It is n't fair that I should have the hardest work , and never any amusement . Men are very selfish , even the best of them . '' `` So are women . Do n't blame John till you see where you are wrong yourself . '' `` But it ca n't be right for him to neglect me . '' `` Do n't you neglect him ? '' `` Why , Mother , I thought you 'd take my part ! '' `` So I do , as far as sympathizing goes , but I think the fault is yours , Meg . '' `` I do n't see how . '' `` Let me show you . Did John ever neglect you , as you call it , while you made it a point to give him your society of an evening , his only leisure time ? '' `` No , but I ca n't do it now , with two babies to tend . '' `` I think you could , dear , and I think you ought . May I speak quite freely , and will you remember that it 's Mother who blames as well as Mother who sympathizes ? '' `` Indeed I will ! Speak to me as if I were little Meg again . I often feel as if I needed teaching more than ever since these babies look to me for everything . '' Meg drew her low chair beside her mother 's , and with a little interruption in either lap , the two women rocked and talked lovingly together , feeling that the tie of motherhood made them more one than ever . `` You have only made the mistake that most young wives make -- forgotten your duty to your husband in your love for your children . A very natural and forgivable mistake , Meg , but one that had better be remedied before you take to different ways , for children should draw you nearer than ever , not separate you , as if they were all yours , and John had nothing to do but support them .
I 've seen it for some weeks , but have not spoken , feeling sure it would come XXXXX in time . ''
John May Meg Mother children duty evening love right society