`` What fun it was , especially going by the lions , fighting Apollyon , and passing through the valley where the hob-goblins were , '' said Jo . `` I liked the place where the bundles fell off and tumbled downstairs , '' said Meg . `` I do n't remember much about it , except that I was afraid of the cellar and the dark entry , and always liked the cake and milk we had up at the top . If I was n't too old for such things , I 'd rather like to play it over again , '' said Amy , who began to talk of renouncing childish things at the mature age of twelve . `` We never are too old for this , my dear , because it is a play we are playing all the time in one way or another . Our burdens are here , our road is before us , and the longing for goodness and happiness is the guide that leads us through many troubles and mistakes to the peace which is a true Celestial City . Now , my little pilgrims , suppose you begin again , not in play , but in earnest , and see how far on you can get before Father comes home . '' `` Really , Mother ? Where are our bundles ? '' asked Amy , who was a very literal young lady . `` Each of you told what your burden was just now , except Beth . I rather think she has n't got any , '' said her mother . `` Yes , I have . Mine is dishes and dusters , and envying girls with nice pianos , and being afraid of people . '' Beth 's bundle was such a funny one that everybody wanted to laugh , but nobody did , for it would have hurt her feelings very much . `` Let us do it , '' said Meg thoughtfully . `` It is only another name for trying to be good , and the story may help us , for though we do want to be good , it 's hard work and we forget , and do n't do our best . '' `` We were in the Slough of Despond tonight , and Mother came and pulled us out as Help did in the book . We ought to have our roll of directions , like Christian . What shall we do about that ? ''
asked XXXXX , delighted with the fancy which lent a little romance to the very dull task of doing her duty .
Beth Christian City Despond Father Jo Meg Mother dusters hob-goblins