`` We do . Write something for us , and never mind the rest of the world . Try it , dear . I 'm sure it would do you good , and please us very much . '' `` Do n't believe I can . '' But Jo got out her desk and began to overhaul her half-finished manuscripts . An hour afterward her mother peeped in and there she was , scratching away , with her black pinafore on , and an absorbed expression , which caused Mrs. March to smile and slip away , well pleased with the success of her suggestion . Jo never knew how it happened , but something got into that story that went straight to the hearts of those who read it , for when her family had laughed and cried over it , her father sent it , much against her will , to one of the popular magazines , and to her utter surprise , it was not only paid for , but others requested . Letters from several persons , whose praise was honor , followed the appearance of the little story , newspapers copied it , and strangers as well as friends admired it . For a small thing it was a great success , and Jo was more astonished than when her novel was commended and condemned all at once . `` I do n't understand it . What can there be in a simple little story like that to make people praise it so ? '' she said , quite bewildered . `` There is truth in it , Jo , that 's the secret . Humor and pathos make it alive , and you have found your style at last . You wrote with no thoughts of fame and money , and put your heart into it , my daughter . You have had the bitter , now comes the sweet . Do your best , and grow as happy as we are in your success . '' `` If there is anything good or true in what I write , it is n't mine . I owe it all to you and Mother and Beth , '' said Jo , more touched by her father 's words than by any amount of praise from the world .
So taught by love and sorrow , XXXXX wrote her little stories , and sent them away to make friends for themselves and her , finding it a very charitable world to such humble wanderers , for they were kindly welcomed , and sent home comfortable tokens to their mother , like dutiful children whom good fortune overtakes .
Beth Jo Mother family friends hour others pinafore rest something