Beth's stage-struck!" cried Meg, and the rehearsal ended in a general burst of laughter.
"Glad to find you so merry, my girls," said a cheery voice at the door, and actors and audience turned to welcome a tall, motherly lady with a 'can I help you' look about her which was truly delightful.

She was not elegantly dressed, but a noble-looking woman, and the girls thought the gray cloak and unfashionable bonnet covered the most splendid mother in the world.
"Well, dearies, how have you got on today?
There was so much to do, getting the boxes ready to go tomorrow, that I didn't come home to dinner.

Has anyone called, Beth?
How is your cold, Meg?
Jo, you look tired to death.

Come and kiss me, baby." While making these maternal inquiries Mrs.March got her wet things off, her warm slippers on, and sitting down in the easy chair, drew Amy to her lap, preparing to enjoy the happiest hour of her busy day.

The girls flew about, trying to make things comfortable, each in her own way.