Little Women - 912 Freedom Library

Little Womeninto their midst and made much of him, and he foundsomething very charming in the innocent companionshipof these simple-hearted girls. Never having known motheror sisters, he was quick to feel the influences they broughtabout him, and their busy, lively ways made him ashamedof the indolent life he led. He was tired of books, andfound people so interesting now that Mr. Brooke wasobliged to make very unsatisfactory reports, for Laurie wasalways playing truant and running over to the Marches’.‘Never mind, let him take a holiday, and make it upafterward,’ said the old gentleman. ‘The good lady nextdoor says he is studying too hard and needs young society,amusement, and exercise. I suspect she is right, and thatI’ve been coddling the fellow as if I’d been hisgrandmother. Let him do what he likes, as long as he ishappy. He can’t get into mischief in that little nunneryover there, and Mrs. March is doing more for him thanwe can.’What good times they had, to be sure. Such plays andtableaux, such sleigh rides and skating frolics, such pleasantevenings in the old parlor, and now and then such gaylittle parties at the great house. Meg could walk in theconservatory whenever she liked and revel in bouquets, Jobrowsed over the new library voraciously, and convulsed101 of 861