`` She is trying to like politics for my sake , so I 'll try and like millinery for hers , that 's only fair , '' thought John the Just , adding aloud , `` That 's very pretty . Is it what you call a breakfast cap ? '' `` My dear man , it 's a bonnet ! My very best go-to-concert-and-theater bonnet . '' `` I beg your pardon , it was so small , I naturally mistook it for one of the flyaway things you sometimes wear . How do you keep it on ? '' `` These bits of lace are fastened under the chin with a rosebud , so , '' and Meg illustrated by putting on the bonnet and regarding him with an air of calm satisfaction that was irresistible . `` It 's a love of a bonnet , but I prefer the face inside , for it looks young and happy again , '' and John kissed the smiling face , to the great detriment of the rosebud under the chin . `` I 'm glad you like it , for I want you to take me to one of the new concerts some night . I really need some music to put me in tune . Will you , please ? '' `` Of course I will , with all my heart , or anywhere else you like . You have been shut up so long , it will do you no end of good , and I shall enjoy it , of all things . What put it into your head , little mother ? '' `` Well , I had a talk with Marmee the other day , and told her how nervous and cross and out of sorts I felt , and she said I needed change and less care , so Hannah is to help me with the children , and I 'm to see to things about the house more , and now and then have a little fun , just to keep me from getting to be a fidgety , broken-down old woman before my time . It 's only an experiment , John , and I want to try it for your sake as much as for mine , because I 've neglected you shamefully lately , and I 'm going to make home what it used to be , if I can . You do n't object , I hope ? '' Never mind what John said , or what a very narrow escape the little bonnet had from utter ruin . All that we have any business to know is that John did not appear to object , judging from the changes which gradually took place in the house and its inmates . It was not all Paradise by any means , but everyone was better for the division of labor system .
The children throve under the paternal rule , for accurate , steadfast John brought order and obedience into Babydom , while XXXXX recovered her spirits and composed her nerves by plenty of wholesome exercise , a little pleasure , and much confidential conversation with her sensible husband .
Hannah John Meg escape house labor love night pardon rosebud