`` I did wrong to sigh , Jo . It is natural and right you should all go to homes of your own in time , but I do want to keep my girls as long as I can , and I am sorry that this happened so soon , for Meg is only seventeen and it will be some years before John can make a home for her . Your father and I have agreed that she shall not bind herself in any way , nor be married , before twenty . If she and John love one another , they can wait , and test the love by doing so . She is conscientious , and I have no fear of her treating him unkindly . My pretty , tender hearted girl ! I hope things will go happily with her . '' `` Had n't you rather have her marry a rich man ? '' asked Jo , as her mother 's voice faltered a little over the last words . `` Money is a good and useful thing , Jo , and I hope my girls will never feel the need of it too bitterly , nor be tempted by too much . I should like to know that John was firmly established in some good business , which gave him an income large enough to keep free from debt and make Meg comfortable . I 'm not ambitious for a splendid fortune , a fashionable position , or a great name for my girls . If rank and money come with love and virtue , also , I should accept them gratefully , and enjoy your good fortune , but I know , by experience , how much genuine happiness can be had in a plain little house , where the daily bread is earned , and some privations give sweetness to the few pleasures . I am content to see Meg begin humbly , for if I am not mistaken , she will be rich in the possession of a good man 's heart , and that is better than a fortune . '' `` I understand , Mother , and quite agree , but I 'm disappointed about Meg , for I 'd planned to have her marry Teddy by-and-by and sit in the lap of luxury all her days . Would n't it be nice ? '' asked Jo , looking up with a brighter face . `` He is younger than she , you know , '' began Mrs. March , but Jo broke in ... `` Only a little , he 's old for his age , and tall , and can be quite grown-up in his manners if he likes . Then he 's rich and generous and good , and loves us all , and I say it 's a pity my plan is spoiled . '' `` I 'm afraid Laurie is hardly grown-up enough for Meg , and altogether too much of a weathercock just now for anyone to depend on .
Do n't make plans , Jo , but let XXXXX and their own hearts mate your friends .
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