Little Women - 912 Freedom Library

Little Womenthe pupils are little ragamuffins, I’m afraid your crop won’tbe profitable in a worldly sense, Mr. Bhaer.’‘Now don’t be a wet-blanket, Teddy. Of course I shallhave rich pupils, also—perhaps begin with such altogether.Then, when I’ve got a start, I can take in a ragamuffin ortwo, just for a relish. Rich people’s children often needcare and comfort, as well as poor. I’ve seen unfortunatelittle creatures left to servants, or backward ones pushedforward, when it’s real cruelty. Some are naughty throughmismanagment or neglect, and some lose their mothers.Besides, the best have to get through the hobbledehoyage, and that’s the very time they need most patience andkindness. People laugh at them, and hustle them about, tryto keep them out of sight, and expect them to turn all atonce from pretty children into fine young men. Theydon’t complain much— plucky little souls—but they feelit. I’ve been through some- thing of it, and I know allabout it. I’ve a special interest in such young bears, andlike to show them that I see the warm, honest, wellmeaningboys’ hearts, in spite of the clumsy arms and legsand the topsy-turvy heads. I’ve had experience, too, forhaven’t I brought up one boy to be a pride and honor tohis family?’848 of 861