I never forgot it , and it did me more good than a dozen rods . '' Nan sat thoughtfully turning the little cold-cream jar for a minute , and Mrs. Jo said nothing , but let that idea get well into the busy little mind that was so quick to see and feel what went on about her . `` I like that , '' said Nan , presently , and her face looked less elfish , with its sharp eyes , inquisitive nose , and mischievous mouth . `` What did your mother do to you when you ran away that time ? '' `` She tied me to the bed-post with a long string , so that I could not go out of the room , and there I stayed all day with the little worn-out shoes hanging up before me to remind me of my fault . '' `` I should think that would cure anybody , '' cried Nan , who loved her liberty above all things . `` It did cure me , and I think it will you , so I am going to try it , '' said Mrs. Jo , suddenly taking a ball of strong twine out of a drawer in her work-table . Nan looked as if she was decidedly getting the worst of the argument now , and sat feeling much crestfallen while Mrs. Jo tied one end round her waist and the other to the arm of the sofa , saying , as she finished , `` I do n't like to tie you up like a naughty little dog , but if you do n't remember any better than a dog , I must treat you like one . '' `` I 'd just as lief be tied up as not I like to play dog ; '' and Nan put on a do n't - care face , and began to growl and grovel on the floor . Mrs. Jo took no notice , but leaving a book or two and a handkerchief to hem , she went away , and left Miss Nan to her own devices . This was not agreeable , and after sitting a moment she tried to untie the cord . But it was fastened in the belt of her apron behind , so she began on the knot at the other end . It soon came loose , and , gathering it up , Nan was about to get out of the window , when she heard Mrs. Jo say to somebody as she passed through the hall , `` No , I do n't think she will run away now ; she is an honorable little girl , and knows that I do it to help her . '' In a minute , Nan whisked back , tied herself up , and began to sew violently . Rob came in a moment after , and was so charmed with the new punishment , that he got a jump-rope and tethered himself to the other arm of the sofa in the most social manner . `` I got lost too , so I ought to be tied up as much as Nan , '' he explained to his mother when she saw the new captive . `` I 'm not sure that you do n't deserve a little punishment , for you knew it was wrong to go far away from the rest . '' `` Nan took me , '' began Rob , willing to enjoy the novel penalty , but not willing to take the blame . `` You need n't have gone . You have got a conscience , though you are a little boy , and you must learn to mind it . ''
`` Well , my conscience did n't prick me a bit when she said ` Let 's get over the wall , ' '' answered XXXXX , quoting one of Demi 's expressions .
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