`` By the way , Jo , I think that little Parker is really getting desperate about Amy . He talks of her constantly , writes poetry , and moons about in a most suspicious manner . He 'd better nip his little passion in the bud , had n't he ? '' added Laurie , in a confidential , elder brotherly tone , after a minute 's silence . `` Of course he had . We do n't want any more marrying in this family for years to come . Mercy on us , what are the children thinking of ? '' and Jo looked as much scandalized as if Amy and little Parker were not yet in their teens . `` It 's a fast age , and I do n't know what we are coming to , ma'am . You are a mere infant , but you 'll go next , Jo , and we 'll be left lamenting , '' said Laurie , shaking his head over the degeneracy of the times . `` Do n't be alarmed . I 'm not one of the agreeable sort . Nobody will want me , and it 's a mercy , for there should always be one old maid in a family . '' `` You wo n't give anyone a chance , '' said Laurie , with a sidelong glance and a little more color than before in his sunburned face . `` You wo n't show the soft side of your character , and if a fellow gets a peep at it by accident and ca n't help showing that he likes it , you treat him as Mrs. Gummidge did her sweetheart , throw cold water over him , and get so thorny no one dares touch or look at you . '' `` I do n't like that sort of thing . I 'm too busy to be worried with nonsense , and I think it 's dreadful to break up families so . Now do n't say any more about it . Meg 's wedding has turned all our heads , and we talk of nothing but lovers and such absurdities . I do n't wish to get cross , so let 's change the subject ; '' and Jo looked quite ready to fling cold water on the slightest provocation .
Whatever his feelings might have been , Laurie found a vent for them in a long low whistle and the fearful prediction as they parted at the gate , `` Mark my words , XXXXX , you 'll go next . ''
Amy Gummidge Jo Laurie Meg Parker accident degeneracy minute years