They began to get anxious , and Laurie went off to find her , for no one knew what freak Jo might take into her head . He missed her , however , and she came walking in with a very queer expression of countenance , for there was a mixture of fun and fear , satisfaction and regret in it , which puzzled the family as much as did the roll of bills she laid before her mother , saying with a little choke in her voice , `` That 's my contribution toward making Father comfortable and bringing him home ! '' `` My dear , where did you get it ? Twenty-five dollars ! Jo , I hope you have n't done anything rash ? '' `` No , it 's mine honestly . I did n't beg , borrow , or steal it . I earned it , and I do n't think you 'll blame me , for I only sold what was my own . '' As she spoke , Jo took off her bonnet , and a general outcry arose , for all her abundant hair was cut short . `` Your hair ! Your beautiful hair ! '' `` Oh , Jo , how could you ? Your one beauty . '' `` My dear girl , there was no need of this . '' `` She does n't look like my Jo any more , but I love her dearly for it ! '' As everyone exclaimed , and Beth hugged the cropped head tenderly , Jo assumed an indifferent air , which did not deceive anyone a particle , and said , rumpling up the brown bush and trying to look as if she liked it , `` It does n't affect the fate of the nation , so do n't wail , Beth . It will be good for my vanity , I was getting too proud of my wig . It will do my brains good to have that mop taken off . My head feels deliciously light and cool , and the barber said I could soon have a curly crop , which will be boyish , becoming , and easy to keep in order . I 'm satisfied , so please take the money and let 's have supper . ''
`` Tell me all about it , XXXXX .
Beth Father Jo Laurie crop dollars freak hair money one