Laurie drew his hand across his eyes , but could not speak till he had subdued the choky feeling in his throat and steadied his lips . It might be unmanly , but he could n't help it , and I am glad of it . Presently , as Jo 's sobs quieted , he said hopefully , `` I do n't think she will die . She 's so good , and we all love her so much , I do n't believe God will take her away yet . '' `` The good and dear people always do die , '' groaned Jo , but she stopped crying , for her friend 's words cheered her up in spite of her own doubts and fears . `` Poor girl , you 're worn out . It is n't like you to be forlorn . Stop a bit . I 'll hearten you up in a jiffy . '' Laurie went off two stairs at a time , and Jo laid her wearied head down on Beth 's little brown hood , which no one had thought of moving from the table where she left it . It must have possessed some magic , for the submissive spirit of its gentle owner seemed to enter into Jo , and when Laurie came running down with a glass of wine , she took it with a smile , and said bravely , `` I drink -- Health to my Beth ! You are a good doctor , Teddy , and such a comfortable friend . How can I ever pay you ? '' she added , as the wine refreshed her body , as the kind words had done her troubled mind . `` I 'll send my bill , by-and-by , and tonight I 'll give you something that will warm the cockles of your heart better than quarts of wine , '' said Laurie , beaming at her with a face of suppressed satisfaction at something . `` What is it ? '' cried Jo , forgetting her woes for a minute in her wonder . `` I telegraphed to your mother yesterday , and Brooke answered she 'd come at once , and she 'll be here tonight , and everything will be all right . Are n't you glad I did it ? '' Laurie spoke very fast , and turned red and excited all in a minute , for he had kept his plot a secret , for fear of disappointing the girls or harming Beth .
XXXXX grew quite white , flew out of her chair , and the moment he stopped speaking she electrified him by throwing her arms round his neck , and crying out , with a joyful cry , `` Oh , Laurie !
Beth Brooke Jo Laurie by-and-by choky cockles left minute right