Jo skipped up , and sitting on the top step , affected to be searching for her book , but was really wondering how best to introduce the dangerous object of her visit . Mr. Laurence seemed to suspect that something was brewing in her mind , for after taking several brisk turns about the room , he faced round on her , speaking so abruptly that Rasselas tumbled face downward on the floor . `` What has that boy been about ? Do n't try to shield him . I know he has been in mischief by the way he acted when he came home . I ca n't get a word from him , and when I threatened to shake the truth out of him he bolted upstairs and locked himself into his room . '' `` He did wrong , but we forgave him , and all promised not to say a word to anyone , '' began Jo reluctantly . `` That wo n't do . He shall not shelter himself behind a promise from you softhearted girls . If he 's done anything amiss , he shall confess , beg pardon , and be punished . Out with it , Jo . I wo n't be kept in the dark . '' Mr. Laurence looked so alarming and spoke so sharply that Jo would have gladly run away , if she could , but she was perched aloft on the steps , and he stood at the foot , a lion in the path , so she had to stay and brave it out . `` Indeed , Sir , I can not tell . Mother forbade it . Laurie has confessed , asked pardon , and been punished quite enough . We do n't keep silence to shield him , but someone else , and it will make more trouble if you interfere . Please do n't . It was partly my fault , but it 's all right now . So let 's forget it , and talk about the Rambler or something pleasant . ''
`` Hang the XXXXX !
Jo Laurence Laurie Mother Rambler Rasselas Sir promise something visit