I didn't deserve it, but I did use to try to be jolly and kind, and get as much honey out of duty as I could, thanks to my dear mother's help and advice.' 'Gracious! if I could earn a place like this, I'd sing all day and be an angel; but you have to take your chance, and get nothing for your pains, perhaps.

I never do,' said the Westerner, who had a hard time with small means and large aspirations.
'Don't do it for the reward; but be sure it will come, though not in the shape you expect.

I worked hard for fame and money one winter; but I got neither, and was much disappointed.

A year afterwards I found I had earned two prizes: skill with my pen, and Professor Bhaer.' Mrs Jo's laugh was echoed blithely by the girls, who liked to have these conversations enlivened by illustrations from life.
'You are a very lucky woman,' began the discontented damsel, whose soul soared above new hats, welcome as they were, but did not quite know where to steer.
'Yet her name used to be "Luckless Jo", and she never had what she wanted till she had given up hoping for it,' said Mrs Meg.
'I'll give up hoping, then, right away, and see if my wishes will come.
I only want to help my folks, and get a good school.' 'Take this proverb for your guide: "Get the distaff ready, and the Lord will send the flax",' answered Mrs Jo.
'We'd better all do that, if we are to be spinsters,' said the pretty one, adding gaily, 'I think I should like it, on the whole--they are so independent.

My Aunt Jenny can do just what she likes, and ask no one's leave; but Ma has to consult Pa about everything.