Little Women - 912 Freedom Library

Little Women‘‘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 ‘emfree.’‘He spoke so cheerfully, looked so sincere, and seemedso glad to give his all, that I was ashamed of myself. I’dgiven one man and thought it too much, while he gavefour without grudging them. I had all my girls to comfortme at home, and his last son was waiting, miles away, tosay good-by to him, perhaps! I felt so rich, so happythinking of my blessings, that I made him a nice bundle,gave him some money, and thanked him heartily for thelesson he had taught me.’‘Tell another story, Mother, one with a moral to it, likethis. I like to think about them afterward, if they are realand not too preachy,’ said Jo, after a minute’s silence.Mrs. March smiled and began at once, for she had toldstories to this little audience for many years, and knewhow to please them.‘Once upon a time, there were four girls, who hadenough to eat and drink and wear, a good many comfortsand pleasures, kind friends and parents who loved themdearly, and yet they were not contented.’ (Here thelisteners stole sly looks at one another, and began to sewdiligently.) ‘These girls were anxious to be good and made76 of 861