`` He did wrong , but we forgave him , and all promised not to say a word to anyone , '' began Jo reluctantly . `` That wo n't do . He shall not shelter himself behind a promise from you softhearted girls . If he 's done anything amiss , he shall confess , beg pardon , and be punished . Out with it , Jo . I wo n't be kept in the dark . '' Mr. Laurence looked so alarming and spoke so sharply that Jo would have gladly run away , if she could , but she was perched aloft on the steps , and he stood at the foot , a lion in the path , so she had to stay and brave it out . `` Indeed , Sir , I can not tell . Mother forbade it . Laurie has confessed , asked pardon , and been punished quite enough . We do n't keep silence to shield him , but someone else , and it will make more trouble if you interfere . Please do n't . It was partly my fault , but it 's all right now . So let 's forget it , and talk about the Rambler or something pleasant . '' `` Hang the Rambler ! Come down and give me your word that this harum-scarum boy of mine has n't done anything ungrateful or impertinent . If he has , after all your kindness to him , I 'll thrash him with my own hands . '' The threat sounded awful , but did not alarm Jo , for she knew the irascible old gentleman would never lift a finger against his grandson , whatever he might say to the contrary . She obediently descended , and made as light of the prank as she could without betraying Meg or forgetting the truth . `` Hum ... ha ... well , if the boy held his tongue because he promised , and not from obstinacy , I 'll forgive him .
He 's a stubborn fellow and hard to manage , '' said Mr. XXXXX , rubbing up his hair till it looked as if he had been out in a gale , and smoothing the frown from his brow with an air of relief .
Jo Laurence Laurie Meg Mother Rambler ha obstinacy pardon promise