The young lady herself received the news as tidings of great joy , went about in a solemn sort of rapture , and began to sort her colors and pack her pencils that evening , leaving such trifles as clothes , money , and passports to those less absorbed in visions of art than herself . `` It is n't a mere pleasure trip to me , girls , '' she said impressively , as she scraped her best palette . `` It will decide my career , for if I have any genius , I shall find it out in Rome , and will do something to prove it . '' `` Suppose you have n't ? '' said Jo , sewing away , with red eyes , at the new collars which were to be handed over to Amy . `` Then I shall come home and teach drawing for my living , '' replied the aspirant for fame , with philosophic composure . But she made a wry face at the prospect , and scratched away at her palette as if bent on vigorous measures before she gave up her hopes . `` No , you wo n't . You hate hard work , and you 'll marry some rich man , and come home to sit in the lap of luxury all your days , '' said Jo . `` Your predictions sometimes come to pass , but I do n't believe that one will . I 'm sure I wish it would , for if I ca n't be an artist myself , I should like to be able to help those who are , '' said Amy , smiling , as if the part of Lady Bountiful would suit her better than that of a poor drawing teacher . `` Hum ! '' said Jo , with a sigh . `` If you wish it you 'll have it , for your wishes are always granted -- mine never . '' `` Would you like to go ? '' asked Amy , thoughtfully patting her nose with her knife . `` Rather ! '' `` Well , in a year or two I 'll send for you , and we 'll dig in the Forum for relics , and carry out all the plans we 've made so many times . '' `` Thank you . I 'll remind you of your promise when that joyful day comes , if it ever does , '' returned Jo , accepting the vague but magnificent offer as gratefully as she could .
There was not much time for preparation , and the house was in a ferment till XXXXX was off .
Amy Bountiful Jo Rome day days evening passports relics trifles