answered Jo . `` I used to be so frightened when it was my turn to sit in the chair with the crown on , and see you all come marching round to give the presents , with a kiss . I liked the things and the kisses , but it was dreadful to have you sit looking at me while I opened the bundles , '' said Beth , who was toasting her face and the bread for tea at the same time . `` Let Marmee think we are getting things for ourselves , and then surprise her . We must go shopping tomorrow afternoon , Meg . There is so much to do about the play for Christmas night , '' said Jo , marching up and down , with her hands behind her back , and her nose in the air . `` I do n't mean to act any more after this time . I 'm getting too old for such things , '' observed Meg , who was as much a child as ever about ` dressing-up ' frolics . `` You wo n't stop , I know , as long as you can trail round in a white gown with your hair down , and wear gold-paper jewelry . You are the best actress we 've got , and there 'll be an end of everything if you quit the boards , '' said Jo . `` We ought to rehearse tonight . Come here , Amy , and do the fainting scene , for you are as stiff as a poker in that . '' `` I ca n't help it . I never saw anyone faint , and I do n't choose to make myself all black and blue , tumbling flat as you do . If I can go down easily , I 'll drop . If I ca n't , I shall fall into a chair and be graceful . I do n't care if Hugo does come at me with a pistol , '' returned Amy , who was not gifted with dramatic power , but was chosen because she was small enough to be borne out shrieking by the villain of the piece . `` Do it this way . Clasp your hands so , and stagger across the room , crying frantically , ` Roderigo ! Save me !
XXXXX me ! ' ''
Save answered chosen crying know liked returned see sit stop