They know I understand them, and they always open their hearts sooner or later.

You look like a nice, plump little Quakeress, Meg; and no one will believe that big boy is your son,' added Mrs Jo, as Demi came in shining with Sunday neatness, from his well-blacked boots to his smooth brown head.
'You flatter me, to soften my heart toward your boy.

I know your ways, Jo, and I don't give in.

Be firm, and spare me a scene by and by.

As for John, as long as he is satisfied with his old mother, I don't care what people think,' answered Mrs Meg, accepting with a smile the little posy of sweet peas and mignonette Demi brought her.
Then, having buttoned her dove-coloured gloves with care, she took her son's arm and went proudly away to the carriage, where Amy and Bess waited, while Jo called after them, just as Marmee used to do: 'Girls, have you got nice pocket-handkerchiefs ?' They all smiled at the familiar words, and three white banners waved as they drove away, leaving the spider to watch for her first fly.