The words seemed to come against his will , for he looked sorry the minute they were spoken , and seemed to think he deserved a reproof for his ingratitude . But Mrs. Jo understood the feeling , and though sorry to see it , she could not blame the boy for confessing it . She looked at him anxiously , seeing how tall and strong he had grown , how full of energy his face was , with its eager eyes and resolute mouth ; and remembering the utter freedom he had known for years before , she felt how even the gentle restraint of this home would weigh upon him at times when the old lawless spirit stirred in him . `` Yes , '' she said to herself , `` my wild hawk needs a larger cage ; and yet , if I let him go , I am afraid he will be lost . I must try and find some lure strong enough to keep him safe . '' `` I know all about it , '' she added , aloud . `` It is not ` the devil , ' as you call it , but the very natural desire of all young people for liberty . I used to feel just so , and once , I really did think for a minute that I would bolt . '' `` Why did n't you ? '' said Dan , coming to lean on the low window-ledge , with an evident desire to continue the subject . `` I knew it was foolish , and love for my mother kept me at home . '' `` I have n't got any mother , '' began Dan . `` I thought you had now , '' said Mrs. Jo , gently stroking the rough hair off his hot forehead . `` You are no end good to me , and I ca n't ever thank you enough , but it just is n't the same , is it ? '' and Dan looked up at her with a wistful , hungry look that went to her heart . `` No , dear , it is not the same , and never can be . I think an own mother would have been a great deal to you . But as that can not be , you must try to let me fill her place . I fear I have not done all I ought , or you would not want to leave me , '' she added , sorrowfully . `` Yes , you have ! ''
cried XXXXX , eagerly .
Dan Jo deal energy home love minute times window-ledge years