But the boy laughed and said pleasantly , though he looked a little startled , `` Do n't mind me , stay if you like . '' `` Sha n't I disturb you ? '' `` Not a bit . I only came here because I do n't know many people and felt rather strange at first , you know . '' `` So did I. Do n't go away , please , unless you 'd rather . '' The boy sat down again and looked at his pumps , till Jo said , trying to be polite and easy , `` I think I 've had the pleasure of seeing you before . You live near us , do n't you ? '' `` Next door . '' And he looked up and laughed outright , for Jo 's prim manner was rather funny when he remembered how they had chatted about cricket when he brought the cat home . That put Jo at her ease and she laughed too , as she said , in her heartiest way , `` We did have such a good time over your nice Christmas present . '' `` Grandpa sent it . '' `` But you put it into his head , did n't you , now ? '' `` How is your cat , Miss March ? '' asked the boy , trying to look sober while his black eyes shone with fun . `` Nicely , thank you , Mr. Laurence . But I am not Miss March , I 'm only Jo , '' returned the young lady . `` I 'm not Mr. Laurence , I 'm only Laurie . '' `` Laurie Laurence , what an odd name . '' `` My first name is Theodore , but I do n't like it , for the fellows called me Dora , so I made them say Laurie instead . '' `` I hate my name , too , so sentimental !
I wish every one would XXXXX Jo instead of Josephine .
asked brought chatted disturb like mind returned say seeing thank