The boys groaned at the mere sound of the long names , and the gentlemen laughed at the absurdity of the lesson . `` Did she write it ? '' asked Demi , in an awe-stricken tone . `` Yes , but you can imagine what a piece of work she make of it , though she was rather a bright child . '' `` I 'd like to have seen it , '' said Mr. Bhaer . `` Perhaps I can find it for you ; I went to school with her , '' and Mrs. Jo looked so wicked that every one knew who the little girl was . Hearing of this fearful subject for a composition quite reconciled the boys to the thought of writing about familiar things . Wednesday afternoon was appointed for the lectures , as they preferred to call them , for some chose to talk instead of write . Mr. Bhaer promised a portfolio in which the written productions should be kept , and Mrs. Bhaer said she would attend the course with great pleasure . Then the dirty-handed society went off the wash , followed by the Professor , trying to calm the anxiety of Rob , who had been told by Tommy that all water was full of invisible pollywogs . `` I like your plan very much , only do n't be too generous , Teddy , '' said Mrs. Bhaer , when they were left alone . `` You know most of the boys have got to paddle their own canoes when they leave us , and too much sitting in the lap of luxury will unfit them for it . '' `` I 'll be moderate , but do let me amuse myself . I get desperately tired of business sometimes , and nothing freshens me up like a good frolic with your boys . I like that Dan very much , Jo . He is n't demonstrative ; but he has the eye of a hawk , and when you have tamed him a little he will do you credit . '' `` I 'm so glad you think so . Thank you very much for your kindness to him , especially for this museum affair ; it will keep him happy while he is lame , give me a chance to soften and smooth this poor , rough lad , and make him love us . What did inspire you with such a beautiful , helpful idea , Teddy ? '' asked Mrs. Bhaer , glancing back at the pleasant room , as she turned to leave it .
Laurie took both her hands in his , and answered , with a look that made her eyes fill with happy tears , `` Dear XXXXX !
Bhaer Dan Demi Jo Professor Rob Tommy afternoon left pollywogs