A group of smiling faces watched the stout boots trudge away , respectful glances followed the shabby bonnet till it was out of sight , and the girls felt a truer respect for their titled guest than if she had come in the coach and six , with all her diamonds on . ' I feel better about the `` odd jobs '' now . I only wish I could do them as well as Lady Abercrombie does , ' said one . ' I thanked my stars my buttonholes were nice , for she looked at them and said : `` Quite workmanlike , upon my word , '' added another , feeling that her gingham gown had come to honour . ` Her manners were as sweet and kind as Mrs Brooke 's . Not a bit stiff or condescending , as I expected . I see now what you meant , Mrs Bhaer , when you said once that well-bred people were the same all the world over . ' Mrs Meg bowed her thanks for the compliment , and Mrs Bhaer said : ' I know them when I see them , but never shall be a model of deportment myself . I 'm glad you enjoyed the little visit . Now , if you young people do n't want England to get ahead of us in many ways , you must bestir yourselves and keep abreast ; for our sisters are in earnest , you see , and do n't waste time worrying about their sphere , but make it wherever duty calls them . ' ` We will do our best , ma'am , ' answered the girls heartily , and trooped away with their work-baskets , feeling that though they might never be Harriet Martineaus , Elizabeth Brownings , or George Eliots , they might become noble , useful , and independent women , and earn for themselves some sweet title from the grateful lips of the poor , better than any a queen could bestow . Chapter 18 . CLASS DAY The clerk of the weather evidently has a regard for young people , and sends sunshine for class days as often as he can . An especially lovely one shone over Plumfield as this interesting anniversary came round , bringing the usual accompaniments of roses , strawberries , white-gowned girls , beaming youths , proud friends , and stately dignitaries full of well-earned satisfaction with the yearly harvest . As Laurence College was a mixed one , the presence of young women as students gave to the occasion a grace and animation entirely wanting where the picturesque half of creation appear merely as spectators . The hands that turned the pages of wise books also possessed the skill to decorate the hall with flowers ; eyes tired with study shone with hospitable warmth on the assembling guests ; and under the white muslins beat hearts as full of ambition , hope , and courage as those agitating the broadcloth of the ruling sex . College Hill , Parnassus , and old Plum swarmed with cheery faces , as guests , students , and professors hurried to and fro in the pleasant excitement of arriving and receiving . Everyone was welcomed cordially , whether he rolled up in a fine carriage , or trudged afoot to see the good son or daughter come to honour on the happy day that rewarded many a mutual sacrifice . Mr Laurie and his wife were on the reception committee , and their lovely house was overflowing . Mrs Meg , with Daisy and Jo as aides , was in demand among the girls , helping on belated toilettes , giving an eye to spreads , and directing the decorations .
Mrs Jo had her XXXXX full as President 's lady , and the mother of Ted ; for it took all the power and skill of that energetic woman to get her son into his Sunday best .
abreast books buttonholes compliment hands people sisters stars visit weather