said Jo , sewing away , with red eyes , at the new collars which were to be handed over to Amy . `` Then I shall come home and teach drawing for my living , '' replied the aspirant for fame , with philosophic composure . But she made a wry face at the prospect , and scratched away at her palette as if bent on vigorous measures before she gave up her hopes . `` No , you wo n't . You hate hard work , and you 'll marry some rich man , and come home to sit in the lap of luxury all your days , '' said Jo . `` Your predictions sometimes come to pass , but I do n't believe that one will . I 'm sure I wish it would , for if I ca n't be an artist myself , I should like to be able to help those who are , '' said Amy , smiling , as if the part of Lady Bountiful would suit her better than that of a poor drawing teacher . `` Hum ! '' said Jo , with a sigh . `` If you wish it you 'll have it , for your wishes are always granted -- mine never . '' `` Would you like to go ? '' asked Amy , thoughtfully patting her nose with her knife . `` Rather ! '' `` Well , in a year or two I 'll send for you , and we 'll dig in the Forum for relics , and carry out all the plans we 've made so many times . '' `` Thank you . I 'll remind you of your promise when that joyful day comes , if it ever does , '' returned Jo , accepting the vague but magnificent offer as gratefully as she could . There was not much time for preparation , and the house was in a ferment till Amy was off . Jo bore up very well till the last flutter of blue ribbon vanished , when she retired to her refuge , the garret , and cried till she could n't cry any more . Amy likewise bore up stoutly till the steamer sailed . Then just as the gangway was about to be withdrawn , it suddenly came over her that a whole ocean was soon to roll between her and those who loved her best , and she clung to Laurie , the last lingerer , saying with a sob ... `` Oh , take care of them for me , and if anything should happen ... '' `` I will , dear , I will , and if anything happens , I 'll come and comfort you , '' whispered Laurie , little dreaming that he would be called upon to keep his word .
So Amy XXXXX away to find the Old World , which is always new and beautiful to young eyes , while her father and friend watched her from the shore , fervently hoping that none but gentle fortunes would befall the happy-hearted girl , who waved her hand to them till they could see nothing but the summer sunshine dazzling on the sea .
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