Marmee-isms ~#16~ That Beautiful Old Story of the Best Life Ever Lived

Jo was the 1st to wake in the gray dawn of Christmas morning. No stockings hung at the fireplace, & for a moment she felt as much disappointed as she did long ago when her little sock fell down because it was so crammed with goodies. Then she remembered her Marmee's promise, &, slipping her hand under her pillow, drew out a little crimson-covered Book. She knew it very well, for it was that beautiful old story of the best life ever lived, & Jo felt that it was a true guide-book for any pilgrim going the long journey. She woke Meg with a "Merry Christmas," & bade her see what was under her pillow. A green-covered Book appeared, with the same picture inside, & a few words written by their Marmee, which made their one present very precious in their eyes. Presently Beth & Amy woke, to rummage & find their little Books also, ~ one dove-colored, the other blue; & all sat looking at & talking about them, while the east grew rosy with the coming day . . .

"Girls," said Meg seriously, looking from the tumbled head beside her to the 2 little night-capped ones in the room beyond, "Marmee wants us to read & love & mind these Books, & we must begin at once. We used to be faithful about it . . . we have neglected many things. You can do as you please; but I shall keep my Book on the table here, & read a little every morning as soon as I wake, for I know it will do me good, & help me through the day."

Then she opened her new Book & began to read. Jo put her arm round her, &, leaning cheek to cheek, read also, with the quiet expression so seldom seen on her restless face.

Little Women ~ Ch. 2

CHRISTmas blessings from Ohio . . . Kim<><