You laugh at me when I say I want to be a lady , but I mean a true gentlewoman in mind and manners , and I try to do it as far as I know how . I ca n't explain exactly , but I want to be above the little meannesses and follies and faults that spoil so many women . I 'm far from it now , but I do my best , and hope in time to be what Mother is . '' Amy spoke earnestly , and Jo said , with a cordial hug , `` I understand now what you mean , and I 'll never laugh at you again . You are getting on faster than you think , and I 'll take lessons of you in true politeness , for you 've learned the secret , I believe . Try away , deary , you 'll get your reward some day , and no one will be more delighted than I shall . '' A week later Amy did get her reward , and poor Jo found it hard to be delighted . A letter came from Aunt Carrol , and Mrs. March 's face was illuminated to such a degree when she read it that Jo and Beth , who were with her , demanded what the glad tidings were . `` Aunt Carrol is going abroad next month , and wants ... '' `` Me to go with her ! '' burst in Jo , flying out of her chair in an uncontrollable rapture . `` No , dear , not you . It 's Amy . '' `` Oh , Mother ! She 's too young , it 's my turn first . I 've wanted it so long . It would do me so much good , and be so altogether splendid . I must go ! '' `` I 'm afraid it 's impossible , Jo . Aunt says Amy , decidedly , and it is not for us to dictate when she offers such a favor . '' `` It 's always so .
XXXXX has all the fun and I have all the work .
Amy Beth Carrol Jo Mother day deary first gentlewoman meannesses