These sturdy Westerners are hungry for learning , and very quick to see and choose the best , ' added ever-young Mr March , beholding with his prophetic eye many duplicates of their own flourishing establishment springing up in the wide West . ` Go on , Dan . It is a fine plan , and we will back you up . I should n't mind investing in a few prairies and cowboys myself , ' said Mr Laurie , always ready to help the lads to help themselves , both by his cheery words and ever-open purse . ' A little money sort of ballasts a fellow , and investing it in land anchors him -- for a while , at least . I 'd like to see what I can do , but I thought I 'd consult you before I decided . Have my doubts about it suiting me for many years ; but I can cut loose when I 'm tired , ' answered Dan , both touched and pleased at the eager interest of these friends in his plans . ' I know you wo n't like it . After having the whole world to roam over , one farm will seem dreadfully small and stupid , ' said Josie , who much preferred the romance of the wandering life which brought her thrilling tales and pretty things at each return . ` Is there any art out there ? ' asked Bess , thinking what a good study in black and white Dan would make as he stood talking , half turned from the light . ` Plenty of nature , dear ; and that is better . You will find splendid animals to model , and scenery such as you never saw in Europe to paint . Even prosaic pumpkins are grand out there . You can play Cinderella in one of them , Josie , when you open your theatre in Dansville , ' said Mr Laurie , anxious that no cold water should be thrown on the new plan . Stage-struck Josie was caught at once , and being promised all the tragic parts on the yet unbuilt stage , she felt a deep interest in the project and begged Dan to lose no time in beginning his experiment . Bess also confessed that studies from nature would be good for her , and wild scenery improve her taste , which might grow over-nice if only the delicate and beautiful were set before her . ' I speak for the practice of the new town , ' said Nan , always eager for fresh enterprises . ' I shall be ready by the time you get well started -- towns grow so fast out there . ' ` Dan is n't going to allow any woman under forty in his place .
He does n't like them , ` specially young and pretty ones , ' put in Tom , who was raging with jealousy , because he read admiration for Nan in XXXXX 's eyes .
Bess Dan Europe Laurie Nan West duplicates prairies pumpkins years