`` I knew a girl once , who had a really remarkable talent for music , and she did n't know it , never guessed what sweet little things she composed when she was alone , and would n't have believed it if anyone had told her . '' `` I wish I 'd known that nice girl . Maybe she would have helped me , I 'm so stupid , '' said Beth , who stood beside him , listening eagerly . `` You do know her , and she helps you better than anyone else could , '' answered Laurie , looking at her with such mischievous meaning in his merry black eyes that Beth suddenly turned very red , and hid her face in the sofa cushion , quite overcome by such an unexpected discovery . Jo let Laurie win the game to pay for that praise of her Beth , who could not be prevailed upon to play for them after her compliment . So Laurie did his best , and sang delightfully , being in a particularly lively humor , for to the Marches he seldom showed the moody side of his character . When he was gone , Amy , who had been pensive all evening , said suddenly , as if busy over some new idea , `` Is Laurie an accomplished boy ? '' `` Yes , he has had an excellent education , and has much talent . He will make a fine man , if not spoiled by petting , '' replied her mother . `` And he is n't conceited , is he ? '' asked Amy . `` Not in the least . That is why he is so charming and we all like him so much . '' `` I see . It 's nice to have accomplishments and be elegant , but not to show off or get perked up , '' said Amy thoughtfully . `` These things are always seen and felt in a person 's manner and conversations , if modestly used , but it is not necessary to display them , '' said Mrs. March . `` Any more than it 's proper to wear all your bonnets and gowns and ribbons at once , that folks may know you 've got them , '' added Jo , and the lecture ended in a laugh . CHAPTER EIGHT JO MEETS APOLLYON `` Girls , where are you going ? '' asked Amy , coming into their room one Saturday afternoon , and finding them getting ready to go out with an air of secrecy which excited her curiosity . `` Never mind .
Little girls should n't ask questions , '' returned XXXXX sharply .
APOLLYON Amy Beth Jo Laurie accomplishments afternoon bonnets evening petting