Jo saw a big red headed youth approaching her corner , and fearing he meant to engage her , she slipped into a curtained recess , intending to peep and enjoy herself in peace . Unfortunately , another bashful person had chosen the same refuge , for , as the curtain fell behind her , she found herself face to face with the ` Laurence boy ' . `` Dear me , I did n't know anyone was here ! '' stammered Jo , preparing to back out as speedily as she had bounced in . But the boy laughed and said pleasantly , though he looked a little startled , `` Do n't mind me , stay if you like . '' `` Sha n't I disturb you ? '' `` Not a bit . I only came here because I do n't know many people and felt rather strange at first , you know . '' `` So did I. Do n't go away , please , unless you 'd rather . '' The boy sat down again and looked at his pumps , till Jo said , trying to be polite and easy , `` I think I 've had the pleasure of seeing you before . You live near us , do n't you ? '' `` Next door . '' And he looked up and laughed outright , for Jo 's prim manner was rather funny when he remembered how they had chatted about cricket when he brought the cat home . That put Jo at her ease and she laughed too , as she said , in her heartiest way , `` We did have such a good time over your nice Christmas present . '' `` Grandpa sent it . '' `` But you put it into his head , did n't you , now ? '' `` How is your cat , Miss March ? '' asked the boy , trying to look sober while his black eyes shone with fun . `` Nicely , thank you , Mr. Laurence . But I am not Miss March , I 'm only Jo , '' returned the young lady .
`` I 'm not Mr. XXXXX , I 'm only Laurie . ''
Grandpa Jo Laurence ease first head manner peace people recess