That was better than any words ; and poor Dan clung to her in speechless gratitude , feeling the blessedness of mother love -- that divine gift which comforts , purifies , and strengthens all who seek it . Two or three great , bitter drops were hidden in the little woollen shawl where Dan 's cheek rested , and no one ever knew how soft and comfortable it felt to him after the hard pillows he had known so long . Suffering of both mind and body had broken will and pride , and the lifted burden brought such a sense of relief that he paused a moment to enjoy it in dumb delight . ` My poor boy , how you have suffered all this year , when we thought you free as air ! Why did n't you tell us , Dan , and let us help you ? Did you doubt your friends ? ' asked Mrs Jo , forgetting all other emotions in sympathy , as she lifted up the hidden face , and looked reproachfully into the great hollow eyes that met her own frankly now . ' I was ashamed . I tried to bear it alone rather than shock and disappoint you , as I know I have , though you try not to show it . Do n't mind ; I must get used to it ' ; and Dan 's eyes dropped again as if they could not bear to see the trouble and dismay his confession painted on his best friend 's face . ' I am shocked and disappointed by the sin , but I am also very glad and proud and grateful that my sinner has repented , atoned , and is ready to profit by the bitter lesson . No one but Fritz and Laurie need ever know the truth ; we owe it to them , and they will feel as I do , ' answered Mrs Jo , wisely thinking that entire frankness would be a better tonic than too much sympathy . ` No , they wo n't ; men never forgive like women . But it 's right . Please tell 'em for me , and get it over . Mr Laurence knows it , I guess . I blabbed when my wits were gone ; but he was very kind all the same . I can bear their knowing ; but oh , not Ted and the girls ! ' Dan clutched her arm with such an imploring face that she hastened to assure him no one should know except the two old friends , and he calmed down as if ashamed of his sudden panic . ` It was n't murder , mind you , it was in self-defence ; he drew first , and I had to hit him .
XXXXX n't mean to kill him ; but it does n't worry me as much as it ought , I 'm afraid .
Did Suffering clutched knowing knows let met need owe rested