Daisy was lying down with a wet cheek on the little hymnbook out of which she and Nat used to sing together ; so Mrs Jo strolled about the lawn , looking very like a wandering mushroom with her large buff umbrella . Dan had gone for a ten-mile stroll ; and Nat was supposed to have accompanied him , but presently came sneaking back , unable to tear himself away from the Dovecote or lose a moment of nearness to his idol that last day . Mrs Jo saw him at once , and beckoned him to a rustic seat under the old elm , where they could have their confidences undisturbed , and both keep an eye on a certain white-curtained window , half hidden in vines . ` Nice and cool here . I 'm not up to one of Dan 's tramps today -- it 's so warm , and he goes so like a steam-engine . He headed for the swamp where his pet snakes used to live , and I begged to be excused , ' said Nat , fanning himself with his straw hat , though the day was not oppressive . ` I 'm glad you did . Sit and rest with me , and have one of our good old talks . We 've both been so busy lately , I feel as if I did n't half know your plans ; and I want to , ' answered Mrs Jo , feeling sure that though they might start with Leipzig they would bring up at Plumfield . ` You are very kind , and there 's nothing I 'd like better . I do n't realize I 'm going so far -- suppose I sha n't till I get afloat . It 's a splendid start , and I do n't know how I can ever thank Mr Laurie for all he 's done , or you either , ' added Nat , with a break in his voice ; for he was a tender-hearted fellow , and never forgot a kindness . ` You can thank us beautifully by being and doing all we hope and expect of you , my dear . In the new life you are going to there will be a thousand trials and temptations , and only your own wit and wisdom to rely on . That will be the time to test the principles we have tried to give you , and see how firm they are . Of course , you will make mistakes -- we all do ; but do n't let go of your conscience and drift along blindly . Watch and pray , dear Nat ; and while your hand gains skill , let your head grow wiser , and keep your heart as innocent and warm as it is now . ' ` I 'll try , Mother Bhaer , my very best to be a credit to you . I know I shall improve in my music -- ca n't help it there ; but I never shall be very wise , I 'm afraid . As for my heart , you know , I leave it behind me in good keeping . '
As he spoke , XXXXX 's eyes were fixed on the window with a look of love and longing that made his quiet face both manly and sad -- plainly showing how strong a hold this boyish affection had upon him . '
Bhaer Dan Dovecote Laurie Leipzig Nat Plumfield hymnbook steam-engine tramps