They found Mr. Laurence standing before the fire in the great drawing room , but Jo 's attention was entirely absorbed by a grand piano , which stood open . `` Do you play ? '' she asked , turning to Laurie with a respectful expression . `` Sometimes , '' he answered modestly . `` Please do now . I want to hear it , so I can tell Beth . '' `` Wo n't you first ? '' `` Do n't know how . Too stupid to learn , but I love music dearly . '' So Laurie played and Jo listened , with her nose luxuriously buried in heliotrope and tea roses . Her respect and regard for the ` Laurence ' boy increased very much , for he played remarkably well and did n't put on any airs . She wished Beth could hear him , but she did not say so , only praised him till he was quite abashed , and his grandfather came to his rescue . `` That will do , that will do , young lady . Too many sugarplums are not good for him . His music is n't bad , but I hope he will do as well in more important things . Going ? well , I 'm much obliged to you , and I hope you 'll come again . My respects to your mother . Good night , Doctor Jo . '' He shook hands kindly , but looked as if something did not please him .
When they got into the hall , Jo asked XXXXX if she had said something amiss .
Beth Jo Laurence Laurie fire first lady night regard sugarplums