Although the oldest , Jo had the least self-control , and had hard times trying to curb the fiery spirit which was continually getting her into trouble . Her anger never lasted long , and having humbly confessed her fault , she sincerely repented and tried to do better . Her sisters used to say that they rather liked to get Jo into a fury because she was such an angel afterward . Poor Jo tried desperately to be good , but her bosom enemy was always ready to flame up and defeat her , and it took years of patient effort to subdue it . When they got home , they found Amy reading in the parlor . She assumed an injured air as they came in , never lifted her eyes from her book , or asked a single question . Perhaps curiosity might have conquered resentment , if Beth had not been there to inquire and receive a glowing description of the play . On going up to put away her best hat , Jo 's first look was toward the bureau , for in their last quarrel Amy had soothed her feelings by turning Jo 's top drawer upside down on the floor . Everything was in its place , however , and after a hasty glance into her various closets , bags , and boxes , Jo decided that Amy had forgiven and forgotten her wrongs . There Jo was mistaken , for next day she made a discovery which produced a tempest . Meg , Beth , and Amy were sitting together , late in the afternoon , when Jo burst into the room , looking excited and demanding breathlessly , `` Has anyone taken my book ? '' Meg and Beth said , `` No . '' at once , and looked surprised . Amy poked the fire and said nothing . Jo saw her color rise and was down upon her in a minute . `` Amy , you 've got it ! '' `` No , I have n't . '' `` You know where it is , then ! '' `` No , I do n't . '' `` That 's a fib ! ''
cried XXXXX , taking her by the shoulders , and looking fierce enough to frighten a much braver child than Amy .
Amy Beth Jo Meg afternoon fib fire first minute years