His place is there as well as yours , and the children need him . Let him feel that he has a part to do , and he will do it gladly and faithfully , and it will be better for you all . '' `` You really think so , Mother ? '' `` I know it , Meg , for I 've tried it , and I seldom give advice unless I 've proved its practicability . When you and Jo were little , I went on just as you are , feeling as if I did n't do my duty unless I devoted myself wholly to you . Poor Father took to his books , after I had refused all offers of help , and left me to try my experiment alone . I struggled along as well as I could , but Jo was too much for me . I nearly spoiled her by indulgence . You were poorly , and I worried about you till I fell sick myself . Then Father came to the rescue , quietly managed everything , and made himself so helpful that I saw my mistake , and never have been able to get on without him since . That is the secret of our home happiness . He does not let business wean him from the little cares and duties that affect us all , and I try not to let domestic worries destroy my interest in his pursuits . Each do our part alone in many things , but at home we work together , always . '' `` It is so , Mother , and my great wish is to be to my husband and children what you have been to yours . Show me how , I 'll do anything you say . '' `` You always were my docile daughter . Well , dear , if I were you , I 'd let John have more to do with the management of Demi , for the boy needs training , and it 's none too soon to begin . Then I 'd do what I have often proposed , let Hannah come and help you . She is a capital nurse , and you may trust the precious babies to her while you do more housework . You need the exercise , Hannah would enjoy the rest , and John would find his wife again .
Go out more , keep cheerful as well as busy , for you are the sunshine-maker of the family , and if you XXXXX dismal there is no fair weather .
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