Beth must think I 'm going to please myself , as I am , for I ca n't talk about Laurie to her . But she can pet and comfort him after I 'm gone , and so cure him of this romantic notion . He 's been through so many little trials of the sort , he 's used to it , and will soon get over his lovelornity . '' Jo spoke hopefully , but could not rid herself of the foreboding fear that this ` little trial ' would be harder than the others , and that Laurie would not get over his ` lovelornity ' as easily as heretofore . The plan was talked over in a family council and agreed upon , for Mrs. Kirke gladly accepted Jo , and promised to make a pleasant home for her . The teaching would render her independent , and such leisure as she got might be made profitable by writing , while the new scenes and society would be both useful and agreeable . Jo liked the prospect and was eager to be gone , for the home nest was growing too narrow for her restless nature and adventurous spirit . When all was settled , with fear and trembling she told Laurie , but to her surprise he took it very quietly . He had been graver than usual of late , but very pleasant , and when jokingly accused of turning over a new leaf , he answered soberly , `` So I am , and I mean this one shall stay turned . '' Jo was very much relieved that one of his virtuous fits should come on just then , and made her preparations with a lightened heart , for Beth seemed more cheerful , and hoped she was doing the best for all . `` One thing I leave in your especial care , '' she said , the night before she left . `` You mean your papers ? '' asked Beth . `` No , my boy . Be very good to him , wo n't you ? '' `` Of course I will , but I ca n't fill your place , and he 'll miss you sadly . '' `` It wo n't hurt him , so remember , I leave him in your charge , to plague , pet , and keep in order . '' `` I 'll do my best , for your sake , '' promised Beth , wondering why Jo looked at her so queerly . When Laurie said good-by , he whispered significantly , `` It wo n't do a bit of good , Jo . My eye is on you , so mind what you do , or I 'll come and bring you home . ''
CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE JO 'S JOURNAL New York , November Dear Marmee and XXXXX , I 'm going to write you a regular volume , for I 've got heaps to tell , though I 'm not a fine young lady traveling on the continent .
Beth Jo Kirke Laurie before heart independent left lovelornity pet