But love and innocence will sleep:
Good night--good night.



XXXI. AN OLD-FASHIONED GIRL.

Louisa May Alcott (b. 1833, d. 1888) was born at Germantown, Pa., of New
England parentage. Her parents afterwards returned to New England, and
most of her life was spent in Concord, Mass. During the Civil War she went
to Washington and nursed the wounded and sick until her own health gave
way. As a child she used to write stories for the amusement of her
playmates, and in 1857 published her first book, "Flower Fables." Her
first novel, "Moods," appeared in 1865. "Little Women," published in 1868,
is a picture of her own home life. "An Old Fashioned Girl," from which
this extract is adapted, was published in 1870, and is one of her most
popular books.

1. Polly hoped the "dreadful boy" (Tom) would not be present; but he was,
and stared at her all dinner time in a most trying manner.

2. Mr. Shaw, a busy-looking gentleman, said, "How do you do, my dear? Hope
you'll enjoy yourself;" and then appeared to forget her entirely. Mrs.
Shaw, a pale, nervous woman, greeted her little guest kindly, and took
care that she wanted for nothing.

3. Madam Shaw, a quiet old lady, with an imposing cap, exclaimed, on
seeing Polly, "Bless my heart! the image of her mother--a sweet woman--how
is she, dear?" and kept peering at the newcomer over her glasses till,
between Madam and Tom, poor Polly lost her appetite.