`` We are not strangers , we are neighbors , and you need n't think you 'd be a bother . We want to know you , and I 've been trying to do it this ever so long . We have n't been here a great while , you know , but we have got acquainted with all our neighbors but you . '' `` You see , Grandpa lives among his books , and does n't mind much what happens outside . Mr. Brooke , my tutor , does n't stay here , you know , and I have no one to go about with me , so I just stop at home and get on as I can . '' `` That 's bad . You ought to make an effort and go visiting everywhere you are asked , then you 'll have plenty of friends , and pleasant places to go to . Never mind being bashful . It wo n't last long if you keep going . '' Laurie turned red again , but was n't offended at being accused of bashfulness , for there was so much good will in Jo it was impossible not to take her blunt speeches as kindly as they were meant . `` Do you like your school ? '' asked the boy , changing the subject , after a little pause , during which he stared at the fire and Jo looked about her , well pleased . `` Do n't go to school , I 'm a businessman -- girl , I mean . I go to wait on my great-aunt , and a dear , cross old soul she is , too , '' answered Jo . Laurie opened his mouth to ask another question , but remembering just in time that it was n't manners to make too many inquiries into people 's affairs , he shut it again , and looked uncomfortable . Jo liked his good breeding , and did n't mind having a laugh at Aunt March , so she gave him a lively description of the fidgety old lady , her fat poodle , the parrot that talked Spanish , and the library where she reveled . Laurie enjoyed that immensely , and when she told about the prim old gentleman who came once to woo Aunt March , and in the middle of a fine speech , how Poll had tweaked his wig off to his great dismay , the boy lay back and laughed till the tears ran down his cheeks , and a maid popped her head in to see what was the matter . `` Oh ! That does me no end of good . Tell on , please , '' he said , taking his face out of the sofa cushion , red and shining with merriment .
Much elated with her success , XXXXX did ` tell on ' , all about their plays and plans , their hopes and fears for Father , and the most interesting events of the little world in which the sisters lived .
Brooke Grandpa Jo Laurie Spanish bashfulness fire girl great-aunt neighbors