How could you shut me out , bear it all alone ? '' Jo 's voice was full of tender reproach , and her heart ached to think of the solitary struggle that must have gone on while Beth learned to say goodbye to health , love , and life , and take up her cross so cheerfully . `` Perhaps it was wrong , but I tried to do right . I was n't sure , no one said anything , and I hoped I was mistaken . It would have been selfish to frighten you all when Marmee was so anxious about Meg , and Amy away , and you so happy with Laurie -- at least I thought so then . '' `` And I thought you loved him , Beth , and I went away because I could n't , '' cried Jo , glad to say all the truth . Beth looked so amazed at the idea that Jo smiled in spite of her pain , and added softly , `` Then you did n't , dearie ? I was afraid it was so , and imagined your poor little heart full of lovelornity all that while . '' `` Why , Jo , how could I , when he was so fond of you ? '' asked Beth , as innocently as a child . `` I do love him dearly . He is so good to me , how can I help It ? But he could never be anything to me but my brother . I hope he truly will be , sometime . '' `` Not through me , '' said Jo decidedly . `` Amy is left for him , and they would suit excellently , but I have no heart for such things , now . I do n't care what becomes of anybody but you , Beth . You must get well . '' `` I want to , oh , so much ! I try , but every day I lose a little , and feel more sure that I shall never gain it back .
It 's like the tide , XXXXX , when it turns , it goes slowly , but it ca n't be stopped . ''
Amy Beth Jo Laurie Marmee day dearie left lovelornity right