`` Ought n't I to be there ? '' `` Not all the time , too much confinement makes you nervous , and then you are unfitted for everything . Besides , you owe something to John as well as to the babies . Do n't neglect husband for children , do n't shut him out of the nursery , but teach him how to help in it . His place is there as well as yours , and the children need him . Let him feel that he has a part to do , and he will do it gladly and faithfully , and it will be better for you all . '' `` You really think so , Mother ? '' `` I know it , Meg , for I 've tried it , and I seldom give advice unless I 've proved its practicability . When you and Jo were little , I went on just as you are , feeling as if I did n't do my duty unless I devoted myself wholly to you . Poor Father took to his books , after I had refused all offers of help , and left me to try my experiment alone . I struggled along as well as I could , but Jo was too much for me . I nearly spoiled her by indulgence . You were poorly , and I worried about you till I fell sick myself . Then Father came to the rescue , quietly managed everything , and made himself so helpful that I saw my mistake , and never have been able to get on without him since . That is the secret of our home happiness . He does not let business wean him from the little cares and duties that affect us all , and I try not to let domestic worries destroy my interest in his pursuits . Each do our part alone in many things , but at home we work together , always . '' `` It is so , Mother , and my great wish is to be to my husband and children what you have been to yours . Show me how , I 'll do anything you say . '' `` You always were my docile daughter .
Well , dear , if I were you , I 'd let XXXXX have more to do with the management of Demi , for the boy needs training , and it 's none too soon to begin .
Father Jo John Meg Mother duty home indulgence left something