`` Now , my ` pilgrims ' amuse yourselves quietly till tea-time , for you will have enough excitement this evening , '' said Mrs. Jo , as they rose from the table after a protracted sitting , finished by drinking every one 's health in cider . `` I think I will take the whole flock for a drive , it is so pleasant ; then you can rest , my dear , or you will be worn out this evening , '' added Mr. Bhaer ; and as soon as coats and hats could be put on , the great omnibus was packed full , and away they went for a long gay drive , leaving Mrs. Jo to rest and finish sundry small affairs in peace . An early and light tea was followed by more brushing of hair and washing of hands ; then the flock waited impatiently for the company to come . Only the family was expected ; for these small revels were strictly domestic , and such being the case , sorrow was not allowed to sadden the present festival . All came ; Mr. and Mrs. March , with Aunt Meg , so sweet and lovely , in spite of her black dress and the little widow 's cap that encircled her tranquil face . Uncle Teddy and Aunt Amy , with the Princess looking more fairy-like than ever , in a sky-blue gown , and a great bouquet of hot-house flowers , which she divided among the boys , sticking one in each button-hole , making them feel peculiarly elegant and festive . One strange face appeared , and Uncle Teddy led the unknown gentleman up to the Bhaers , saying , `` This is Mr. Hyde ; he has been inquiring about Dan , and I ventured to bring him to-night , that he might see how much the boy has improved . '' The Bhaers received him cordially , for Dan 's sake , pleased that the lad had been remembered . But , after a few minutes ' chat , they were glad to know Mr. Hyde for his own sake , so genial , simple , and interesting was he . It was pleasant to see the boy 's face light up when he caught sight of his friend ; pleasanter still to see Mr. Hyde 's surprise and satisfaction in Dan 's improved manners and appearance , and pleasantest of all to watch the two sit talking in a corner , forgetting the differences of age , culture , and position , in the one subject which interested both , as man and boy compared notes , and told the story of their summer life . `` The performance must begin soon , or the actors will go to sleep , '' said Mrs. Jo , when the first greetings were over . So every one went into the school-room , and took seats before a curtain made of two bed-covers . The children had already vanished ; but stifled laughter , and funny little exclamations from behind the curtain , betrayed their whereabouts . The entertainment began with a spirited exhibition of gymnastics , led by Franz . The six elder lads , in blue trousers and red shirts , made a fine display of muscle with dumb-bells , clubs , and weights , keeping time to the music of the piano , played by Mrs. Jo behind the scenes . Dan was so energetic in this exercise , that there was some danger of his knocking down his neighbors , like so many nine-pins , or sending his bean-bags whizzing among the audience ; for he was excited by Mr. Hyde 's presence , and a burning desire to do honor to his teachers . `` A fine , strong lad . If I go on my trip to South America , in a year or two , I shall be tempted to ask you to lend him to me , Mr. Bhaer , '' said Mr. Hyde , whose interest in Dan was much increased by the report he had just heard of him . `` You shall have him , and welcome , though we shall miss our young Hercules very much . It would do him a world of good , and I am sure he would serve his friend faithfully . ''
Dan heard both question and answer , and his heart leaped with joy at the thought of travelling in a new country with Mr. XXXXX , and swelled with gratitude for the kindly commendation which rewarded his efforts to be all these friends desired to see him .
America Franz Hyde Princess Teddy bean-bags button-hole dumb-bells minutes school-room