They did sober themselves for Beth 's sake . Laurie dug a grave under the ferns in the grove , little Pip was laid in , with many tears by his tender-hearted mistress , and covered with moss , while a wreath of violets and chickweed was hung on the stone which bore his epitaph , composed by Jo while she struggled with the dinner . Here lies Pip March , Who died the 7th of June ; Loved and lamented sore , And not forgotten soon . At the conclusion of the ceremonies , Beth retired to her room , overcome with emotion and lobster , but there was no place of repose , for the beds were not made , and she found her grief much assuaged by beating up the pillows and putting things in order . Meg helped Jo clear away the remains of the feast , which took half the afternoon and left them so tired that they agreed to be contented with tea and toast for supper . Laurie took Amy to drive , which was a deed of charity , for the sour cream seemed to have had a bad effect upon her temper . Mrs. March came home to find the three older girls hard at work in the middle of the afternoon , and a glance at the closet gave her an idea of the success of one part of the experiment . Before the housewives could rest , several people called , and there was a scramble to get ready to see them . Then tea must be got , errands done , and one or two necessary bits of sewing neglected until the last minute . As twilight fell , dewy and still , one by one they gathered on the porch where the June roses were budding beautifully , and each groaned or sighed as she sat down , as if tired or troubled . `` What a dreadful day this has been ! '' began Jo , usually the first to speak . `` It has seemed shorter than usual , but so uncomfortable , '' said Meg . `` Not a bit like home , '' added Amy . `` It ca n't seem so without Marmee and little Pip , '' sighed Beth , glancing with full eyes at the empty cage above her head . `` Here 's Mother , dear , and you shall have another bird tomorrow , if you want it . '' As she spoke , Mrs. March came and took her place among them , looking as if her holiday had not been much pleasanter than theirs . `` Are you satisfied with your experiment , girls , or do you want another week of it ? '' she asked , as Beth nestled up to her and the rest turned toward her with brightening faces , as flowers turn toward the sun . `` I do n't ! ''
cried XXXXX decidedly .
Amy Beth Jo Marmee Meg Mother chickweed first left twilight