What would Meg say ? '' `` You are not to tell anyone . Mind that . '' `` I did n't promise . '' `` That was understood , and I trusted you . '' `` Well , I wo n't for the present , anyway , but I 'm disgusted , and wish you had n't told me . '' `` I thought you 'd be pleased . '' `` At the idea of anybody coming to take Meg away ? No , thank you . '' `` You 'll feel better about it when somebody comes to take you away . '' `` I 'd like to see anyone try it , '' cried Jo fiercely . `` So should I ! '' and Laurie chuckled at the idea . `` I do n't think secrets agree with me , I feel rumpled up in my mind since you told me that , '' said Jo rather ungratefully . `` Race down this hill with me , and you 'll be all right , '' suggested Laurie . No one was in sight , the smooth road sloped invitingly before her , and finding the temptation irresistible , Jo darted away , soon leaving hat and comb behind her and scattering hairpins as she ran . Laurie reached the goal first and was quite satisfied with the success of his treatment , for his Atlanta came panting up with flying hair , bright eyes , ruddy cheeks , and no signs of dissatisfaction in her face . `` I wish I was a horse , then I could run for miles in this splendid air , and not lose my breath . It was capital , but see what a guy it 's made me . Go , pick up my things , like a cherub , as you are , '' said Jo , dropping down under a maple tree , which was carpeting the bank with crimson leaves .
XXXXX leisurely departed to recover the lost property , and Jo bundled up her braids , hoping no one would pass by till she was tidy again .
Atlanta Jo Laurie Meg breath cherub first hairpins idea right