When she sings , the songs are always sad ones , and now and then I see a look in her face that I do n't understand . This is n't like Beth , and it worries me . '' `` Have you asked her about it ? '' `` I have tried once or twice , but she either evaded my questions or looked so distressed that I stopped . I never force my children 's confidence , and I seldom have to wait for long . '' Mrs. March glanced at Jo as she spoke , but the face opposite seemed quite unconscious of any secret disquietude but Beth 's , and after sewing thoughtfully for a minute , Jo said , `` I think she is growing up , and so begins to dream dreams , and have hopes and fears and fidgets , without knowing why or being able to explain them . Why , Mother , Beth 's eighteen , but we do n't realize it , and treat her like a child , forgetting she 's a woman . '' `` So she is . Dear heart , how fast you do grow up , '' returned her mother with a sigh and a smile . `` Ca n't be helped , Marmee , so you must resign yourself to all sorts of worries , and let your birds hop out of the nest , one by one . I promise never to hop very far , if that is any comfort to you . '' `` It 's a great comfort , Jo . I always feel strong when you are at home , now Meg is gone . Beth is too feeble and Amy too young to depend upon , but when the tug comes , you are always ready . '' `` Why , you know I do n't mind hard jobs much , and there must always be one scrub in a family . Amy is splendid in fine works and I 'm not , but I feel in my element when all the carpets are to be taken up , or half the family fall sick at once . Amy is distinguishing herself abroad , but if anything is amiss at home , I 'm your man . '' `` I leave Beth to your hands , then , for she will open her tender little heart to her Jo sooner than to anyone else . Be very kind , and do n't let her think anyone watches or talks about her . If she only would get quite strong and cheerful again , I should n't have a wish in the world . ''
`` Happy XXXXX !
anything child children confidence ones scrub songs tender wish woman