Do n't make plans , Jo , but let time and their own hearts mate your friends . We ca n't meddle safely in such matters , and had better not get ` romantic rubbish ' as you call it , into our heads , lest it spoil our friendship . '' `` Well , I wo n't , but I hate to see things going all crisscross and getting snarled up , when a pull here and a snip there would straighten it out . I wish wearing flatirons on our heads would keep us from growing up . But buds will be roses , and kittens cats , more 's the pity ! '' `` What 's that about flatirons and cats ? '' asked Meg , as she crept into the room with the finished letter in her hand . `` Only one of my stupid speeches . I 'm going to bed . Come , Peggy , '' said Jo , unfolding herself like an animated puzzle . `` Quite right , and beautifully written . Please add that I send my love to John , '' said Mrs. March , as she glanced over the letter and gave it back . `` Do you call him ` John ' ? '' asked Meg , smiling , with her innocent eyes looking down into her mother 's . `` Yes , he has been like a son to us , and we are very fond of him , '' replied Mrs. March , returning the look with a keen one . `` I 'm glad of that , he is so lonely . Good night , Mother , dear . It is so inexpressibly comfortable to have you here , '' was Meg 's answer . The kiss her mother gave her was a very tender one , and as she went away , Mrs. March said , with a mixture of satisfaction and regret , `` She does not love John yet , but will soon learn to . '' CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE LAURIE MAKES MISCHIEF , AND JO MAKES PEACE Jo 's face was a study next day , for the secret rather weighed upon her , and she found it hard not to look mysterious and important .
Meg observed it , but did not trouble herself to make inquiries , for she had learned that the best way to manage XXXXX was by the law of contraries , so she felt sure of being told everything if she did not ask .
Jo John LAURIE Meg Mother Peggy crisscross flatirons right snip