Jo was very much relieved that one of his virtuous fits should come on just then , and made her preparations with a lightened heart , for Beth seemed more cheerful , and hoped she was doing the best for all . `` One thing I leave in your especial care , '' she said , the night before she left . `` You mean your papers ? '' asked Beth . `` No , my boy . Be very good to him , wo n't you ? '' `` Of course I will , but I ca n't fill your place , and he 'll miss you sadly . '' `` It wo n't hurt him , so remember , I leave him in your charge , to plague , pet , and keep in order . '' `` I 'll do my best , for your sake , '' promised Beth , wondering why Jo looked at her so queerly . When Laurie said good-by , he whispered significantly , `` It wo n't do a bit of good , Jo . My eye is on you , so mind what you do , or I 'll come and bring you home . '' CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE JO 'S JOURNAL New York , November Dear Marmee and Beth , I 'm going to write you a regular volume , for I 've got heaps to tell , though I 'm not a fine young lady traveling on the continent . When I lost sight of Father 's dear old face , I felt a trifle blue , and might have shed a briny drop or two , if an Irish lady with four small children , all crying more or less , had n't diverted my mind , for I amused myself by dropping gingerbread nuts over the seat every time they opened their mouths to roar . Soon the sun came out , and taking it as a good omen , I cleared up likewise and enjoyed my journey with all my heart . Mrs. Kirke welcomed me so kindly I felt at home at once , even in that big house full of strangers . She gave me a funny little sky parlor -- all she had , but there is a stove in it , and a nice table in a sunny window , so I can sit here and write whenever I like . A fine view and a church tower opposite atone for the many stairs , and I took a fancy to my den on the spot . The nursery , where I am to teach and sew , is a pleasant room next Mrs. Kirke 's private parlor , and the two little girls are pretty children , rather spoiled , I fancy , but they took to me after telling them The Seven Bad Pigs , and I 've no doubt I shall make a model governess . I am to have my meals with the children , if I prefer it to the great table , and for the present I do , for I am bashful , though no one will believe it . `` Now , my dear , make yourself at home , '' said Mrs. K. in her motherly way , `` I 'm on the drive from morning to night , as you may suppose with such a family , but a great anxiety will be off my mind if I know the children are safe with you .
My rooms are always open to you , and your own shall be as comfortable as I can XXXXX it .
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