`` Well , I do n't know about that , '' began Mrs. Bhaer , rather startled by the coolness of the proposition . `` Why , I thought you liked to have poor boys come and live with you , and be kind to 'em as you were to me , '' said Nat , looking surprised and alarmed . `` So I do , but I like to know something about them first . I have to choose them , because there are so many . I have not room for all . I wish I had . '' `` I told him to come because I thought you 'd like it , but if there is n't room he can go away again , '' said Nat , sorrowfully . The boy 's confidence in her hospitality touched Mrs. Bhaer , and she could not find the heart to disappoint his hope , and spoil his kind little plan , so she said , `` Tell me about this Dan . '' `` I do n't know any thing , only he has n't got any folks , and he 's poor , and he was good to me , so I 'd like to be good to him if I could . '' `` Excellent reasons every one ; but really , Nat , the house is full , and I do n't know where I could put him , '' said Mrs. Bhaer , more and more inclined to prove herself the haven of refuge he seemed to think her . `` He could have my bed , and I could sleep in the barn . It is n't cold now , and I do n't mind , I used to sleep anywhere with father , '' said Nat , eagerly . 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 XXXXX .
Bhaer Dan Jo Nat confidence coolness first proposition reasons tone