`` Yankees are a deal the most tricky , everybody knows . There you go ! '' returned Fred , croqueting her ball far away . Jo opened her lips to say something rude , but checked herself in time , colored up to her forehead and stood a minute , hammering down a wicket with all her might , while Fred hit the stake and declared himself out with much exultation . She went off to get her ball , and was a long time finding it among the bushes , but she came back , looking cool and quiet , and waited her turn patiently . It took several strokes to regain the place she had lost , and when she got there , the other side had nearly won , for Kate 's ball was the last but one and lay near the stake . `` By George , it 's all up with us ! Goodbye , Kate . Miss Jo owes me one , so you are finished , '' cried Fred excitedly , as they all drew near to see the finish . `` Yankees have a trick of being generous to their enemies , '' said Jo , with a look that made the lad redden , `` especially when they beat them , '' she added , as , leaving Kate 's ball untouched , she won the game by a clever stroke . Laurie threw up his hat , then remembered that it would n't do to exult over the defeat of his guests , and stopped in the middle of the cheer to whisper to his friend , `` Good for you , Jo ! He did cheat , I saw him . We ca n't tell him so , but he wo n't do it again , take my word for it . '' Meg drew her aside , under pretense of pinning up a loose braid , and said approvingly , `` It was dreadfully provoking , but you kept your temper , and I 'm so glad , Jo . '' `` Do n't praise me , Meg , for I could box his ears this minute . I should certainly have boiled over if I had n't stayed among the nettles till I got my rage under control enough to hold my tongue . It 's simmering now , so I hope he 'll keep out of my way , '' returned Jo , biting her lips as she glowered at Fred from under her big hat . `` Time for lunch , '' said Mr. Brooke , looking at his watch . `` Commissary general , will you make the fire and get water , while Miss March , Miss Sallie , and I spread the table ? Who can make good coffee ? ''
`` Jo can , '' said XXXXX , glad to recommend her sister .
Brooke Fred George Jo Kate Laurie Meg Yankees nettles redden