He said he would gladly if he could find as good a school for girls as ours was for boys . I know he would rejoice to have her come ; so suppose we drive over this afternoon and see about it . '' `` Have not you cares enough now , my Jo , without this little gypsy to torment you ? '' asked Mr. Bhaer , patting the hand that lay on his arm . `` Oh dear , no , '' said Mother Bhaer , briskly . `` I like it , and never was happier than since I had my wilderness of boys . You see , Fritz , I feel a great sympathy for Nan , because I was such a naughty child myself that I know all about it . She is full of spirits , and only needs to be taught what to do with them to be as nice a little girl as Daisy . Those quick wits of hers would enjoy lessons if they were rightly directed , and what is now a tricksy midget would soon become a busy , happy child . I know how to manage her , for I remember how my blessed mother managed me , and -- '' `` And if you succeed half as well as she did , you will have done a magnificent work , '' interrupted Mr. Bhaer , who labored under the delusion that Mrs. B. was the best and most charming woman alive . `` Now , if you make fun of my plan I 'll give you bad coffee for a week , and then where are you , sir ? '' cried Mrs. Jo , tweaking him by the ear just as if he was one of the boys . `` Wo n't Daisy 's hair stand erect with horror at Nan 's wild ways ? '' asked Mr. Bhaer , presently , when Teddy had swarmed up his waistcoat , and Rob up his back , for they always flew at their father the minute school was done . `` At first , perhaps , but it will do Posy good . She is getting prim and Bettyish , and needs stirring up a bit . She always has a good time when Nan comes over to play , and the two will help each other without knowing it . Dear me , half the science of teaching is knowing how much children do for one another , and when to mix them . '' `` I only hope she wo n't turn out another firebrand . '' `` My poor Dan !
I never can quite forgive myself for letting him go , '' sighed Mrs. XXXXX .
Bhaer Dan Fritz Jo Nan Posy Teddy afternoon first midget