`` Today I was going through the hall and I heard mother saying something to father about me . I did n't mean to listen -- I could n't help hearing her as I went along the hall and upstairs -- so perhaps that is why I heard what listeners are said never to hear -- something good of myself . And because it was mother who said it I 'm going to write it here in my journal , for my comforting when days of discouragement come upon me , in which I feel that I am vain and selfish and weak and that there is no good thing in me . '' ` Rilla has developed in a wonderful fashion these past four years . She used to be such an irresponsible young creature . She has changed into a capable , womanly girl and she is such a comfort to me . Nan and Di have grown a little away from me -- they have been so little at home -- but Rilla has grown closer and closer to me . We are chums . I do n't see how I could have got through these terrible years without her , Gilbert . ' `` There , that is just what mother said -- and I feel glad -- and sorry -- and proud -- and humble ! It 's beautiful to have my mother think that about me -- but I do n't deserve it quite . I 'm not as good and strong as all that . There are heaps of times when I have felt cross and impatient and woeful and despairing . It is mother and Susan who have been this family 's backbone . But I have helped a little , I believe , and I am so glad and thankful . `` The war news has been good right along . The French and Americans are pushing the Germans back and back and back . Sometimes I am afraid it is too good to last -- after nearly four years of disasters one has a feeling that this constant success is unbelievable . We do n't rejoice noisily over it . Susan keeps the flag up but we go softly .
The price paid has been too high XXXXX jubilation .
along at because for from of over through to without