Something in his speech and face made Mrs. Jo put her hand on his shoulder , and say in her kindest tone : `` Bring in your friend , Nat ; I think we must find room for him without giving him your place . '' Nat joyfully ran off , and soon returned followed by a most unprepossessing boy , who slouched in and stood looking about him , with a half bold , half sullen look , which made Mrs. Bhaer say to herself , after one glance , `` A bad specimen , I am afraid . '' `` This is Dan , '' said Nat , presenting him as if sure of his welcome . `` Nat tells me you would like to come and stay with us , '' began Mrs. Jo , in a friendly tone . `` Yes , '' was the gruff reply . `` Have you no friends to take care of you ? '' `` No . '' `` Say , ` No , ma'am , ' '' whispered Nat . `` Sha n't neither , '' muttered Dan . `` How old are you ? '' `` About fourteen . '' `` You look older . What can you do ? '' '' ` Most anything . '' `` If you stay here we shall want you to do as the others do , work and study as well as play . Are you willing to agree to that ? '' `` Do n't mind trying . '' `` Well , you can stay a few days , and we will see how we get on together . Take him out , Nat , and amuse him till Mr. Bhaer comes home , when we will settle about the matter , '' said Mrs. Jo , finding it rather difficult to get on with this cool young person , who fixed his big black eyes on her with a hard , suspicious expression , sorrowfully unboyish . `` Come on , Nat , '' he said , and slouched out again .
`` Thank you , ma'am , '' added XXXXX , as he followed him , feeling without quite understanding the difference in the welcome given to him and to his ungracious friend .
Bhaer Dan Jo Nat anything days look others specimen speech