What went on there , Meg could not see , but shrieks of laughter were heard , followed by the murmur of voices and a great flapping of newspapers . `` What shall we do with that girl ? She never will behave like a young lady , '' sighed Meg , as she watched the race with a disapproving face . `` I hope she wo n't . She is so funny and dear as she is , '' said Beth , who had never betrayed that she was a little hurt at Jo 's having secrets with anyone but her . `` It 's very trying , but we never can make her commy la fo , '' added Amy , who sat making some new frills for herself , with her curls tied up in a very becoming way , two agreeable things that made her feel unusually elegant and ladylike . In a few minutes Jo bounced in , laid herself on the sofa , and affected to read . `` Have you anything interesting there ? '' asked Meg , with condescension . `` Nothing but a story , wo n't amount to much , I guess , '' returned Jo , carefully keeping the name of the paper out of sight . `` You 'd better read it aloud . That will amuse us and keep you out of mischief , '' said Amy in her most grown-up tone . `` What 's the name ? '' asked Beth , wondering why Jo kept her face behind the sheet . `` The Rival Painters . '' `` That sounds well . Read it , '' said Meg . With a loud `` Hem ! '' and a long breath , Jo began to read very fast . The girls listened with interest , for the tale was romantic , and somewhat pathetic , as most of the characters died in the end .
`` I like that about the splendid picture , '' was XXXXX 's approving remark , as Jo paused .
Amy Beth Jo Meg Painters breath curls girl shrieks tone