`` They teach us quite as much as we teach them , '' said Mr. Bhaer . `` Bless the dears ! they never guess how many hints they give us as to the best way of managing them , '' answered Mrs. Jo . `` I think you were right about the good effect of having girls among the boys . Nan has stirred up Daisy , and Bess is teaching the little bears how to behave better than we can . If this reformation goes on as it has begun , I shall soon feel like Dr. Blimber with his model young gentlemen , '' said Professor , laughing , as he saw Tommy not only remove his own hat , but knock off Ned 's also , as they entered the hall where the Princess was taking a ride on the rocking-horse , attended by Rob and Teddy astride of chairs , and playing gallant knights to the best of their ability . `` You will never be a Blimber , Fritz , you could n't do it if you tried ; and our boys will never submit to the forcing process of that famous hot-bed . No fear that they will be too elegant : American boys like liberty too well . But good manners they can not fail to have , if we give them the kindly spirit that shines through the simplest demeanor , making it courteous and cordial , like yours , my dear old boy . '' `` Tut ! tut ! we will not compliment ; for if I begin you will run away , and I have a wish to enjoy this happy half hour to the end ; '' yet Mr. Bhaer looked pleased with the compliment , for it was true , and Mrs. Jo felt that she had received the best her husband could give her , by saying that he found his truest rest and happiness in her society . `` To return to the children : I have just had another proof of Goldilocks ' good influence , '' said Mrs. Jo , drawing her chair nearer the sofa , where the Professor lay resting after a long day 's work in his various gardens . `` Nan hates sewing , but for love of Bess has been toiling half the afternoon over a remarkable bag in which to present a dozen of our love-apples to her idol when she goes . I praised her for it , and she said , in her quick way , ' I like to sew for other people ; it is stupid sewing for myself . ' I took the hint , and shall give her some little shirts and aprons for Mrs. Carney 's children . She is so generous , she will sew her fingers sore for them , and I shall not have to make a task of it . '' `` But needlework is not a fashionable accomplishment , my dear . '' `` Sorry for it . My girls shall learn all I can teach them about it , even if they give up the Latin , Algebra , and half-a-dozen ologies it is considered necessary for girls to muddle their poor brains over now-a-days .
Amy means to make XXXXX an accomplished woman , but the dear 's mite of a forefinger has little pricks on it already , and her mother has several specimens of needlework which she values more than the clay bird without a bill , that filled Laurie with such pride when Bess made it . ''
Algebra Bess Ned Professor Rob Tut afternoon needlework now-a-days toiling