It was not long , for the Prince ran in , dropped upon his knees , and kissed the hand of Goldilocks with great ardor , while the herald blew a blast that nearly deafened the audience . The curtain had no chance to fall , for the Princess ran off the stage to her father , crying , `` Did n't I do well ? '' while the Prince and herald had a fencing-match with the tin horn and wooden sword . `` It was beautiful ! '' said every one ; and , when the raptures had a little subsided , Nat came out with his violin in his hand . `` Hush ! hush ! '' cried all the children , and silence followed , for something in the boy 's bashful manner and appealing eyes make every one listen kindly . The Bhaers thought he would play some of the old airs he knew so well , but , to their surprise , they heard a new and lovely melody , so softly , sweetly played , that they could hardly believe it could be Nat . It was one of those songs without words that touch the heart , and sing of all tender home-like hopes and joys , soothing and cheering those who listen to its simple music . Aunt Meg leaned her head on Demi 's shoulder , Grandmother wiped her eyes , and Mrs. Jo looked up at Mr. Laurie , saying , in a choky whisper , `` You composed that . '' `` I wanted your boy to do you honor , and thank you in his own way , '' answered Laurie , leaning down to answer her . When Nat made his bow and was about to go , he was called back by many hands , and had to play again . He did so with such a happy face , that it was good to see him , for he did his best , and gave them the gay old tunes that set the feet to dancing , and made quietude impossible . `` Clear the floor ! '' cried Emil ; and in a minute the chairs were pushed back , the older people put safely in corners and the children gathered on the stage . `` Show your manners ! '' called Emil ; and the boys pranced up to the ladies , old and young ; with polite invitations to `` tread the mazy , '' as dear Dick Swiveller has it . The small lads nearly came to blows for the Princess , but she chose Dick , like a kind , little gentlewoman as she was , and let him lead her proudly to her place . Mrs. Jo was not allowed to decline ; and Aunt Amy filled Dan with unspeakable delight by refusing Franz and taking him .
Of course Nan and Tommy , XXXXX and Daisy paired off , while Uncle Teddy went and got Asia , who was longing to `` jig it , '' and felt much elated by the honor done her .
Bhaers Dan Demi Franz Nat Prince choky gentlewoman minute quietude