`` Really , truly , Jo ? '' He stopped short , and caught both her hands as he put his question with a look that she did not soon forget . `` Really , truly , dear . '' They were in the grove now , close by the stile , and when the last words fell reluctantly from Jo 's lips , Laurie dropped her hands and turned as if to go on , but for once in his life the fence was too much for him . So he just laid his head down on the mossy post , and stood so still that Jo was frightened . `` Oh , Teddy , I 'm sorry , so desperately sorry , I could kill myself if it would do any good ! I wish you would n't take it so hard , I ca n't help it . You know it 's impossible for people to make themselves love other people if they do n't , '' cried Jo inelegantly but remorsefully , as she softly patted his shoulder , remembering the time when he had comforted her so long ago . `` They do sometimes , '' said a muffled voice from the post . `` I do n't believe it 's the right sort of love , and I 'd rather not try it , '' was the decided answer . There was a long pause , while a blackbird sung blithely on the willow by the river , and the tall grass rustled in the wind . Presently Jo said very soberly , as she sat down on the step of the stile , `` Laurie , I want to tell you something . '' He started as if he had been shot , threw up his head , and cried out in a fierce tone , `` Do n't tell me that , Jo , I ca n't bear it now ! '' `` Tell what ? '' she asked , wondering at his violence . `` That you love that old man . '' `` What old man ? '' demanded Jo , thinking he must mean his grandfather . `` That devilish Professor you were always writing about . If you say you love him , I know I shall do something desperate ; '' and he looked as if he would keep his word , as he clenched his hands with a wrathful spark in his eyes .
XXXXX wanted to laugh , but restrained herself and said warmly , for she too , was getting excited with all this , `` Do n't swear , Teddy !
Jo Laurie Professor eyes fence head lips right stile violence