I always spoil everything . I 'm so sorry , but the tongs were too hot , and so I 've made a mess , '' groaned poor Jo , regarding the little black pancakes with tears of regret . `` It is n't spoiled . Just frizzle it , and tie your ribbon so the ends come on your forehead a bit , and it will look like the last fashion . I 've seen many girls do it so , '' said Amy consolingly . `` Serves me right for trying to be fine . I wish I 'd let my hair alone , '' cried Meg petulantly . `` So do I , it was so smooth and pretty . But it will soon grow out again , '' said Beth , coming to kiss and comfort the shorn sheep . After various lesser mishaps , Meg was finished at last , and by the united exertions of the entire family Jo 's hair was got up and her dress on . They looked very well in their simple suits , Meg 's in silvery drab , with a blue velvet snood , lace frills , and the pearl pin . Jo in maroon , with a stiff , gentlemanly linen collar , and a white chrysanthemum or two for her only ornament . Each put on one nice light glove , and carried one soiled one , and all pronounced the effect `` quite easy and fine '' . Meg 's high-heeled slippers were very tight and hurt her , though she would not own it , and Jo 's nineteen hairpins all seemed stuck straight into her head , which was not exactly comfortable , but , dear me , let us be elegant or die . `` Have a good time , dearies ! '' said Mrs. March , as the sisters went daintily down the walk . `` Do n't eat much supper , and come away at eleven when I send Hannah for you . '' As the gate clashed behind them , a voice cried from a window ... `` Girls , girls ! Have you you both got nice pocket handkerchiefs ? '' `` Yes , yes , spandy nice , and Meg has cologne on hers , '' cried Jo , adding with a laugh as they went on , `` I do believe Marmee would ask that if we were all running away from an earthquake . ''
`` It is one of her aristocratic tastes , and quite proper , for a real lady is always known by neat boots , gloves , and handkerchief , '' replied XXXXX , who had a good many little ` aristocratic tastes ' of her own .
Amy Beth Jo Marmee Meg chrysanthemum dearies mishaps pancakes snood