So Laurie did his best , and sang delightfully , being in a particularly lively humor , for to the Marches he seldom showed the moody side of his character . When he was gone , Amy , who had been pensive all evening , said suddenly , as if busy over some new idea , `` Is Laurie an accomplished boy ? '' `` Yes , he has had an excellent education , and has much talent . He will make a fine man , if not spoiled by petting , '' replied her mother . `` And he is n't conceited , is he ? '' asked Amy . `` Not in the least . That is why he is so charming and we all like him so much . '' `` I see . It 's nice to have accomplishments and be elegant , but not to show off or get perked up , '' said Amy thoughtfully . `` These things are always seen and felt in a person 's manner and conversations , if modestly used , but it is not necessary to display them , '' said Mrs. March . `` Any more than it 's proper to wear all your bonnets and gowns and ribbons at once , that folks may know you 've got them , '' added Jo , and the lecture ended in a laugh . CHAPTER EIGHT JO MEETS APOLLYON `` Girls , where are you going ? '' asked Amy , coming into their room one Saturday afternoon , and finding them getting ready to go out with an air of secrecy which excited her curiosity . `` Never mind . Little girls should n't ask questions , '' returned Jo sharply . Now if there is anything mortifying to our feelings when we are young , it is to be told that , and to be bidden to `` run away , dear '' is still more trying to us . Amy bridled up at this insult , and determined to find out the secret , if she teased for an hour . Turning to Meg , who never refused her anything very long , she said coaxingly , `` Do tell me ! I should think you might let me go , too , for Beth is fussing over her piano , and I have n't got anything to do , and am so lonely . ''
`` I ca n't , dear , because you are n't invited , '' began XXXXX , but Jo broke in impatiently , `` Now , Meg , be quiet or you will spoil it all .
APOLLYON Amy Beth Jo Laurie Meg afternoon bonnets evening hour