Everything turned out well , which was a mercy , Hannah said , `` For my mind was that flustered , Mum , that it 's a merrycle I did n't roast the pudding , and stuff the turkey with raisins , let alone bilin ' of it in a cloth . '' Mr. Laurence and his grandson dined with them , also Mr. Brooke , at whom Jo glowered darkly , to Laurie 's infinite amusement . Two easy chairs stood side by side at the head of the table , in which sat Beth and her father , feasting modestly on chicken and a little fruit . They drank healths , told stories , sang songs , ` reminisced ' , as the old folks say , and had a thoroughly good time . A sleigh ride had been planned , but the girls would not leave their father , so the guests departed early , and as twilight gathered , the happy family sat together round the fire . `` Just a year ago we were groaning over the dismal Christmas we expected to have . Do you remember ? '' asked Jo , breaking a short pause which had followed a long conversation about many things . `` Rather a pleasant year on the whole ! '' said Meg , smiling at the fire , and congratulating herself on having treated Mr. Brooke with dignity . `` I think it 's been a pretty hard one , '' observed Amy , watching the light shine on her ring with thoughtful eyes . `` I 'm glad it 's over , because we 've got you back , '' whispered Beth , who sat on her father 's knee . `` Rather a rough road for you to travel , my little pilgrims , especially the latter part of it . But you have got on bravely , and I think the burdens are in a fair way to tumble off very soon , '' said Mr. March , looking with fatherly satisfaction at the four young faces gathered round him . `` How do you know ? Did Mother tell you ? '' asked Jo . `` Not much . Straws show which way the wind blows , and I 've made several discoveries today . '' `` Oh , tell us what they are ! ''
cried XXXXX , who sat beside him .
Amy Beth Jo Laurie Meg congratulating healths merrycle twilight year