If I do n't seem to need help , it is because I have a better friend , even than Father , to comfort and sustain me . My child , the troubles and temptations of your life are beginning and may be many , but you can overcome and outlive them all if you learn to feel the strength and tenderness of your Heavenly Father as you do that of your earthly one . The more you love and trust Him , the nearer you will feel to Him , and the less you will depend on human power and wisdom . His love and care never tire or change , can never be taken from you , but may become the source of lifelong peace , happiness , and strength . Believe this heartily , and go to God with all your little cares , and hopes , and sins , and sorrows , as freely and confidingly as you come to your mother . '' Jo 's only answer was to hold her mother close , and in the silence which followed the sincerest prayer she had ever prayed left her heart without words . For in that sad yet happy hour , she had learned not only the bitterness of remorse and despair , but the sweetness of self-denial and self-control , and led by her mother 's hand , she had drawn nearer to the Friend who always welcomes every child with a love stronger than that of any father , tenderer than that of any mother . Amy stirred and sighed in her sleep , and as if eager to begin at once to mend her fault , Jo looked up with an expression on her face which it had never worn before . `` I let the sun go down on my anger . I would n't forgive her , and today , if it had n't been for Laurie , it might have been too late ! How could I be so wicked ? '' said Jo , half aloud , as she leaned over her sister softly stroking the wet hair scattered on the pillow . As if she heard , Amy opened her eyes , and held out her arms , with a smile that went straight to Jo 's heart . Neither said a word , but they hugged one another close , in spite of the blankets , and everything was forgiven and forgotten in one hearty kiss . CHAPTER NINE MEG GOES TO VANITY FAIR `` I do think it was the most fortunate thing in the world that those children should have the measles just now , '' said Meg , one April day , as she stood packing the ` go abroady ' trunk in her room , surrounded by her sisters . `` And so nice of Annie Moffat not to forget her promise . A whole fortnight of fun will be regularly splendid , '' replied Jo , looking like a windmill as she folded skirts with her long arms . `` And such lovely weather , I 'm so glad of that , '' added Beth , tidily sorting neck and hair ribbons in her best box , lent for the great occasion . `` I wish I was going to have a fine time and wear all these nice things , '' said Amy with her mouth full of pins , as she artistically replenished her sister 's cushion . `` I wish you were all going , but as you ca n't , I shall keep my adventures to tell you when I come back .
I 'm sure it 's the least I can do when you have been so kind , lending me things and helping me get ready , '' said XXXXX , glancing round the room at the very simple outfit , which seemed nearly perfect in their eyes .
Beth Father Jo Laurie Meg Moffat abroady fortnight hour tenderer