Now I advise you, Amy, to let Bess drop the mud-pies for a time, and take up music with Laurie; then she won't be one-sided, and he won't be jealous.' 'Hear, hear! A Daniel--a very Daniel!' cried Laurie, well pleased.

'I thought you'd lend a hand, Jo, and say a word for me.

I am a little jealous of Amy, and want more of a share in my girl.

Come, my lady, let me have her this summer, and next year, when we go to Rome, I'll give her up to you and high art.

Isn't that a fair bargain ?' 'I agree; but in trying your hobby, nature, with music thrown in, don't forget that, though only fifteen, our Bess is older than most girls of that age, and cannot be treated like a child.