How do you keep it on ? '' `` These bits of lace are fastened under the chin with a rosebud , so , '' and Meg illustrated by putting on the bonnet and regarding him with an air of calm satisfaction that was irresistible . `` It 's a love of a bonnet , but I prefer the face inside , for it looks young and happy again , '' and John kissed the smiling face , to the great detriment of the rosebud under the chin . `` I 'm glad you like it , for I want you to take me to one of the new concerts some night . I really need some music to put me in tune . Will you , please ? '' `` Of course I will , with all my heart , or anywhere else you like . You have been shut up so long , it will do you no end of good , and I shall enjoy it , of all things . What put it into your head , little mother ? '' `` Well , I had a talk with Marmee the other day , and told her how nervous and cross and out of sorts I felt , and she said I needed change and less care , so Hannah is to help me with the children , and I 'm to see to things about the house more , and now and then have a little fun , just to keep me from getting to be a fidgety , broken-down old woman before my time . It 's only an experiment , John , and I want to try it for your sake as much as for mine , because I 've neglected you shamefully lately , and I 'm going to make home what it used to be , if I can . You do n't object , I hope ? '' Never mind what John said , or what a very narrow escape the little bonnet had from utter ruin . All that we have any business to know is that John did not appear to object , judging from the changes which gradually took place in the house and its inmates . It was not all Paradise by any means , but everyone was better for the division of labor system . The children throve under the paternal rule , for accurate , steadfast John brought order and obedience into Babydom , while Meg recovered her spirits and composed her nerves by plenty of wholesome exercise , a little pleasure , and much confidential conversation with her sensible husband . Home grew homelike again , and John had no wish to leave it , unless he took Meg with him . The Scotts came to the Brookes ' now , and everyone found the little house a cheerful place , full of happiness , content , and family love . Even Sallie Moffatt liked to go there . `` It is always so quiet and pleasant here , it does me good , Meg , '' she used to say , looking about her with wistful eyes , as if trying to discover the charm , that she might use it in her great house , full of splendid loneliness , for there were no riotous , sunny-faced babies there , and Ned lived in a world of his own , where there was no place for her .
This household happiness did not come all at once , but John and XXXXX had found the key to it , and each year of married life taught them how to use it , unlocking the treasuries of real home love and mutual helpfulness , which the poorest may possess , and the richest can not buy .
Babydom Hannah John Meg Moffatt Scotts escape labor night rosebud