 This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, visit LibriVox.org. Little Men by Louisa May Alcott Chapter 6. A Firebrand Please, ma'am, could I speak to you? It is something very important," said Nat, popping his head in at the door of Mrs. Bear's room. It was the fifth head which had popped in during the last half hour, but Mrs. Joe was used to it, so she looked up and said, briskly, what is it, my lad? Nat came in, shut the door carefully behind him, and said in an eager, anxious tone, Dan has come. Who is Dan? He's a boy I used to know when I fiddled around the streets. He sold papers, and he was kind to me, and I saw him the other day in town, and told him how nice it was here, and he's come. But, my dear boy, that is rather a sudden way to pay a visit. Oh, it isn't a visit. He wants to stay if you will let him," said Nat innocently. Well, I don't know about that, began Mrs. Bear, rather startled by the coolness of the proposition. Why, I thought you'd like to have poor boys come and live with you, and be kind to them as you were to me, said Nat, looking surprised and alarmed. So I do, but I'd like to know something about them first. I have to choose them, because there are so many. I have not room for all. I wish I had. I told him to come because I thought you'd like it, but if there isn't room he can go away again, said Nat, sorrowfully. The boy's confidence in her hospitality touched Mrs. Bear, and she could not find the heart to disappoint his hope and spoil his kind little plan, so she said, Tell me about this, Dan. I don't know anything, only he hasn't got any folks, and he's poor, and he was good to me, so I'd like to be good to him if I could. Excellent reasons, everyone, but really, Nat, the house is full, and I don't know where I could put him, said Mrs. Bear, more and more inclined to prove herself the haven of refuge he seemed to thank her. He could have my bed, and I could sleep in the barn. It isn't cold now, and I don't mind. I used to sleep anywhere with Father, said Nat, eagerly. Something in his speech and face made Mrs. Joe put her hand on his shoulder and say in her kindest tone, bring in your friend, Nat. I think we must find room for him without giving him your place. Nat joyfully ran off and soon returned, followed by a most unprepossessing boy, who slouched in and stood looking about him with a half-bold, half-sullen look which made Mrs. Bear say to herself, after one glance, a bad specimen I am afraid. This is Dan, said Nat, presenting him as if sure of his welcome. Nat tells me you would like to come and stay with us, began Mrs. Joe in a friendly tone. Yes, was the gruff reply. Have you no friends to take care of you? No. Say, no, ma'am, whispered Nat. Shant neither, muttered Dan. How old are you? About fourteen. You look older. What can you do? Most anything. If you stay here, we shall want you to do as the others do, work and study as well as play. Are you willing to agree to that? Don't mind trying. Well, you can stay a few days, and we will see how we get on together. Take him out, Nat, and amuse him till Mr. Bear comes home, when we will settle about the matter. Said Mrs. Joe, finding it rather difficult to get on with this cool young person who fixed his big black eyes on her with a hard, suspicious expression, sorrowfully unboyish. Come on, Nat, he said, and slouched out again. Thank you, ma'am, added Nat, as he followed him, feeling without quite understanding the difference in the welcome given to him and to his ungracious friend. The fellows are having a circus out in the barn. Don't you want to come and see it? he asked, as they came down the wide steps on to the lawn. Are they big fellows? said Dan. No, the big ones are gone fishing. Fire away, then, said Dan. Nat led him to the great barn and introduced him to his set, who were disbording themselves among the half-empty lofts. A large circle was marked out with hay on the wide floor, and in the middle stood Demi with a long whip, while Tommy, mounted on the much-enduring Tobi, pranced about the circle playing Being a Monkey. You must pay a pin apiece, or you can't see the show, said Steppy, who stood by the wheelbarrow in which sat the band, consisting of a pocket comb blown upon by Ned and a toy drum beaten spasmodically by Rob. His company saw pay for both, said Nat handsomely, as he stuck two crooked pins in the dried mushroom which served as money box. With a nod to the company, they seated themselves on a couple of boards, and the performance went on. After the Monkey Act, Ned gave them a fine specimen of his agility by jumping over an old chair and running up and down ladders, sailor fashion. Then Demi danced a jig with the gravity beautiful to behold. Nat was called upon to wrestle with Steppy, and speedily laid that stout youth upon the ground. After this, Tommy proudly advanced to turn a somersault, an accomplishment which he had acquired by painful perseverance, practicing in private till every joint of his little frame was black and blue. His feats were received with great applause, and he was about to retire, flushed with pride and rushed a blood to the head when a scornful voice in the audience was heard to say, Oh, that ain't anything. Say that again, will you, and Tommy bristled up like an angry turkey cock. Do you want to fight, said Dan, promptly descending from the barrel and doubling up his fists in a business-like manner. No, I don't, and the candid Thomas retired a step, rather taken aback by the proposition. Fighting isn't allowed, cried the others, much excited. You're a nice lot, snared Dan. Come, if you don't behave, you shan't stay, said Nat, firing up at that insult to his friends. I'd like to see him do better than I did, that's all, observed Tommy with a swagger. Clear the way then, and without the slightest preparation, Dan turned three somersaults one after the other and came up on his feet. You can't beat that, Tom, you always hit your head and tumble flat, said Nat, pleased at his friend's success. Before he could say any more, the audience was electrified by three more somersaults backwards, and a short promenade on the hands, head down, feet up. This brought down the house, and Tommy joined in the admiring cries which greeted the accomplished gymnast as he ridden himself, and looked at them with an air of calm superiority. Do you think I could learn to do it without its hurting me very much? Tom meekly asked as he rubbed the elbows, which still smarted after the last attempt. What will you give me if I'll teach you? said Dan. My new jackknife. Got five blades, and only one is broken. Give it here then. Tommy handed over with an affectionate look at it smooth handle. Dan examined it carefully, then putting it into his pocket, walked off, sang with a wink. Keep it up till you learn, that's all. A howl of wrath from Tommy was followed by a general uproar, which did not subside till Dan, finding himself in a minority, proposed that they should play stickknife, and whichever one should have the treasure. Tommy agreed, and the game was played in a circle of excited faces, which all wore an expression of satisfaction when Tommy won and secured the knife in the depth of his safest pocket. You come off with me, and I'll show you round, said Nat, feeling that he must have a little serious conversation with his friend in private. What passed between them no one knew, but when they appeared again, Dan was more respectful to everyone, though still gruff in his speech and rough in his manner. And what else could be expected of the poor lad who had been knocking about the world all his short life with no one to teach him any better? The boys had decided that they did not like him, and so they left him to Nat, who soon felt rather oppressed by the responsibility, but too kind-hearted to desert him. Tommy, however, felt that in spite of the jackknife transaction, there was a bond of sympathy between them, and longed to return to the interesting subject of somersaults. He soon found an opportunity, for Dan, seeing how much he admired him, grew more amiable, and by the end of the first week was quite intimate with the lively Tom. Mr. Bear, when he heard the story and saw Dan, shook his head, but only said quietly, the experiment may cost us something, but we will try it. If Dan felt any gratitude for his protection, he did not show it, and took without thanks all that was given him. He was ignorant, but very quick to learn when he chose, had sharp eyes to watch what went on about him, a saucy tongue, rough manners, and a temper that was fierce and sullen by terms. He played with all his might, and played well at almost all the games. He was silent and gruff before grown people, and only now and then was thoroughly sociable among the lads. Few of them really liked him, but few could help admiring his courage and strength, for nothing daunted him, and he knocked Tallfran's flat on one occasion with an ease that caused all the others to keep at a respectful distance from his fists. Mr. Bear watched him silently, and did his best to tame the wild boy, as they called him, but in private the worthy man shook his head, and said soberly, I hope the experiment will turn out well, but I am a little afraid it may cost too much. Mrs. Bear lost her patience with him half a dozen times a day, yet never gave him up, and always insisted that there was something good in the lad after all. For he was kinder to animals than to people, he liked to rove about in the woods, and, best of all, little Ted was fond of him. What the secret was no one could discover, but baby took to him at once, and gabbled and crowed whenever he saw him, preferred his strong back to ride on to any of the others, and called him my Danny out of his own little head. Teddy was the only creature to whom Dan showed any affection, and this was only manifested when he thought no one else would see it, but mother's eyes are quick, and motherly hearts instinctively divine who loved their babies. So Mrs. Joe soon saw and felt that there was a soft spot in rough Dan, and bided her time to touch and win him. But an unexpected and decidedly alarming event upset all their plans, and banished Dan from Plumfield. Tommy, Nat, and Demi began by patronizing Dan, because the other lads rather slighted him, but soon they each felt there was a certain fascination about the bad boy, and from looking down upon him they came to looking up, each for a different reason. Tommy admired his skill and courage. Nat was grateful for past kindness, and Demi regarded him as a sort of animated storybook, for when he chose, Dan could tell his adventures in a most interesting way. It pleased Dan to have the three favorites like him, and he exerted himself to be agreeable, which was the secret of his success. The bears were surprised, but hoped the lads would have a good influence over Dan, and waited with some anxiety, trusting that no harm would come of it. Dan felt they did not quite trust him, and never showed them his best side, but took a willful pleasure in trying their patience and thwarting their hopes as far as he dared. Mr. Bear did not approve of fighting, and did not think it approved of either manliness or courage for two lads to pummel one another for the amusement of the rest. All sorts of hearty games and exercises were encouraged, and the boys were expected to take hard knocks and tumbles without whining, but black eyes and bloody noses given for the fun of it were forbidden as a foolish and a brutal play. Dan laughed at this rule, and told such exciting tales of his own valor, and the many frays that he had been in, that some of the lads were fired with the desire to have a regular good mill. Don't tell, and I'll show you how, said Dan, and, getting half a dozen of the lads together behind the barn, he gave them a lesson in boxing, which quite satisfied the ardor of most of them. Emel, however, could not submit to be beaten by a fellow younger than himself, for Emel was past fourteen and a plucky fellow, so he challenged Dan to a fight. Dan accepted at once, and the others looked on with intense interest. What little bird carried the news to headquarters no one ever knew, but, in the very hottest of the fray, when Dan and Emel were fighting like a pair of young bulldogs, and the others with fierce, excited faces were cheering them on, Mr. Bear walked into the ring, plucked the combatants apart with a strong hand, and said in the voice they seldom heard, I can't allow this, boys, stop it at once, and never let me see it again. I keep a school for boys, not for wild beasts. Look at each other and be ashamed of yourselves. You let me go, and I'll knock him down again, shouted Dan, sparring away in spite of the grip on his collar. Come on, come on, I ain't thrashed yet, cried Emel, who had been down five times, but did not know when he was beaten. They are playing be gladdy what you call them, like the Romans, Uncle Fritz, called out Demi, whose eyes were bigger than ever with the excitement of this new pastime. They were a fine set of brutes, but we have learned something since then, I hope, and I cannot have you make my barn a coliseum. Who proposed this? asked Mr. Bear. Dan answered several voices. Don't you know that it is forbidden? Yes, growled Dan sullenly. Then why break the rule? They'll all be mollycoddles if they don't know how to fight. Have you found Emel a mollycoddle? He doesn't look much like one, and Mr. Bear brought the two face to face. Dan had a black eye, and his jacket was torn to rags, but Emel's face was covered with blood from a cut lip and a bruised nose, while a bump on his forehead was already as purple as a plum. In spite of his wounds, however, he still glared upon his foe, and evidently panted to renew the fight. He'd make a first raider if he was taught, said Dan, unable to withhold the praise from the boy who made it necessary for him to do his best. He'll be taught defense and box by and by. Until then, I think he will do very well without any lessons in molly. Go and wash your faces. And remember, Dan, if you break any more of the rules again, you will be sent away. That was the bargain. Do your part, and we will do ours. The lads went off, and after a few more words to the spectators, Mr. Bear followed to bind up the wounds of the young gladiators. Emel went to bed sick, and Dan was an unpleasant spectacle for a week. But the lawless lad had no thought of obeying, and soon transgressed again. One Saturday afternoon, as a part of the boys went out to play, Tommy said, Let's go down to the river and cut a lot of new fish-poles. Take Toby to drag them back, and one of us can ride him down, proposed Stuffy, who hated to walk. That means you, I suppose. Well, hurry up, lazy bones, said Dan. Away they went, and having got the poles were about to go home when Demi unluckily said to Tommy, who was on Toby with a long rod in his hand. You look like the picture of the man in the bullfight, only you haven't got a red cloth or a pretty clothes on. I'd like to see one. There's old Buttercup in the big meadow, ride at her, Tom, and see her run, proposed Dan, bent on mischief. No, you mustn't, began Demi, who was learning to distrust Dan's propositions. Why not, little fuss-button, demanded Dan? I don't think Uncle Fritz would like it. Did he ever say we must not have a bullfight? No, I don't think he ever did, admitted Demi. Then hold your tongue, drive on, Tom, and here's a red rag to flap at the old thing. I'll help you to stir her up. And over the wall went Dan, full of the new game, and the rest followed like a flock of sheep. Even Demi, who sat upon the bars, had watched the fun with interest. Poor Buttercup was not in a very good mood, for she had been lately bereft of her calf, and mourned for the little thing most dismally. Just now she regarded all mankind as her enemies, and I do not blame her. So when the Matador came prancing towards her with the red handkerchief flying at the end of his long lance, she threw up her head and gave a most appropriate moo. Tommy rode gallantly at her, and Toby, recognizing an old friend, was quite willing to approach. But when the lance came down on her back with a loud whack, both Cow and Donkey were surprised and disgusted. Toby backed with a bray of remonstrance, and Buttercup lowered her horns angrily. At her again, Tom, she's jolly cross, and will do it capital-ly, called Dan, coming up behind with another rod while Jack and Ned followed his example. Seeing herself thus beset, and treated with such disrespect, Buttercup trotted round the field, getting more and more bewildered and excited every moment. For whichever way she turned, there was a dreadful boy, yelling and brandishing a new and very disagreeable sort of whip. It was great fun for them, but real misery for her, till she lost patience and turned the tables in the most unexpected manner. All at once she wheeled short round, and charged full at her old friend Toby, whose conduct cut her to the heart. Poor slow Toby backed so precipitately that he tripped over a stone, and down went horse, matador, and all, and one ignominious heap, while distracted Buttercup took a surprising leap over the wall, and galloped wildly out of sight down the road. Catch her, stop her, head her off, run, boys, run, shouted Dan, tearing after her at his best pace, for she was Mr. Bear's pet Alderney, and if anything happened to her, Dan feared it would be all over with him. Such a running and racing and bawling and puffing as there was before she was caught. The fish poles were left behind. Toby was trotted nearly off his legs in the chase, and every boy was red, breathless, and scared. They found poor Buttercup at last in a flower garden, where she had taken refuge, worn out with the long run. Borrowing a rope for a halter, Dan let her home, followed by a party of very sober young gentlemen, for the cow was in a sad state, having strained her shoulder jumping, so that she limped. Her eyes looked wild, and her glossy coat was wet and muddy. He'll catch it this time, Dan, said Tommy, as he led the wheezing doggie beside the maltreated cow. So will you, for you helped. We all did, but Demmy, added Jack. He put it under our heads, said Ned. I told you not to do it, cried Demmy, who was most brokenhearted at poor Buttercup's state. Old Bear will send me off, I guess. Don't care if he does, muttered Dan, looking worried in spite of his words. We'll ask him not to, all of us, said Demmy, and the others assented with the exception of Stuffy, who cherished the hope that all the punishment might fall on one guilty head. Dan only said, Don't bother about me. But he never forgot it, even though he led the lads astray again, as soon as the temptation came. When Mr. Bear saw the animal, and heard the story, he said very little, evidently fearing that he would say too much in the first moments of impatience. Buttercup was made comfortable in her stall, and the boys sent to their rooms till supper time. This brief respite gave them time to think the matter over, to wonder what the penalty would be, and to try to imagine where Dan would be sent. He whistled briskly in his room, so that no one should think he cared a bit. But while he waited to know his fate, the longing to stay grew stronger and stronger. The more he recalled the comfort and kindness he had known here, the hardship and neglect he had felt elsewhere. He knew they tried to help him, and at the bottom of his heart he was grateful, but his rough life had made him hard and careless, suspicious and willful. He hated restraint of any sort, and fought against it like an untamed creature, even while he knew it was kindly meant, and dimly felt that he would be the better for it. He made up his mind to be turned adrift again, to knock about the city as he had done nearly all his life. The prospect that made him knit his black brows, and look about the cozy little room with a wistful expression that would have touched a much harder heart than Mr. Bears if he had seen it. It vanished instantly, however, when the good man came in, and said in his accustomed grave way, I have heard all about it, Dan, and though you have broken the rules again, I am going to give you one more trial to please Mother Bear. Dan flushed up to his forehead at this unexpected reprieve, but he only said in his gruff way, I didn't know there was any rule about bullfighting. As I never expected to have any at Plumfield, I never did make such a rule, answered Mr. Bear, smiling in spite of himself at the boy's excuse. Then he added gravely, But one of the first and most important of our few laws is a law of kindness and to every dumb creature on the place. I want everybody and everything to be happy here, to love and trust and serve us, as we try to love and trust and serve them faithfully and willingly. I have often said that you were kinder to the animals than any of the other boys, and Mrs. Bear liked that trait in you very much, because she thought it showed a good heart. But you have disappointed us in that, and we are sorry, for we hope to make you quite one of us. Shall we try again? Dan's eyes had been on the floor, and his hands nervously picking at the bit of wood he had been blittling as Mr. Bear came in. But when he heard the kind voice ask that question, he looked up quickly, and said in a more respectable tone than he had ever used before. Yes, please. Very well, then. We will say no more, only you will stay at home from the walk tomorrow, as the other boys will, and all of you must wait on poor Buttercup till she is well again. I will. Now, go down to supper and do your best, my boy, more for your own sake than for ours. Then Mr. Bear shook hands with him, and Dan went down more tamed by kindness than he would have been by the good whipping which Asia had strongly recommended. Dan did try for a day or two, but not being used to it, he soon tired and relapsed into his old willful ways. Mr. Bear was called from home on business one day, and the boys had no lessons. They liked this, and played hard till bedtime, when most of them turned in and slept like dormice. Dan, however, had a plan in his head, and when he and Nat were alone, he unfolded it. Look here, he said, taking from under his bed a bottle, a cigar, and a pack of cards. I'm going to have some fun, and do as I used to with the fellows in town. Here's some beer. I got it off the old man at the station, and this cigar. You can pay for him, or Tommy will. He's got heaps of money, and I haven't a cent. I'm going to ask him in. No, you go. They won't mind you. The folks won't like it, began Nat. They won't know. Daddy Bear is away, and Mrs. Bear is busy with Ted. He's got croop or something, and she can't leave him. We shan't sit up later, make any noise, so where's the harm? Asia will know if we burn the lamp long. She always does. No, she won't. I've got a dark lantern on purpose. They don't give much light, and we can shut it quick if we hear anyone coming, said Dan. This idea struck Nat as a fine one, and lent an air of romance to the thing. He started off to tell Tommy, but put his head in again to say, You want Demi too, don't you? No, I don't. The deacon will roll up eyes and preach if you tell him. He will be asleep, so just tip the wink to Tom and cut back again. Nat obeyed, and returned in a minute with Tommy half-dressed, rather tassled about the head and very sleepy, but quite ready for fun as usual. Now, keep quiet, and I'll show you how to play a first-rate game called poker, said Dan, as the three revelers gathered round the table, on which were set forth the bottle, the cigar, and the cards. First we'll all have a drink, then we'll take a go at the weed, and then we'll play. That's the way men do, and it's jolly fun. The beer circulated in a mug, and all three smacked their lips over it, though Nat and Tommy did not like the bitter stuff. The cigar was worse still, but they dared not say so, and each puffed away till he was dizzy or choked, when he passed the weed on to his neighbor. Dan liked it, for it seemed like old times when he now and then had a chance to imitate the low men who surrounded him. He drank and smoked, and swaggered as much like them as he could, and, getting into the spirit of the part he assumed, he soon began to swear under his breath for fear someone should hear him. You mustn't, it's wicked to say damn, cried Tommy, who had followed his leader so far. Oh, hang, don't you preach, but play away, it's part of the fun to swear. I'd rather say thunder-turtles, said Tommy, who had composed this interesting exclamation and was very proud of it. And I'll say, the devil, that sounds well, added Nat, much impressed by Dan's manly ways. Dan scoffed at their nonsense, and swore stoutly as he tried to teach them the new game. But Tommy was very sleepy, and Nat's head began to ache with the beer and the smoke, so neither of them was very quick to learn, and the game dragged. The room was nearly dark, and the lantern burned badly. He could not laugh loud nor move about much, or Silas slept next door in the shed chamber, and altogether the party was dull. In the middle of the deal, Dan stopped suddenly, and called out, Who's that? and a startled tone, and at the same moment drew the slide over the light. A voice in the darkness said tremulously, I can't find Tommy. And then there was the quick patter of bare feet running away down the entry that led from the wing to the main house. It's Demi, he's gone to call someone, cut into bed, Tom, and don't tell, cried Dan, whisking all signs of the rebel out of sight, and beginning to tear off his clothes while Nat did the same. Tommy flew to his room and dived into bed, where he lay, laughing till something burned his hand, when he discovered that he was still clutching the stump of the festive cigar, which he happened to be smoking when the rebel broke up. It was nearly out, and he was about to extinguish it carefully when a nurse's voice was heard, and fearing it would betray him if he hid it in the bed, he threw it underneath, after a final pinch which he thought finished it. The nurse came in with Demi, who looked much amazed to see the red face of Tommy reposing peacefully upon his pillow. He wasn't there just now, because I woke up and could not find him anywhere, said Demi, pouncing on him. What mischief are you at now, bad child? asked Nursey, with a good-natured shake, which made the sleeper open his eyes to say amicably. I only ran into Nat's room to see him about something. Go away and let me alone, I'm awful sleepy. Nursey tucked Demi in and went off to reconnoitre, but only found two boys slumbering peacefully in Dan's room. Some little frolic, she thought, and as there was no harm done, she said nothing to Mrs. Bear, who was busy and worried over little Teddy. Tommy was sleepy, and telling Demi to mind his own business and not ask questions, he was snoring in ten minutes, little dreaming what was going on under his bed. The cigar did not go out, but smoldered away on the straw carpet till it was nicely on fire, and a hungry little flame went creeping along to the dimedy bed cover cot, then the sheets, and then the bed itself. The beer made Tommy sleep heavily, and the smoke stupefied Demi, so they slept on till the fire began to scorch them, and they were in danger of being burned to death. Franz was sitting up to study, and as he left the school room he smelt the smoke, dashed upstairs and saw it coming in a cloud from the left wing of the house. Without stopping to call anyone, he ran into the room, dragged the boys from the blazing bed, and slashed all the water he could find at hand onto the flames. It checked but did not quench the fire, and the children wakened on being tumbled topsy-turvy into a cold hall, began to roar at the top of their voices. Mrs. Baer instantly appeared, and a minute after Silas burst out of his room shouting, fire and a tone that raised the whole house. A flock of white goblins with scared faces crowded into the hall, and for a minute everyone was panic-stricken. Then Mrs. Baer found her wits, bathed in her sea-seed to the burnt boys, and sent Franz and Silas downstairs for some tubs of wet clothes which she flung on the bed, over the carpet and up against the walls, now burning finely, and threatening to kindle the walls. Most of the boys stood dumbly looking on, but Dan and Emma worked bravely, running to and fro with water from the bathroom, and helping to pull down the dangerous curtains. The peril was soon over, and ordering the boys all back to bed, and leaving Silas to watch lest the fire broke out again, Mrs. Baer and Franz went to see how the poor boys got on. Demi had escaped with one burn and a grand scare, but Tommy had not only most of his hair scorched off his head, but a great burn on his arm that made him half-crazy with the pain. Demi was soon made cozy, and Franz took him away to his own bed, where the kind lad soothed his fright and hummed him to sleep as coasily as a woman. Nursey watched over poor Tommy all night, trying to ease his misery, and Mrs. Baer vibrated between him and little Teddy with oil and cotton, paragoric and squills, saying to herself from time to time, as if she found great amusement in the thought. They always knew Tommy would set the house on fire, and now he has done it. When Mr. Baer got home next morning, he found a nice state of things. Tommy in bed, Teddy wheezing like a little grampus, Mrs. Joe quite used up, and the whole flock of boys so excited that they all talked at once, and almost dragged him by main force to view the ruins. Under his quiet management, things soon fell into order, for everyone felt that he was equal to a dozen conflagrations, and worked with a will at whatever task he gave them. There was no school that morning, but by afternoon the damaged room was put to rights, the invalids were better, and there was time to hear and judge the little culprits quietly. Nat and Tommy told their parts in the mischief, and were honestly sorry for the danger they had brought to the dear old house and all in it. But Dan put on his devil-may-care look, and would not own that there was much harm done. Now, of all things, Mr. Baer hated drinking, gambling and swearing, smoking he had given up that the lads might not be tempted to try it, and it grieved him and angered him deeply to find that the boy, with whom he had tried to be most forebearing, should take advantage of his absence to introduce these forbidden vices, and teach his innocent little lads to think it manly and pleasant to indulge in them. He talked long and earnestly to the assembled boys, and ended by saying, with an air of mingled firmness and regret, I think Tommy has punished enough, and that scar on his arm will remind him for a long time to let these things alone. And that's fright will do for him, for he is really sorry, and does try to obey me. But you, Dan, have been many times forgiven, and yet it does no good. I cannot have my boys hurt by your bad example, nor my time wasted in talking to deaf ears, so you can say goodbye to them all, and tell nursery to put up your things in my little black bag. Oh, sir, where is he going? cried Nat. To a pleasant place up in the country where I sometimes send boys when they don't do well here. Mr. Page is a kind man, and Dan will be happy there if he chooses to do his best. Will he ever come back? asked Demi. That will depend on himself, I hope so. As he spoke, Mr. Bear left the room to write his letter to Mr. Page, and the boys crowded round Dan very much as people do about a man who is going on a long, perilous journey to unknown regions. I wonder if you'll like it? began Jack. Shant stay if I don't, said Dan Cooley. Where will you go? asked Nat. I may go to sea, or out west, or take a look at California, answered Dan, with a reckless air that quite took away the breath of the little boys. Oh, don't. Stay with Mr. Page awhile, and then come back here. Do, Dan, pleaded Nat, much affected at the whole affair. I don't care where I go, or how long I stay, and I'll be hanged if I ever come back here. With which wrathful speech Dan went away to put up his things every one of which Mr. Bear had given him. That was the only good-bye he gave the boys, for they were all talking the matter over in the barn when he came down, and he told Nat not to call them. The wagon stood at the door, and Mrs. Bear came out to speak to Dan, looking so sad that his heart smote him, and he said in a low tone, May I say good-bye to Teddy? Yes, dear, go in and kiss him, he will miss his Danny very much. No one saw the look in Dan's eyes as he stooped over the crib, and saw the little face light up at first sight of him, but he heard Mrs. Bear say pleadingly, Can't we give the poor lad one more trial, Fritz? And Mr. Bear answered in his steady way, My dear, it is not best. So let him go where he can do no harm to others, while they do good to him, and by and by he shall come back, I promise you. He's the only boy we ever failed with, and I am so aggrieved, for I thought there was the making of a fine man in him, in spite of his faults. Dan heard Mrs. Bear sigh, and he wanted to ask for one more trial himself, but his pride would not let him, and he came out with a hard look on his face, shook hands without a word, and drove away with Mr. Bear, leaving Nat and Mrs. Joe to look after him with tears in their eyes. A few days afterwards they received a letter from Mr. Page, saying that Dan was doing well, whereat they all rejoiced. But three weeks later came another letter, saying that Dan had run away, and nothing had been heard of him, whereat they all looked sober, and Mr. Bear said, he had given him another chance. Mrs. Bear, however, nodded wisely and answered, don't be troubled, Brits, the boy will come back to us, I'm sure of it. But time went on, and no Dan came. End of Chapter 6 This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, visit LibriVox.org Little Men by Louisa May Alcock Chapter 7 Nan Brits, I've got a new idea, cried Mrs. Bear, as she met her husband one day after school. Well, my dear, what is it? And he waited willingly to hear the new plan. For some of Mrs. Joe's ideas were so droll, it was impossible to help laughing at them, though usually they were quite sensible and he was glad to carry them out. Daisy needs a companion and the boys would be all the better for another girl among them. You know we believe in bringing up little men and women together, and tyrannize over Daisy by turns and she is getting spoiled. Then they must learn gentle ways and improve their manners and having girls about will do it better than anything else. You are right, as usual. Now who shall we have? asked Mr. Bear, seeing by the look in her eye that Mrs. Joe had someone all ready to propose. Little Annie Harding What, naughty Nan, as the lads call her? cried Mr. Bear, looking very much amused. He brought a child to be spoiled by servants. I have had my eye on her for some time and when I met her father in town the other day I asked him why he did not send her to school. He said he would gladly if he could find as good a school for girls as ours was for boys. I know he would rejoice to have her come, so suppose we drive over this afternoon and see about it. Have you not cares enough now, my Joe, without this little gypsy to torment you? asked Mr. Bear, patting the hand that lay on his arm. I know, said Mother Bear, briskly. I like it, and never was happier then since I had my wilderness of boys. You see, Fritz, I feel a great sympathy for Nan because I was such a naughty child myself that I know all about it. She is full of spirits and only needs to be taught what to do with them to be as nice a little girl as Daisy. Those quick wits of hers would enjoy lessons if they were rightly directed and what is now a tricksy midget would soon become a busy happy child. I know how to manage her but if you succeed half as well as she did you will have done a magnificent work, interrupted Mr. Bear, who labored under the delusion that Mrs. B was the best and most charming woman alive. Now, if you make fun of my plan I'll give you bad coffee for a week and then where are you, sir? cried Mrs. Joe, tweaking him by the ear just as if he was one of the boys. Won't Daisy's hair stand erect with horror at Nan's Wild Ways? asked Mr. Bear. He said, At first perhaps, but it will do Posey good. She is getting prim and beddy-ish and needs stirring up a bit. She always has a good time when Nan comes over to play and the two will help each other without knowing it. Dear me, half the science of teaching is knowing how much children do for one another and when to mix them. I only hope she won't turn out another firebrand. My poor Dan, I never can quite forgive myself for letting him go, struggled down from his father's arms and trotted to the door, looked out over the sunny lawn with a wistful face and then trotted back again, saying, as he always did when disappointed at the long foresight, my Danny's tum and soon. I really think we ought to have kept him if only for Teddy's sake he was so fond of him and perhaps baby's love would have done for him what we failed to do. I've sometimes felt that myself but after keeping the boys in a ferment and nearly burning up the whole family with a little bear. Dinner's ready, let me ring the bell and Rob began a solo upon that instrument which made it impossible to hear one self speak. Then I may have Nan, may I? asked Mrs. Joe. A dozen Nans if you want them, my dear, answered Mr. Bear who had room in his fatherly heart for all the naughty neglected children in the world. When Mrs. Bear returned from her drive that afternoon before she could unpack the load of little boys without whom she seldom moved a small girl of ten skipped out at the back of the carry-all and said, Hi Daisy, where are you? Daisy came and looked pleased to see her guest but also a trifle alarmed when Nan said still prancing as if it was impossible to keep still. I'm going to stay here always Papa says I may and my box is coming tomorrow all my things had to be washed and mended and your aunt came and carried me off isn't it great fun? Why yes did you bring your big doll? asked Daisy, hoping she had a nice place which spoiled the poor deer's complexion forever Yes, she's somewhere round returned Nan with most un-maternal carelessness I made you a ring coming along and pulled the hairs out of Dobbin's tail don't you want it? and Nan presented a horse-hair ring and token of friendship as they had both vowed they would never speak to one another again when they last parted one by the beauty of the offering Daisy grew more cordial and proposed retiring to the nursery and ran off swinging her hat by one string till it broke when she left it to its fate on the grass Hello Nan cried the boys as she bounced in among them with the announcement I'm going to stay Hooray bawled Tommy from the wall in which he was perched for Nan was a kindred spirit and he foresaw larks in the future I can bat, let me play said Nan who could turn her hand to anything and did not mind hard knocks we ain't playing now returned Nan falling back on her strong point can she asked Nat of Jack she runs very well for a girl answered Jack who looked down upon Nan with condescending approval will you try said Nan longing to display her powers it's too hot and Tommy languished against the wall as if quite exhausted what's the matter with Stuffy asked Nan whose quick eyes were roving from face to face answered Jack scornfully I don't I never cry no matter how I'm hurt it's babyish said Nan loftily who I can make you cry in two minutes returned Stuffy rousing up see if you can go and pick that bunch of nettles then and Stuffy pointed to a sturdy specimen of that prickly plant growing by the wall Nan instantly grasped the nettle pulled it up and held it with a defiant gesture in spite of the almost unbearable sting and harsh courage even in one of the weaker sex more nettle than she was Stuffy determined to get a cry out of her somehow and he said tauntingly you are used to poking your hands into everything so that isn't fair now go and bump your head real hard against the barn and see if you don't howl then don't do it said Nat who hated cruelty but Nan was off and running straight at the barn she gave her head a blow that knocked her flat and sounded like a battering ram dizzy but undaunted her face was drawn with pain that hurt but I don't cry do it again said Stuffy angrily and Nan would have done it but Nat held her and Tommy for getting the heat flew at Stuffy like a little game cock roaring out stop it or I'll throw you over the barn and so shook and hustled poor Stuffy that for a minute he did not know whether he was on his head or his heels she told me too was all he could say and then he approached fully ho I don't mind I ain't a little girl I'm older than you and Daisy so now cried Nan ungrateful don't preach deacon you bully posey every day of your life called out the Commodore who just then hope and psyched I don't hurt her do I Daisy and Demi turned to his sister who was pouring Nat's tingling hands and recommending water for the purple lump rapidly developing itself on her forehead you hurt me sometimes but you don't mean to put away the bats and things and mind what you are about my hearties no fighting allowed aboard this ship said Emmel who rather lorded over the others how do you do Madge wildfire said Mr. Bear as Nan came in with the rest to suffer give the right hand little daughter and mind thy manners as Nan offered him her left the other hurts me the poor little hand from behind her back where she had put it with a look which made him think she had been in mischief before Nan could think of any excuse Daisy burst out with the whole story during which stuffie tried to hide his face in a bowl of bread and milk when the table was finished Mr. Bear looked down the long table towards his wife and said with a laugh in his eyes this rather belongs to your side of the house so I won't meddle with it my dear Mrs. Joe knew what he meant but she liked her little black sheep so why I asked Nan to come here to plague me muttered stuffie with his mouth full to help make little gentlemen of you and I think you have shown that some of you need it here stuffie retired into his bowl again and did not emerge till Demi made them all laugh by saying in his slow wondering way how can she when she's such a tomboy that's just it she needs help as much as you and I expect you set her an example of good manners is she going to be a little gentleman too you Nan added Tommy no I shouldn't I hate boys said Nan fiercely for her hands still smarted she began to think that she might have shown her courage in some wiser way I'm sorry you hate my boys because they can be well mannered and most agreeable when they choose kindness and looks and words and ways is true politeness and anyone can have it if they themselves only try to treat other people for that time at least and pass the butter said please and thank you yes sir and no ma'am with unusual elegance and respect Nan said nothing but kept herself quiet and refrain from tickling Demi though strongly tempted to do so because of the dignified air she put on she also appeared to have forgotten her hatred of boys and played I spy with them till dark stuffie was observed to offer her frequent sucks on his candy ball during the game which evidently sweetened her temper for the last thing she said when the door in shuttlecock comes I'll let you all play with them her first remark in the morning was has my box come and when told that it would arrive sometime during the day she fretted and fumed and whipped her doll till Daisy was shocked she managed to exist however till five o'clock when she disappeared and was not missed till supper time because those at home thought she had gone to the hill with Tommy and Demi I saw her going down the avenue alone as hard as she could pelt her hand she has run home little gypsy cried Mrs. Bear looking anxious perhaps she has gone to the station to look after her luggage suggested Franz that is impossible she does not know the way and if she found it she could never carry the box a mile said Mrs. Bear beginning to think that her new idea might be rather a hard one to carry out would be like her and Mr. Bear caught up his hat to be sure tugging along a very large band box kind up in linen bag very hot and dusty and tired did she look but marched that way along and came puffing up to the steps where she dropped her load with a sigh of relief and sat down upon it observed as she crossed her tired arms I couldn't wait any longer so I went and got it you did not know the way said Tommy while the rest stood round enjoying the joke oh I found it well it was pretty far but I rested a good deal wasn't that thing very heavy it's so round I couldn't get hold of it good and I thought my arms would break right off I don't see how the station master let you have it said Tommy I didn't say anything to him he was in little ticket place and didn't see me so I just took it off the platform run down and tell him it is alright Franz or old Dodd will think it is stolen said Mr. Bear another time you must wait but you will get into trouble if you run away promise me this or I shall not dare to trust you out of my sight said Mrs. Bear wiping the dust off Nan's little hot face well I won't only Papa tells me not to put off doing things so I don't that is rather a poser I think you had better give her some supper now and a private lecture by and by said Mr. Bear too much amused to be angry at the young ladies exploit the boys thought it great fun but I was too tired to count of her adventures for a big dog had barked to her a man had laughed at her a woman had given her a donut and her hat had fallen into the brook when she stopped to drink exhausted with her exertion I fancy you will have your hands full now my dear Tommy and Nan are quite enough for one woman said Mr. Bear half an hour later I know it will take some time to tame the child but she is such a generous warm hearted little thing I should love her even if she were twice as naughty answered Mrs. Joe I know why her things right and left as lavishly as if the big band box had no bottom it was those good traits that soon made little giddy-gaddy as they called her a favorite with everyone Daisy never complained of being dull again for Nan invented the most delightful plays and her pranks rivaled Tommy's to the amusement of the whole school she buried her big doll and forgot it for a week and found it well mildewed when she dragged it up Daisy was in despair but Nan took it to the painter got him to paint it brick-red was staring black eyes then she dressed it up with feathers and scarlet flannel and one of Ned's leaden hatchets and in the character of an Indian chief the late Poppy Dilla Tomahawked all the other dolls and caused the nursery to run red with imaginary gore she gave away her new shoes to a beggar child hoping to be allowed to go barefoot but found it impossible to combine charity and comfort and was ordered to ask Lee to start with turpentine but she lighted and then sent the little vessel floating down the brook at dusk she harnessed the old turkey cock to a straw wagon and made him trot round the house at a tremendous pace she gave her coral necklace for four unhappy kittens which had been tormented by some heartless lads intended them for days as gently as a mother dressing their wounds with cold cream feeding them with a dull spoon and mourning over them when they died and begged hard to have a blue star in each cheek but he dared not do it though she coaxed and scolded till the soft heart it fell long to give in she rode every animal on the place from the big horse Andy to the cross pig from whom she was rescued with difficulty whatever the boys dared her to do she instantly attempted no matter how dangerous it might be and they were never tired of testing her courage Mr. Bear suggested they should see who would study best and Anne found as much pleasure in her very tongue while the lads had to do their best to keep their places for Nan showed them that girls could do most things as well as boys and some things better there were no rewards in school but Mr. Bear's well done and Mrs. Bear's good report on the conscience book taught them to love duty for its own sake and tried to do it faithfully sure sooner or later the recompense would come little Nan was quick to feel the new atmosphere to enjoy it to show that it was what she needed and when kind hands gently began to cultivate it all sorts of green shoots sprung up promising to blossom beautifully in the warmth of love and care the best climate for young hearts and souls all the world over end of chapter 7 this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer visit LibriVox.org Little Men by Louisa May Alcott Chapter 8 Pranks and Plays as there is no particular plan to this story except to describe a few scenes in the life at Plumfield the amusement of certain little persons we will gently ramble along in this chapter and tell some of the pastimes of Mrs. Joe's boys I beg leave to assure my honored readers that most of the incidents are taken from real life and that the oddest are the truest for no person, no matter how vivid an imagination he may have can invent anything half so droll as the freaks and fancy that originate in the lively brains of little people Daisy and Demi were full of these whims and lived in a world of their own people with lovely or grotesque creatures to whom they gave the queerest names and with whom they played the queerest games one of these nursery inventions was an invisible sprite called the naughty kitty mouse whom the children had believed in, feared and served for a long time they seldom spoke of it to anyone else kept their rights as private as possible and as they never tried to describe it to anyone else this being had a vague mysterious charm very agreeable to Demi who delighted in elves and goblins a most whimsical and tyrannical imp was the naughty kitty mouse and Daisy found a fearful pleasure in its service blindly obeying its most absurd demands which were usually proclaimed from the lips of Demi whose powers of invention were great Rob and Teddy sometimes joined in these ceremonies and considered them excellent fun although they did not understand half that went on a commonest wag of the head the kitty mouse wants us this afternoon what for? asked Daisy anxiously a sack of refice answered Demi solemnly there must be a fire behind the big rock at two o'clock we must all bring the things we like best and burn them he added with an awful emphasis on the last words oh dear I love the new paper dollies on Amy painted for me best of anything must I burn them up? everyone I shall burn my boat, my best scrapbook and all my soldiers said Demi firmly well I will but it's too bad of kitty mouse to want our very nicest things said Daisy a sack of refice means to give up what you were fond of so we must explain Demi to whom the new idea had been suggested by hearing Uncle Fritz describe the customs of the Greeks to the big boys who are reading about them in school is Rob coming to asked Daisy this is all made of wood you know and will burn nicely we'll have a grand bonfire and see them blaze up won't we this brilliant prospect consoled Daisy and she ate her dinner with a row of paper dolls before her as a sort of farewell banquet at the appointed hour the sacrificial train set forth each child bearing the treasures demanded by the insatiable kitty mouse Teddy insisted on going also and seeing that all the others had toys he tucked a squeaking lamb under one arm with an abela under the other little dreaming what anguish the latter idol was to give him where are you going my chickens asked Mrs. Joe as the flock passed her door to play by the big rock can't we yes only don't go near the pond and take good care of baby I always do said Daisy leading forth her charge with a capable air now you must all sit round and not move till I tell you this flat stone is an altar and I'm going to make a fire on it and then I will be seated to kindle up a small blaze as he had seen the boys do at picnics when the flame burned well he ordered the company to march round it three times and then stand in a circle I shall begin and as fast as my things are burnt you must bring yours with that he solemnly laid on a little paper book full of pictures pasted in by himself this was followed by a dilapidated boat and then one by one the unhappy leaden soldiers marched to death not one faltered or hung back from the splendid red and yellow captain a small drummer who had lost his legs all vanished in the flames and mingled in one common pool of melted lead now Daisy called the high priest of kitty mouse when his rich offerings had been consumed to the great satisfaction of the children my dear dollies how can I let them go while Daisy hugging the entire dozen with a face full of maternal woe you must commanded Demi and with a farewell kiss to each Daisy laid her blooming dolls upon the coals she was so sweet we sought the poor little momma clutching her last in despair more more growled an awful voice and Demi cried that's the kitty mouse she must have every one quick or she will scratch us in went the precious blue bell flounces rosy hat and all and nothing but a few black flakes remained of that bright band stand the houses in trees round and let them catch themselves it will be like a real fire then charmed by this suggestion the children arranged the doomed village laid a line of coals along the main street and then sat down to watch the conflagration it was somewhat slow to kindle owing to the pink but at last one ambitious little cottage blazed up fired a tree of the palm species which fell onto the root of a large family mansion and in a few minutes the whole town was burning merrily the wooden population stood and stared at the destruction like blockheads as they were and the town was out and blazed away without a cry it took some time to reduce the town to ashes and the lookers on enjoyed the spectacle immensely cheering as each house fell dancing like wild Indians when the steeple flamed aloft and actually casting one wretched little churn-shaped lady who had escaped to the suburbs into the very heart of the fire the superb success of this last offering excited Teddy to such a degree that he first threw his lamb into the conflagration of the funeral pyre of course she did not like it and expressed her anguish and resentment in a way that terrified her infant destroyer being covered with kid she did not blaze but did what was worse she squirmed first one leg curled up then the other in a very awful and lifelike manner next she flung her arms over her head as if in great agony her head itself turned on her shoulders her glass eyes fell out unexpected demonstrations startled everyone and frightened Teddy half out of his little wits he looked then screamed and fled toward the house roaring Marmar at the top of his voice Mrs. Bayer heard the outcry and ran to the rescue but Teddy could only cling to her and pour out in his broken way something about poor Bella herded a draped fire and all the dollies dorm fearing some dire mishap his mother caught him up and hurried to the scene of action and she was lost mourning over the charred remains of the lost darling what have you been at tell me all about it said Mrs. Joe composing herself to listen patiently for the culprits look so penitent she forgave them beforehand with some reluctance Demi explained their play and Aunt Joe laughed the tears ran down her cheeks the children were so solemn and the play was so absurd just see what a ruin you have made all Daisy's pretty dolls Demi soldiers and Rob's new village beside poor Teddy's pet lamb and dear old Annabella I shall have to write up in the nursery the verse that used to come in the boxes of toys the children of pollen take pleasure in making what the children of Boston take pleasure in breaking only I shall put Plumfield instead of Boston we'll never again truly truly cried the repentant little sinners much abashed at this reproof Demi told us to well I heard uncle tell about the grease people who had altars and things and so I wanted to be like them only I hadn't any live creatures to sacrifice so we burnt up our toys dear me that is something like the bean story said Aunt Joe laughing again tell about it suggested Daisy to change the subject once there was a poor woman who had three or four little children and she used to lock them up in her room when she went out to work to keep them safe one day when she was going away she said to the children don't play with the matches don't let baby fall out of the window don't play with the matches and don't put beans up your noses now the children had never dreamed of doing that last thing but she put it into their heads and the minute she was gone they ran and stuffed their naughty little noses full of beans just to see how it felt and she found them all crying when she came home didn't hurt asked Rob with such intense interest in the story I was so silly that I went and tried it myself I had no beans so I took some little pebbles and poked several into my nose I did not like it at all I wanted to take them out again very soon but one would not come and I was so ashamed to tell what a goose I had been that I went for hours with the stone hurting me very much at last the pain got so bad I had to tell and when my mother could not get it out the doctor came then I was put in a chair and my wretched little nose did ache and how people laughed at me and Mrs. Joe shook her head in a dismal way as if the memory of her sufferings was too much for her Rob looked deeply impressed and I am glad to say took the warning to heart Demi proposed that they should bury poor Annabella and in the interest of the funeral Teddy forgot his fright Daisy was soon consoled by another batch of dolls from Aunt Amy and the naughty kitty mouse seemed to be appeased by the last offerings for she tormented them no more and she was left to play invented by bangs as this interesting animal is not to be found in any zoological garden unless due chai-lu has recently brought one from the wilds of Africa I will mention a few of its peculiar habits and traits for the benefit of inquiring minds the brop is a winged quadruped with a human face of a youthful and merry aspect when it walks the earth it grunts when it soars it gives a shrill hoot occasionally it goes erect and talks good English its body is usually covered with a substance sometimes red sometimes blue often flat and strange to say they frequently change skins with one another on their heads they have a horn very like a stiff brown paper lamp lighter wings of the same substance flap upon their shoulders when they fly this is never very far from the ground as you usually fall with violence if they attempt any lofty flights they browse over the earth but can sit up and eat like the squirrel their favorite nourishment is the seed cake apples also are freely taken and sometimes rock carrots are nibbled when food is scarce they live in dens where they have a sort of nest much like a clothes basket in which the little drops play to their wings or groan these singular animals quarrel at times and it is on these occasions that they burst into human speech call each other names, cry, scold and sometimes tear off horns and skin declaring fiercely that they won't play the few privileged persons who have studied them are inclined to think them a remarkable mixture of the monkey, the sphinx, the rock which is seen by the famous Peter Wilkins this game was a great favorite and the younger children beguiled many a rainy afternoon flapping or creeping about the nursery acting like little bedlamites and being as merry as little grigs to be sure it was rather hard upon clothes particularly trouser knees and jacket elbows but Mrs. Bear only said as she patched and darned we do things just as foolish and not half so harmless if I could get as much happiness out of it as the little deers do and each other's favorite amusements were working in his garden and sitting in the willow tree with his violin for that great nest was a fairy world to him and there he loved to perch making music like a happy bird Blad's called him old chirper because he was always humming whistling or fiddling and they often stopped a minute in their work or play to listen to the soft tones of the violin which seemed to lead a little orchestra of summer sounds the bird's appeared to regard him as one for themselves in the apple tree nearby evidently considered him a friend. For the father bird hunted insects close beside him, and the little mother brooded as confidingly over her blue eggs as if the boy was only a new sort of blackbird who cheered her patient watch with his song. The brown brook babbled and sparkled below him. The bees haunted the clover fields on either side, friendly faces peeped at him as they passed. The old house stretched its wide wings hospitably toward him, and with a blessed sense of rest and love and happiness, Nat dreamed for hours in his nook, unconscious what healthful miracles were being wrought upon him. One listener he had who never tired, and to whom he was more than a mere schoolmate. Poor Billy's chief delight was to lie beside the brook, watching leaves and bits of foam dance by, listening dreamily to the music in the willow tree. He seemed to think Nat a sort of angel who saddle often sang, for a few baby memories still lingered in his mind, and seemed to grow brighter at these times. Seeing the interest he took in Nat, Mr. Bear begged him to help them lift the cloud from the feeble brain by this gentle spell. Glad to do anything to show his gratitude, Nat always smiled on Billy when he followed him about, and let him listen undisturbed to the music which seemed to speak a language he could understand. Help One Another was a favorite plum field motto, and Nat learned how much sweetness is added to life by trying to live up to it. Jack Ford's peculiar pastime was buying and selling, and he bid fair to follow in the footsteps of his uncle, a country merchant, who sold a little of everything and made money fast. Jack had seen the sugar sanded, the molasses watered, the butter mixed with lard, and things of that kind, and labored under the delusion that it was all a proper part of the business. His stock and trade was of a different sort, but he got as much as he could out of every worm he sold, and always got the best of the bargain when he traded with the boys for string, knives, fish hooks, whatever the article might be. The boys who all had nicknames called him Skinflint, but Jack did not care, as long as the old tobacco pouch in which he kept his money grew heavier and heavier. He established a sort of auction room, and now and then sold off all the odds and ends he had collected, or helped the lads exchange things with One Another. He got bats, balls, hockey sticks, etc., cheap, from one set of mates, furbished them up, and let them for a few cents a time to another set, often extending his business beyond the gates of Plumfield in spite of the rules. Mr. Bear put a stop to some of his speculations, and tried to give him a better idea of business talent than mere sharpness in over-reaching his neighbors. Now and then Jack made a bad bargain, and felt worse about it than about any failure in lessons or conduct, and took his revenge on the next innocent customer who came along. His account book was a curiosity, and his quickness at figures quite remarkable. Mr. Bear praised him for this, and tried to make his sense of honesty and honor as quick, and, by and by, when Jack found he could not get on without these virtues, he owned that his teacher was right. Cricket and football the boys had, of course, but, after the stirring accounts of these games in the immortal Tom Brown at Rugby, no feeble female pen may venture to do more than respectfully allude to them. Emel spent his holidays on the river or the pond, and drilled the elder lads for a race with certain town boys, who now and then invaded their territory. The race duly came off, but as it ended in a general shipwreck it was not mentioned in public, and the Commodore had serious thoughts of retiring to a desert island, so disgusted was he with his kind for a time. No desert island being convenient he was forced to remain among his friends, and found consolation in building a boat-house. The little girls indulged in the usual plays of their age, improving upon them somewhat as their lively fancies suggested. The chief and most absorbing play was called Mrs. Shakespeare Smith. The name was provided by Aunt Joe, but the trials of the poor lady were quite original. Daisy was Mrs. S. S., and then by turns her daughter, or a neighbor, Mrs. Giddy Gattie. No pen can describe the adventures of these ladies, for in one short afternoon their family was the scene of birth, marriages, deaths, floods, earthquakes, tea parties, and balloon ascensions. Millions of miles did these energetic women travel, dressed in hats and habits never seen before by mortal eye, perched on the bed, driving the post like meddlesome steeds, and bouncing up and down to their head-spun. Fits and fires were the pet afflictions, with a general massacre now and then by way of change. Nan was never tired of inventing fresh combinations, and Daisy followed her leader with blind admiration. Poor Teddy was a frequent victim, and was often rescued from real danger, for the excited ladies were after forget that he was not of the same stuff as their long-suffering dolls. Once he was shut into the closet for a dungeon, and forgotten by the girls, he ran off to some out-of-door game. Another time he was half drowned in the bathtub, playing to be a cunning little whale. And worst of all, he was cut down just in time after being hung up for a robber. But the institution most patronized by all was the club. It had no other name, and it needed none, being the only one in the neighborhood. The elder lads got it up, and the younger were occasionally admitted if they behaved well. Tommy and Demi were honorary members, but were always obliged to retire unpleasantly early, owing to circumstances over which they had no control. Proceedings of this club were somewhat peculiar, for it met at all sorts of places and hours, had all manner of queer ceremonies and amusements, and now and then was broken up tempestuously, only to be re-established, however, on a firmer basis. Rainy evenings the members met in the school room, and passed the time in games, chess, Morris, batgammon, fencing matches, recitations, debates, or dramatic performances of a darkly tragical nature. In summer the barn was the rendezvous, and what went on there no uninitiated mortal knows. On sultry evenings the club adjourned to the brook for aquatic exercises, and the members sat about an area tire, frog-like, and cool. On such occasions the speeches were unusually eloquent, quite flowing, as one might say, and if any orator's remarks displeased the audience, cold water was thrown upon him till his ardor was effectually quenched. Frans was president, and maintained order admirably, considering that in really nature of the members. Mr. Bear never interfered with their affairs, and was rewarded for this wise forbearance by being invited now and then to behold the mysteries unveiled which he appeared to enjoy much. When Nan came she wished to join the club, and caused great excitement and division among the gentlemen by presenting endless petitions, both written and spoken, disturbing their solemnities by insulting them through the keyhole, performing vigorous solos on the door, and writing up derisive remarks on walls and fences, for she belonged to the irrepressibles. Finding these appealed in vain, the girls, by the advice of Mrs. Joe, got up an institution of their own, which they called the Cozy Club. To this they magnanimously invited the gentlemen whose youth excluded them from the other one, and entertained these favoured beings so well with their little suppers, new games devised by Nan, and other pleasing festivities that, one by one, the elder boys confessed a desire to retake of these more elegant enjoyments, and, after much consultation, finally decided to propose an interchange of civilities. The members of the Cozy Club were invited to adorn the rival establishment on certain evenings, and to the surprise of the gentlemen that their presence was not found to be restrained upon the conversation or amusement of the regular frequenters, which could not be said of all clubs, I fancy. The ladies responded handsomely and hospitably to these overtures of peace, and both institutions flourished long and happily. P.S., Nat must bring his fiddle so we can dance, and all the boys must be good, or they cannot have any of the nice things we have cooked. This elegant invitation would, I fear, have been declined, but for the hint given in the last line of the post-cript. They have been cooking lots of goodies. I smelt them. Let's go, said Tommy. We didn't stay after the feast, you know, added Demi. I never went to a ball. What do you have to do? asked Nat. Oh, we just play men, and sit round stiff and stupid like grown-up folks, and dance to please the girls, then we can eat up everything and come away as soon as we can. I think I could do that, said Nat, after considering Tommy's description for a minute. I'll write and say we'll come, and Demi dispatched the following gentlemanly reply. We will all come. Please have lots to eat. J.B. Esquire. Great was the anxiety of the ladies about their first ball, because if everything went well, they intended to give a dinner party to the chosen few. Aunt Joe likes to have the boys play with us, if they are not rough, so we must make them like our balls. Then they will do them good, said Daisy, with her maternal air, as she set the table and surveyed the store of refreshments with an anxious eye. Demi and Nat will be good, but Tommy will do something bad, I know he will, replied Nan, shaking her head over the little cake basket which she was arranging. Then I shall send him right home, said Daisy, with decision. People won't do so at parties, it isn't proper. I shall never ask him any more. That would do. He'd be sorry not to come to the dinner ball, wouldn't he? I guess he would. We'll have the splendidest things ever seen, won't we? Real soup with a ladle and a terrine, she meant terrine, and a little bird for turkey and gravy, and all kinds of nice veggie tubbles. Daisy never could save vegetables properly, and had given up trying. It is most three and we ought to dress, said Nan, who had arranged a fine costume for the occasion, and was anxious to wear it. I am the mother, so I shan't dress up much, said Daisy, putting on a nightcap ornamented with a red bow, one of her aunt's long skirts, and a shawl. A pair of spectacles and a large pocket handkerchief completed her toilette, making a plump, rosy little matron of her. Nan had a wreath of artificial flowers, a pair of old pink slippers, a yellow scarf, a green muslin skirt, and a fan made of feathers from the duster. Also, as a last touch of elegance, a smelling bottle without any smell in it. I am the daughter, so I rig up good deal, and I must sing and dance, and talk more than you do. The mother's only get the tea and be proper, you know. A sudden, very loud knock caused Miss Smith to fly into a chair and fan herself violently, while her mama sat bolt upright on the sofa, and tried to look quite common, proper. Little Bess, who was on a visit, acted the part of maid, and opened the door, saying with a smile, warden, woman, it's all weddy. In honour of the occasion the boys wore high paper collars, tall black hats, and gloves of every colour and material, for they were an afterthought, and not a boy among them had a perfect pair. Good day, mum, said Demi, and a deep voice, which was so hard to keep up that his remarks had to be extremely brief. Everyone shook hands and then sat down, looking so funny, yet so sober, that the gentlemen forgot their manners and rolled in their chairs with laughter. Oh, don't, cried Mrs. Smith, much distressed. You can't ever come again if you act so, added Miss Smith, wrapping Mr. Bings with their bottle because he laughed loudest. I can't help it. You look so furry, gasped Mr. Bings, with most uncourteous candour. So do you, but I shouldn't be so rude as to say so. He shan't come to the dinner-ball, shall he, Daisy? cried Nan, indignantly. I think we had better dance now. Did you bring your fiddle, sir? asked Mrs. Smith, trying to preserve her polite composure. It is outside the door, and that went to get it. Better have tea first, proposed the unabashed Tommy, winking openly at Demi to remind him that the sooner the refreshment were secured, the sooner they could escape. No, we never have supper first, and if you don't dance, well, you won't have any supper at all, not one bit, sir, said Mrs. Smith so sternly that her wild guests saw she would not be trebled with, and grew overwhelmingly civil all at once. I will take Mr. Bings and teach him the polka, for he does not know it fit to be seen, added the hostess, with a reproachful look that sobered Tommy at once. Nat struck up, and the ball opened with two couples who went conscientiously through a somewhat varied dance. The ladies did well because they liked it, but the gentlemen exerted themselves from more selfish motives, for each felt that he must earn his supper, and labored manfully toward that end. When everyone was out of breath they were allowed to rest, and indeed, poor Mrs. Smith needed it, for her long dress had tripped her up many times. The little maid passed round molasses and water in such small cups that one guest actually emptied nine. I refrain from mentioning his name, because this mild beverage affected him so much that he put cup and all into his mouth at the ninth round and choked himself publicly. You must ask Nan to play and sing now, said Daisy to her brother, who sat looking very much like an owl as he gravely regarded the festive scene between his high collars. Give us a song, Mum, said the obedient guest, secretly wondering where the piano was. Mrs. Smith sailed up to an old secretary which stood in the room, threw back the lid of the writing desk, and sitting down before it, accompanied herself with a vigor which made the old desk rattle as she sang that new and lovely song, beginning, gaily the troubadour touched his guitar as he was hastening home from the war. The gentlemen applauded so enthusiastically that she gave them bounding billows, little bow-peep, and other gems of song, till they were obliged to hint that they had had enough. Grateful for the praises bestowed upon her daughter, Mrs. Smith graciously announced, Now we will have tea. Sit down carefully and don't grab. It was beautiful to see the air of pride with which the good lady did the honors of her table, and the calmness with which she bore the little mishaps that occurred. The best pie flew wildly on the floor when she tried to cut it with a very dull knife. The bread and butter vanished with the rapidity calculated to dismay a housekeeper's soul, and, worst of all, the custards were so soft they had to be drunk up instead of being eaten elegantly with the new tin spoons. I grieved to state that Mrs. Smith squabbled with the maid for the best jumble, which caused best to toss the whole dish into the air and burst out crying amid a rain of falling cakes. She was comforted by a seat at the table, and her sugar bowls empty, but during this flurry a large plate of patties was mysteriously lost and could not be found. They were the cheap ornament of the feast, and Mrs. Smith was indignant at the loss, for she had made them herself, and they were beautiful to behold. I put it to any lady if it was not hard to have one dozen delicious patties, made of flour, salt, and water, with a large raisin in the middle of each, and much sugar over the whole, swept away at one fell swoop. You hid them, Tommy. I know you did, cried the outraged hostess, threatening her suspected guest with the milk pot. I didn't. You did. It isn't proper to contradict, said Nan, who was hastily eating up the jelly during the fray. Give them back, Demi, said Tommy. That's a fib. You've got them in your own pocket, bald Demi, browsed by the false accusation. Let's take him away from him. It's too bad to make Daisy cry, suggested Nat, who found his first ball more exciting than he expected. Daisy was already weeping, best like a devoted servant mingled her tears with those of her mistress, and Nan denounced the entire race of boys as plaggy things. Meanwhile the battle raged among the gentlemen, for, when the two defenders of innocence fell upon the foe, that hardened youth entrenched himself behind a table, and pelted them with the stolen tarts, which were very effective missiles, being nearly as hard as bullets. While his ammunition held out, the besieged prospered, but the moment the last patty flew over the parapet, the villain was seized, dragged howling from the room, and cast upon the hall floor in an ignomeneous heap. The conquerors then returned, flushed with victory, and while Demi consoled poor Mrs. Smith, Nat and Nan collected the scattered tarts, replaced each raisin in its proper bed, and rearranged the dish so that it really looked almost as well as ever. But their glory had departed, for the sugar was gone, and no one cared to eat them after the insult offered to them. I guess we had better go, said Demi suddenly, as Aunt Joe's voice was heard on the stairs. Perhaps we had, and Nat hastily dropped a stray jumble that he had just picked up. But Mrs. Joe was among them before the retreat was accomplished, and into her sympathetic ear the young ladies poured the story of their woes. No more balls for these boys till they have atoned for this bad behavior by doing something kind to you, said Mrs. Joe, shaking her head at the three culprits. We were only in fun, began Demi. I don't like fun that makes other people unhappy. I am disappointed in you, Demi, for I hoped you would never learn to tease Daisy, such a kind little sister as she is to you. Boys always tease their sisters. Tom says so, muttered Demi. I don't intend that my boys shall, and I must send Daisy home if you cannot play happily together, said Aunt Joe soberly. At this awful threat Demi siled up to his sister, and Daisy hastily dried her tears. Poor to be separated was the worst misfortune that could happen to the twins. Nat was bad too, and Tommy was baddest of all, observed Nan, fearing that two of the sinners would not get their fair share of punishment. I am sorry, said Nat, much ashamed. I ain't, bawled Tommy through the keyhole, where he was listening with all his might. Mrs. Joe wanted very much to laugh, but kept her countenance and said impressively as she pointed to the door. You can go, boys, but remember, you are not to speak to or play with the little girls till I give you leave. You don't deserve the pleasure, so I forbid it. The old-mannered young gentleman hastily retired to be received outside with the region and scorned by the unrepentant bangs who would not associate with them for at least fifteen minutes. Daisy was soon consoled for the failure of her ball, but lamented that edict that departed her from her brother and mourned over his shortcomings and her tender little heart. Nan rather enjoyed the trouble and went about turning up her pug nose at the three, especially Tommy, who pretended not to care and loudly proclaimed his satisfaction of being rid of those stupid girls. But in his secret soul he soon repented of the rash act that caused this vanishment from society he loved, and every hour of separation taught him the value of the stupid girls. The others gave in very soon and longed to be friends. For now there was no Daisy to pet and cook for them, no Nan to amuse and doctor them, and, worst of all, no Mrs. Joe to make home life pleasant and life easy for them. To their great affliction Mrs. Joe seemed to consider herself one of the offended girls, for she hardly spoke to the outcasts, looked as if she did not see them when she passed, and was always too busy now to attend to their requests. This sudden and entire exile from favor cast a gloom over their souls. For when Mother Bear deserted them, their son had set at noon day, as it were, and they had no refuge left. This unnatural state of things actually lasted for three days, then they could bear it no longer, and fearing that the eclipse might become total went to Mr. Bear for help and counsel. It is my private opinion that he had received instructions how to behave if the case should be laid before him. But no one suspected it, and he gave the afflicted boys some advice, which they gratefully accepted and carried out in the following manner. Secluding themselves in the garret, they devoted several play hours to the manufacture of some mysterious machine, which took so much pace that Asia grumbled, and the little girls wandered mightily. Nan nearly got her inquisitive nose pinched in the door, trying to see what was going on, and Daisy sat about, openly lamenting that they could not all play nicely together, and not have any dreadful secrets. Wednesday afternoon was fine, and after a good deal of consultation about wind and weather, Nat and Tommy went off, bearing an immense flat parcel hidden under many newspapers. Nan nearly died of suppressed curiosity, Daisy nearly cried with fixation, and both quite trembled with interest when Demi marched into Mrs. Bear's room, hat in hand, and said, in the plightest tone possible to a mortal boy of his years, Please, Aunt Joe, would you and the girls come out to a surprise party we have made for you? Do, it's a very nice one. Thank you, we will come with pleasure. Only, I must take Teddy with me, replied Mrs. Bear, with a smile that cheered Demi like sunshine after rain. We'd like to have him. The little wagon is all ready for the girls. You won't mind walking just up to Penny Royal Hill, will you, auntie? I should like it exceedingly, but you are quite sure I shall not be in the way? Oh, no, indeed, we want you very much, and the party would be spoiled if you don't come, cried Demi, with great earnestness. Thank you kindly, sir, and Aunt Joe made him a grand curtsy, for she liked frolics as well as any of them. Now, young ladies, we must not keep them waiting. On with the hats, and let us be off at once. I'm all impatient to know what the surprise is. As Mrs. Bear spoke, everyone bustled about, and in five minutes the three little girls and Teddy were packed into the closed basket, as they called the wicker wagon, which Toby drew. Demi walked at the head of the procession, and Mrs. Joe brought up the rear, escorted by Kit. It was a most imposing party, I assure you, for Toby had a red feather duster in his head, two remarkable flags waved over the carriage. Kit had a blue bow on his neck, which nearly drove him wild. The nose gave dandelions in his buttonhole, and Mrs. Joe carried the queer Japanese umbrella in honour of the occasion. The girls had little flutters of excitement all the way, and Teddy was so charmed with the drive that he kept dropping his hat overboard, and when it was taken from him he prepared to tumble out himself, evidently feeling that it behooved him to do something for the amusement of the party. When they came to the hill, nothing was to be seen but the grass blowing in the wind, as the fairy books say, and the children looked disappointed, but Demi said in his most impressive manner. Now, you all get out and stand still, and the surprise party will come in, with which remark he retired behind a rock over which heads had been bobbing at intervals for the last half hour. A short pause of intense suspense, and then Nat, Demi and Tommy marched forth, each bearing a new kite, which they presented to the three young ladies. Shrieks of delight arose, but were silenced by the boys, who said, with faces brimful of merriment, that isn't all the surprise, and, running behind the rock, again emerged bearing a fourth kite of superb size, on which was printed, in bright yellow letters, for Mother Bear. We thought you'd like one, too, because you were angry with us, and took the girl's part, cried all three, shaking with laughter, for this part of the affair evidently was a surprise to Mrs. Joe. She clapped her hands, and joined in the laugh, looking thoroughly tickled at the joke. Now, boys, that is regularly splendid. Who did think of it? She asked, receiving the monster kite with as much pleasure as the little girls did theirs. Uncle Fritz proposed it when we planned to make the others. He said you'd like it, so we made a bouncer, answered Demi, beaming with satisfaction at the success of the plot. Uncle Fritz knows what I like. Yes, these are magnificent kites, and we were wishing we had some the other day when you were flying yours, weren't we, girls? That's why we made them for you, cried Tommy, standing on his head as the most appropriate way of expressing his emotions. Let us fly them, said energetic Nan. I don't know how, began Daisy. We'll show you what we want to, cried all the boys in a burst of devotion, as Demi took Daisy's, Tommy Nan's, and that, with difficulty, persuaded best to let go her little blue one. Auntie, if you'll wait a minute, we'll pitch yours for you, said Demi, feeling that Mrs. Bear's favour must not be lost again by any neglect of theirs. Bless your buttons, dear, I know all about it, and here is a boy who will toss up for me, added Mrs. Joe, as the professor peeped over the rock with a face full of fun. He came out at once, tossed up the big kite, and Mrs. Joe ran off with it in fine style, while the children stood and enjoyed the spectacle. One by one all the kites went up, and floated far overhead like gay birds, balancing themselves on the fresh breeze that blew steadily over the hill. Such a merry time as they had. Running and shouting, sending up the kites, or pulling them down, watching their antics in the air, and feeling them tug at the string like live creatures trying to escape. Nan was quite wild with the fun, Daisy thought the new play nearly as interesting as dolls, and little Bess was so fond of her boo-tie that she would only let it go on very short flights, preferring to hold it in her lap and look at their remarkable pictures painted on it by Tommy's dashing brush. Mrs. Joe enjoyed hers immensely, and it acted as if it knew who owned it, for it came tumbling down headfirst when lease expected, caught on trees, nearly pitched into the river, and finally darted away to such a height that it looked a mere speck among the clouds. By and by everyone got tired, and fastening the kite strings to trees and fences, all sat down to rest except Mr. Bear, who went off to look at the cows, with teddy on his shoulder. Did you ever have such a good time as this before? asked Nat, as they lay about on the grass, nibbling penny-royal like a flock of sheep. Not since I last blew a kite years ago when I was a girl, answered Mrs. Joe. I'd like to have known you when you were a girl. You must have been so jolly, said Nat. I was a naughty little girl, I am sorry to say. I like naughty little girls, observed Tommy, looking at Nan, who made a frightful grimace at him in return for the compliment. Why don't I remember you then, Auntie? Was I too young? asked Demi. Rather dear. I suppose my memory hadn't come then. Grandpa says that different parts of the mind unfold as we grow up, and the memory part of my mind hadn't unfolded when you were little, so I can't remember how you looked, explained Demi. Now, little Socrates, you'd better keep that question for Grandpa. It is beyond me, said Aunt Joe, putting on the extinguisher. While I will, he knows about those things, and you don't, returned Demi, feeling that on the whole, kites were better adapted to the comprehension of the present company. Tell about the last time you flew a kite, said Nat, for Mrs. Joe had laughed as she spoke of it, and he thought it might be interesting. Oh, it was only rather funny, for I was a great girl of fifteen, and was ashamed to be seen at such a play. So Uncle Teddy and I privately made our kites, and stole away to fly them. We had a capital time, and were resting as we are now when suddenly we heard voices, and saw a party of young ladies and gentlemen coming back from a picnic. Teddy did not mind, though he was rather a large boy to be playing with the kite, but I was in a great flurry, for I knew I should be sadly laughed at, and never heard the last of it, because my wild ways amuse the neighbors as much as nans do us. What shall I do, I whispered to Teddy, as the voices drew nearer and nearer. I'll show you, he said, and whipping out his knife he cut the strings. Away flew the kites, and when the people came up we were picking flowers as properly as you please. They never suspected us, and we had a grand laugh over our narrow escape. Were the kites lost, Auntie? Asked Daisy. Quite lost, but I did not care, for I made it my mind that it would be best to wait till I was an old lady before I played with kites again. And you see, I have waited, said Mrs. Joe, beginning to pull in the big kite, for it was getting late. Must we go now? I must, or you won't have any supper, and that sort of surprise party would not suit you, I think, my chickens. Even our party been a nice one, asked Tommy complacently. Splendid, answered everyone. Do you know why? It is because your guests have behaved themselves, and tried to make everything go well. You understand what I mean, don't you? Yes, I'm, was all the boys said, for they stole a shame-faced look at one another, as they meekly shouldered their kites and walked home, thinking of another party where the guests had not behaved themselves, and things had gone badly on account of it. of Chapter 9.