whispered Mrs. March , as she kissed one dear little face after the other , and hurried into the carriage . As she rolled away , the sun came out , and looking back , she saw it shining on the group at the gate like a good omen . They saw it also , and smiled and waved their hands , and the last thing she beheld as she turned the corner was the four bright faces , and behind them like a bodyguard , old Mr. Laurence , faithful Hannah , and devoted Laurie . `` How kind everyone is to us ! '' she said , turning to find fresh proof of it in the respectful sympathy of the young man 's face . `` I do n't see how they can help it , '' returned Mr. Brooke , laughing so infectiously that Mrs. March could not help smiling . And so the journey began with the good omens of sunshine , smiles , and cheerful words . `` I feel as if there had been an earthquake , '' said Jo , as their neighbors went home to breakfast , leaving them to rest and refresh themselves . `` It seems as if half the house was gone , '' added Meg forlornly . Beth opened her lips to say something , but could only point to the pile of nicely mended hose which lay on Mother 's table , showing that even in her last hurried moments she had thought and worked for them . It was a little thing , but it went straight to their hearts , and in spite of their brave resolutions , they all broke down and cried bitterly . Hannah wisely allowed them to relieve their feelings , and when the shower showed signs of clearing up , she came to the rescue , armed with a coffeepot . `` Now , my dear young ladies , remember what your ma said , and do n't fret . Come and have a cup of coffee all round , and then let 's fall to work and be a credit to the family . '' Coffee was a treat , and Hannah showed great tact in making it that morning . No one could resist her persuasive nods , or the fragrant invitation issuing from the nose of the coffee pot . They drew up to the table , exchanged their handkerchiefs for napkins , and in ten minutes were all right again . '' ` Hope and keep busy ' , that 's the motto for us , so let 's see who will remember it best . I shall go to Aunt March , as usual . Oh , wo n't she lecture though ! ''
XXXXX Jo , as she sipped with returning spirit .
added came cried gone issuing kissed nods rest said work