Some poor creeter came a-beggin ' , and your ma went straight off to see what was needed . There never was such a woman for givin ' away vittles and drink , clothes and firin ' , '' replied Hannah , who had lived with the family since Meg was born , and was considered by them all more as a friend than a servant . `` She will be back soon , I think , so fry your cakes , and have everything ready , '' said Meg , looking over the presents which were collected in a basket and kept under the sofa , ready to be produced at the proper time . `` Why , where is Amy 's bottle of cologne ? '' she added , as the little flask did not appear . `` She took it out a minute ago , and went off with it to put a ribbon on it , or some such notion , '' replied Jo , dancing about the room to take the first stiffness off the new army slippers . `` How nice my handkerchiefs look , do n't they ? Hannah washed and ironed them for me , and I marked them all myself , '' said Beth , looking proudly at the somewhat uneven letters which had cost her such labor . `` Bless the child ! She 's gone and put ` Mother ' on them instead of 'M . March ' . How funny ! '' cried Jo , taking one up . `` Is n't that right ? I thought it was better to do it so , because Meg 's initials are M.M. , and I do n't want anyone to use these but Marmee , '' said Beth , looking troubled . `` It 's all right , dear , and a very pretty idea , quite sensible too , for no one can ever mistake now . It will please her very much , I know , '' said Meg , with a frown for Jo and a smile for Beth . `` There 's Mother . Hide the basket , quick ! '' cried Jo , as a door slammed and steps sounded in the hall .
XXXXX came in hastily , and looked rather abashed when she saw her sisters all waiting for her .
Amy M.M. Marmee Meg Mother firin first givin labor right