was the sharp answer . `` Oh , dear no , Sir . You are rather too kind sometimes , and then just a trifle hasty when he tries your patience . Do n't you think you are ? '' Jo was determined to have it out now , and tried to look quite placid , though she quaked a little after her bold speech . To her great relief and surprise , the old gentleman only threw his spectacles onto the table with a rattle and exclaimed frankly , `` You 're right , girl , I am ! I love the boy , but he tries my patience past bearing , and I know how it will end , if we go on so . '' `` I 'll tell you , he 'll run away . '' Jo was sorry for that speech the minute it was made . She meant to warn him that Laurie would not bear much restraint , and hoped he would be more forebearing with the lad . Mr. Laurence 's ruddy face changed suddenly , and he sat down , with a troubled glance at the picture of a handsome man , which hung over his table . It was Laurie 's father , who had run away in his youth , and married against the imperious old man 's will . Jo fancied he remembered and regretted the past , and she wished she had held her tongue . `` He wo n't do it unless he is very much worried , and only threatens it sometimes , when he gets tired of studying . I often think I should like to , especially since my hair was cut , so if you ever miss us , you may advertise for two boys and look among the ships bound for India . '' She laughed as she spoke , and Mr. Laurence looked relieved , evidently taking the whole as a joke . `` You hussy , how dare you talk in that way ? Where 's your respect for me , and your proper bringing up ? Bless the boys and girls ! What torments they are , yet we ca n't do without them , '' he said , pinching her cheeks good-humoredly .
`` Go and bring that boy down to his dinner , tell him it 's all XXXXX , and advise him not to put on tragedy airs with his grandfather .
India Jo Laurence Laurie Sir father patience respect right table