DAN Mrs Jo often thought that Dan had Indian blood in him , not only because of his love of a wild , wandering life , but his appearance ; for as he grew up , this became more striking . At twenty-five he was very tall , with sinewy limbs , a keen , dark face , and the alert look of one whose senses were all alive ; rough in manner , full of energy , quick with word and blow , eyes full of the old fire , always watchful as if used to keep guard , and a general air of vigour and freshness very charming to those who knew the dangers and delights of his adventurous life . He was looking his best as he sat talking with ` Mother Bhaer ' , one strong brown hand in hers , and a world of affection in his voice as he said : ` Forget old friends ! How could I forget the only home I ever knew ? Why , I was in such a hurry to come and tell my good luck that I did n't stop to fix up , you see ; though I knew you 'd think I looked more like a wild buffalo than ever , ' with a shake of his shaggy black head , a tug at his beard , and a laugh that made the room ring . ' I like it ; I always had a fancy for banditti -- and you look just like one . Mary , being a newcomer , was frightened at your looks and manners . Josie wo n't know you , but Ted will recognize his Danny in spite of the big beard and flowing mane . They will all be here soon to welcome you ; so before they come tell me more about yourself . Why , Dan , dear ! it 's nearly two years since you were here ! Has it gone well with you ? ' asked Mrs Jo , who had been listening with maternal interest to his account of life in California , and the unexpected success of a small investment he had made . ` First-rate ! I do n't care for the money , you know . I only want a trifle to pay my way -- rather earn as I go , and not be bothered with the care of a lot . It 's the fun of the thing coming to me , and my being able to give away , that I like . No use to lay up ; I sha n't live to be old and need it , -- my sort never do , ' said Dan , looking as if his little fortune rather oppressed him . ` But if you marry and settle somewhere , as I hope you will , you must have something to begin with , my son . So be prudent and invest your money ; do n't give it away , for rainy days come to all of us , and dependence would be very hard for you to bear , ' answered Mrs Jo with a sage air , though she liked to see that the money-making fever had not seized her lucky boy yet .
XXXXX shook his head , and glanced about the room as if he already found it rather confined and longed for all out-of-doors again .
California Dan Jo Josie Mary Ted banditti fire mane vigour