`` Well , if that is n't the greatest rubbish I ever heard , '' cried Jo indignantly . `` Why did n't you pop out and tell them so on the spot ? '' `` I could n't , it was so embarrassing for me . I could n't help hearing at first , and then I was so angry and ashamed , I did n't remember that I ought to go away . '' `` Just wait till I see Annie Moffat , and I 'll show you how to settle such ridiculous stuff . The idea of having ` plans ' and being kind to Laurie because he 's rich and may marry us by-and-by ! Wo n't he shout when I tell him what those silly things say about us poor children ? '' And Jo laughed , as if on second thoughts the thing struck her as a good joke . `` If you tell Laurie , I 'll never forgive you ! She must n't , must she , Mother ? '' said Meg , looking distressed . `` No , never repeat that foolish gossip , and forget it as soon as you can , '' said Mrs. March gravely . `` I was very unwise to let you go among people of whom I know so little , kind , I dare say , but worldly , ill-bred , and full of these vulgar ideas about young people . I am more sorry than I can express for the mischief this visit may have done you , Meg . '' `` Do n't be sorry , I wo n't let it hurt me . I 'll forget all the bad and remember only the good , for I did enjoy a great deal , and thank you very much for letting me go . I 'll not be sentimental or dissatisfied , Mother . I know I 'm a silly little girl , and I 'll stay with you till I 'm fit to take care of myself . But it is nice to be praised and admired , and I ca n't help saying I like it , '' said Meg , looking half ashamed of the confession . `` That is perfectly natural , and quite harmless , if the liking does not become a passion and lead one to do foolish or unmaidenly things .
Learn to know and value the praise which is worth having , and to excite the admiration of excellent people by being modest as well as pretty , XXXXX . ''
Jo Laurie Meg Moffat Mother children first hearing people second