a few convulsive efforts, the red legs took+the shape of a pair of compasses, and the intelligent pupil triumphantly+shouted, "It's a We, dranpa, it's a We!"++ [Illustration: Dranpa, it's a We]++"He's a born Weller," laughed Jo, as her parent gathered himself up, and+her nephew tried to stand on his head, as the only mode of expressing+his satisfaction that school was over.++"What have you been at to-day, bübchen?" 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. What did the little Mary say to that?"+asked Mr. Bhaer, continuing to confess the young sinner, who stood upon+his knee, exploring the waistcoat-pocket.++"Oh, she liked it, and she kissed me, and I liked it. _Don't_ little+boys like little girls?" added 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 revelations as much as the Professor.++"'Tisn't in mine head; it's in mine mouf," answered literal Demi,+putting out his tongue, with a chocolate-drop on it, thinking she+alluded to confectionery, not ideas.++"Thou shouldst save some for the little friend: sweets to the sweet,+mannling;" and Mr. Bhaer offered Jo some, with a look that made her+wonder if chocolate was not the nectar drunk by the gods. Demi also saw+the smile, was impressed by it, and artlessly inquired,--++"Do great boys like great girls, too, 'Fessor?"++Like young Washington, Mr. Bhaer "couldn't tell a lie;" so he gave the+somewhat vague reply that he believed they did sometimes, in a tone that+made Mr. March put down his clothes-brush, glance at Jo's retiring face,+and then sink into his chair, looking as if the "precocious chick" had+put an idea into _his_ head that was both sweet and sour.++Why Dodo, when she caught him in the china-closet half an hour+afterward, nearly squeezed the breath out of his little body with a+tender embrace, instead of shaking him for being there, and why she+followed up this novel performance by the unexpected gift of a big slice+of bread and jelly, remained one of the problems over which Demi puzzled+his small wits, and was forced to leave unsolved forever.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Mr. Bhaer and Jo were enjoying promenades]++ XLVI.++ UNDER THE UMBRELLA.+++While Laurie and Amy were taking conjugal strolls over velvet carpets,+as they set their house in order, and planned a blissful future, Mr.+Bhaer and Jo were enjoying promenades of a different sort, along muddy+roads and sodden fields.++"I always do take a walk toward evening, and I don't know why I should+give it up, just because I often happen to meet the Professor on his way+out," said Jo to herself, after two or three encounters; for, though+there were two paths to Meg's, whichever one she took she was sure to+meet him, either going or returning. He was always walking rapidly, and+never seemed to see her till quite close, when he would look as if his+short-sighted eyes had failed to recognize the approaching lady till+that moment. Then, if she was going to Meg's, he always had something+for the babies; if her face was turned homeward, he had merely strolled+down to see the river, and was just about returning, unless they were+tired of his frequent calls.++Under the circumstances, what could Jo do but greet him civilly, and+invite him in? If she _was_ tired of his visits, she concealed her+weariness with perfect skill, and took care that there should be coffee+for supper, "as Friedrich--I mean Mr. Bhaer--doesn't like tea."++By the second week, every one knew perfectly well what was going on, yet+every one tried to look as if they were stone-blind to the changes in+Jo's face. They never asked why she sang about her work, did up her hair+three times a day, and got so blooming with her evening exercise; and no+one seemed to have the slightest suspicion that Professor Bhaer, while+talking philosophy with the father, was giving the daughter lessons in+love.++Jo couldn't even lose her heart in a decorous manner, but sternly tried+to quench her feelings; and, failing to do so, led a somewhat agitated+life. She was mortally afraid of being laughed at for surrendering,+after her many and vehement declarations of independence. Laurie was her+especial dread; but, thanks to the new manager, he behaved with+praiseworthy propriety, never called Mr. Bhaer "a capital old fellow" in+public, never alluded, in the remotest manner, to Jo's improved+appearance, or expressed the least surprise at seeing the Professor's+hat on the Marches' hall-table nearly every evening. But he exulted in+private and longed for the time to come when he could give Jo a piece of+plate, with a bear and a ragged staff on it as an appropriate+coat-of-arms.++For a fortnight, the Professor came and went with lover-like regularity;+then he stayed away for three whole days, and made no sign,--a+proceeding which caused everybody to look sober, and Jo to become+pensive, at first, and then--alas for romance!--very cross.++"Disgusted, I dare say, and gone home as suddenly as he came. It's+nothing to me, of course; but I _should_ think he would have come and+bid us good-by, like a gentleman," she said to herself, with a+despairing look at the gate, as she put on her things for the customary+walk, one dull afternoon.++"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? I've got to run in and get+some paper," returned Jo, pulling out the bow under her chin before the+glass as an excuse for not looking at her mother.++"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.++Jo heard _that_, but made no answer, except to kiss her mother, and walk+rapidly away, thinking with a glow of gratitude, in spite of her+heartache,--++"How good she is to me! What _do_ girls do who haven't any mothers to+help them through their troubles?"++The dry-goods stores were not down among the counting-houses, banks, and+wholesale warerooms, where gentlemen most do congregate; but Jo found+herself in that part of the city before she did a single errand,+loitering along as if waiting for some one, examining engineering+instruments in one window and samples of wool in another with most+unfeminine interest; tumbling over barrels, being half-smothered by+descending bales, and hustled unceremoniously by busy men who looked as+if they wondered "how the deuce she got there." A drop of rain on her+cheek recalled her thoughts from baffled hopes to ruined ribbons; for+the drops continued to fall, and, being a woman as well as a lover, she+felt that, though it was too late to save her heart, she might her+bonnet. Now she remembered the little umbrella, which she had forgotten+to take in her hurry to be off; but regret was unavailing, and nothing+could be done but borrow one or submit to a drenching. She looked up at+the lowering sky, down at the crimson bow already flecked with black,+forward along the muddy street, then one long, lingering look behind, at+a certain grimy warehouse, with "Hoffmann, Swartz, & Co." over the door,+and said to herself, with a sternly reproachful air,--++"It serves me right! What business had I to put on all my best things+and come philandering down here, hoping to see the Professor? 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. You shall trudge away, and do+your errands in the rain; and if you catch your death and ruin your+bonnet, it's no more than you deserve. Now then!"++With that she rushed across the street so impetuously that she narrowly+escaped annihilation from a passing truck, and precipitated herself into+the arms of a stately old gentleman, who said, "I beg pardon, ma'am,"+and looked mortally offended. Somewhat daunted, Jo righted herself,+spread her handkerchief over the devoted ribbons, and, putting+temptation behind her, hurried on, with increasing dampness about the+ankles, and much clashing of umbrellas overhead. The fact that a+somewhat dilapidated blue one remained stationary above the unprotected+bonnet, attracted her attention; and, looking up, she saw Mr. Bhaer+looking down.++ [Illustration: Looking up she saw Mr. Bhaer]++"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."++Mr. Bhaer smiled, as he glanced from the pickle-factory on one side, to+the wholesale hide and leather concern on the other; but he only said+politely,--++"You haf no umbrella. May I go also, and take for you the bundles?"++"Yes, thank you."++Jo's cheeks were as red as her ribbon, and she wondered what he thought+of her; but she didn't care, for in a minute she found herself walking+away arm-in-arm with her Professor, feeling as if the sun had suddenly+burst out with uncommon brilliancy, that the world was all right again,+and that one thoroughly happy woman was paddling through the wet that+day.++"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.++"Did you believe that I should go with no farewell to those who haf been+so heavenly kind to me?" he asked so reproachfully that she felt as if+she had insulted him by the suggestion, and answered heartily,--++"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."++In her anxiety to keep her voice quite calm, Jo made it rather cool, and+the frosty little monosyllable at the end seemed to chill the Professor,+for his smile vanished, as he said gravely,--++"I thank you, and come one time more 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.++"I ought to think so, for I haf a way opened to me by which I can make+my bread and gif my Jünglings much help."++"Tell me, please! I like to know all about the--the boys," said Jo+eagerly.++"That is so kind, I gladly tell you. My friends find for me a place in+a college, where I teach as at home, and earn enough to make the way+smooth for Franz and Emil. For this I should be grateful, should I not?"++"Indeed you should. How splendid it will be to have you doing what you+like, and be able to see you often, and the boys!" cried Jo, clinging to+the lads as an excuse for the satisfaction she could not help betraying.++"Ah! but we shall not meet often, I fear; this place is at the West."++"So far away!" and Jo left her skirts to their fate, as if it didn't+matter now what became of her clothes or herself.++Mr. Bhaer could read several languages, but he had not learned to read+women yet. He flattered himself that he knew Jo pretty well, and was,+therefore, much amazed by the contradictions of voice, face, and manner,+which she showed him in rapid succession that day, for she was in half a+dozen different moods in the course of half an hour. When she met him+she looked surprised, though it was impossible to help suspecting that+she had come for that express purpose. When he offered her his arm, she+took it with a look that filled him with delight; but when he asked if+she missed him, she gave such a chilly, formal reply that despair fell+upon him. On learning his good fortune she almost clapped her hands: was+the joy all for the boys? Then, on hearing his destination, she said,+"So far away!" in a tone of despair that lifted him on to a pinnacle of+hope; but the next minute she tumbled him down again by observing, like+one entirely absorbed in the matter,--++"Here's the place for my errands; will you come in? It won't take long."++Jo rather prided herself upon her shopping capabilities, and+particularly wished to impress her escort with the neatness and despatch+with which she would accomplish the business. But, owing to the flutter+she was in, everything went amiss; she upset the tray of needles, forgot+the silesia was to be "twilled" till it was cut off, gave the wrong+change, and covered herself with confusion by asking for lavender ribbon+at the calico counter. Mr. Bhaer stood by, watching her blush and+blunder; and, as he watched, his own bewilderment seemed to subside,+for he was beginning to see that on some occasions women, like dreams,+go by contraries.++When they came out, he put the parcel under his arm with a more cheerful+aspect, and splashed through the puddles as if he rather enjoyed it, on+the whole.++"Should we not do a little what you call shopping for the babies, and+haf a farewell feast to-night if I go for my last call at your so+pleasant home?" he asked, stopping before a window full of fruit and+flowers.++"What will we buy?" said Jo, ignoring the latter part of his speech, and+sniffing the mingled odors with an affectation of delight as they went+in.++"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 surely drink to the Fatherland in those?"++Jo frowned upon that piece of extravagance, and asked why he didn't buy+a frail of dates, a cask of raisins, and a bag of almonds, and done with+it? Whereat Mr. Bhaer confiscated her purse, produced his own, and+finished the marketing by buying several pounds of grapes, a pot of rosy+daisies, and a pretty jar of honey, to be regarded in the light of a+demijohn. Then, distorting his pockets with the knobby bundles, and+giving her the flowers to hold, he put up the old umbrella, and they+travelled on again.++"Miss Marsch, I haf a great favor to ask of you," began the Professor,+after a moist promenade of half a block.++"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 flower-pot 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. I'm going very fast and he's+getting dearer every minute," added Jo to herself; then, with a mental+shake, she entered into the business with an energy which was pleasant+to behold.++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; it's a superior article, a most desirable+color, quite chaste and genteel," he said, shaking out a comfortable+gray shawl, and throwing it over Jo's shoulders.++ [Illustration: Does this suit you, Mr. Bhaer?]++"Does this suit you, Mr. Bhaer?" she asked, turning her back to him,+and feeling deeply grateful for the chance of hiding her face.++"Excellently well; we will haf it," answered the Professor, smiling to+himself as he paid for it, while Jo continued to rummage the counters+like a confirmed bargain-hunter.++"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; for now the sun seemed to have gone in as suddenly as it came+out, the world grew muddy and miserable again, and for the first time+she discovered that her feet were cold, her head ached, and that her+heart was colder than the former, fuller of pain than the latter. Mr.+Bhaer was going away; he only cared for her as a friend; it was all a+mistake, and the sooner it was over the better. With this idea in her+head, she hailed an approaching omnibus with such a hasty gesture that+the daisies flew out of the pot and were badly damaged.++"This is not our omniboos," said the Professor, waving the loaded+vehicle away, and stopping to pick up the poor little flowers.++"I beg your pardon, I didn't see the name distinctly. Never mind, I can+walk. I'm used to plodding in the mud," returned Jo, winking hard,+because she would have died rather than openly wipe her eyes.++Mr. Bhaer saw the drops on her cheeks, though she turned her head away;+the sight seemed to touch him very much, for, suddenly stooping down, he+asked in a tone that meant a great deal,--++"Heart's dearest, why do you cry?"++Now, if Jo had not been new to this sort of thing she would have said+she wasn't crying, had a cold in her head, or told any other feminine+fib proper to the occasion; instead of which that undignified creature+answered, with an irrepressible sob,--++"Because you are going away."++"Ach, mein Gott, that is _so_ good!" cried Mr. Bhaer, managing to clasp+his hands in spite of the umbrella and the bundles. "Jo, I haf nothing+but much love to gif you; 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.++"Oh, yes!" said Jo; and he was quite satisfied, for she folded both+hands over his arm, and looked up at him with an expression that plainly+showed how happy she would be to walk through life beside him, even+though she had no better shelter than the old umbrella, if he carried+it.++It was certainly proposing under difficulties, for, even if he had+desired to do so, Mr. Bhaer could not go down upon his knees, on account+of the mud; neither could he offer Jo his hand, except figuratively, for+both were full; much less could he indulge in tender demonstrations in+the open street, though he was near it: so the only way in which he+could express his rapture was to look at her, with an expression which+glorified his face to such a degree that there actually seemed to be+little rainbows in the drops that sparkled on his beard. If he had not+loved Jo very much, I don't think he could have done it _then_, for she+looked far from lovely, with her skirts in a deplorable state, her+rubber boots splashed to the ankle, and her bonnet a ruin. Fortunately,+Mr. Bhaer considered her the most beautiful woman living, and she found+him more "Jove-like" than ever, though his hat-brim was quite limp with+the little rills trickling thence upon his shoulders (for he held the+umbrella all over Jo), and every finger of his gloves needed mending.++Passers-by probably thought them a pair of harmless lunatics, for they+entirely forgot to hail a 'bus, and strolled leisurely along, oblivious+of deepening dusk and fog. Little they cared what anybody thought, for+they were enjoying the happy hour that seldom comes but once in any+life, the magical moment which bestows youth on the old, beauty on the+plain, wealth on the poor, and gives human hearts a foretaste of heaven.+The Professor looked as if he had conquered a kingdom, and the world had+nothing more to offer him in the way of bliss; while Jo trudged beside+him, feeling as if her place had always been there, and wondering how+she ever could have chosen any other lot. Of course, she was the first+to speak--intelligibly, I mean, for the emotional remarks which followed+her impetuous "Oh, yes!" were not of a coherent or reportable+character.++"Friedrich, why didn't you--"++"Ah, heaven, she gifs me the name that no one speaks since Minna died!"+cried the Professor, pausing in a puddle to regard her with grateful+delight.++"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. Your English 'you' is so cold, say 'thou,'+heart's dearest, it means so much to me," pleaded Mr. Bhaer, more like a+romantic student than a grave professor.++"Well, then, why didn't thou tell me all this sooner?" asked Jo+bashfully.++"Now I shall haf to show thee all my heart, and I so gladly will,+because thou must take care of it hereafter. See, then, my Jo,--ah, the+dear, funny little name!--I had a wish to tell something the day I said+good-by, in New York; but I thought the handsome friend was betrothed to+thee, and so I spoke not. 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; so be 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 most wanted you?"++"This;" and Mr. Bhaer took a little worn paper out of his+waistcoat-pocket.++Jo unfolded it, and looked much abashed, for it was one of her own+contributions to a paper that paid for poetry, which accounted for her+sending it an occasional attempt.++"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."++Jo obeyed, and hastily skimmed through the lines which she had+christened--++ "IN THE GARRET.++ "Four little chests all in a row,+ Dim with dust, and worn by time,+ All fashioned and filled, long ago,+ By children now in their prime.+ Four little keys hung side by side,+ With faded ribbons, brave and gay+ When fastened there, with childish pride,+ Long ago, on a rainy day.+ Four little names, one on each lid,+ Carved out by a boyish hand,+ And underneath there lieth hid+ Histories of the happy band+ Once playing here, and pausing oft+ To hear the sweet refrain,+ That came and went on the roof aloft,+ In the falling summer rain.++ "'Meg' on the first lid, smooth and fair.+ I look in with loving eyes,+ For folded here, with well-known care,+ A goodly gathering lies,+ The record of a peaceful life,--+ Gifts to gentle child and girl,+ A bridal gown, lines to a wife,+ A tiny shoe, a baby curl.+ No toys in this first chest remain,+ For all are carried away,+ In their old age, to join again+ In another small Meg's play.+ Ah, happy mother! well I know+ You hear, like a sweet refrain,+ Lullabies ever soft and low+ In the falling summer rain.++ "'Jo' on the next lid, scratched and worn,+ And within a motley store+ Of headless dolls, of school-books torn,+ Birds and beasts that speak no more;+ Spoils brought home from the fairy ground+ Only trod by youthful feet,+ Dreams of a future never found,+ Memories of a past still sweet;+ Half-writ poems, stories wild,+ April letters, warm and cold,+ Diaries of a wilful child,+ Hints of a woman early old;+ A woman in a lonely home,+ Hearing, like a sad refrain,--+ 'Be worthy love, and love will come,'+ In the falling summer rain.++ "My Beth! the dust is always swept+ From the lid that bears your name,+ As if by loving eyes that wept,+ By careful hands that often came.+ Death canonized for us one saint,+ Ever less human than divine,+ And still we lay, with tender plaint,+ Relics in this household shrine.--+ The silver bell, so seldom rung,+ The little cap which last she wore,+ The fair, dead Catherine that hung+ By angels borne above her door;+ The songs she sang, without lament,+ In her prison-house of pain,+ Forever are they sweetly blent+ With the falling summer rain.++ "Upon the last lid's polished field--+ Legend now both fair and true--+ A gallant knight bears on his shield,+ 'Amy,' in letters gold and blue.+ Within lie snoods that bound her hair,+ Slippers that have danced their last,+ Faded flowers laid by with care,+ Fans whose airy toils are past;+ Gay valentines, all ardent flames,+ Trifles that have borne their part+ In girlish hopes and fears and shames,--+ The record of a maiden heart+ Now learning fairer, truer spells,+ Hearing, like a blithe refrain,+ The silver sound of bridal bells+ In the falling summer rain.++ "Four little chests all in a row,+ Dim with dust, and worn by time,+ Four women, taught by weal and woe+ To love and labor in their prime.+ Four sisters, parted for an hour,+ None lost, one only gone before,+ Made by love's immortal power,+ Nearest and dearest evermore.+ Oh, when these hidden stores of ours+ Lie open to the Father's sight,+ May they be rich in golden hours,+ Deeds that show fairer for the light,+ Lives whose brave music long shall ring,+ Like a spirit-stirring strain,+ Souls that shall gladly soar and sing+ In the long sunshine after rain.++ "J. M."++"It's very bad poetry, but I felt it when I wrote it, one day when I was+very lonely, and had a good cry on a rag-bag. I never thought it would+go where it could tell tales," said Jo, tearing up the verses the+Professor had treasured so long.++"Let it go, it has done its duty, and I will haf a fresh one when I read+all the brown book in which she keeps her little secrets," said Mr.+Bhaer, with a smile, as he watched the fragments fly away on the wind.+"Yes," he added earnestly, "I read that, and I think to myself, 'She has+a sorrow, she is lonely, she would find comfort in true love. I haf a+heart full, full for her; shall I not go and say, 'If this is not too+poor a thing to gif for what I shall hope to receive, take it in Gott's+name?'"++"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. But soon I began to hope, and then I said, 'I will haf+her if I die for it,' and so I will!" cried Mr. Bhaer, with a defiant+nod, as if the walls of mist closing round them were barriers which he+was to surmount or valiantly knock down.++Jo thought that was splendid, and resolved to be worthy of her knight,+though he did not come prancing on a charger in gorgeous array.++"What made you stay away so long?" she asked presently, finding it so+pleasant to ask confidential questions and get delightful answers that+she could not keep silent.++"It was not easy, but I could not find the heart to take you from that+so happy home until I could haf a prospect of one to give you, after+much time, perhaps, and hard work. How could I ask you to gif up so much+for a poor old fellow, who has no fortune but a little learning?"++"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've known it+long enough to lose my dread, and be happy working for those I love; and+don't call yourself old,--forty is the prime of life. 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,--++"I may be strong-minded, but no one can say I'm out of my sphere now,+for woman's special mission is supposed to be drying tears and bearing+burdens. 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. You can do your part out West, I can do mine here, and both+be happy hoping for the best, and leaving the future to be as God+wills."++"Ah! thou gifest me such hope and courage, and I haf nothing to gif back+but a full heart and these empty hands," cried the Professor, quite+overcome.++ [Illustration: Under the umbrella]++Jo never, never would learn to be proper; for when he said that as they+stood upon the steps, she just put both hands into his, whispering+tenderly, "Not empty now;" and, stooping down, kissed her Friedrich+under the umbrella. It was dreadful, but she would have done it if the+flock of draggle-tailed sparrows on the hedge had been human beings, for+she was very far gone indeed, and quite regardless of everything but her+own happiness. Though it came in such a very simple guise, that was the+crowning moment of both their lives, when, turning from the night and+storm and loneliness to the household light and warmth and peace waiting+to receive them, with a glad "Welcome home!" Jo led her lover in, and+shut the door.++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]+++++ [Illustration: Harvest time]++ XLVII.++ HARVEST TIME.+++For a year Jo and her Professor worked and waited, hoped and loved, met+occasionally, and wrote such voluminous letters that the rise in the+price of paper was accounted for, Laurie said. The second year began+rather soberly, for their prospects did not brighten, and Aunt March+died suddenly. But when their first sorrow was over,--for they loved the+old lady in spite of her sharp tongue,--they found they had cause for+rejoicing, for she had left Plumfield to Jo, which made all sorts of+joyful things possible.++"It's a fine old place, and will bring a handsome sum; for of course you+intend to sell it," said Laurie, as they were all talking the matter+over, some weeks later.++"No, I don't," was Jo's decided answer, as she petted the fat poodle,+whom she had adopted, out of respect to his former mistress.++"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. I want to open a school for little lads,--a good, happy, homelike+school, with me to take care of them, and Fritz to teach them."++"There'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.++"So do I," added her husband, who welcomed the thought of a chance for+trying the Socratic method of education on modern youth.++"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. Tell us all+about it," cried Mr. Laurence, who had been longing to lend the lovers a+hand, but knew that they would refuse his help.++"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. Now, my dear people," continued Jo earnestly, "just understand+that this isn't a new idea of mine, but a long-cherished plan. Before my+Fritz came, I used to think how, when I'd made my fortune, and no one+needed me at home, I'd hire a big house, and pick up some poor, forlorn+little lads, who hadn't any mothers, and take care of them, and make+life jolly for them before it was too late. I see so many going to ruin,+for want of help at the right minute; I love so to do anything for them;+I seem to feel their wants, and sympathize with their troubles, and, oh,+I should _so_ like to be a mother to them!"++Mrs. March held out her hand to Jo, who took it, smiling, with tears in+her eyes, and went on in the old enthusiastic way, which they had not+seen for a long while.++"I told my plan to Fritz once, and he said it was just what he would+like, and agreed to try it when we got rich. Bless his dear heart, he's+been doing it all his life,--helping poor boys, I mean, not getting+rich; that he'll never be; money doesn't stay in his pocket long enough+to lay up any. But now, thanks to my good old aunt, who loved me better+than I ever deserved, _I'm_ rich, at least I feel so, and we can live at+Plumfield perfectly well, if we have a flourishing school. 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 can 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. I've always longed for lots of boys, and never had+enough; now I can fill the house full, and revel in the little dears to+my heart's content. Think what luxury,--Plumfield my own, and a+wilderness of boys to enjoy it with me!"++As Jo waved her hands, and gave a sigh of rapture, the family went off+into a gale of merriment, and Mr. Laurence laughed till they thought+he'd have an apoplectic fit.++"I don't see anything funny," she said gravely, when she could be heard.+"Nothing could be more natural or proper than for my Professor to open a+school, and for me to prefer to reside on my own estate."++"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 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 mismanagement+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. People laugh at them, and hustle them about, try+to keep them out of sight, and expect them to turn, all at once, from+pretty children into fine young men. 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 a special interest in such young bears, and+like to show them that I see the warm, honest, well-meaning boys'+hearts, in spite of the clumsy arms and legs and the topsy-turvy heads.+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.++"And I've succeeded beyond my hopes; for here you are, a steady,+sensible business man, doing heaps of good with your money, and laying+up the blessings of the poor, instead of dollars. But you are not merely+a business man: you love good and beautiful things, enjoy them yourself,+and let others go halves, as you always did in the old times. I _am_+proud of you, Teddy, for you get better every year, and every one feels+it, though you won't let them say so. Yes, and when I have my flock,+I'll just point to you, and say, 'There's your model, my lads.'"++Poor Laurie didn't know where to look; for, man though he was, something+of the old bashfulness came over him as this burst of praise made all+faces turn approvingly upon him.++"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; so, if I've+got on at all, you may thank these two for it;" and he laid one hand+gently on his grandfather's white head, the other on Amy's golden one,+for the three were never far apart.++"I do think that families are the most beautiful things in all the+world!" burst out Jo, who was in an unusually uplifted frame of mind+just then. "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. And+that night, when she went to her room, after a blissful evening of+family counsels, hopes, and plans, her heart was so full of happiness+that she could only calm it by kneeling beside the empty bed always near+her own, and thinking tender thoughts of Beth.++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. Then a+family of six or seven boys sprung up like mushrooms, and flourished+surprisingly, poor boys as well as rich; for Mr. Laurence was+continually finding some touching case of destitution, and begging the+Bhaers to take pity on the child, and he would gladly pay a trifle for+its support. In this way the sly old gentleman got round proud Jo, and+furnished her with the style of boy in which she most delighted.++Of course it was up-hill work at first, and Jo made queer mistakes; but+the wise Professor steered her safely into calmer waters, and the most+rampant ragamuffin was conquered in the end. How Jo did enjoy her+"wilderness of boys," and how poor, dear Aunt March would have lamented+had she been there to see the sacred precincts of prim, well-ordered+Plumfield overrun with Toms, Dicks, and Harrys! There was a sort of+poetic justice about it, after all, for the old lady had been the terror+of the boys for miles round; and now the exiles feasted freely on+forbidden plums, kicked up the gravel with profane boots unreproved, and+played cricket in the big field where the irritable "cow with a crumpled+horn" used to invite rash youths to come and be tossed. It became a sort+of boys' paradise, and Laurie suggested that it should be called the+"Bhaer-garten," as a compliment to its master and appropriate to its+inhabitants.++It never was a fashionable school, and the Professor did not lay up a+fortune; but it _was_ just what Jo intended it to be,--"a happy,+homelike place for boys, who needed teaching, care, and kindness."+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; and, three times a day, Jo smiled at+her Fritz from the head of a long table lined on either side with rows+of happy young faces, which all turned to her with affectionate eyes,+confiding words, and grateful hearts, full of love for "Mother Bhaer."+She had boys enough now, and did not tire of them, though they were not+angels, by any means, and some of them caused both Professor and+Professorin much trouble and anxiety. But her faith in the good spot+which exists in the heart of the naughtiest, sauciest, most tantalizing+little ragamuffin gave her patience, skill, and, in time, success; for+no mortal boy could hold out long with Father Bhaer shining on him as+benevolently as the sun, and Mother Bhaer forgiving him seventy times+seven. Very precious to Jo was the friendship of the lads; their+penitent sniffs and whispers after wrong-doing; their droll or touching+little confidences; their pleasant enthusiasms, hopes, and plans; even+their misfortunes, for they only endeared them to her all the more.+There were slow boys and bashful boys; feeble boys and riotous boys;+boys that lisped and boys that stuttered; one or two lame ones; and a+merry little quadroon, who could not be taken in elsewhere, but who was+welcome to the "Bhaer-garten," though some people predicted that his+admission would ruin the school.++Yes; Jo was a very happy woman there, in spite of hard work, much+anxiety, and a perpetual racket. She enjoyed it heartily, and found the+applause of her boys more satisfying than any praise of the world; for+now she told no stories except to her flock of enthusiastic believers+and admirers. As the years went on, two little lads of her own came to+increase her happiness,--Rob, named for grandpa, and Teddy, a+happy-go-lucky baby, who seemed to have inherited his papa's sunshiny+temper as well as his mother's lively spirit. How they ever grew up+alive in that whirlpool of boys was a mystery to their grandma and+aunts; but they flourished like dandelions in spring, and their rough+nurses loved and served them well.++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. Five years after Jo's wedding, one of these fruitful festivals+occurred,--a mellow October day, when the air was full of an+exhilarating freshness which made the spirits rise, and the blood dance+healthily in the veins. The old orchard wore its holiday attire;+golden-rod 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; birds twittered+their adieux from the alders in the lane; and every tree stood ready to+send down its shower of red or yellow apples at the first shake.+Everybody was there; everybody laughed and sang, climbed up and tumbled+down; everybody declared that there never had been such a perfect day or+such a jolly set to enjoy it; and every one gave themselves up to the+simple pleasures of the hour as freely as if there were no such things+as care or sorrow in the world.++Mr. March strolled placidly about, quoting Tusser, Cowley, and Columella+to Mr. Laurence, while enjoying--++ "The gentle apple's winey juice."++The Professor charged up and down the green aisles like a stout Teutonic+knight, with a pole for a lance, leading on the boys, who made a hook+and ladder company of themselves, and performed wonders in the way of+ground and lofty tumbling. Laurie devoted himself to the little ones,+rode his small daughter in a bushel-basket, took Daisy up among the+birds' nests, and kept adventurous Rob from breaking his neck. Mrs.+March and Meg sat among the apple piles like a pair of Pomonas, sorting+the contributions that kept pouring in; while Amy, with a beautiful+motherly expression in her face, sketched the various groups, and+watched over one pale lad, who sat adoring her with his little crutch+beside him.++Jo was in her element that day, and rushed about, with her gown pinned+up, her hat anywhere but on her head, and her baby tucked under her arm,+ready for any lively adventure which might turn up. Little Teddy bore a+charmed life, for nothing ever happened to him, and Jo never felt any+anxiety when he was whisked up into a tree by one lad, galloped off on+the back of another, or supplied with sour russets by his indulgent+papa, who labored under the Germanic delusion that babies could digest+anything, from pickled cabbage to buttons, nails, and their own small+shoes. She knew that little Ted would turn up again in time, safe and+rosy, dirty and serene, and she always received him back with a hearty+welcome, for Jo loved her babies tenderly.++ [Illustration: Teddy bore a charmed life]++At four o'clock a lull took place, and baskets remained empty, while the+apple-pickers rested, and compared rents and bruises. Then Jo and Meg,+with a detachment of the bigger boys, set forth the supper on the grass,+for an out-of-door tea was always the crowning joy of the day. The land+literally flowed with milk and honey on such occasions, for the lads+were not required to sit at table, but allowed to partake of refreshment+as they liked,--freedom being the sauce best beloved by the boyish soul.+They availed themselves of the rare privilege to the fullest extent, for+some tried the pleasing experiment of drinking milk while standing on+their heads, others lent a charm to leap-frog by eating pie in the+pauses of the game, cookies were sown broadcast over the field, and+apple-turnovers roosted in the trees like a new style of bird. The+little girls had a private tea-party, and Ted roved among the edibles at+his own sweet will.++When no one could eat any more, the Professor proposed the first regular+toast, which was always drunk at such times,--"Aunt March, God bless+her!" A toast heartily given by the good man, who never forgot how much+he owed her, and quietly drunk by the boys, who had been taught to+keep her memory green.++"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. Everybody's health was proposed,+from Mr. Laurence, who was considered their special patron, to the+astonished guinea-pig, who had strayed from its proper sphere in search+of its young master. Demi, as the oldest grandchild, then presented the+queen of the day with various gifts, so numerous that they were+transported to the festive scene in a wheelbarrow. Funny presents, some+of them, but what would have been defects to other eyes were ornaments+to grandma's,--for the children's gifts were all their own. Every stitch+Daisy's patient little fingers had put into the handkerchiefs she hemmed+was better than embroidery to Mrs. March; Demi's shoe-box was a miracle+of mechanical skill, though the cover wouldn't shut; Rob's footstool had+a wiggle in its uneven legs, that she declared was very soothing; and no+page of the costly book Amy's child gave her was so fair as that on+which appeared, in tipsy capitals, the words,--"To dear Grandma, from+her little Beth."++During this ceremony the boys had mysteriously disappeared; and, when+Mrs. March had tried to thank her children, and broken down, while Teddy+wiped her eyes on his pinafore, the Professor suddenly began to sing.+Then, from above him, voice after voice took up the words, and from tree+to tree echoed the music of the unseen choir, as the boys sung, with all+their hearts, the little song Jo had written, Laurie set to music, and+the Professor trained his lads to give with the best effect. This was+something altogether new, and it proved a grand success; for Mrs. March+couldn't get over her surprise, and insisted on shaking hands with every+one of the featherless birds, from tall Franz and Emil to the little+quadroon, who had the sweetest voice of all.++After this, the boys dispersed for a final lark, leaving Mrs. March and+her daughters under the festival tree.++[Illustration: "Leaving Mrs. March and her daughters under the festival+ tree."--Page 583]++"I don't think I ever ought to call myself 'Unlucky Jo' again, when my+greatest wish has been so beautifully gratified," said Mrs. Bhaer,+taking Teddy's little fist out of the milk-pitcher, in which he was+rapturously churning.++"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! It does my heart good to see them forget business, and+frolic for a day," answered Jo, who now spoke in a maternal way of all+mankind. "Yes, I remember; but the life I wanted then seems selfish,+lonely, and cold to me now. I haven't given up the hope that I may write+a good book yet, but I can wait, and I'm sure it will be all the better+for such experiences and illustrations as these;" and Jo pointed from+the lively lads in the distance to her father, leaning on the+Professor's arm, as they walked to and fro in the sunshine, deep in one+of the conversations which both enjoyed so much, and then to her mother,+sitting enthroned among her daughters, with their children in her lap+and at her feet, as if all found help and happiness in the face which+never could grow old to them.++"My castle was the most nearly realized of all. I asked for splendid+things, to be sure, but in my heart I knew I should be satisfied, if I+had a little home, and John, and some dear children like these. I've got+them all, thank God, and am the happiest woman in the world;" and Meg+laid her hand on her tall boy's head, with a face full of tender and+devout content.++"My castle is very different from what I planned, but I would not alter+it, though, like Jo, I don't relinquish all my artistic hopes, or+confine myself to helping others fulfil their dreams of beauty. I've+begun to model a figure of baby, and Laurie says it is the best thing+I've ever done. I think so myself, and mean to do it in marble, so that,+whatever happens, I may at least keep the image of my little angel."++As Amy spoke, a great tear dropped on the golden hair of the sleeping+child in her arms; for her one well-beloved daughter was a frail little+creature and the dread of losing her was the shadow over Amy's sunshine.+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; Laurie was growing more serious, strong, and+firm; and both were learning that beauty, youth, good fortune, even love+itself, cannot keep care and pain, loss and sorrow, from the most blest;+for--++ "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. Don't despond, but+hope and keep happy," said Mrs. March, as tender-hearted Daisy stooped+from her knee, to lay her rosy cheek against her little cousin's pale+one.++"I never ought to, while I have you to cheer me up, Marmee, and Laurie+to take more than half of every burden," replied Amy warmly. "He never+lets me see his anxiety, but is so sweet and patient with me, so devoted+to Beth, and such a stay and comfort to me always, that I can't love him+enough. So, in spite of my one cross, I can say with Meg, 'Thank God,+I'm a happy woman.'"++"There's no need for me to say it, for every one can see that I'm far+happier than I deserve," added Jo, glancing from her good husband to her+chubby children, tumbling on the grass beside her. "Fritz is getting+gray and stout; I'm growing as thin as a shadow, and am thirty; we never+shall be rich, and Plumfield may burn up any night, for that+incorrigible Tommy Bangs _will_ smoke sweet-fern cigars under the+bed-clothes, though he's set himself afire three times already. 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."++"Yes, Jo, I think your harvest will be a good one," began Mrs. March,+frightening away a big black cricket that was staring Teddy out of+countenance.++"Not half so good as yours, mother. Here it is, and we never can thank+you enough for the patient sowing and reaping you have done," cried Jo,+with the loving impetuosity which she never could outgrow.++"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.++Touched to the heart, Mrs. March could only stretch out her arms, as if+to gather children and grandchildren to herself, and say, with face and+voice full of motherly love, gratitude, and humility,--++"O, my girls, however long you may live, I never can wish you a greater+happiness than this!"++ [Illustration: Tail-piece]++ [Illustration]+++++ Louisa M. Alcott's Writings+++THE LITTLE WOMEN SERIES.++ =Little Women=; or Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. Illustrated. 16mo.+ $1.50.++ =Little Men.= Life at Plumfield with Jo's Boys. Illustrated.+ 16mo. $1.50.++ =Jo's Boys and How They Turned Out.= A Sequel to "Little Men."+ Portrait of Author. 16mo. $1.50.++ =An Old-Fashioned Girl.= Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ =Eight Cousins=; or, The Aunt-Hill. Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ =Rose in Bloom.= A Sequel to "Eight Cousins." Illustrated. 16mo.+ $1.50.++ =Under the Lilacs.= Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ =Jack and Jill.= A Village Story. Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++The above eight volumes, uniformly bound in cloth, gilt, in box, $12.00.+++THE LITTLE WOMEN SERIES. _New Illustrated Edition._+ Printed from new plates with new cover designs, and illustrated with+ 84 full-page plates from drawings especially made for this edition+ by Reginald B. Birch, Alice Barber Stephens, Jessie Willcox Smith,+ and Harriet Roosevelt Richards. 8 vols. Crown 8vo. Decorated cloth,+ gilt, in box. $16.00. Separately, $2.00.+++THE SPINNING-WHEEL SERIES++ =Spinning-Wheel Stories.=+ =Silver Pitchers.=+ =Proverb Stories.=+ =A Garland for Girls.=++4 vols. 16mo. Each, $1.25. In box, $5.00.+++ THE SPINNING-WHEEL SERIES. _New Illustrated Edition._ Uniform in+ size with the Illustrated Edition of the Little Women Series.+ With 36 full-page plates by well-known artists. 4 vols. Crown+ 8vo. Decorated cloth. In box, $6.00. Separately, $1.50.+++AUNT JO'S SCRAP-BAG++ =My Boys.=+ =Shawl-Straps.=+ =Cupid and Chow-Chow.=+ =My Girls.=+ =Jimmy's Cruise in the Pinafore.=+ =An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving.=++6 vols. 16mo. Illustrated. Each, $1.00. In box, $6.00.+++LULU'S LIBRARY+ =Volume 1=+ =Volume 2=+ =Volume 3=++3 vols. Each, $1.00. The set uniformly bound in cloth, gilt, in box,+$3.00.+++NOVELS, ETC.++ =Hospital Sketches.=+ =Work.=+ =Comic Tragedies.=+ =Moods.=+ =A Modern Mephistopheles.=+ =Life of Louisa May Alcott.=++6 vols. 16mo. Each, $1.50.+++LITTLE, BROWN, & COMPANY++_Publishers_, 254 WASHINGTON STREET, BOSTON, MASS.+++++ The Little Women Series++ By LOUISA M. ALCOTT+++1. LITTLE WOMEN; or Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy++Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ A simple story of the home life of four girls. A portrayal of+ child life, natural, wholesome, and inspiring. One of the best+ and most popular children's books ever written.++2. LITTLE MEN: Life at Plumfield with Jo's Boys++Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ Gives delightful pictures of boy life at old Plumfield, and is+ brimful of activity, merriment, health, and happiness.++3. JO'S BOYS, and How They Turned Out++Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ This sequel to "Little Men" takes up the story and carries Jo's+ boys through the home struggles and adventures in the outside+ world until they are fairly launched on the sea of manhood.++4. AN OLD-FASHIONED GIRL++Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ The heroine of this book is shown as a possible improvement upon+ the girl of the period, who seems sadly ignorant or ashamed of+ the good old fashions which made women truly beautiful and+ honored.++5. EIGHT COUSINS; or, the Aunt-Hill++Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ The story of a pretty-faced and sunny-tempered little girl,+ obliged by the death of her parents to live with her uncle and+ her aunts, thereby coming in contact with seven cousins--all+ boys.++6. ROSE IN BLOOM++Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ This sequel to "Eight Cousins" carries on the story of Rose and+ the cousins, and is full of vivacity, fresh and stirring+ incident, and brilliant character painting.++7. UNDER THE LILACS++Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ Ben and his dog Sancho run away from a circus and find a home+ with Bob and Betty in the old house under the lilacs. Told in+ Miss Alcott's best style.++8. JACK AND JILL++Illustrated. 16mo. $1.50.++ A vivid yet natural portrayal of home and school life in a New+ England village, full of the sympathetic quality which lends+ such a charm to Miss Alcott's writings. It is a lively and jolly+ narrative.++THE ABOVE EIGHT VOLUMES, UNIFORMLY BOUND, IN BOX, $12.00++ _Uniform with "The Little Women Series."_++COMIC TRAGEDIES++ Written by "Jo" and "Meg," and acted by the "Little Women," with+ a Foreword by "Meg." Portraits, etc. 16mo. $1.50.++LOUISA MAY ALCOTT++ Her Life, Letters, and Journals. Edited by Ednah D. Cheney. With+ photogravure portraits, etc. 16mo. $1.50.+++++ Other Stories by LOUISA M. ALCOTT+++SPINNING-WHEEL STORIES++ Four volumes of healthy and hearty short stories so told as to+ fascinate the young people, while inculcating sturdy courage and+ kindness to the weak in the boys, and in the girls those virtues+ which fit them for filling a woman's place in the home.++ 1. SPINNING-WHEEL STORIES+ With twelve initial illustrations. 16mo. $1.25.++ 2. SILVER PITCHERS: and Independence+ 16mo. $1.25.++ 3. PROVERB STORIES+ 16mo. $1.25.++ 4. A GARLAND FOR GIRLS+ With illustrations. 16mo. $1.25.+ The above four volumes, uniformly bound in cloth, gilt, in box,+ $5.00.+++AUNT JO'S SCRAP BAG++ Six books of jolly, readable stories told in Miss Alcott's best+ style and sure to please young people.++ 1. MY BOYS+ Illustrated. 16mo. $1.00.++ 2. SHAWL-STRAPS+ Illustrated. Story of a voyage abroad. 16mo. $1.00++ 3. CUPID AND CHOW-CHOW+ Illustrated. 16mo. $1.00.++ 4. MY GIRLS+ Illustrated. 16mo. $1.00.++ 5. JIMMY'S CRUISE IN THE PINAFORE, ETC.+ Illustrated. 16mo. $1.00.++ 6. AN OLD-FASHIONED THANKSGIVING+ Illustrated. 16mo. $1.00.++The above six volumes, uniformly bound in cloth, gilt, in box, $6.00.+++LULU'S LIBRARY++ Delightful short stories, many of them founded on incidents from+ Miss Alcott's life. Told so as to attract children, and all+ showing the spirit of cheerful accomplishment in the face of+ discouragements.++ Three volumes. Each, $1.00. The set, uniformly bound in cloth,+ gilt, in box, $3.00.+++MISS ALCOTT'S NOVELS++ HOSPITAL SKETCHES+ and Camp and Fireside Stories. With illustrations. 16mo. $1.50.++ WORK+ A Story of Experience. Illustrated by Sol Eytinge. 16mo. $1.50.++ MOODS+ A Novel. 16mo. $1.50.++ A MODERN MEPHISTOPHELES+ and a Whisper in the Dark. 16mo. $1.50.+++++ Other Stories by LOUISA M. ALCOTT+++A HOLE IN THE WALL. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ An account of a poor boy's admiration for a beautiful garden to+ which he is invited by a little girl friend. ("How They Camped+ Out" in same volume.)++MARJORIE'S THREE GIFTS. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ A fairy tale told Marjorie comes true, and there enter into her+ life three good fairies: Industry, Cheerfulness, and Love.+ ("Roses and Forget-me-nots" in same volume.)++MAY FLOWERS. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ The experiences of six earnest young girls who try to make the+ sad lives about them happier. Full of sensible hints as to+ wisest methods of charity.++A CHRISTMAS DREAM. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ A rather spoiled child gets her first real enjoyment of+ Christmas by making others happy. ("Baa! Baa!" in same volume.)++THE CANDY COUNTRY. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ A quaint little fable in which the young heroine visits+ Candy-land and is finally contented to return to Bread-land.+ ("How They Ran Away" in same volume.)++LITTLE BUTTON ROSE. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ A bright, vivacious child visits her maiden aunts. Her+ influence on the somewhat narrow characters about her is+ delightfully described.++POPPIES AND WHEAT. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ Two girls travel through Europe. The frivolous Ethel learns the+ advantages of culture and simple dignity from her companion.++MOUNTAIN-LAUREL AND MAIDENHAIR. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ The story of a New Hampshire farmer's daughter who is fond of+ writing verses.++PANSIES AND WATER-LILIES. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ "Pansies" is a story of a girls' discussion of books;+ "Water-Lilies" is a romance by the sea-shore.++THE DOLLS' JOURNEY. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ A droll account of the travels of two dolls. ("Shadow-Children"+ and "The Moss People" in same volume.)++MORNING GLORIES AND QUEEN ASTOR. Illustrated. 12mo. 50 cents.++ Aunt Wee changes Daisy from a petulant to a cheerful girl by+ interesting her in the wonderful world of nature which Daisy has+ never before learned to appreciate justly.++THE LITTLE MEN PLAY.+THE LITTLE WOMEN PLAY.++ Adapted from Miss Alcott's famous stories, "Little Men" and+ "Little Women," by Elizabeth L. Gould. Illustrated. 12mo. Price+ 50 cents each.++ Two forty-five minute plays of two acts each, for eight or ten+ little people. They will prove a source of limitless delight.+++LITTLE, BROWN, & COMPANY, Publishers++254 Washington St., Boston, Mass.+++++ Transcriber's Notes:+++Project Gutenberg has two versions of Little Women by Louisa May Alcott.+ Original Edition+ Illustrated Edition++Welcome to the Project Gutenberg Illustrated Edition of Little Women by+Louisa May Alcott, published by Little, Brown, and Company. Some+versions of the book, such as this one, use the full title of the book+from the title page, _Little Women; Or Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy_.++We used the version of the book from Little, Brown, and Company:+copyright 1896, for this transcription. A scanned copy of this book is+available through the internet archive, courtesy of the New York Public+Library.++A copy of the first version of the novel, published in 1869, was+consulted for emendations, the proper rendering of words hyphenated and+split between two lines for spacing, and other issues in transcribing+the novel. We are not trying to change this version of the novel back to+the 1869 novel, but correct the errors that were made in re-transcribing+and updating the text.++Passages in italics were indicated by _underscores_.++Passages in bold were indicated by =equal signs=.++Small caps were replaced with ALL CAPS.++Throughout the dialogues, there were words used to mimic accents of+the speakers. Those words were retained as-is.++Errors in punctuations and hyphenation were not corrected unless+otherwise noted below.++A note about spacing of illustrations: If there are four lines above the+illustration, then the illustration was at the top of a new chapter. If+there are four lines below the illustration, then the illustration was+at the end of a chapter. If there is two lines between a chapter heading+and the illustration, then the illustration was an inline illustration+(usually a drop-cap illustration).++On page vii, in the Table of Contents, change page 7 to 1 for the+beginning of Chapter One.++In the List of Illustrations, for the illustration on page 147,+"postmistress" was replaced with "post-mistress".++In the List of Illustrations, for the illustration on page 235, +"tea-pot" was replaced with "teapot".++On page 30, the punctuation after 'stained they are' may be a colon, but+on page 41 of the 1869 book, it is a semicolon. We used the semi-colon. ++On page 34, transcribe red-headed with the hyphen. See page 44 of the+1869 novel.++On page 40, a period was added after "room where old Mr". See page 50 of+the 1869 novel.++On page 41, the semicolon after "Laurie went on the box" was replaced+with a comma. See page 52 of the 1869 novel.++On page 62, mantel-piece was transcribed with the hyphen. See Page 75 of+the 1869 novel.++On page 63, checked the clause "and I've been trying to do it this ever+so long." It is written the same way on page 77 of the 1869 book. No+change was made.++On page 64, add period after "red and shining with merriment." See page+79 of the 1869 book.++On page 68, changed weet to sweet in 'the damp weet air.' See page 84 of+the 1869 novel.++On page 79, add comma after I remain in the letter. See page 95 of the+1869 novel.++On page 84, ferrule was an adjustment from the 1869 book, which only+used one r in spelling the word (see page 101). Webster's dictionary+spells ferrule with two rs.++On page 109, a period was added after "and the old man quite dotes on+them". See page 130 of the 1869 novel.++On page 109, a period was added after "asked another voice". See page+131 of the 1869 novel.++On page 112, change colon to semicolon after "if you don't;"--see page+134 of the 1869 novel.++On page 113, transcribe ear-rings with the hyphen. See page 135 of the+1869 novel.++On Page 123, "One thing remember, my girls:" is written as it appears in+the 1896 novel. A comma instead of a colon was used after my girls in+the 1869 novel (see page 146). "One thing =to= remember," may work+better today, or even "Remember one thing," but we left this as Ms.+Alcott wrote it.++On Page 124, the P. C. is the Pickwick Club from a novel by Charles+Dickens. Samuel Pickwick, Tracy Tupman, Augustus Snodgrass, and+Nathaniel Winkle were introdued by Charles Dickens in the first chapter+of The Pickwick Papers. Samuel Weller makes his first appearance in+Chapter Ten of that novel.++On page 128, in the Pickwick Portfolio, there is no period after "it is+nearly school time" in N. Winkle's letter. This period was also missing+on page 151 of the 1869 novel. The missing period was intentional.++On page 135, the ambiguous punctuation after "Oh, dear, no!" is an+exclamation point. See page 160 of the 1869 novel.++On page 146, change buttonholes to button-holes. On page 173 of the 1869+novel, this word was hyphenated and split between two lines for spacing.+There were seven other occurrences of button-hole or button-holes in the+novel. We therefore used the hyphen.++On page 150, "Betty" was replaced with "Bethy". This error was also made+in the 1869 novel--see page 177. The character addressed is Beth. ++On page 158, a period was added after "still kneeling". See page 187 of+the 1869 novel.++On page 160, "hard a lee" is spelled the same way in the 1869 novel (see+page 189) and this novel. We left this as is.++On page 166, a comma was added after "Meg" in "Meg obediently+following". See page 195 of the 1869 book.++On page 185, "receptable" was replaced with "receptacle". See page 217+of the 1869 novel.++On page 185, transcribe door-way with the hyphen. See page 217 of the+1869 novel. Also, change doorway to door-way a few lines down the same+page. See page 218 of the 1869 novel.++On page 189, the comma after "published every day" was replaced with a+period. See page 225 of 1869 book.++On page 198, the clause: "Beth, go and ask Mr. Laurence for a couple of+bottles of old wine:" was written as it appeared in the 1896 novel. The+clause ended in with a semi-colon in the 1869 book (see page 234). ++On page 200, change needlework to needle-work. See page 236 of the 1869+novel.++On page 209, "turnovers" was replaced with "turn-overs". See page 246 of+the 1869 novel.++On page 214, the single quotation mark before "Head Nurse of Ward" was+replaced with a double quotation mark. See page 252 of the 1869 novel.++On page 218, "Year's ago" was replaced with "Years ago". See page 257 of+the 1869 novel.++On page 219, "ask him so help" was replaced with "ask him to help". See+page 257 of the 1869 novel.++On page 219, add period after "give it to her." See page 258 of the 1869+novel. ++On page 230, "two, A.M." is spelled the same way, with the comma, in+this book and in the 1869 novel (on page 272). The comma was retained.++On page 244, "postscrips" was replaced with "postscripts". See page 287+of the 1869 novel.++On page 279, place exclamation point after won't in 'No, I won't!' See+page 329 in the 1869 novel.++On page 286, "actingly" was replaced with "acting". See page 337 of the+1869 novel.++On page 288, add comma after mankind in the clause "who felt at peace+with all mankind even his mischievous pupil." See page 339 of the 1869+novel.++On page 294, transcribe gray-headed with the hyphen. See page 5 of the+1869 novel.++On page 295, add a comma after salary in the phrase "with an+honestly-earned salary." See page 7 of the 1869 book.++Checked the clause "But once get used to these slight blemishes" on page+297. The sentence appears the same way on page 10 of the 1869 novel. ++Checked the clause "People who hire all these things done for them never+know what they lose" on page 298. The sentence has a comma after them,+but is otherwise written the same way on page 11 of the 1869 novel.++On page 299, transcribe door-handles with the hyphen. See page 13 of the+1869 novel.++On page 339, "shortcomings" was replaced with "short-comings". See page+62 of the 1869 novel.++On page 345, "furbelows and notions" was written "furbelows and+quinny-dingles" in the 1869 novel. See page 59 of the 1869 novel. We+made no change, and only point this out because quinny-dingles is such a+memorable word that those intimate with the novel may notice the change.++On page 353, change snowbank to snow-bank. See page 79 of the 1869+novel.++On page 363, a double quotation mark was added before "Cross-patch, draw+the latch". See page 91 of the 1869 book.++On page 379, change period after Jo to a comma in the clause "as for Jo.+she would have gone up". See page 109 of the 1869 book.++On page 380, a comma was added after "all lying down". See page 111 of+the 1869 book.++On page 393, the punctuation after 'but so was everybody's' is difficult+to read. It could be a colon or semicolon. In the 1869 novel, the mark+is a semi-colon (see page 126). We used the semi-colon.++On page 396, the second line of the verse beginning with "'Out upon+you," is indented. In the 1869 version, the capital B of "Bold-faced+jig!'" is lined-up under Out. We aligned the verse as the 1869 version+of the novel--see page 131.++On page 404, add period after heaviness. See page 140 of the 1869 novel.++On page 405, transcribe needle-work with the hyphen. See page 141 of the+1869 book.++On Page 411, a letter is curiously addressed to Betsey, both here and on+page 148 of the 1869 book. ++On Page 413, removed double quotes around Yes in "Yes," they say to one+another, these so kind ladies. Instead, place a single quote in front of+Yes, because Bhaer is resuming his quote. The resumed quote concludes+with a single quote after me and mine. See page 151 of the 1869 novel.+The double quote before 'he is a stupid old fellow' is actually a+triple-nested quote, ending in make themselves.++On page 417, transcribe Teddy-ism as Teddyism. See page 155 of the 1869+novel.++On page 451, a period was added after "I can't let you go". See page 196+of the 1869 novel.++On page 463, "Tarantula" was used as the name of a dance, but the author+might have meant "Tarantella," which is the name of an Italian dance+about tarantulas.++On page 468, transcribe chess-board with the hyphen. See page 218 of the+1869 novel.++On page 512, a period was added after "she said softly". If you see page+272 of the 1869 novel, you will also notice a comma in 'she said,+softly.' We added the period but not the comma.++On page 514, the 1869 novel did not have a comma after oar in the+sentence: "I'm not tired; but you may take an oar, if you like. See page+525 of the 1869 novel. We did not remove the comma.++On page 527, "the 'the best nevvy" was replaced with "the best nevvy".++On page 527, change he to the in 'like Jenny and he ballad'. See page+291 of the 1869 novel.++On page 531, David and Peggotty refer to two characters from the novel+"David Copperfield" by Charles Dickens.++On page 534, change of to off in the clause: Daisy found it impossible+to keep her eyes of her "pitty aunty," ... see page 300 of the 1869+novel.++On page 541, "know'st thou the land where the citron blooms," was broken+into two stanzas in the book for spacing. We transcribed this as one+line. See page 308 in 1869 novel.++On page 551, transcribe Dove-cote with the hyphen. See page 319 of the+1869 novel.++On the first page of ads, a period was added after "THE LITTLE WOMEN+SERIES. New Illustrated Edition".++On the second page of ads, in the blurb for the book Comic Tragedies, a+period as placed after "Portraits, etc".++After the novel is a list of The Works of Louisa May Alcott. The list is+not complete: for example, there are no listings for her work as Flora+Fairfield or A. M. Barnard. Nevertheless, the pages are a fine+structured outline of Ms. Alcott's best work.++Most of the novels and stories in these four pages are published by+Project Gutenberg. We included links to these titles for the reader's+convenience. A change had to be made for one item: We had to list each+of the three volumes of Lulu's Library to provide the links to that+book. These links will only work in the HTML document.++The final page is a listing of eleven stories originally published in+other volumes, such as Jo's Scrap-Bag, Lulu's Library, and A Garland for+Girls. These works were subsequently published separately in small+volumes, generally less than 100 pages, in The Children's Friend Series. ++++++ + *** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LITTLE WOMEN; OR, MEG, JO, BETH, AND AMY ***+ ++ ++Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will+be renamed.++Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright+law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works,+so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United+States without permission and without paying copyright+royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part+of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project+Gutenberg™ electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG™+concept and trademark. 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+ bench/memory/Main.hs view
@@ -0,0 +1,67 @@+{-# LANGUAGE BangPatterns #-}+{-# LANGUAGE OverloadedStrings #-}++module Main (main) where++import Weigh++import Prelude hiding (readFile, take, words)++import Data.Maybe (catMaybes)++import Data.Text (Text, pack, take, words)+import Data.Text.IO (readFile)+++import Text.Inflections (SomeWord(..), mkWord, mkAcronym, ordinal, parameterize,+ titleize, toCamelCased, toDashed, toHumanized, toUnderscore)+++main :: IO ()+main = do+ text <- readFile "bench/little_women.txt"+ mainWith $ do+ let !t1 = take 100 text+ !t2 = take 10000 text+ !t3 = take 1000000 text++ somewords txt = catMaybes $ mkSomeWords $ words txt++ mkSomeWords (f:s:rest) = (SomeWord <$> mkWord f) : (SomeWord <$> mkAcronym s) : mkSomeWords rest+ mkSomeWords (f:rest) = (SomeWord <$> mkWord f) : mkSomeWords rest+ mkSomeWords [] = []++ func "toUnderscore text-len-100" toUnderscore t1+ func "toUnderscore text-len-10000" toUnderscore t2+ func "toUnderscore text-len-1000000" toUnderscore t3+ func "toUnderscore all text" toUnderscore text++ func "toDashed text-len-100" toDashed t1+ func "toDashed text-len-10000" toDashed t2+ func "toDashed text-len-1000000" toDashed t3+ func "toDashed all text" toDashed text++ func "toCamelCased False text-len-100" (toCamelCased False) t1+ func "toCamelCased False text-len-10000" (toCamelCased False) t2+ func "toCamelCased False text-len-1000000" (toCamelCased False) t3+ func "toCamelCased False all text" (toCamelCased False) text++ func "toHumanized False text-len-100" (toHumanized False) t1+ func "toHumanized False text-len-10000" (toHumanized False) t2+ func "toHumanized False text-len-1000000" (toHumanized False) t3+ func "toHumanized False all text" (toHumanized False) text++ func "parameterize text-len-100" parameterize t1+ func "parameterize text-len-10000" parameterize t2+ func "parameterize text-len-1000000" parameterize t3+ func "parameterize all text" parameterize text++ func "titleize text-len-100" titleize (somewords t1)+ func "titleize text-len-10000" titleize (somewords t2)+ func "titleize text-len-1000000" titleize (somewords t3)+ func "titleize all text" titleize (somewords text)+ + func "ordinal 1" ordinal 1+ func "ordinal 3" ordinal 13+ func "ordinal 13" ordinal 13+ func "ordinal 137" ordinal 137
+ bench/speed/Main.hs view
@@ -0,0 +1,58 @@+{-# LANGUAGE BangPatterns #-}+{-# LANGUAGE OverloadedStrings #-}++module Main (main) where++import Criterion.Main++import Prelude hiding (readFile, take, words)++import Data.Maybe (catMaybes)++import Data.Text (Text, pack, take, words)+import Data.Text.IO (readFile)++import Text.Inflections (SomeWord(..), mkWord, mkAcronym, ordinal, parameterize,+ titleize, toCamelCased, toDashed, toHumanized, toUnderscore)+++main :: IO ()+main = do+ text <- readFile "bench/little_women.txt"+ let !t1 = take 100 text+ !t2 = take 10000 text+ !t3 = take 1000000 text++ somewords txt = catMaybes $ mkSomeWords $ words txt++ mkSomeWords (f:s:rest) = (SomeWord <$> mkWord f) : (SomeWord <$> mkAcronym s) : mkSomeWords rest+ mkSomeWords (f:rest) = (SomeWord <$> mkWord f) : mkSomeWords rest+ mkSomeWords [] = []++ benchTextToText name func =+ bgroup name+ [ bench "text-len-100" $ nf func t1+ , bench "text-len-10000" $ nf func t2+ , bench "text-len-1000000" $ nf func t3+ , bench "all text" $ nf func text+ ]++ defaultMain+ [ benchTextToText "toUnderscore" toUnderscore+ , benchTextToText "toDashed" toDashed+ , benchTextToText "toCamelCased False" (toCamelCased False)+ , benchTextToText "toHumanized False" (toHumanized False)+ , benchTextToText "parameterize" parameterize+ , bgroup "titleize"+ [ bench "text-len-100" $ nf titleize (somewords t1)+ , bench "text-len-10000" $ nf titleize (somewords t2)+ , bench "text-len-1000000" $ nf titleize (somewords t3)+ , bench "all text" $ nf titleize (somewords text)+ ]+ , bgroup "ordinal"+ [ bench "1" $ nf ordinal 1+ , bench "3" $ nf ordinal 13+ , bench "13" $ nf ordinal 13+ , bench "137" $ nf ordinal 137+ ]+ ]
inflections.cabal view
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ cabal-version: 2.0 name: inflections-version: 0.4.0.7+version: 0.4.1.0 synopsis: Inflections library for Haskell description: Inflections provides methods for singularization, pluralization,@@ -9,18 +9,28 @@ license: MIT license-file: LICENSE author: Justin Leitgeb <justin@stackbuilders.com>-homepage: https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs-bug-reports: https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs/issues-maintainer: Justin Leitgeb <justin@stackbuilders.com>+homepage: https://github.com/mpscholten/inflections-hs+bug-reports: https://github.com/mpscholten/inflections-hs/issues+maintainer: Marc Scholten <marc@digitallyinduced.com> copyright: 2014–2016 Justin Leitgeb category: Text build-type: Simple+tested-with: GHC == 8.4.3+ , GHC == 8.10+ , GHC == 9.0+ , GHC == 9.2+ , GHC == 9.4+ , GHC == 9.6+ , GHC == 9.8+ , GHC == 9.10+ , GHC == 9.12 extra-source-files: CHANGELOG.md , README.md+ , bench/little_women.txt source-repository head type: git- location: https://github.com/stackbuilders/inflections-hs.git+ location: https://github.com/mpscholten/inflections-hs.git flag dev description: Turn on development settings.@@ -48,9 +58,9 @@ else ghc-options: -O2 -Wall build-depends: base >= 4.11 && < 5.0- , exceptions >= 0.6 && < 0.11+ , exceptions >= 0.6 && < 0.12 , megaparsec >= 7.0.1 && < 10.0- , text >= 0.2 && < 2.1+ , text >= 1.2.3 && < 2.2 , unordered-containers >= 0.2.7 && < 0.3 if !impl(ghc >= 7.10) build-depends: void == 0.7.*@@ -65,11 +75,11 @@ build-depends: inflections , QuickCheck >= 2.7.6 && < 3.0 , base >= 4.11 && < 5.0- , containers >= 0.5 && < 0.7+ , containers >= 0.5 && < 0.8 , hspec >= 2.0 && < 3.0 , hspec-megaparsec >= 2.0 && < 3.0 , megaparsec- , text >= 0.2 && < 2.1+ , text >= 1.2.3 && < 2.2 if !impl(ghc >= 7.10) build-depends: void == 0.7.* @@ -92,3 +102,23 @@ , Text.Inflections.TypesSpec , Text.Inflections.UnderscoreSpec , Text.InflectionsSpec++benchmark bench-speed+ main-is: Main.hs+ hs-source-dirs: bench/speed+ type: exitcode-stdio-1.0+ build-depends: base+ , inflections+ , text+ , criterion >= 1.1 && < 1.7+ default-language: Haskell2010++benchmark bench-memory+ main-is: Main.hs+ hs-source-dirs: bench/memory+ type: exitcode-stdio-1.0+ build-depends: base+ , inflections+ , text+ , weigh >= 0.0.3 && < 0.1.0+ default-language: Haskell2010
test/Text/Inflections/ParametrizeSpec.hs view
@@ -2,7 +2,7 @@ module Text.Inflections.ParametrizeSpec (spec) where -import Data.Char (toLower)+import Data.Char (isAscii, toLower) import Data.List (group) import Test.Hspec import Test.QuickCheck@@ -20,11 +20,11 @@ it "never returns a string ending with a separator" $ property $ \s -> let parameterized = parameterize (T.pack s) in (not . T.null) parameterized ==> T.last parameterized /= '-'- it "returns every alphanumeric character from the input" $ property $ \s ->+ it "returns every ASCII alphanumeric character from the input" $ property $ \s -> let parameterized = parameterize (T.pack s) in all (\c -> c `notElem` alphaNumerics || c `elem` (alphaNumerics ++ "-") &&- c `elem` T.unpack parameterized) $ map toLower s+ c `elem` T.unpack parameterized) $ map toLower (filter isAscii s) it "never returns a string with a sequence of dashes" $ property $ \s -> let parameterized = parameterize (T.pack s) in longestSequenceOf '-' (T.unpack parameterized) <= 1