`` Oh , he made a mountain out of a molehill . You would n't have me let that fine fellow work himself to death just for want of a little help , when he is worth a dozen of us lazy chaps , would you ? '' `` Of course not , but I do n't see the use of your having seventeen waistcoats , endless neckties , and a new hat every time you come home . I thought you 'd got over the dandy period , but every now and then it breaks out in a new spot . Just now it 's the fashion to be hideous , to make your head look like a scrubbing brush , wear a strait jacket , orange gloves , and clumping square-toed boots . If it was cheap ugliness , I 'd say nothing , but it costs as much as the other , and I do n't get any satisfaction out of it . '' Laurie threw back his head , and laughed so heartily at this attack , that the felt hat fell off , and Jo walked on it , which insult only afforded him an opportunity for expatiating on the advantages of a rough-and-ready costume , as he folded up the maltreated hat , and stuffed it into his pocket . `` Do n't lecture any more , there 's a good soul ! I have enough all through the week , and like to enjoy myself when I come home . I 'll get myself up regardless of expense tomorrow and be a satisfaction to my friends . '' `` I 'll leave you in peace if you 'll only let your hair grow . I 'm not aristocratic , but I do object to being seen with a person who looks like a young prize fighter , '' observed Jo severely . `` This unassuming style promotes study , that 's why we adopt it , '' returned Laurie , who certainly could not be accused of vanity , having voluntarily sacrificed a handsome curly crop to the demand for quarter-inch-long stubble . `` By the way , Jo , I think that little Parker is really getting desperate about Amy . He talks of her constantly , writes poetry , and moons about in a most suspicious manner . He 'd better nip his little passion in the bud , had n't he ? '' added Laurie , in a confidential , elder brotherly tone , after a minute 's silence . `` Of course he had . We do n't want any more marrying in this family for years to come . Mercy on us , what are the children thinking of ? ''
and Jo looked as much scandalized as if XXXXX and little Parker were not yet in their teens .
Amy Jo Laurie Parker attack minute molehill neckties waistcoats years