was the meek answer , as he began , doing his best to prove his gratitude for the favor of admission into the ` Busy Bee Society ' . The story was not a long one , and when it was finished , he ventured to ask a few questions as a reward of merit . `` Please , ma'am , could I inquire if this highly instructive and charming institution is a new one ? '' `` Would you tell him ? '' asked Meg of her sisters . `` He 'll laugh , '' said Amy warningly . `` Who cares ? '' said Jo . `` I guess he 'll like it , '' added Beth . `` Of course I shall ! I give you my word I wo n't laugh . Tell away , Jo , and do n't be afraid . '' `` The idea of being afraid of you ! Well , you see we used to play Pilgrim 's Progress , and we have been going on with it in earnest , all winter and summer . '' `` Yes , I know , '' said Laurie , nodding wisely . `` Who told you ? '' demanded Jo . `` Spirits . '' `` No , I did . I wanted to amuse him one night when you were all away , and he was rather dismal .
He did like it , so do n't scold , Jo , '' said XXXXX meekly .
Amy Beth Jo Laurie Meg Society Spirits night warningly word