`` Nothing could be more natural and proper than for my Professor to open a school , and for me to prefer to reside in my own estate . '' `` She is putting on airs already , '' said Laurie , who regarded the idea in the light of a capital joke . `` But may I inquire how you intend to support the establishment ? If all the pupils are little ragamuffins , I 'm afraid your crop wo n't be profitable in a worldly sense , Mrs. Bhaer . '' `` Now do n't be a wet-blanket , Teddy . Of course I shall have rich pupils , also -- perhaps begin with such altogether . Then , when I 've got a start , I can take in a ragamuffin or two , just for a relish . Rich people 's children often need care and comfort , as well as poor . I 've seen unfortunate little creatures left to servants , or backward ones pushed forward , when it 's real cruelty . Some are naughty through mismanagment or neglect , and some lose their mothers . Besides , the best have to get through the hobbledehoy age , and that 's the very time they need most patience and kindness . People laugh at them , and hustle them about , try to keep them out of sight , and expect them to turn all at once from pretty children into fine young men . They do n't complain much -- plucky little souls -- but they feel it . I 've been through something of it , and I know all about it . I 've a special interest in such young bears , and like to show them that I see the warm , honest , well-meaning boys ' hearts , in spite of the clumsy arms and legs and the topsy-turvy heads . I 've had experience , too , for have n't I brought up one boy to be a pride and honor to his family ? '' `` I 'll testify that you tried to do it , '' said Laurie with a grateful look . `` And I 've succeeded beyond my hopes , for here you are , a steady , sensible businessman , doing heaps of good with your money , and laying up the blessings of the poor , instead of dollars . But you are not merely a businessman , you love good and beautiful things , enjoy them yourself , and let others go halves , as you always did in the old times . I am proud of you , Teddy , for you get better every year , and everyone feels it , though you wo n't let them say so .
Yes , and when I have my flock , I 'll just point to you , and XXXXX ` There 's your model , my lads ' . ''
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