as he passed to say an encouraging word, for the good man never
lost his faith in humanity, and still hoped to see peace, good-will,
and happiness reign upon the earth.
“I am not so ambitious as that, father. I only want to give these
children a home in which they can be taught a few simple things
which will help to make life less hard to them when they go out to
fight their battles in the world. Honesty, courage, industry, faith in
God, their fellow-creatures, and themselves; that is all I try for.”
“That is every thing. Give them these helps, then let them go to
work out their life as men and women; and whatever their success
or failure is, I think they will remember and bless your efforts, my
good son and daughter.”
The Professor had joined them, and as Mr. March spoke he gave a
hand to each, and left them with a look that was a blessing. As Jo
and her husband stood together for a moment talking quietly, and
feeling that their summer work had been well done if father
approved, Mr. Laurie slipped into the hall, said a word to the
children, and all of a sudden the whole flock pranced into the
room, joined hands and danced about Father and Mother Bhaer,
singing blithely
“Summer days are over,
Summer work is done;
Harvests have been gathered
Gayly one by one.
Now the feast is eaten,
Finished is the play;
But one rite remains for
Our Thanksgiving-day.
“Best of all the harvest
In the dear God’s sight,
Are the happy children
In the home to-night;
And we come to offer
Thanks where thanks are due,
With grateful hearts and voices,
Father, mother, unto you.”
With the last words the circle narrowed till the good Professor and
his wife were taken prisoner by many arms, and half hidden by the
bouquet of laughing young faces which surrounded them, proving
that one plant had taken root and blossomed beautifully in all the
little gardens. For love is a flower that grows in any soil, works its
sweet miracles undaunted by autumn frost or winter snow,
blooming fair and fragrant all the year, and blessing those who
give and those who receive.