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diff --git a/old/38049.txt b/old/38049.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ecae1de --- /dev/null +++ b/old/38049.txt @@ -0,0 +1,14212 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Louisa May Alcott, by Louisa May Alcott + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Louisa May Alcott + Her Life, Letters, and Journals + +Author: Louisa May Alcott + +Editor: Ednah D. Cheney + +Release Date: November 18, 2011 [EBook #38049] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LOUISA MAY ALCOTT *** + + + + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Melissa McDaniel and the +Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net + + + + + + + +Transcriber's Note: + + Inconsistent hyphenation and spelling in the original document have + been preserved. Obvious typographical errors have been corrected. + + Italic text is denoted by _underscores_ and bold text by =equal + signs= + + + + + LOUISA MAY ALCOTT + HER + Life, Letters, and Journals. + + EDITED BY + EDNAH D. CHENEY + + BOSTON + LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY + 1898 + + + + + _Copyright, 1889_, + BY J. S. P. ALCOTT. + + UNIVERSITY PRESS: + JOHN WILSON AND SON, CAMBRIDGE. + + + + + TO + MRS. ANNA B. PRATT, + THE SOLE SURVIVING SISTER OF LOUISA M. ALCOTT, AND HER + NEVER-FAILING HELP, COMFORTER, AND FRIEND + FROM BIRTH TO DEATH, + + This Memoir + IS RESPECTFULLY AND TENDERLY DEDICATED, + BY + EDNAH D. CHENEY. + + JAMAICA PLAIN, + June, 1889. + + + + + [Illustration: Portrait of Miss Alcott] + + + + +INTRODUCTION. + + +Louisa May Alcott is universally recognized as the greatest and most +popular story-teller for children in her generation. She has known the +way to the hearts of young people, not only in her own class, or even +country, but in every condition of life, and in many foreign lands. +Plato says, "Beware of those who teach fables to children;" and it is +impossible to estimate the influence which the popular writer of +fiction has over the audience he wins to listen to his tales. The +preacher, the teacher, the didactic writer find their audience in +hours of strength, with critical faculties all alive, to question +their propositions and refute their arguments. The novelist comes to +us in the intervals of recreation and relaxation, and by his seductive +powers of imagination and sentiment takes possession of the fancy and +the heart before judgment and reason are aroused to defend the +citadel. It well becomes us, then, who would guard young minds from +subtle temptations, to study the character of those works which charm +and delight the children. + +Of no author can it be more truly said than of Louisa Alcott that her +works are a revelation of herself. She rarely sought for the material +of her stories in old chronicles, or foreign adventures. Her capital +was her own life and experiences and those of others directly about +her; and her own well-remembered girlish frolics and fancies were sure +to find responsive enjoyment in the minds of other girls. + +It is therefore impossible to understand Miss Alcott's works fully +without a knowledge of her own life and experiences. By inheritance +and education she had rich and peculiar gifts; and her life was one of +rare advantages, as well as of trying difficulties. Herself of the +most true and frank nature, she has given us the opportunity of +knowing her without disguise; and it is thus that I shall try to +portray her, showing what influences acted upon her through life, and +how faithfully and fully she performed whatever duties circumstances +laid upon her. Fortunately I can let her speak mainly for herself. + +Miss Alcott revised her journals at different times during her later +life, striking out what was too personal for other eyes than her own, +and destroying a great deal which would doubtless have proved very +interesting. + +The small number of letters given will undoubtedly be a +disappointment. Miss Alcott wished to have most of her letters +destroyed, and her sister respected her wishes. She was not a +voluminous correspondent; she did not encourage many intimacies, and +she seldom wrote letters except to her family, unless in reference to +some purpose she had strongly at heart. Writing was her constant +occupation, and she was not tempted to indulge in it as a recreation. +Her letters are brief, and strictly to the point, but always +characteristic in feeling and expression; and, even at the risk of the +repetition of matter contained in her journals or her books, I shall +give copious extracts from such as have come into my hands. + + E. D. C. + JAMAICA PLAIN, Mass., 1889. + + + + +TABLE OF CONTENTS. + + + PAGE + + INTRODUCTION iii + + CHAPTER. + + I. GENEALOGY AND PARENTAGE 11 + II. CHILDHOOD 16 + III. FRUITLANDS 32 + IV. THE SENTIMENTAL PERIOD 56 + V. AUTHORSHIP 75 + VI. THE YEAR OF GOOD LUCK 110 + VII. "HOSPITAL SKETCHES" 136 + VIII. EUROPE, AND "LITTLE WOMEN" 170 + IX. EUROPE 204 + X. FAMILY CHANGES 263 + XI. LAST YEARS 329 + XII. CONCLUSION 387 + + + + +ILLUSTRATIONS. + + + PAGE + + PORTRAIT OF MISS ALCOTT _Frontispiece_ + + Photogravure by A. W. Elson & Co., from a photograph by + Notman (negative destroyed), taken in 1883. The facsimile + of her writing is an extract from a letter to her + publisher, written from her hospital retreat a few weeks + previous to her death. + + ORCHARD HOUSE ("APPLE SLUMP"), CONCORD, + MASS., THE HOME OF THE ALCOTTS, 1858 TO + 1878 93 + + Engraved by John Andrew & Son Co., from a photograph. + + PORTRAIT OF MISS ALCOTT 140 + + Photogravure by A. W. Elson & Co., from a photograph + taken just previous to her going to Washington as a hospital + nurse, in 1862. + + FAC-SIMILE OF MISS ALCOTT'S WRITING 362 + + Extract from a letter to her publisher, January, 1886. + + FAC-SIMILE OF PREFACE TO THE NEW EDITION OF + "A MODERN MEPHISTOPHELES," NOW FIRST + PRINTED 380 + + + + +LOUISA MAY ALCOTT. + + + + +CHAPTER I. + +GENEALOGY AND PARENTAGE. + + TO LOUISA MAY ALCOTT. + + BY HER FATHER. + + When I remember with what buoyant heart, + Midst war's alarms and woes of civil strife, + In youthful eagerness thou didst depart, + At peril of thy safety, peace, and life, + To nurse the wounded soldier, swathe the dead,-- + How pierced soon by fever's poisoned dart, + And brought unconscious home, with wildered head, + Thou ever since 'mid langour and dull pain, + To conquer fortune, cherish kindred dear, + Hast with grave studies vexed a sprightly brain, + In myriad households kindled love and cheer, + Ne'er from thyself by Fame's loud trump beguiled, + Sounding in this and the farther hemisphere,-- + I press thee to my heart as Duty's faithful child. + + +Louisa Alcott was the second child of Amos Bronson and Abba May +Alcott. This name was spelled Alcocke in English history. About 1616 a +coat-of-arms was granted to Thomas Alcocke of Silbertoft, in the +county of Leicester. The device represents three cocks, emblematic of +watchfulness; and the motto is _Semper Vigilans_. + +The first of the name appearing in English history is John Alcocke of +Beverley, Yorkshire, of whom Fuller gives an account in his Worthies +of England. + +Thomas and George Alcocke were the first of the name among the +settlers in New England. The name is frequently found in the records +of Dorchester and Roxbury, and has passed through successive changes +to its present form. + +The name of Bronson came from Mr. Alcott's maternal grandfather, the +sturdy Capt. Amos Bronson of Plymouth, Conn. "His ancestors on both +sides had been substantial people of respectable position in England, +and were connected with the founders and governors of the chief New +England colonies. At the time of Mr. Alcott's birth they had become +simple farmers, reaping a scanty living from their small farms in +Connecticut." + +Amos Bronson Alcott, the father of Louisa, was born Nov. 29, 1799, at +the foot of Spindle Hill, in the region called New Connecticut. He has +himself given in simple verse the story of his quaint rustic life in +his boyhood, and Louisa has reproduced it in her story of "Eli's +Education" (in the Spinning-Wheel Stories), which gives a very true +account of his youthful life and adventures. He derived his refined, +gentle nature from his mother, who had faith in her son, and who lived +to see him the accomplished scholar he had vowed to become in his +boyhood. Although brought up in these rustic surroundings, his manners +were always those of a true gentleman. The name of the little mountain +town afterward became Wolcott, and Louisa records in her journal a +pilgrimage made thither in after years.[1] + +Louisa Alcott's mother was a daughter of Col. Joseph May of Boston. +This family is so well known that it is hardly necessary to repeat its +genealogy here.[2] She was a sister of Samuel J. May, for many years +pastor of the Unitarian church at Syracuse, who was so tenderly +beloved by men of all religious persuasions in his home, and so widely +known and respected for his courage and zeal in the Antislavery cause, +as well as for his many philanthropic labors. + +Mrs. Alcott's mother was Dorothy Sewall, a descendant of that family +already distinguished in the annals of the Massachusetts colony, and +which has lost nothing of its reputation for ability and virtue in its +latest representatives.[3] + +Mrs. Alcott inherited in large measure the traits which distinguished +her family. She was a woman of large stature, fine physique, and +overflowing life. Her temper was as quick and warm as her affections, +but she was full of broad unselfish generosity. Her untiring energies +were constantly employed, not only for the benefit of her family, but +for all around her. She had a fine mind, and if she did not have +large opportunities for scholastic instruction, she always enjoyed the +benefit of intellectual society and converse with noble minds. She +loved expression in writing, and her letters are full of wit and +humor, keen criticism, and noble moral sentiments. Marriage with an +idealist, who had no means of support, brought her many trials and +privations. She bore them heroically, never wavering in affection for +her husband or in devotion to her children. If the quick, impatient +temper sometimes relieved itself in hasty speech, the action was +always large and unselfish. + +It will be apparent from Louisa's life that she inherited the traits +of both her parents, and that the uncommon powers of mind and heart +that distinguished her were not accidental, but the accumulated result +of the lives of generations of strong and noble men and women. + +She was well born. + + +_Mr. Alcott to Colonel May._ + + GERMANTOWN, Nov. 29, 1832. + + DEAR SIR,--It is with great pleasure that I announce to you the + _birth of a second daughter_. She was born at half-past 12 this + morning, on my birthday (33), and is a very fine healthful child, + much more so than Anna was at birth,--has a fine foundation for + health and energy of character. Abba is very comfortable, and + will soon be restored to the discharge of those domestic and + maternal duties in which she takes so much delight, and in the + performance of which she furnishes so excellent a model for + imitation. Those only who have seen her in those relations, much + as there is in her general character to admire and esteem, can + form a true estimate of her personal worth and uncommon devotion + of heart. She was formed for domestic sentiment rather than the + gaze and heartlessness of what is falsely called "society." Abba + inclines to call the babe _Louisa May_,--a name to her full of + every association connected with amiable benevolence and exalted + worth. I hope its _present possessor_ may rise to equal + attainment, and deserve a place in the estimation of society. + + With Abba's and Anna's and Louisa's regards, allow me to assure + you of the sincerity with which I am + + Yours, + A. BRONSON ALCOTT. + +The children who lived to maturity were-- + + ANNA BRONSON ALCOTT, + LOUISA MAY ALCOTT, + ELIZABETH SEWALL ALCOTT, + ABBA MAY ALCOTT. + +FOOTNOTES: + +[1] For further particulars of the Alcott genealogy, see "New +Connecticut," a poem by A. B. Alcott, published in 1887. I am also +indebted to Mr. F. B. Sanborn's valuable paper read at the memorial +service at Concord in 1888. + +[2] For particulars of the genealogy of the May families, see "A +Genealogy of the Descendants of John May," who came from England to +Roxbury in America, 1640. + +[3] For the Sewall family, see "Drake's History of Boston," or fuller +accounts in the Sewall Papers published by the Massachusetts +Historical Society. + + + + +CHAPTER II. + +CHILDHOOD. + + TO THE FIRST ROBIN.[4] + + Welcome, welcome, little stranger, + Fear no harm, and fear no danger; + We are glad to see you here, + For you sing "Sweet Spring is near." + + Now the white snow melts away; + Now the flowers blossom gay: + Come dear bird and build your nest, + For we love our robin best. + + LOUISA MAY ALCOTT. + CONCORD. + + +Mr. Alcott had removed to Germantown, Penn, to take charge of a +school, and here Louisa was born, Nov. 29, 1832. She was the second +daughter, and was welcomed with the same pride and affection as her +elder sister had been. We have this pleasant little glimpse of her +when she was hardly a month old, from the pen of one of her mother's +friends. Even at that extremely early age love saw the signs of more +than usual intelligence, and friends as well as fond parents looked +forward to a promising career. + + +_Extract from a Letter by Miss Donaldson._ + + GERMANTOWN, PENN., Dec. 16, 1832. + + I have a dear little pet in Mrs. Alcott's little Louisa. It is + the prettiest, best little thing in the world. You will wonder to + hear me call anything so young pretty, but it is really so in an + uncommon degree; it has a fair complexion, dark bright eyes, long + dark hair, a high forehead, and altogether a countenance of more + than usual intelligence. + + The mother is such a delightful woman that it is a cordial to my + heart whenever I go to see her. I went in to see her for a few + moments the evening we received your letter, and I think I never + saw her in better spirits; and truly, if goodness and integrity + can insure felicity, she deserves to be happy. + +The earliest anecdote remembered of Louisa is this: When the family +went from Philadelphia to Boston by steamer, the two little girls were +nicely dressed in clean nankeen frocks for the voyage; but they had +not been long on board before the lively Louisa was missing, and after +a long search she was brought up from the engine-room, where her eager +curiosity had carried her, and where she was having a beautiful time, +with "plenty of dirt." + +The family removed to Boston in 1834, and Mr. Alcott opened his famous +school in Masonic Temple. Louisa was too young to attend the school +except as an occasional visitor; but she found plenty of interest and +amusement for herself in playing on the Common, making friends with +every child she met, and on one occasion falling into the Frog Pond. +She has given a very lively picture of this period of her life in +"Poppy's Pranks," that vivacious young person being a picture of +herself, not at all exaggerated. + +The family lived successively in Front Street, Cottage Place, and +Beach Street during the six succeeding years in Boston. They +occasionally passed some weeks at Scituate during the summer, which +the children heartily enjoyed. + +Mrs. Hawthorne gives a little anecdote which shows how the child's +heart was blossoming in this family sunshine: "One morning in Front +Street, at the breakfast table, Louisa suddenly broke silence, with a +sunny smile saying, 'I love everybody in _dis_ whole world.'" + +Two children were born during this residence in Boston. Elizabeth was +named for Mr. Alcott's assistant in his school,--Miss E. P. Peabody, +since so widely known and beloved by all friends of education. A boy +was born only to die. The little body was laid reverently away in the +lot of Colonel May in the old burial-ground on the Common, and the +children were taught to speak with tenderness of their "baby brother." + +When Louisa was about seven years old she made a visit to friends in +Providence. Miss C. writes of her: "She is a beautiful little girl to +look upon, and I love her affectionate manners. I think she is more +like her mother than either of the others." As is usually the case, +Louisa's journal, which she began at this early age, speaks more fully +of her struggles and difficulties than of the bright, sunny moods +which made her attractive. A little letter carefully printed and sent +home during this visit is preserved. In it she says she is not happy; +and she did have one trying experience there, to which she refers in +"My Boys." Seeing some poor children who she thought were hungry, she +took food from the house without asking permission, and carried it to +them, and was afterward very much astonished and grieved at being +reprimanded instead of praised for the deed. Miss C. says: "She has +had several spells of feeling sad; but a walk or a talk soon dispels +all gloom. She was half moody when she wrote her letter; but now she +is gay as a lark. She loves to play out of doors, and sometimes she is +not inclined to stay in when it is unpleasant." In her sketches of "My +Boys" she describes two of her companions here, not forgetting the +kindness of the one and the mischievousness of the other. + +Although the family were quite comfortable during the time of Mr. +Alcott's teaching in Boston, yet the children wearied of their +extremely simple diet of plain boiled rice without sugar, and graham +meal without butter or molasses. An old friend who could not eat the +bountiful rations provided for her at the United States Hotel, used to +save her piece of pie or cake for the Alcott children. Louisa often +took it home to the others in a bandbox which she brought for the +purpose. + +This friend was absent in Europe many years, and returned to find the +name of Louisa Alcott famous. When she met the authoress on the street +she was eagerly greeted. "Why, I did not think you would remember me!" +said the old lady. "Do you think I shall ever forget that bandbox?" +was the instant reply. + +In 1840, Mr. Alcott's school having proved unsuccessful, the family +removed to Concord, Mass., and took a cottage which is described in +"Little Women" as "Meg's first home," although Anna never lived there +after her marriage. It was a pleasant house, with a garden full of +trees, and best of all a large barn, in which the children could have +free range and act out all the plays with which their little heads +were teeming. Of course it was a delightful change from the city for +the children, and here they passed two very happy years, for they were +too young to understand the cares which pressed upon the hearts of +their parents. Life was full of interest. One cold morning they found +in the garden a little half-starved bird; and having warmed and fed +it, Louisa was inspired to write a pretty poem to "The Robin." The +fond mother was so delighted that she said to her, "You will grow up a +Shakspeare!" From the lessons of her father she had formed the habit +of writing freely, but this is the first recorded instance of her +attempting to express her feelings in verse. + +From the influences of such parentage as I have described, the family +life in which Louisa was brought up became wholly unique. + +If the father had to give up his cherished projects of a school +modelled after his ideas, he could at least conduct the education of +his own children; and he did so with the most tender devotion. Even +when they were infants he took a great deal of personal care of them, +and loved to put the little ones to bed and use the "children's hour" +to instil into their hearts lessons of love and wisdom. He was full of +fun too, and would lie on the floor and frolic with them, making +compasses of his long legs with which to draw letters and diagrams. No +shade of fear mingled with the children's reverent recognition of his +superior spiritual life. So their hearts lay open to him, and he was +able to help them in their troubles. + +He taught them much by writing; and we have many specimens of their +lists of words to be spelled, written, and understood. The lessons at +Scituate were often in the garden, and their father always drew their +attention to Nature and her beautiful forms and meanings. Little +symbolical pictures helped to illustrate his lessons, and he sometimes +made drawings himself. Here is an example of lessons. A quaint little +picture represents one child playing on a harp, another drawing an +arrow. It is inscribed-- + + FOR LOUISA. + + 1840. + + Two passions strong divide our life,-- + Meek, gentle love, or boisterous strife. + +Below the child playing the harp is-- + + Love, Music, + Concord. + +Below the shooter is-- + + Anger, Arrow, + Discord. + +Another leaflet is-- + + FOR LOUISA + + 1840. + + Louisa loves-- + What? + (_Softly._) + Fun. + Have some then, + Father + says. + + Christmas Eve, December, 1840. + Concordia. + + * * * * * + + FOR ANNA. + + 1840. + + Beauty or Duty,-- + which + loves Anna best? + A + Question + from her + Father. + + Christmas Eve, + December, 1840. + Concordia. + +A letter beautifully printed by her father for Louisa (1839) speaks to +her of conscience, and she adds to it this note: "L. began early, it +seems, to wrestle with her conscience." The children were always +required to keep their journals regularly, and although these were +open to the inspection of father and mother, they were very frank, and +really recorded their struggles and desires. The mother had the habit +of writing little notes to the children when she wished to call their +attention to any fault or peculiarity. Louisa preserved many of them, +headed,-- + + [_Extracts_ from letters from Mother, received during these early + years. I preserve them to show the ever tender, watchful help she + gave to the child who caused her the most anxiety, yet seemed to + be the nearest to her heart till the end.--L. M. A.] + + No. 1.--MY DEAR LITTLE GIRL,--Will you accept this doll from me + on your seventh birthday? She will be a quiet playmate for my + active Louisa for seven years more. Be a kind mamma, and love her + for my sake. + + YOUR MOTHER. + BEACH STREET, BOSTON, 1839. + + +_From her Mother._ + + COTTAGE IN CONCORD. + + DEAR DAUGHTER,--Your tenth birthday has arrived. May it be a + happy one, and on each returning birthday may you feel new + strength and resolution to be gentle with sisters, obedient to + parents, loving to every one, and happy in yourself. + + I give you the pencil-case I promised, for I have observed that + you are fond of writing, and wish to encourage the habit. + + Go on trying, dear, and each day it will be easier to be and do + good. You must help yourself, for the cause of your little + troubles is in yourself; and patience and courage age only will + make you what mother prays to see you,--her good and happy girl. + + CONCORD, 1843. + + DEAR LOUY,--I enclose a picture for you which I always liked very + much, for I imagined that you might be just such an industrious + daughter and I such a feeble but loving mother, looking to your + labor for my daily bread. + + Keep it for my sake and your own, for you and I always liked to + be grouped together. + + MOTHER. + + The lines I wrote under the picture in my journal:-- + + TO MOTHER. + + I hope that soon, dear mother, + You and I may be + In the quiet room my fancy + Has so often made for thee,-- + + The pleasant, sunny chamber, + The cushioned easy-chair, + The book laid for your reading, + The vase of flowers fair; + + The desk beside the window + Where the sun shines warm and bright: + And there in ease and quiet + The promised book you write; + + While I sit close beside you, + Content at last to see + That you can rest, dear mother, + And I can cherish thee. + + [The dream came true, and for the last ten years of her life + Marmee sat in peace, with every wish granted, even to the + "grouping together;" for she died in my arms.--L. M. A.] + +A passage in Louisa's story of "Little Men" (p. 268) describes one of +their childish plays. They "made believe" their minds were little +round rooms in which the soul lived, and in which good or bad things +were preserved. This play was never forgotten in after life, and the +girls often looked into their little rooms for comfort or guidance in +trial or temptation. + +Louisa was very fond of animals, as is abundantly shown in her +stories. She never had the happiness of owning many pets, except cats, +and these were the delight of the household. The children played all +manner of plays with them, tended them in sickness, buried them with +funeral honors, and Louisa has embalmed their memory in the story of +"The Seven Black Cats" in "Aunt Jo's Scrap-Bag." + +Dolls were an equal source of pleasure. The imaginative children +hardly recognized them as manufactured articles, but endowed them with +life and feeling. Louisa put her dolls through every experience of +life; they were fed, educated, punished, rewarded, nursed, and even +hung and buried, and then resurrected in her stories. The account of +the "Sacrifice of the Dolls" to the exacting Kitty Mouse in "Little +Men" delights all children by its mixture of pathetic earnestness and +playfulness. It is taken from the experience of another family of +children. + +Miss Alcott twice says that she never went to any school but her +father's; but there were some slight exceptions to this rule. She went +a few months to a little district school in Still River Village. This +was a genuine old-fashioned school, from which she took the hint of +the frolics in "Under the Lilacs." Miss Ford also kept a little school +in Mr. Emerson's barn, to which the children went; and Mary Russell +had a school, which Louisa attended when eight or nine years old. +These circumstances, however, had small influence in her education. + +During this period of life in Concord, which was so happy to the +children, the mother's heart was full of anxious care. She however +entered into all their childish pleasures, and her watchful care over +their moral growth is shown by her letters and by Louisa's journals. + +The youngest child, Abba May, who was born in the cottage, became the +pet of the family and the special care of the oldest sister, Anna. + +Louisa's childish journal gives us many hints of this happy life. She +revised these journals in later years, adding significant comments +which are full of interest. She designed them to have place in her +autobiography, which she hoped to write. + +From three different sources--her journals, an article written for +publication, and a manuscript prepared for a friend,--we give her own +account of these childish years. She has not followed the order of +events strictly, and it has not been possible, therefore, to avoid all +repetition; but they give the spirit of her early life, and clearly +show the kind of education she received from her father and from the +circumstances around her. + + +_Sketch of Childhood, by herself._ + + One of my earliest recollections is of playing with books in my + father's study,--building houses and bridges of the big + dictionaries and diaries, looking at pictures, pretending to + read, and scribbling on blank pages whenever pen or pencil could + be found. Many of these first attempts at authorship still remain + in Bacon's Essays, Plutarch's Lives, and other works of a serious + nature, my infant taste being for solid literature, apparently. + + On one occasion we built a high tower round baby Lizzie as she + sat playing with her toys on the floor, and being attracted by + something out-of-doors, forgot our little prisoner. A search was + made, and patient baby at last discovered curled up and fast + asleep in her dungeon cell, out of which she emerged so rosy and + smiling after her nap that we were forgiven for our carelessness. + + Another memory is of my fourth birthday, which was celebrated at + my father's school-room in Masonic Temple. All the children were + there. I wore a crown of flowers, and stood upon a table to + dispense cakes to each child as the procession marched past. By + some oversight the cakes fell short, and I saw that if I gave + away the last one I should have none. As I was queen of the + revel, I felt that I ought to have it, and held on to it tightly + till my mother said,-- + + "It is always better to give away than to keep the nice things; + so I know my Louy will not let the little friend go without." + + The little friend received the dear plummy cake, and I a kiss and + my first lesson in the sweetness of self-denial,--a lesson which + my dear mother beautifully illustrated all her long and noble + life. + + Running away was one of the delights of my early days; and I + still enjoy sudden flights out of the nest to look about this + very interesting world, and then go back to report. + + On one of these occasions I passed a varied day with some Irish + children, who hospitably shared their cold potatoes, salt-fish, + and crusts with me as we revelled in the ash-heaps which then + adorned the waste lands where the Albany Depot now stands. A trip + to the Common cheered the afternoon, but as dusk set in and my + friends deserted me, I felt that home was a nice place after all, + and tried to find it. I dimly remember watching a lamp-lighter as + I sat to rest on some doorsteps in Bedford Street, where a big + dog welcomed me so kindly that I fell asleep with my head + pillowed on his curly back, and was found there by the + town-crier, whom my distracted parents had sent in search of me. + His bell and proclamation of the loss of "a little girl, six + years old, in a pink frock, white hat, and new green shoes," woke + me up, and a small voice answered out of the darkness,-- + + "Why, dat's me!" + + Being with difficulty torn from my four-footed friend, I was + carried to the crier's house, and there feasted sumptuously on + bread-and-molasses in a tin plate with the alphabet round it. But + my fun ended next day when I was tied to the arm of the sofa to + repent at leisure. + + I became an Abolitionist at a very early age, but have never been + able to decide whether I was made so by seeing the portrait of + George Thompson hidden under a bed in our house during the + Garrison riot, and going to comfort "the poor man who had been + good to the slaves," or because I was saved from drowning in the + Frog Pond some years later by a colored boy. However that may be, + the conversion was genuine; and my greatest pride is in the fact + that I lived to know the brave men and women who did so much for + the cause, and that I had a very small share in the war which put + an end to a great wrong. + +Another recollection of her childhood was of a "contraband" hidden in +the oven, which must have made her sense of the horrors of slavery +very keen. + + I never went to school except to my father or such governesses as + from time to time came into the family. Schools then were not + what they are now; so we had lessons each morning in the study. + And very happy hours they were to us, for my father taught in the + wise way which unfolds what lies in the child's nature, as a + flower blooms, rather than crammed it, like a Strasburg goose, + with more than it could digest. I never liked arithmetic nor + grammar, and dodged those branches on all occasions; but reading, + writing, composition, history, and geography I enjoyed, as well + as the stories read to us with a skill peculiarly his own. + + "Pilgrim's Progress," Krummacher's "Parables," Miss Edgeworth, + and the best of the dear old fairy tales made the reading hour + the pleasantest of our day. On Sundays we had a simple service of + Bible stories, hymns, and conversation about the state of our + little consciences and the conduct of our childish lives which + never will be forgotten. + + Walks each morning round the Common while in the city, and long + tramps over hill and dale when our home was in the country, were + a part of our education, as well as every sort of housework,--for + which I have always been very grateful, since such knowledge + makes one independent in these days of domestic tribulation with + the "help" who are too often only hindrances. + + Needle-work began early, and at ten my skilful sister made a + linen shirt beautifully; while at twelve I set up as a doll's + dressmaker, with my sign out and wonderful models in my window. + All the children employed me, and my turbans were the rage at one + time, to the great dismay of the neighbors' hens, who were hotly + hunted down, that I might tweak out their downiest feathers to + adorn the dolls' headgear. + + Active exercise was my delight, from the time when a child of six + I drove my hoop round the Common without stopping, to the days + when I did my twenty miles in five hours and went to a party in + the evening. + + I always thought I must have been a deer or a horse in some + former state, because it was such a joy to run. No boy could be + my friend till I had beaten him in a race, and no girl if she + refused to climb trees, leap fences, and be a tomboy. + + My wise mother, anxious to give me a strong body to support a + lively brain, turned me loose in the country and let me run wild, + learning of Nature what no books can teach, and being led,--as + those who truly love her seldom fail to be,-- + + "Through Nature up to Nature's God." + + I remember running over the hills just at dawn one summer + morning, and pausing to rest in the silent woods, saw, through an + arch of trees, the sun rise over river, hill, and wide green + meadows as I never saw it before. + + Something born of the lovely hour, a happy mood, and the + unfolding aspirations of a child's soul seemed to bring me very + near to God; and in the hush of that morning hour I always felt + that I "got religion," as the phrase goes. A new and vital sense + of His presence, tender and sustaining as a father's arms, came + to me then, never to change through forty years of life's + vicissitudes, but to grow stronger for the sharp discipline of + poverty and pain, sorrow and success. + + Those Concord days were the happiest of my life, for we had + charming playmates in the little Emersons, Channings, Hawthornes, + and Goodwins, with the illustrious parents and their friends to + enjoy our pranks and share our excursions. + + Plays in the barn were a favorite amusement, and we dramatized + the fairy tales in great style. Our giant came tumbling off a + loft when Jack cut down the squash-vine running up a ladder to + represent the immortal bean. Cinderella rolled away in a vast + pumpkin, and a long black pudding was lowered by invisible hands + to fasten itself on the nose of the woman who wasted her three + wishes. + + Pilgrims journeyed over the hill with scrip and staff and + cockle-shells in their hats; fairies held their pretty revels + among the whispering birches, and strawberry parties in the + rustic arbor were honored by poets and philosophers, who fed us + on their wit and wisdom while the little maids served more mortal + food. + +FOOTNOTE: + +[4] Written at eight years of age. + + + + +CHAPTER III. + +FRUITLANDS. + + MY KINGDOM. + + A little kingdom I possess, + Where thoughts and feelings dwell, + And very hard I find the task + Of governing it well; + For passion tempts and troubles me, + A wayward will misleads, + And selfishness its shadow casts + On all my words and deeds. + + How can I learn to rule myself, + To be the child I should, + Honest and brave, nor ever tire + Of trying to be good? + How can I keep a sunny soul + To shine along life's way? + How can I tune my little heart + To sweetly sing all day? + + Dear Father, help me with the love + That casteth out my fear, + Teach me to lean on thee, and feel + That thou art very near, + That no temptation is unseen, + No childish grief too small, + Since thou, with patience infinite, + Doth soothe and comfort all. + + I do not ask for any crown + But that which all may win, + Nor seek to conquer any world + Except the one within. + Be thou my guide until I find, + Led by a tender hand, + Thy happy kingdom in _myself_, + And dare to take command. + + +In 1842 Mr. Alcott went to England. His mind was very much exercised +at this time with plans for organized social life on a higher plane, +and he found like-minded friends in England who gave him sympathy and +encouragement. He had for some years advocated a strictly vegetarian +diet, to which his family consented from deference to him; +consequently the children never tasted meat till they came to +maturity. On his return from England he was accompanied by friends who +were ready to unite with him in the practical realization of their +social theories. Mr. Lane resided for some months in the Alcott family +at Concord, and gave instruction to the children. Although he does not +appear to have won their hearts, they yet reaped much intellectual +advantage from his lessons, as he was an accomplished scholar. + +In 1843 this company of enthusiasts secured a farm in the town of +Harvard, near Concord, which with trusting hope they named Fruitlands. +Mrs. Alcott did not share in all the peculiar ideas of her husband and +his friends, but she was so utterly devoted to him that she was ready +to help him in carrying out his plans, however little they commended +themselves to her better judgment. + +She alludes very briefly to the experiment in her diary, for the +experience was too bitter to dwell upon. She could not relieve her +feelings by bringing out the comic side, as her daughter did. Louisa's +account of this colony, as given in her story called "Transcendental +Wild Oats," is very close to the facts; and the mingling of pathos and +humor, the reverence and ridicule with which she alternately treats +the personages and the notions of those engaged in the scheme, make a +rich and delightful tale. It was written many years later, and gives +the picture as she looked back upon it, the absurdities coming out in +strong relief, while she sees also the grand, misty outlines of the +high thoughts so poorly realized. This story was published in the +"Independent," Dec. 8, 1873, and may now be found in her collected +works ("Silver Pitchers," p. 79). + +Fortunately we have also her journal written at the time, which shows +what education the experience of this strange life brought to the +child of ten or eleven years old. + +The following extract from Mr. Emerson proves that this plan of life +looked fair and pleasing to his eye, although he was never tempted to +join in it. He was evidently not unconscious of the inadequacy of the +means adopted to the end proposed, but he rejoiced in any endeavor +after high ideal life. + + JULY, 8, 1843. + + _Journal._--The sun and the evening sky do not look calmer than + Alcott and his family at Fruitlands. They seemed to have arrived + at the fact,--to have got rid of the show, and so to be serene. + Their manners and behavior in the house and in the field were + those of superior men,--of men at rest. What had they to conceal? + What had they to exhibit? And it seemed so high an attainment + that I thought--as often before, so now more, because they had a + fit home, or the picture was fitly framed--that these men ought + to be maintained in their place by the country for its culture. + + Young men and young maidens, old men and women, should visit them + and be inspired. I think there is as much merit in beautiful + manners as in hard work. I will not prejudge them successful. + They look well in July; we will see them in December. I know they + are better for themselves than as partners. One can easily see + that they have yet to settle several things. Their saying that + things are clear, and they sane, does not make them so. If they + will in very deed be lovers, and not selfish; if they will serve + the town of Harvard, and make their neighbors feel them as + benefactors wherever they touch them,--they are as safe as the + sun.[5] + + +_Early Diary kept at Fruitlands_, 1843. + +_Ten Years Old._ + + _September 1st._--I rose at five and had my bath. I love cold + water! Then we had our singing-lesson with Mr. Lane. After + breakfast I washed dishes, and ran on the hill till nine, and had + some thoughts,--it was so beautiful up there. Did my + lessons,--wrote and spelt and did sums; and Mr. Lane read a + story, "The Judicious Father": How a rich girl told a poor girl + not to look over the fence at the flowers, and was cross to her + because she was unhappy. The father heard her do it, and made the + girls change clothes. The poor one was glad to do it, and he told + her to keep them. But the rich one was very sad; for she had to + wear the old ones a week, and after that she was good to shabby + girls. I liked it very much, and I shall be kind to poor people. + + Father asked us what was God's noblest work. Anna said _men_, but + I said _babies_. Men are often bad; babies never are. We had a + long talk, and I felt better after it, and _cleared up_. + + We had bread and fruit for dinner. I read and walked and played + till supper-time. We sung in the evening. As I went to bed the + moon came up very brightly and looked at me. I felt sad because I + have been cross to-day, and did not mind Mother. I cried, and + then I felt better, and said that piece from Mrs. Sigourney, "I + must not tease my mother." I get to sleep saying poetry,--I know + a great deal. + + _Thursday, 14th._--Mr. Parker Pillsbury came, and we talked about + the poor slaves. I had a music lesson with Miss F. I hate her, + she is so fussy. I ran in the wind and played be a horse, and had + a lovely time in the woods with Anna and Lizzie. We were fairies, + and made gowns and paper wings. I "flied" the highest of all. In + the evening they talked about travelling. I thought about Father + going to England, and said this piece of poetry I found in + Byron's poems:-- + + "When I left thy shores, O Naxos, + Not a tear in sorrow fell; + Not a sigh or faltered accent + Told my bosom's struggling swell." + + It rained when I went to bed, and made a pretty noise on the + roof. + + _Sunday, 24th._--Father and Mr. Lane have gone to N. H. to + preach. It was very lovely.... Anna and I got supper. In the eve + I read "Vicar of Wakefield." I was cross to-day, and I cried when + I went to bed. I made good resolutions, and felt better in my + heart. If I only _kept_ all I make, I should be the best girl in + the world. But I don't, and so am very bad. + + [Poor little sinner! _She says the same at fifty._--L. M. A.] + + _October 8th._--When I woke up, the first thought I got was, + "It's Mother's birthday: I must be very good." I ran and wished + her a happy birthday, and gave her my kiss. After breakfast we + gave her our presents. I had a moss cross and a piece of poetry + for her. + + We did not have any school, and played in the woods and got red + leaves. In the evening we danced and sung, and I read a story + about "Contentment." I wish I was rich, I was good, and we were + all a happy family this day. + + _Thursday, 12th._--After lessons I ironed. We all went to the + barn and husked corn. It was good fun. We worked till eight + o'clock and had lamps. Mr. Russell came. Mother and Lizzie are + going to Boston. I shall be very lonely without dear little + Betty, and no one will be as good to me as mother. I read in + Plutarch. I made a verse about sunset:-- + + Softly doth the sun descend + To his couch behind the hill, + Then, oh, then, I love to sit + On mossy banks beside the rill. + + Anna thought it was very fine; but I didn't like it very well. + + _Friday, Nov. 2nd._--Anna and I did the work. In the evening Mr. + Lane asked us, "What is man?" These were our answers: A human + being; an animal with a mind; a creature; a body; a soul and a + mind. After a long talk we went to bed very tired. + + [No wonder, after doing the work and worrying their little wits + with such lessons.--L. M. A.] + + A sample of the vegetarian wafers we used at Fruitlands:-- + + Vegetable diet + and sweet repose. + Animal food and + nightmare. + + Pluck your body + from the orchard; + do not snatch it + from the shamble. + + Without flesh diet + there could be no + blood-shedding war. + + Apollo eats no + flesh and has no + beard; his voice is + melody itself. + + Snuff is no less snuff + though accepted from + a gold box. + + _Tuesday, 20th._--I rose at five, and after breakfast washed the + dishes, and then helped mother work. Miss F. is gone, and Anna in + Boston with Cousin Louisa. I took care of Abby (May) in the + afternoon. In the evening I made some pretty things for my dolly. + Father and Mr. L. had a talk, and father asked us if _we_ saw any + reason for us to separate. Mother wanted to, she is so tired. I + like it, but not the school part or Mr. L. + + Eleven years old. _Thursday, 29th._--It was Father's and my + birthday. We had some nice presents. We played in the snow before + school. Mother read "Rosamond" when we sewed. Father asked us in + the eve what fault troubled us most. I said my bad temper. + + I told mother I liked to have her write in my book. She said she + would put in more, and she wrote this to help me:-- + + DEAR LOUY,--Your handwriting improves very fast. Take pains and + do not be in a hurry. I like to have you make observations about + our conversations and your own thoughts. It helps you to express + them and to understand your little self. Remember, dear girl, + that a diary should be an epitome of your life. May it be a + record of pure thought and good actions, then you will indeed be + the precious child of your loving mother. + + _December 10th._--I did my lessons, and walked in the afternoon. + Father read to us in dear Pilgrim's Progress. Mr. L. was in + Boston, and we were glad. In the eve father and mother and Anna + and I had a long talk. I was very unhappy, and we all cried. Anna + and I cried in bed, and I prayed God to keep us all together. + + [Little Lu began early to feel the family cares and peculiar + trials.--L. M. A.] + + I liked the verses Christian sung and will put them in:-- + + "This place has been our second stage, + Here we have heard and seen + Those good things that from age to age + To others hid have been. + + "They move me for to watch and pray, + To strive to be sincere, + To take my cross up day by day, + And serve the Lord with fear." + + [The appropriateness of the song at this time was much greater + than the child saw. She never forgot this experience, and her + little cross began to grow heavier from this hour.--L. M. A.] + + CONCORD, _Sunday_.--We all went into the woods to get moss for + the _arbor_ Father is making for _Mr. Emerson_. I miss Anna so + much. I made two verses for her:-- + + TO ANNA. + + Sister, dear, when you are lonely, + Longing for your distant home, + And the images of loved ones + Warmly to your heart shall come, + Then, mid tender thoughts and fancies, + Let one fond voice say to thee, + "Ever when your heart is heavy, + Anna, dear, then think of me." + + Think how we two have together + Journeyed onward day by day, + Joys and sorrows ever sharing, + While the swift years roll away. + Then may all the sunny hours + Of our youth rise up to thee, + And when your heart is light and happy, + Anna, dear, then think of me. + + [Poetry began to flow about this time in a thin but copious + stream.--L. M. A.] + + _Wednesday._--Read Martin Luther. A long letter from Anna. She + sends me a picture of Jenny Lind, the great singer. She must be a + happy girl. I should like to be famous as she is. Anna is very + happy; and I don't miss her as much as I shall by and by in the + winter. + + I wrote in my Imagination Book, and enjoyed it very much. Life is + pleasanter than it used to be, and I don't care about dying any + more. Had a splendid run, and got a box of cones to burn. Sat and + heard the pines sing a long time. Read Miss Bremer's "Home" in + the eve. Had good dreams, and woke now and then to think, and + watch the moon. I had a pleasant time with my mind, for it was + happy. + + [Moods began early.--L. M. A.] + + _January, 1845, Friday._--Did my lessons, and in the P.M. mother + read "Kenilworth" to us while we sewed. It is splendid! I got + angry and called Anna mean. Father told me to look out the word + in the Dic., and it meant "base," "contemptible." I was so + ashamed to have called my dear sister that, and I cried over my + bad tongue and temper. + + We have had a lovely day. All the trees were covered with ice, + and it shone like diamonds or fairy palaces. I made a piece of + poetry about winter:-- + + The stormy winter's come at last, + With snow and rain and bitter blast; + Ponds and brooks are frozen o'er, + We cannot sail there any more. + + The little birds are flown away + To warmer climes than ours; + They'll come no more till gentle May + Calls them back with flowers. + + Oh, then the darling birds will sing + From their neat nests in the trees. + All creatures wake to welcome Spring, + And flowers dance in the breeze. + + With patience wait till winter is o'er, + And all lovely things return; + Of every season try the more + Some knowledge or virtue to learn. + + [A moral is tacked on even to the early poems.--L. M. A.] + + I read "Philothea,"[6] by Mrs. Child. I found this that I liked + in it. Plato said:-- + + "When I hear a note of music I can at once strike its chord. Even + as surely is there everlasting harmony between the soul of man + and the invisible forms of creation. If there were no innocent + hearts there would be no white lilies.... I often think flowers + are the angel's alphabet whereby they write on hills and fields + mysterious and beautiful lessons for us to feel and learn." + + [Well done, twelve-year-old! Plato, the father's delight, had a + charm for the little girl also.--L. M. A.] + + _Wednesday._--I am so cross I wish I had never been born. + + _Thursday._--Read the "Heart of Mid-Lothian," and had a very + happy day. Miss Ford gave us a botany lesson in the woods. I am + always good there. In the evening Miss Ford told us about the + bones in our bodies, and how they get out of order. I must be + careful of mine, I climb and jump and run so much. + + I found this note from dear mother in my journal:-- + + MY DEAREST LOUY,--I often peep into your diary, hoping to see + some record of more happy days. "Hope, and keep busy," dear + daughter, and in all perplexity or trouble come freely to your + + MOTHER. + + DEAR MOTHER,--You _shall_ see more happy days, and I _will_ come + to you with my worries, for you are the best woman in the world. + + L. M. A. + + +_A Sample of our Lessons._ + + "What virtues do you wish more of?" asks Mr. L. + + I answer:-- + + Patience, + Obedience, + Industry, + + Love, + Generosity, + Respect, + + Silence, + Perseverance, + Self-denial. + +"What vices less of?" + + Idleness, + Impatience, + Selfishness, + + Wilfulness, + Impudence, + Activity, + + Vanity, + Pride, + Love of cats. + + MR. L. L. + SOCRATES. ALCIBIADES. + + How can you get what you need? By trying. + + How do you try? By resolution and perseverance. + + How gain love? By gentleness. + + What is gentleness? Kindness, patience, and care for other + people's feelings. + + Who has it? Father and Anna. + + Who means to have it? Louisa, if she can. + + [She never got it.--L. M. A.] + + Write a sentence about anything. "I hope it will rain; the garden + needs it." + + What are the elements of _hope_? Expectation, desire, faith. + + What are the elements in _wish_? Desire. + + What is the difference between faith and hope? "Faith can believe + without seeing; hope is not sure, but tries to have faith when it + desires." + + No. 3. + + What are the most valuable kinds of self-denial? Appetite, + temper. + + How is self-denial of temper known? If I control my temper, I am + respectful and gentle, and every one sees it. + + What is the result of this self-denial? Every one loves me, and I + am happy. + + Why use self-denial? For the good of myself and others. + + How shall we learn this self-denial? By resolving, and then + trying _hard._ + + What then do you mean to do? To resolve and try. + + [Here the record of these lessons ends, and poor little + Alcibiades went to work and tried till fifty, but without any + very great success, in spite of all the help Socrates and Plato + gave her.--L. M. A.] + + _Tuesday._--More people coming to live with us; I wish we could + be together, and no one else. I don't see who is to clothe and + feed us all, when we are so poor now. I was very dismal, and then + went to walk and made a poem. + + DESPONDENCY. + + Silent and sad, + When all are glad, + And the earth is dressed in flowers; + When the gay birds sing + Till the forests ring, + As they rest in woodland bowers. + + Oh, why these tears, + And these idle fears + For what may come to-morrow? + The birds find food + From God so good, + And the flowers know no sorrow. + + If He clothes these + And the leafy trees, + Will He not cherish thee? + Why doubt His care; + It is everywhere, + Though the way we may not see. + + Then why be sad + When all are glad, + And the world is full of flowers? + With the gay birds sing, + Make life all Spring, + And smile through the darkest hours. + +Louisa Alcott grew up so naturally in a healthy religious atmosphere +that she breathed and worked in it without analysis or question. She +had not suffered from ecclesiastical tyranny or sectarian bigotry, +and needed not to expend any time or strength in combating them. She +does not appear to have suffered from doubt or questioning, but to +have gone on her way fighting all the real evils that were presented +to her, trusting in a sure power of right, and confident of victory. + + CONCORD, _Thursday._--I had an early run in the woods before the + dew was off the grass. The moss was like velvet, and as I ran + under the arches of yellow and red leaves I sang for joy, my + heart was so bright and the world so beautiful. I stopped at the + end of the walk and saw the sunshine out over the wide "Virginia + meadows." + + It seemed like going through a dark life or grave into heaven + beyond. A very strange and solemn feeling came over me as I stood + there, with no sound but the rustle of the pines, no one near me, + and the sun so glorious, as for me alone. It seemed as if I + _felt_ God as I never did before, and I prayed in my heart that I + might keep that happy sense of nearness all my life. + + [I have, for I most sincerely think that the little girl "got + religion" that day in the wood when dear mother Nature led her to + God.--L. M. A., 1885.] + +One of Louisa's strongest desires at this time was for a room of her +own, where she might have the solitude she craved to dream her dreams +and work out her fancies. These sweet little notes and an extract from +her journal show how this desire was felt and gratified. + + DEAREST MOTHER,--I have tried to be more contented, and I think I + have been more so. I have been thinking about my little room, + which I suppose I never shall have. I should want to be there + about all the time, and I should go there and sing and think. + + But I'll be contented + With what I have got; + Of folly repented, + Then sweet is my lot. + + From your trying daughter, + LOUY. + + MY DEAR LOUISA,--Your note gave me so much delight that I cannot + close my eyes without first thanking you, dear, for making me so + happy, and blessing God who gave you this tender love for your + mother. + + I have observed all day your patience with baby, your obedience + to me, and your kindness to all. + + Go on "trying," my child; God will give you strength and courage, + and help you fill each day with words and deeds of love. I shall + lay this on your pillow, put a warm kiss on your lips, and say a + little prayer over you in your sleep. + + MOTHER. + + MY LOUY,--I was grieved at your selfish behavior this morning, + but also greatly pleased to find you bore so meekly Father's + reproof for it. That is the way, dear; if you find you are wrong, + take the discipline sweetly, and do so no more. It is not to be + expected that children should always do right; but oh, how lovely + to see a child penitent and patient when the passion is over. + + I thought a little prayer as I looked at you, and said in my + heart, "Dear God, sustain my child in this moment of trial, that + no hasty word, no cruel look, no angry action may add to her + fault." And you were helped. I know that you will have a happy + day after the storm and the gentle shower; keep quiet, read, + walk, but do not talk much till all is peace again. + + MOTHER. + + HILLSIDE, CONCORD. + + DEAR,--I am glad you put your heart in the right place; for I am + sure all true strength comes from above. Continue to feel that + God is _near_ you, dear child, and He never will forsake you in a + weak moment. Write me always when you feel that I can help you; + for, though God is near, Mother never forgets you, and your + refuge is her arms. + + Patience, dear, will give us content, if nothing else. Be assured + the little room you long for will come, if it is necessary to + your peace and well-being. Till then try to be happy with the + good things you have. They are many,--more perhaps than we + deserve, after our frequent complaints and discontent. + + Be cheerful, my Louy, and all will be gayer for your laugh, and + all good and lovely things will be given to you when you deserve + them. + + I am a busy woman, but never can forget the calls of my children. + + MOTHER. + + DEAREST,--I am sure you have lived very near to God _to-day_, you + have been so good and happy. Let each day be like this, and life + will become a sweet song for you and all who love you,--none so + much as your + + MOTHER. + + +_Thirteen Years Old._ + + HILLSIDE. + + _March, 1846._--I have at last got the little room I have wanted + so long, and am very happy about it. It does me good to be + alone, and Mother has made it very pretty and neat for me. My + work-basket and desk are by the window, and my closet is full of + dried herbs that smell very nice. The door that opens into the + garden will be very pretty in summer, and I can run off to the + woods when I like. + + I have made a plan for my life, as I am in my teens and no more a + child. I am old for my age, and don't care much for girl's + things. People think I'm wild and queer; but Mother understands + and helps me. I have not told any one about my plan; but I'm + going to _be_ good. I've made so many resolutions, and written + sad notes, and cried over my sins, and it doesn't seem to do any + good! Now I'm going to _work really_, for I feel a true desire to + improve, and be a help and comfort, not a care and sorrow, to my + dear mother. + + + _Fifteen Years Old._ + + _Sunday, Oct. 9, 1847._--I have been reading to-day Bettine's + correspondence with Goethe. + + She calls herself a child, and writes about the lovely things she + saw and heard, and felt and did. I liked it much. + + [First taste of Goethe. Three years later R. W. E. gave me + "Wilhelm Meister," and from that day Goethe has been my chief + idol.--L. M. A., 1885.] + +The experiment at Fruitlands was (outwardly) an utter failure, and had +exhausted Mr. Alcott's resources of mind, body, and estate. Louisa has +not exaggerated the collapse which followed. But the brave, loving +mother could not give way to despondency, for she had her young to +care for. After a few days Mr. Alcott rose from his despair, and +listened to her counsel. They lived a short time at Still River, and +then returned to Concord; but not to the happy little cottage. + +Mr. Alcott sought such work as he could find to do with his hands; but +it was scanty and insufficient. Mrs. Alcott subdued her proud heart to +the necessity of seeking help from friends. They had a few rooms in +the house of a kind neighbor, who welcomed them to her house, in +addition to her own large family; and there they struggled with the +poverty which Louisa for the first time fully realized. + +Yet her journal says little of the hardships they endured, but is full +of her mental and moral struggles. It was characteristic of this +family that they never were conquered by their surroundings. Mr. +Alcott might retire into sad and silent musing, Mrs. Alcott's warm, +quick temper, might burst out into flame, the children might be +quarrelsome or noisy; but their ideal of life always remained high, +fresh, and ennobling. Their souls always "knew their destiny divine," +and believed that they would find fitting expression in life some +time. "Chill penury" could not repress "their noble rage," nor freeze +"the genial current" of their souls. + +The children escaped from the privations of daily life into a world of +romance, and in the plays in the old barn revelled in luxury and +splendor. This dramatic tendency was very strong in Louisa, and she +never outgrew it. It took various shapes and colors, and at one time +threatened to dominate her life. + +The education of the children was certainly desultory and +insufficient; but it was inspiring, and brought out their powers. They +learned to feel and to think justly, and to express their thoughts and +feelings freely and forcibly, if they did not know well the rules of +grammar and rhetoric. Mr. Alcott always loved the study of language, +and became a master of it; while Mrs. Alcott had a rich and +well-chosen vocabulary, gained from the intelligent companions of her +youth and the best literature, which she read freely. Mr. Alcott made +great use of the study of language in his teaching, and often employed +the definition of a word to convey a lesson or a rebuke. The children +were encouraged, and even required, to keep their journals regularly, +and to write letters. Their efforts at poetry or the drama were not +laughed at, but treasured by their parents as indications of progress. +Mr. Alcott's records of his own theory and practice in the education +of children are full of valuable suggestion, and much yet remains +buried in his journals. The girls had full freedom to act out their +natures, with little fear of ridicule or criticism. An innate sense of +dignity and modesty kept them from abusing this liberty; and perhaps +nowhere in the world could it have been more safely indulged than in +the simple life of Concord, whose very atmosphere seemed then filled +with a spiritual presence which made life free, pure, and serene. + +Louisa gives this interesting anecdote of their life at that time:-- + + People wondered at our frolics, but enjoyed them, and droll + stories are still told of the adventures of those days. Mr. + Emerson and Margaret Fuller were visiting my parents one + afternoon, and the conversation having turned to the ever + interesting subject of education, Miss Fuller said:-- + + "Well, Mr. Alcott, you have been able to carry out your methods + in your own family, and I should like to see your model + children." + + She did in a few moments, for as the guests stood on the + door-steps a wild uproar approached, and round the corner of the + house came a wheelbarrow holding baby May arrayed as a queen; I + was the horse, bitted and bridled, and driven by my elder sister + Anna; while Lizzie played dog, and barked as loud as her gentle + voice permitted. + + All were shouting and wild with fun, which, however, came to a + sudden end as we espied the stately group before us; for my foot + tripped, and down we all went in a laughing heap; while my mother + put a climax to the joke by saying, with a dramatic wave of the + hand,-- + + "Here are the model children, Miss Fuller." + +They were undoubtedly very satisfactory to Miss Fuller, who partook +largely of the educational views of that time, and who loved to tell +anecdotes of this family. One of the sisters writes in her diary: "She +_said_ prayers; but I think my resolutions to be good are prayers." + +In 1841 Colonel May, Mrs. Alcott's father, died and left her a small +amount of property. Mrs. Alcott decided to purchase with this a house +in Concord, and the addition of five hundred dollars from Mr. Emerson, +who was always the good Providence of the family, enabled her in 1845 +to buy the place in Concord known as Hillside. This house is on the +road to Lexington, about one third of a mile from Mr. Emerson's home. +It was afterward occupied by Mr. Hawthorne. + +In this house the girlish life of Louisa was passed, which she has +represented so fully in "Little Women," and of which she speaks in her +journal as the happiest time of her life. Yet she was not unmindful of +the anxiety of her parents; and the determined purpose to retrieve the +fortunes of the family and to give to her mother the comfort and ease +which she had never known in her married life became the constant +motive of her conduct. It is in the light of this purpose alone that +her character and her subsequent career can be fully understood. She +naturally thought of teaching as her work, and had for a short time a +little school in the barn for Mr. Emerson's children and others. + +It was indeed a great comfort to be sure of the house over their +heads, but there were still six mouths to be fed, six bodies to be +clothed, and four young, eager minds to be educated. Concord offered +very little opportunity for such work as either Mr. or Mrs. Alcott +could do, and at last even the mother's brave heart broke down. She +was painfully anxious about the support of her household. A friend +passing through Concord called upon her, and Mrs. Alcott could not +hide the traces of tears on her face. "Abby Alcott, what does this +mean?" said the visitor, with determined kindness. The poor mother +opened her heart to her friend, and told the story of their privations +and sufferings. + +"Come to Boston, and I will find you employment," said the friend. + +The family removed to Boston in 1848, and Mrs. Alcott became a visitor +to the poor in the employ of one or more benevolent societies, and +finally kept an intelligence office. Her whole heart went into her +work; and the children, as well as the mother, learned many valuable +lessons from it. Her reports of her work are said to have been very +interesting, and full of valuable suggestion. + +Mr. Alcott began to hold conversations in West Street. He attracted a +small circle of thoughtful men and women about him, who delighted in +the height of his aspirations and the originality of his thoughts. It +was congenial occupation for him, and thus added to the happiness of +the family, though very little to its pecuniary resources. His price +of admission was small, and he freely invited any one who would enjoy +the meetings although unable to pay for them. He was a great and +helpful influence to young minds. Besides the morally pure and +spiritually elevated atmosphere of thought to which they were +introduced by him, they found a great intellectual advantage in the +acquaintance with ancient poets and philosophers, into whose life he +had entered sympathetically. His peculiar theories of temperament and +diet never failed to call out discussion and opposition. One of my +earliest recollections of Louisa is on one of these occasions, when he +was emphasizing his doctrine that a vegetable diet would produce +unruffled sweetness of temper and disposition. I heard a voice behind +me saying to her neighbor: "I don't know about that. I've never eaten +any meat, and I'm awful cross and irritable very often." + +On her fourteenth birthday her mother wrote her the following poem, +with a present of a pen. It was a prophetic gift, and well used by the +receiver. + + Oh, may this pen your muse inspire, + When wrapt in pure poetic fire, + To write some sweet, some thrilling verse; + A song of love or sorrow's lay, + Or duty's clear but tedious way + In brighter hope rehearse. + Oh, let your strain be soft and high, + Of crosses here, of crowns beyond the sky; + Truth guide your pen, inspire your theme, + And from each note joy's music stream. + + [Original, I think. I have tried to obey.--L. M. A., 1885.] + +In a sketch written for a friend, Louisa gives this account of the +parents' influence on the children:-- + + When cautious friends asked mother how she dared to have such + outcasts among her girls, she always answered, with an expression + of confidence which did much to keep us safe, "I can trust my + daughters, and this is the best way to teach them how to shun + these sins and comfort these sorrows. They cannot escape the + knowledge of them; better gain this under their father's roof and + their mother's care, and so be protected by these experiences + when their turn comes to face the world and its temptations." + Once we carried our breakfast to a starving family; once lent our + whole dinner to a neighbor suddenly taken unprepared by + distinguished guests. Another time, one snowy Saturday night, + when our wood was very low, a poor child came to beg a little, as + the baby was sick and the father on a spree with all his wages. + My mother hesitated at first, as we also had a baby. Very cold + weather was upon us, and a Sunday to be got through before more + wood could be had. My father said, "Give half our stock, and + trust in Providence; the weather will moderate, or wood will + come." Mother laughed, and answered in her cheery way, "Well, + their need is greater than ours, and if our half gives out we can + go to bed and tell stories." So a generous half went to the poor + neighbor, and a little later in the eve, while the storm still + raged and we were about to cover our fire to keep it, a knock + came, and a farmer who usually supplied us appeared, saying + anxiously, "I started for Boston with a load of wood, but it + drifts so I want to go home. Wouldn't you like to have me drop + the wood here; it would accommodate me, and you needn't hurry + about paying for it." "Yes," said Father; and as the man went off + he turned to Mother with a look that much impressed us children + with his gifts as a seer, "Didn't I tell you wood would come if + the weather did not moderate?" Mother's motto was "Hope, and keep + busy," and one of her sayings, "Cast your bread upon the waters, + and after many days it will come back buttered." + +FOOTNOTES: + +[5] Emerson in Concord. By Edward Waldo Emerson. + +[6] "Philothea" was the delight of girls. The young Alcotts made a +dramatic version of it, which they acted under the trees. Louisa made +a magnificent Aspasia, which was a part much to her fancy. Mrs. Child +was a very dear friend of Mrs. Alcott, and her daughters knew her +well. + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + +THE SENTIMENTAL PERIOD. + + A SONG FROM THE SUDS. + + Queen of my tub, I merrily sing, + While the white foam rises high, + And sturdily wash, and rinse, and wring, + And fasten the clothes to dry; + Then out in the free fresh air they swing, + Under the sunny sky. + + I wish we could wash from our hearts and our souls + The stains of the week away, + And let water and air by their magic make + Ourselves as pure as they; + Then on the earth there would be indeed + A glorious washing-day! + + Along the path of a useful life + Will heart's-ease ever bloom; + The busy mind has no time to think + Of sorrow, or care, or gloom; + And anxious thoughts may be swept away + As we busily wield a broom. + + I am glad a task to me is given + To labor at day by day; + For it brings me health, and strength, and hope, + And I cheerfully learn to say,-- + "Head, you may think; heart, you may feel; + But hand, you shall work alway!" + + +The period of free, happy childhood was necessarily short, and at +about the age of fifteen Louisa Alcott began to feel the pressure of +thoughts and duties which made life a more solemn matter. In spite of +the overflowing fun which appears in her books, her nature was very +serious, and she could not cast aside care lightly. So many varying +tendencies existed in her character that she must have struggled with +many doubts and questions before finding the true path. But she always +kept the pole-star of right strictly in view, and never failed in +truth to that duty which seemed to her nearest and most imperative. If +she erred in judgment, she did not err in conscientious fidelity. + +Her mother's rules for her guidance were-- + + Rule yourself. + Love your neighbor. + Do the duty which lies nearest you. + +She never lost sight of these instructions. + +I will introduce this period in her own words, as written later for +the use of a friend. + + My romantic period began at fifteen, when I fell to writing + poetry, keeping a heart-journal, and wandering by moonlight + instead of sleeping quietly. About that time, in browsing over + Mr. Emerson's library, I found Goethe's "Correspondence with a + Child," and at once was fired with a desire to be a Bettine, + making my father's friend my Goethe. So I wrote letters to him, + but never sent them; sat in a tall cherry-tree at midnight, + singing to the moon till the owls scared me to bed; left wild + flowers on the doorstep of my "Master," and sung Mignon's song + under his window in very bad German. + + Not till many years later did I tell _my_ Goethe of this early + romance and the part he played in it. He was much amused, and + begged for his letters, kindly saying he felt honored to be so + worshipped. The letters were burnt long ago, but Emerson remained + my "Master" while he lived, doing more for me,--as for many + another,--than he knew, by the simple beauty of his life, the + truth and wisdom of his books, the example of a great, good man, + untempted and unspoiled by the world which he made better while + in it, and left richer and nobler when he went. + + The trials of life began about this time, and happy childhood + ended. One of the most memorable days of my life is a certain + gloomy November afternoon, when we had been holding a family + council as to ways and means. In summer we lived much as the + birds did, on our fruit and bread and milk; the sun was our fire, + the sky our roof, and Nature's plenty made us forget that such a + thing as poverty existed. + +In 1850 she heads her diary "The Sentimental Period." She was then +seventeen years old, but her diary gives no hint of the sentimental +notions that often fill the heads of young girls at that period. The +experiences of Jo with her charming young neighbor in "Little Women" +do not represent hers at all. + +One bit of romance was suggested by Goethe's "Correspondence with a +Child." It may be difficult for readers of to-day to understand the +fascination which this book exercised upon young minds of the last +generation, yet it is certain that it led more than one young girl to +form an ideal attachment to a man far older than herself, but full of +nobility and intellectual greatness. Theodore Parker said of letters +addressed to him by a young New Hampshire girl, "They are as good as +Bettine's without the lies." This mingling of idealism and +hero-worship was strongly characteristic of that transcendental period +when women, having little solid education and less industrial +employment, were full of noble aspirations and longings for fuller and +freer life, which must find expression in some way. + +The young woman of to-day, wearing waterproof and india-rubber boots, +skating, driving, and bicycling, studying chemistry in the laboratory, +exhibiting her pictures in open competition, adopting a profession +without opposition, and living single without fear of reproach, has +less time for fancies and more regard for facts. + +Miss Alcott was safe in choosing her idol. Worship of Emerson could +only refine and elevate her thoughts, and her intimate acquaintance +with his beautiful home chastened her idolatry into pure reverent +friendship which never failed her. She kept her worship to herself, +and never sent him the letters in which she poured out the longings +and raptures which filled her girlish heart. + +Her diary, which was revised by herself in later years, tells the +story of this period quite fully. The details may seem trifling, but +they help to illustrate this important formative period of her life. + + +_Journal._ + +THE SENTIMENTAL PERIOD. + + BOSTON, _May, 1850._--So long a time has passed since I kept a + journal that I hardly know how to begin. Since coming to the city + I don't seem to have thought much, for the bustle and dirt and + change send all lovely images and restful feelings away. Among my + hills and woods I had fine free times alone, and though my + thoughts were silly, I daresay, they helped to keep me happy and + good. I see now what Nature did for me, and my "romantic tastes," + as people called that love of solitude and out-of-door life, + taught me much. + + This summer, like the last, we shall spend in a large house + (Uncle May's, Atkinson Street), with many comforts about us which + we shall enjoy, and in the autumn I hope I shall have something + to show that the time has not been wasted. Seventeen years have I + lived, and yet so little do I know, and so much remains to be + done before I begin to be what I desire,--a truly good and useful + woman. + + In looking over our journals, Father says, "Anna's is about other + people, Louisa's about herself." That is true, for I don't _talk_ + about myself; yet must always think of the wilful, moody girl I + try to manage, and in my journal I write of her to see how she + gets on. Anna is so good she need not take care of herself, and + can enjoy other people. If I look in my glass, I try to keep down + vanity about my long hair, my well-shaped head, and my good nose. + In the street I try not to covet fine things. My quick tongue is + always getting me into trouble, and my moodiness makes it hard to + be cheerful when I think how poor we are, how much worry it is to + live, and how many things I long to do I never can. + + So every day is a battle, and I'm so tired I don't want to live; + only it's cowardly to die till you have done something. + + I can't talk to any one but Mother about my troubles, and she has + so many now to bear I try not to add any more. I know God is + always ready to hear, but heaven's so far away in the city, and + I so heavy I can't fly up to find Him. + + FAITH. + Written in the diary. + + Oh, when the heart is full of fears + And the way seems dim to heaven, + When the sorrow and the care of years + Peace from the heart has driven,-- + Then, through the mist of falling tears, + Look up and be forgiven. + + Forgiven for the lack of faith + That made all dark to thee, + Let conscience o'er thy wayward soul + Have fullest mastery: + Hope on, fight on, and thou shalt win + A noble victory. + + Though thou art weary and forlorn, + Let not thy heart's peace go; + Though the riches of this world are gone, + And thy lot is care and woe, + Faint not, but journey hourly on: + True wealth is not below. + + Through all the darkness still look up: + Let virtue be thy guide; + Take thy draught from sorrow's cup, + Yet trustfully abide; + Let not temptation vanquish thee, + And the Father will provide. + + [We had small-pox in the family this summer, caught from some + poor immigrants whom mother took into our garden and fed one day. + We girls had it lightly, but Father and Mother were very ill, and + we had a curious time of exile, danger, and trouble. No doctors, + and all got well.--L. M. A.] + + _July_, 1850.--Anna is gone to L. after the varioloid. She is to + help Mrs. ---- with her baby. I had to take A.'s school of twenty + in Canton Street. I like it better than I thought, though it's + very hard to be patient with the children sometimes. They seem + happy, and learn fast; so I am encouraged, though at first it was + very hard, and I missed Anna so much I used to cry over my dinner + and be very blue. I guess this is the teaching I need; for as a + _school-marm_ I must behave myself and guard my tongue and temper + carefully, and set an example of sweet manners. + + I found one of mother's notes in my journal, so like those she + used to write me when she had more time. It always encourages me; + and I wish some one would write as helpfully to her, for she + needs cheering up with all the care she has. I often think what a + hard life she has had since she married,--so full of wandering + and all sorts of worry! so different from her early easy days, + the youngest and most petted of her family. I think she is a very + brave, good woman; and my dream is to have a lovely, quiet home + for her, with no debts or troubles to burden her. But I'm afraid + she will be in heaven before I can do it. Anna, too, she is + feeble and homesick, and I miss her dreadfully; for she is my + conscience, always true and just and good. She must have a good + time in a nice little home of her own some day, as we often plan. + But waiting is so _hard_! + + _August_, 1850.--School is hard work, and I feel as though I + should like to run away from it. But my children get on; so I + travel up every day, and do my best. + + I get very little time to write or think; for my working days + have begun, and when school is over Anna wants me; so I have no + quiet. I think a little solitude every day is good for me. In + the quiet I see my faults, and try to mend them; but, deary me, I + don't get on at all. + + I used to imagine my mind a room in confusion, and I was to put + it in order; so I swept out useless thoughts and dusted foolish + fancies away, and furnished it with good resolutions and began + again. But cobwebs get in. I'm not a good housekeeper, and never + get my room in nice order. I once wrote a poem about it when I + was fourteen, and called it "My Little Kingdom." It is still hard + to rule it, and always will be I think. + + Reading Miss Bremer and Hawthorne. The "Scarlet Letter" is my + favorite. Mother likes Miss B. better, as more wholesome. I fancy + "lurid" things, if true and strong also. + + Anna wants to be an actress, and so do I. We could make plenty of + money perhaps, and it is a very gay life. Mother says we are too + young, and must wait. A. acts often splendidly. I like tragic + plays, and shall be a Siddons if I can. We get up fine ones, and + make harps, castles, armor, dresses, water-falls, and thunder, + and have great fun. + +It was at this period of her life that she was violently attacked by a +mania for the stage, and the greater part of her leisure time was +given to writing and enacting dramas. Her older sister, Anna, had the +same taste, and assisted her in carrying out all her plans. A family +of great talent with whom they were intimate joined with them, and +their mother always allowed them to have all the private theatricals +they wished to perform. + +Some of these early plays are preserved in manuscripts as she wrote +them. They are written in stilted, melodramatic style, full of +highstrung sentiments of loyalty, honor and devotion, with the most +improbable incidents and violent devices, and without a touch of +common life or the slightest flavor of humor. The idea of +self-sacrifice always comes into them; but they are thoroughly +girlish. It is so that girls dream and feel before they know life at +all. Their hearts are full of vague, restless longings, and they seek +some vent for the repressed energies of their natures away from the +prosaic realities of the present. While Louisa sat sewing the tedious +seams of her daily task what a relief it was to let her imagination +run riot among the wildest and most exciting scenes. Of course she had +a "Bandit's Bride" among her plays. "The Captive of Castile; or, The +Moorish Maiden's Vow," is preserved entire, and is a good specimen of +these girlish efforts. It is full of surprises and concealments, and +the denouement is as unnatural as could well be imagined. The dialogue +is often bright and forcible, and the sentiments always lofty, and we +have no doubt it seemed very grand to the youthful audience. It is +taken from her reading, with no touch of her own life in it. This is +not the same play described with such a ludicrous finale in "Little +Women," although the heroine bears the same favorite name of Zara. Her +own early amusement was, however, fully in her mind when she wrote +that scene, which is true to fact. + +A friend and relative of the family living in Roxbury, Dr. Windship, +was much interested in the development of Louisa's dramatic talent. +The girls always enjoyed delightful visits at his house. He tried to +help the young dramatist to public success, and writes to her +mother:-- + + I have offered to Mr. Barry of the Boston Theatre Louisa's "Prima + Donnas." He is very much pleased with it just as it is, and will + bring it out this season in good style. He thinks it will have a + fine run. + +Mrs. Barry and Mrs. Wood consented to take the principal characters. +But from some difficulty in the arrangements "The Rival Prima Donnas" +was not produced. One great pleasure was gained, however, as Mr. Barry +gave her a free pass to the theatre, which proved a source of constant +refreshment and delight. + +Of course Louisa was eager to go on to the stage herself. She had +indeed extraordinary dramatic power, and could at any time quickly +transform herself into Hamlet, and recite a scene with tragic effect. +But the careful mother knew better than the girl the trials and +dangers of the profession, and dissuaded her from it. She also knew +how little such youthful facility of expression indicates the power +which will make a great actress. Louisa has reproduced her dramatic +experience in "Work," which gives a picture faithful in spirit and in +many of its details to this phase of her life. She here indicates a +knowledge of her own limitation of talent. "Christie's gala" was a +part quite after her own heart. + +A farce, called "Nat Batchelor's Pleasure Trip; or, The Trials of a +Good-natured Man," was brought out at the Howard Athenaeum. The papers +of the day said of it: "It is a creditable first attempt at dramatic +composition, and received frequent applause." Another critic says: "It +proved a full success." This performance, however, took place in +1860,--a later period than that of which I am now speaking. + +An incident which occurred at this representation probably suggested +scenes which recur in "Work" and other of Miss Alcott's stories. + + Quite a hit was made by a little girl, a Miss Jones, who, having + to speak but a few lines, spoke them so well that upon her exit + she received the rare compliment of an enthusiastic recall from + the audience, despite the fact that "some necessary question of + the play was then to be considered." For the time being she + certainly was the sensation of the piece. + +Miss Alcott had in Dr. Windship a kind and judicious helper in her +dramatic undertakings, with whom she kept up a correspondence under +the names of Beaumont and Fletcher. + +In 1851 Louisa had an experience which she has reproduced in her story +called "How I Went Out to Service." Her mother's work among the poor +of Boston led to her being applied to for employment, and at one time +she kept a regular intelligence office. A gentleman came to her +seeking a companion for his aged father and sister, who was to do only +light work, and to be treated with the greatest respect and kindness. +As Mrs. Alcott did not readily think of any who would fill the place, +the impulsive Louisa suggested, "Why couldn't I go, Mother?" She went, +and had two months of disappointment and painful experience which she +never forgot. She wrote out the story which was published later, +called "How I Went Out to Service." + +The story has an important lesson for those who condemn severely young +girls who prefer the more independent life of the factory or shop to +what is considered the safety and comfort of service in families. If a +girl like Louisa Alcott, belonging to a well-known, highly esteemed +family, and herself commanding respect by her abilities and character, +could be treated with such indignity by a family in which no one would +have feared to place her, how much may not a poor unfriended girl be +called upon to endure! + + +_Journal._ + + 1851.--We went to a meeting, and heard splendid speaking from + Phillips, Channing, and others. People were much excited, and + cheered "Shadrack and liberty," groaned for "Webster and + slavery," and made a great noise. I felt ready to do + anything,--fight or work, hoot or cry,--and laid plans to free + Simms. I shall be horribly ashamed of my country if this thing + happens and the slave is taken back. + + [He was.--L. M. A.] + + 1852.--_High Street, Boston._--After the small-pox summer, we + went to a house in High Street. Mother opened an intelligence + office, which grew out of her city missionary work and a desire + to find places for good girls. It was not fit work for her, but + it paid; and she always did what came to her in the way of duty + or charity, and let pride, taste, and comfort suffer for love's + sake. + + Anna and I taught; Lizzie was our little housekeeper,--our angel + in a cellar kitchen; May went to school; father wrote and talked + when he could get classes or conversations. Our poor little home + had much love and happiness in it, and was a shelter for lost + girls, abused wives, friendless children, and weak or wicked men. + Father and Mother had no money to give, but gave them time, + sympathy, help; and if blessings would make them rich, they would + be millionnaires. This is practical Christianity. + + My first story was printed, and $5 paid for it. It was written in + Concord when I was sixteen. Great rubbish! Read it aloud to + sisters, and when they praised it, not knowing the author, I + proudly announced her name. + + Made a resolution to read fewer novels, and those only of the + best. List of books I like:-- + + Carlyle's French Revolution and Miscellanies. + Hero and Hero-Worship. + Goethe's poems, plays, and novels. + Plutarch's Lives. + Madame Guion. + Paradise Lost and Comus. + Schiller's Plays. + Madame de Stael. + Bettine. + Louis XIV. + Jane Eyre. + Hypatia. + Philothea. + Uncle Tom's Cabin. + Emerson's Poems. + +In "Little Women" (p. 174), she has told a story which has usually +been supposed to represent her first success in literature; but she +has transferred the incident from her sister to her own +representative, Jo. It was the quiet Anna who had secretly written a +story and fastened it inside of a newspaper. She read it to her mother +and sisters, as described in the book, and was very much delighted +with their approbation and astonishment. + + 1853.--In January I started a little school,--E. W., W. A., two + L's, two H's,--about a dozen in our parlor. In May, when my + school closed, I went to L. as second girl. I needed the change, + could do the wash, and was glad to earn my $2 a week. Home in + October with $34 for my wages. After two days' rest, began school + again with ten children. Anna went to Syracuse to teach; Father + to the West to try his luck,--so poor, so hopeful, so serene. God + be with him! Mother had several boarders, and May got on well at + school. Betty was still the home bird, and had a little romance + with C. + + Pleasant letters from Father and Anna. A hard year. Summer + distasteful and lonely; winter tiresome with school and people I + didn't like. I miss Anna, my one bosom friend and comforter. + + 1854.--_Pinckney Street._--I have neglected my journal for + months, so must write it up. School for me month after month. + Mother busy with boarders and sewing. Father doing as well as a + philosopher can in a money-loving world. Anna at S. + + I earned a good deal by sewing in the evening when my day's work + was done. + + In February Father came home. Paid his way, but no more. A + dramatic scene when he arrived in the night. We were waked by + hearing the bell. Mother flew down, crying "My husband!" We + rushed after, and five white figures embraced the half-frozen + wanderer who came in hungry, tired, cold, and disappointed, but + smiling bravely and as serene as ever. We fed and warmed and + brooded over him, longing to ask if he had made any money; but no + one did till little May said, after he had told all the pleasant + things, "Well, did people pay you?" Then, with a queer look, he + opened his pocket-book and showed one dollar, saying with a smile + that made our eyes fill, "Only that! My overcoat was stolen, and + I had to buy a shawl. Many promises were not kept, and travelling + is costly; but I have opened the way, and another year shall do + better." + + I shall never forget how beautifully Mother answered him, though + the dear, hopeful soul had built much on his success; but with a + beaming face she kissed him, saying, "I call that doing _very + well_. Since you are safely home, dear, we don't ask anything + more." + + Anna and I choked down our tears, and took a little lesson in + real love which we never forgot, nor the look that the tired man + and the tender woman gave one another. It was half tragic and + comic, for Father was very dirty and sleepy, and Mother in a big + nightcap and funny old jacket. + + [I began to see the strong contrasts and the fun and follies in + every-day life about this time.--L. M. A.] + + Anna came home in March. Kept our school all summer. I got + "Flower Fables" ready to print. + +Louisa also tried service with a relative in the country for a short +time, but teaching, sewing, and writing were her principal occupations +during this residence in Boston. + +These seven years, from Louisa's sixteenth to her twenty-third year, +might be called an apprenticeship to life. She tried various paths, +and learned to know herself and the world about her, although she was +not even yet certain of success in the way which finally opened before +her and led her so successfully to the accomplishment of her +life-purpose. She tried teaching, without satisfaction to herself or +perhaps to others. The kind of education she had herself received +fitted her admirably to understand and influence children, but not to +carry on the routine of a school. Sewing was her resource when nothing +else offered, but it is almost pitiful to think of her as confined to +such work when great powers were lying dormant in her mind. Still, +Margaret Fuller said that a year of enforced quiet in the country +devoted mainly to sewing was very useful to her, since she reviewed +and examined the treasures laid up in her memory; and doubtless Louisa +Alcott thought out many a story which afterward delighted the world +while her fingers busily plied the needle. Yet it was a great +deliverance when she first found that the products of her brain would +bring in the needed money for family support. + + +_L. in Boston to A. in Syracuse._ + + THURSDAY, 27th. + + DEAREST NAN,--I was so glad to hear from you, and hear that all + were well. + + I am grubbing away as usual, trying to get money enough to buy + Mother a nice warm shawl. I have eleven dollars, all my own + earnings,--five for a story, and four for the pile of sewing I + did for the ladies of Dr. Gray's society, to give him as a + present. + + ... I got a crimson ribbon for a bonnet for May, and I took my + straw and fixed it nicely with some little duds I had. Her old + one has haunted me all winter, and I want her to look neat. She + is so graceful and pretty and loves beauty so much, it is hard + for her to be poor and wear other people's ugly things. You and I + have learned not to mind _much_; but when I think of her I long + to dash out and buy the finest hat the limited sum of ten dollars + can procure. She says so sweetly in one of her letters: "It is + hard sometimes to see other people have so many nice things and I + so few; but I try not to be envious, but contented with my poor + clothes, and cheerful about it." I hope the little dear will like + the bonnet and the frills I made her and some bows I fixed over + from bright ribbons L. W. threw away. I get half my rarities from + her rag-bag, and she doesn't know her own rags when fixed over. I + hope I shall live to see the dear child in silk and lace, with + plenty of pictures and "bottles of cream," Europe, and all she + longs for. + + For our good little Betty, who is wearing all the old gowns we + left, I shall soon be able to buy a new one, and send it with my + blessing to the cheerful saint. She writes me the funniest notes, + and tries to keep the old folks warm and make the lonely house in + the snowbanks cosey and bright. + + To Father I shall send new neckties and some paper; then he will + be happy, and can keep on with the beloved diaries though the + heavens fall. + + Don't laugh at my plans; I'll carry them out, if I go to service + to do it. Seeing so much money flying about, I long to honestly + get a little and make my dear family more comfortable. I feel + weak-minded when I think of all they need and the little I can + do. + + Now about you: Keep the money you have earned by so many tears + and sacrifices, and clothe yourself; for it makes me mad to know + that my good little lass is going round in shabby things, and + being looked down upon by people who are not worthy to touch her + patched shoes or the hem of her ragged old gowns. Make yourself + tidy, and if any is left over send it to Mother; for there are + always many things needed at home, though they won't tell us. I + only wish I too by any amount of weeping and homesickness could + earn as much. But my mite won't come amiss; and if tears can add + to its value, I've shed my quart,--first, over the book not + coming out; for that was a sad blow, and I waited so long it was + dreadful when my castle in the air came tumbling about my ears. + Pride made me laugh in public; but I wailed in private, and no + one knew it. The folks at home think I rather enjoyed it, for I + wrote a jolly letter. But my visit was spoiled; and now I'm + digging away for dear life, that I may not have come entirely in + vain. I didn't mean to groan about it; but my lass and I must + tell some one our trials, and so it becomes easy to confide in + one another. I never let Mother know how unhappy you were in S. + till Uncle wrote. + + My doings are not much this week. I sent a little tale to the + "Gazette," and Clapp asked H. W. if five dollars would be enough. + Cousin H. said yes, and gave it to me, with kind words and a nice + parcel of paper, saying in his funny way, "Now, Lu, the door is + open, go in and win." So I shall try to do it. Then cousin L. W. + said Mr. B. had got my play, and told her that if Mrs. B. liked + it as well, it must be clever, and if it didn't cost too much, he + would bring it out by and by. Say nothing about it yet. Dr. W. + tells me Mr. F. is very sick; so the farce cannot be acted yet. + But the Doctor is set on its coming out, and we have fun about + it. H. W. takes me often to the theatre when L. is done with me. + I read to her all the P.M. often, as she is poorly, and in that + way I pay my debt to them. + + I'm writing another story for Clapp. I want more fives, and mean + to have them too. + + Uncle wrote that you were Dr. W.'s pet teacher, and every one + loved you dearly. But if you are not well, don't stay. Come home, + and be cuddled by your old + + LU. + + + + +CHAPTER V. + +AUTHORSHIP. + + OUR ANGEL IN THE HOUSE. + + Sitting patient in the shadow + Till the blessed light shall come, + A serene and saintly presence + Sanctifies our troubled home. + Earthly joys and hopes and sorrows + Break like ripples on the strand + Of the deep and solemn river, + Where her willing feet now stand. + + O my sister, passing from me + Out of human care and strife, + Leave me as a gift those virtues + Which have beautified your life. + Dear, bequeath me that great patience + Which has power to sustain + A cheerful, uncomplaining spirit + In its prison-house of pain. + + Give me--for I need it sorely-- + Of that courage, wise and sweet, + Which has made the path of duty + Green beneath your willing feet. + Give me that unselfish nature + That with charity divine + Can pardon wrong for love's dear sake,-- + Meek heart, forgive me mine! + + Thus our parting daily loseth + Something of its bitter pain, + And while learning this hard lesson + My great loss becomes my gain; + For the touch of grief will render + My wild nature more serene, + Give to life new aspirations, + A new trust in the unseen. + + Henceforth safe across the river + I shall see forevermore + A beloved household spirit + Waiting for me on the shore; + Hope and faith, born of my sorrow, + Guardian angels shall become; + And the sister gone before me + By their hands shall lead me home. + + +When only twenty-two years old Miss Alcott began her career of +authorship by launching a little flower bark, which floated gaily on +the stream. She had always written poems, plays, and stories for her +own and her friends' pleasure, and now she gathered up some tales she +had written for Mr. Emerson's daughter, and published them under the +name of "Flower Fables." She received the small amount of thirty-two +dollars for the book; but it gave her the great satisfaction of having +earned it by work that she loved, and which she could do well. She +began to have applications for stories from the papers; but as yet +sewing and teaching paid better than writing. While she sewed her +brain was busy with plans of poems, plays, and tales, which she made +use of at a later period. + +The following letter to her mother shows how closely she associated +her with this early success:-- + + 20 PINCKNEY STREET, BOSTON, Dec. 25, 1854. (With "Flower + Fables,") + + DEAR MOTHER,--Into your Christmas stocking I have put my + "first-born," knowing that you will accept it with all its + faults (for grandmothers are always kind), and look upon it + merely as an earnest of what I may yet do; for, with so much to + cheer me on, I hope to pass in time from fairies and fables to + men and realities. + + Whatever beauty or poetry is to be found in my little book is + owing to your interest in and encouragement of all my efforts + from the first to the last; and if ever I do anything to be proud + of, my greatest happiness will be that I can thank you for that, + as I may do for all the good there is in me; and I shall be + content to write if it gives you pleasure. + + Jo is fussing about; + My lamp is going out. + + To dear mother, with many kind wishes for a happy New Year and + merry Christmas. + + I am ever your loving daughter + + LOUY. + +This letter shows that she had already begun to see that she must +study not only fairies and fancies, but men and realities; and she now +began to observe life, not in books, but as it went on around her. In +the intense excitement of the anti-slavery struggles of that period +she might well learn how full of dramatic situations and the elements +of both tragedy and comedy real human life is. She says: "I began to +see the strong contrasts and fun and frolic in every day life about +this time." She also considered her reading, and tried to make it more +thorough and profitable; and she did not "waste even _ink_ on poems +and fancies," but planned stories, that everything might help toward +her great object of earning support for her family. + +In June, 1855, Miss Alcott went to Walpole, N. H., where she had a +free life among the hills for a few months. It must have been a great +refreshment to her after the winter's work in the city. In July the +family followed her thither, and occupied a small house. The country +life and joy soon began to find expression, and she wrote a little +story called "King Goldenrod," which she says "ought to be fresh and +true," as written at that beautiful time and place. But this pleasant +country life was for a short season only; and in chill November she +set out for the city, with brave heart and scanty outfit, to seek her +fortune once more. While still continuing to sew as a means of +livelihood, she began to try a great variety of literary ventures. She +wrote notices of books for the papers, and at one time got five +dollars for a story, besides twelve dollars for sewing. The following +year the publishers began to find out the value of her work, and to +call for more stories. Even her poems were accepted. Little Nell was +then the favorite heroine of Dickens, and Louisa's poem on that +subject was published in the "Courier." Although she at first enjoyed +the beautiful scenery of Walpole, she found the dull little town did +not offer her the opportunities for work that she needed; and leaving +her family there, she came down to Boston to seek her fortune, and +went to the well-known boarding-house of Mrs. David Reed on Chauncey +Street. The happy home which she had here during the winter is +represented as Mrs. Kirke's house in "Little Women," and Jo's garret +is the sky-parlor in which she lived and wrote. She had a rich +winter, hearing many of the finest lectures, and enjoying her free +pass to the theatre. One of her greatest helps, however, was the +friendship of Theodore Parker, who took great interest in her +struggles, and wisely strengthened and encouraged her. She loved to go +to his Sunday evening receptions, and sit quietly watching the varied +company who collected there; and a word or pressure of the hand from +her host was enough to cheer her for the whole week. She has +gratefully recorded this influence in her sketch of Mr. Power in +"Work;" but she has not given to that delineation the striking +personality of her subject which we should have expected of her. She +then perhaps looked up to him too much to take note of the rich +elements of wit and humor in his nature, and has painted him wholly +seriously, and with a colorless brush. + + +_Journal._ + +_Twenty-two Years Old._ + + PINCKNEY STREET, BOSTON, _Jan._ 1, 1855.--The principal event of + the winter is the appearance of my book "Flower Fables." An + edition of sixteen hundred. It has sold very well, and people + seem to like it. I feel quite proud that the little tales that I + wrote for Ellen E. when I was sixteen should now bring money and + fame. + + I will put in some of the notices as "varieties." Mothers are + always foolish over their first-born. + + Miss Wealthy Stevens paid for the book, and I received $32. + + [A pleasing contrast to the receipts of six months only in 1886, + being $8000 for the sale of books, and no new one; but I was + prouder over the $32 than the $8000.--L. M. A., 1886.] + + _April_, 1855.--I am in the garret with my papers round me, and a + pile of apples to eat while I write my journal, plan stories, and + enjoy the patter of rain on the roof, in peace and quiet. + + [Jo in the garret.--L. M. A.] + + Being behindhand, as usual, I'll make note of the main events up + to date, for I don't waste ink in poetry and pages of rubbish + now. I've begun to _live_, and have no time for sentimental + musing. + + In October I began my school; Father talked, Mother looked after + her boarders, and tried to help everybody. Anna was in Syracuse + teaching Mrs. S----'s children. + + My book came out; and people began to think that topsey-turvey + Louisa would amount to something after all, since she could do so + well as housemaid, teacher, seamstress, and story-teller. Perhaps + she may. + + In February I wrote a story for which C. paid $5, and asked for + more. + + In March I wrote a farce for W. Warren, and Dr. W. offered it to + him; but W. W. was too busy. + + Also began another tale, but found little time to work on it, + with school, sewing, and house-work. My winter's earnings are,-- + + School, one quarter $50 + Sewing $50 + Stories $20 + + if I am ever paid. + + A busy and a pleasant winter, because, though hard at times, I do + seem to be getting on a little; and that encourages me. + + Have heard Lowell and Hedge lecture, acted in plays, and thanks + to our rag-money and good cousin H., have been to the theatre + several times,--always my great joy. + + Summer plans are yet unsettled. Father wants to go to England: + not a wise idea, I think. We shall probably stay here, and A. and + I go into the country as governesses. It's a queer way to live, + but dramatic, and I rather like it; for we never know what is to + come next. We are real "Micawbers," and always "ready for a + spring." + + I have planned another Christmas book, and hope to be able to + write it. + + 1855.--Cousin L. W. asks me to pass the summer at Walpole with + her. If I can get no teaching, I shall go; for I long for the + hills, and can write my fairy tales there. + + I delivered my burlesque lecture on "Woman, and Her Position; by + Oronthy Bluggage," last evening at Deacon G.'s. Had a merry time, + and was asked by Mr. W. to do it at H. for money. Read "Hamlet" + at our club,--my favorite play. Saw Mrs. W. H. Smith about the + farce; says she will do it at her benefit. + + _May._--Father went to C. to talk with Mr. Emerson about the + England trip. I am to go to Walpole. I have made my own gowns, + and had money enough to fit up the girls. So glad to be + independent. + + [I wonder if $40 fitted up the whole family. Perhaps so, as my + wardrobe was made up of old clothes from cousins and friends.--L. + M. A.] + + WALPOLE, N. H., _June, 1855_.--Pleasant journey and a kind + welcome. Lovely place, high among the hills. So glad to run and + skip in the woods and up the splendid ravine. Shall write here, I + know. + + Helped cousin L. in her garden; and the smell of the fresh earth + and the touch of green leaves did me good. + + Mr. T. came and praised my first book, so I felt much inspired to + go and do another. I remember him at Scituate years ago, when he + was a young ship-builder and I a curly-haired hoyden of five or + six. + + Up at five, and had a lovely run in the ravine, seeing the woods + wake. Planned a little tale which ought to be fresh and true, as + it came at that hour and place,--"King Goldenrod." Have lively + days,--writing in A.M., driving in P.M., and fun in eve. My visit + is doing me much good. + + _July, 1855._--Read "Hyperion." On the 16th the family came to + live in Mr. W.'s house rent free. No better plan offered, and we + were all tired of the city. Here Father can have a garden; Mother + can rest and be near her good niece; the children have freedom + and fine air; and A. and I can go from here to our teaching, + wherever it may be. + + Busy and happy times as we settle in the little house in the lane + near by my dear ravine,--plays, picnics, pleasant people, and + good neighbors. Fanny Kemble came up, Mrs. Kirkland and others, + and Dr. Bellows is the gayest of the gay. We acted the + "Jacobite," "Rivals," and "Bonnycastles," to an audience of a + hundred, and were noticed in the Boston papers. H. T. was our + manager, and Dr. B., D. D., our dramatic director. Anna was the + star, her acting being really very fine. I did "Mrs. Malaprop," + "Widow Pottle," and the old ladies. + + Finished fairy book in September. Anna had an offer from Dr. + Wilbur of Syracuse to teach at the great idiot asylum. She + disliked it, but decided to go. Poor dear! so beauty-loving, + timid, and tender. It is a hard trial; but she is so + self-sacrificing she tries to like it because it is duty. + + _October._--A. to Syracuse. May illustrated my book, and tales + called "Christmas Elves." Better than "Flower Fables." Now I must + try to sell it. + + [Innocent Louisa, to think that a Christmas book could be sold in + October.--L. M. A.] + + _November._--Decided to seek my fortune; so, with my little trunk + of home-made clothes, $20 earned by stories sent to the + "Gazette," and my MSS., I set forth with Mother's blessing one + rainy day in the dullest month in the year. + + [My birth-month; always to be a memorable one.--L. M. A.] + + Found it too late to do anything with the book, so put it away + and tried for teaching, sewing, or any honest work. Won't go home + to sit idle while I have a head and pair of hands. + + _December._--H. and L. W. very kind, and my dear cousins the + Sewalls take me in. I sew for Mollie and others, and write + stories. C. gave me books to notice. Heard Thackeray. Anxious + times; Anna very home-sick. Walpole very cold and dull now the + summer butterflies have gone. Got $5 for a tale and $12 for + sewing; sent home a Christmas-box to cheer the dear souls in the + snow-banks. + + _January, 1856._--C. paid $6 for "A Sister's Trial," gave me more + books to notice, and wants more tales. + + [Should think he would at that price.--L. M. A.] + + Sewed for L. W. Sewall and others. Mr. J. M. Field took my farce + to Mobile to bring out; Mr. Barry of the Boston Theatre has the + play. + + Heard Curtis lecture. Began a book for summer,--"Beach Bubbles." + Mr. F. of the "Courier" printed a poem of mine on "Little Nell." + Got $10 for "Bertha," and saw great yellow placards stuck up + announcing it. Acted at the W.'s. + + _March._--Got $10 for "Genevieve." Prices go up, as people like + the tales and ask who wrote them. Finished "Twelve Bubbles." + Sewed a great deal, and got very tired; one job for Mr. G. of a + dozen pillow-cases, one dozen sheets, six fine cambric neckties, + and two dozen handkerchiefs, at which I had to work all one night + to get them done, as they were a gift to him. I got only $4. + + Sewing won't make my fortune; but I can plan my stories while I + work, and then scribble 'em down on Sundays. + + Poem on "Little Paul;" Curtis's lecture on "Dickens" made it go + well. Hear Emerson on "England." + + _May._--Anna came on her way home, sick and worn out; the work + was too much for her. We had some happy days visiting about. + Could not dispose of B. B. in book form, but C. took them for his + paper. Mr. Field died, so the farce fell through there. Altered + the play for Mrs. Barrow to bring out next winter. + + _June, 1856._--Home, to find dear Betty very ill with + scarlet-fever caught from some poor children Mother nursed when + they fell sick, living over a cellar where pigs had been kept. + The landlord (a deacon) would not clean the place till Mother + threatened to sue him for allowing a nuisance. Too late to save + two of the poor babies or Lizzie and May from the fever. + + [L. never recovered, but died of it two years later.--L. M. A.] + + An anxious time. I nursed, did house-work, and wrote a story a + month through the summer. + + Dr. Bellows and Father had Sunday eve conversations. + + _October._--Pleasant letters from Father, who went on a tour to + N. Y., Philadelphia, and Boston. + + Made plans to go to Boston for the winter, as there is nothing to + do here, and there I can support myself and help the family. C. + offers 10 dollars a month, and perhaps more. L. W., M. S., and + others, have plenty of sewing; the play _may_ come out, and Mrs. + R. will give me a sky-parlor for $3 a week, with fire and board. + I sew for her also. + + If I can get A. L. to governess I shall be all right. + + I was born with a boy's spirit under my bib and tucker. I _can't + wait_ when I _can work_; so I took my little talent in my hand + and forced the world again, braver than before and wiser for my + failures. + + [Jo in N. Y.--L. M. A.] + + I don't often pray in words; but when I set out that day with all + my worldly goods in the little old trunk, my own earnings ($25) + in my pocket, and much hope and resolution in my soul, my heart + was very full, and I said to the Lord, "Help us all, and keep us + for one another," as I never said it before, while I looked back + at the dear faces watching me, so full of love and hope and + faith. + + +_Journal._ + + BOSTON, _November, 1856_. _Mrs. David Reed's._--I find my little + room up in the attic very cosey, and a house full of boarders + very amusing to study. Mrs. Reed very kind. Fly round and take C. + his stories. Go to see Mrs. L. about A. Don't want me. A blow, + but I cheer up and hunt for sewing. Go to hear Parker, and he + does me good. Asks me to come Sunday evenings to his house. I did + go there, and met Phillips, Garrison, Hedge, and other great men, + and sit in my corner weekly, staring and enjoying myself. + + When I went Mr. Parker said, "God bless you, Louisa; come again;" + and the grasp of his hand gave me courage to face another anxious + week. + + _November 3d._--Wrote all the morning. In the P.M. went to see + the Sumner reception as he comes home after the Brooks affair. I + saw him pass up Beacon Street, pale and feeble, but smiling and + bowing. I rushed to Hancock Street, and was in time to see him + bring his proud old mother to the window when the crowd gave + three cheers for her. I cheered too, and was very much excited. + Mr. Parker met him somewhere before the ceremony began, and the + above P. cheered like a boy; and Sumner laughed and nodded as his + friend pranced and shouted, bareheaded and beaming. + + My kind cousin, L. W., got tickets for a course of lectures on + "Italian Literature," and seeing my old cloak sent me a new one, + with other needful and pretty things such as girls love to have. + I shall never forget how kind she has always been to me. + + _November 5th._--Went with H. W. to see Manager Barry about the + everlasting play which is always coming out but never comes. We + went all over the great new theatre, and I danced a jig on the + immense stage. Mr. B. was very kind, and gave me a pass to come + whenever I liked. This was such richness I didn't care if the + play was burnt on the spot, and went home full of joy. In the eve + I saw La Grange as Norma, and felt as if I knew all about that + place. Quite stage-struck, and imagined myself in her place, with + white robes and oak-leaf crown. + + _November 6th._--Sewed happily on my job of twelve sheets for H. + W., and put lots of good will into the work after his kindness to + me. + + Walked to Roxbury to see cousin Dr. W. about the play and tell + the fine news. Rode home in the new cars, and found them very + nice. + + In the eve went to teach at Warren Street Chapel Charity School. + I'll help as I am helped, if I can. Mother says no one so poor he + can't do a little for some one poorer yet. + + _Sunday._--Heard Parker on "Individuality of Character," and + liked it much. In the eve I went to his house. Mrs. Howe was + there, and Sumner and others. I sat in my usual corner, but Mr. + P. came up and said, in that cordial way of his, "Well, child, + how goes it?" "Pretty well, sir." "That's brave;" and with his + warm hand-shake he went on, leaving me both proud and happy, + though I have my trials. He is like a great fire where all can + come and be warmed and comforted. Bless him! + + Had a talk at tea about him, and fought for him when W. R. said + he was not a Christian. He is my _sort_; for though he may lack + reverence for other people's God, he works bravely for his own, + and turns his back on no one who needs help, as some of the pious + do. + + _Monday, 14th._--May came full of expectation and joy to visit + good aunt B. and study drawing. We walked about and had a good + home talk, then my girl went off to Auntie's to begin what I hope + will be a pleasant and profitable winter. She needs help to + develop her talent, and I can't give it to her. + + Went to see Forrest as Othello. It is funny to see how attentive + all the once cool gentlemen are to Miss Alcott now she has a pass + to the new theatre. + + _November 29th._--My birthday. Felt forlorn so far from home. + Wrote all day. Seem to be getting on slowly, so should be + contented. To a little party at the B.'s in the eve. May looked + very pretty, and seemed to be a favorite. The boys teased me + about being an authoress, and I said I'd be famous yet. Will if I + can, but something else may be better for me. + + Found a pretty pin from Father and a nice letter when I got home. + Mr. H. brought them with letters from Mother and Betty, so I went + to bed happy. + + _December._--Busy with Christmas and New Year's tales. Heard a + good lecture by E. P. Whipple on "Courage." Thought I needed it, + being rather tired of living like a spider;--spinning my brains + out for money. + + Wrote a story, "The Cross on the Church Tower," suggested by the + tower before my window. + + Called on Mrs. L., and she asked me to come and teach A. for + three hours each day. Just what I wanted; and the children's + welcome was very pretty and comforting to "Our Olly," as they + call me. + + Now board is all safe, and something over for home, if stories + and sewing fail. I don't do much, but can send little comforts to + Mother and Betty, and keep May neat. + + _December 18th._--Begin with A. L., in Beacon Street. I taught C. + when we lived in High Street, A. in Pinckney Street, and now Al.; + so I seem to be an institution and a success, since I can start + the boy, teach one girl, and take care of the little invalid. It + is hard work, but I can do it; and am glad to sit in a large, + fine room part of each day, after my sky-parlor, which has + nothing pretty in it, and only the gray tower and blue sky + outside as I sit at the window writing. I love luxury, but + freedom and independence better. + + +_To her Father, written from Mrs. Reed's._ + + BOSTON, Nov. 29, 1856. + + DEAREST FATHER,--Your little parcel was very welcome to me as I + sat alone in my room, with snow falling fast outside, and a few + tears in (for birthdays are dismal times to me); and the fine + letter, the pretty gift, and, most of all, the loving thought so + kindly taken for your old absent daughter, made the cold, dark + day as warm and bright as summer to me. + + And now, with the birthday pin upon my bosom, many thanks on my + lips, and a whole heart full of love for its giver, I will tell + you a little about my doings, stupid as they will seem after your + own grand proceedings. How I wish I could be with you, enjoying + what I have always longed for,--fine people, fine amusements, and + fine books. But as I can't, I am glad you are; for I love to see + your name first among the lecturers, to hear it kindly spoken of + in papers and inquired about by good people here,--to say nothing + of the delight and pride I take in seeing you at last filling the + place you are so fitted for, and which you have waited for so + long and patiently. If the New Yorkers raise a statue to the + modern Plato, it will be a wise and highly creditable action. + + * * * * * + + I am very well and very happy. Things go smoothly, and I think I + shall come out right, and prove that though an _Alcott_ I _can_ + support myself. I like the independent feeling; and though not an + easy life, it is a free one, and I enjoy it. I can't do much with + my hands; so I will make a battering-ram of my head and make a + way through this rough-and-tumble world. I have very pleasant + lectures to amuse my evenings,--Professor Gajani on "Italian + Reformers," the Mercantile Library course, Whipple, Beecher, and + others, and, best of all, a free pass at the Boston Theatre. I + saw Mr. Barry, and he gave it to me with many kind speeches, and + promises to bring out the play very soon. I hope he will. + + My farce is in the hands of Mrs. W. H. Smith, who acts at Laura + Keene's theatre in New York. She took it, saying she would bring + it out there. If you see or hear anything about it, let me know. + I want something doing. My mornings are spent in writing. C. + takes one a month, and I am to see Mr. B., who may take some of + my wares. + + In the afternoons I walk and visit my hundred relations, who are + all kind and friendly, and seem interested in our various + successes. + + Sunday evenings I go to Parker's parlor, and there meet Phillips, + Garrison, Scherb, Sanborn, and many other pleasant people. All + talk, and I sit in a corner listening, and wishing a certain + placid gray-haired gentleman was there talking too. Mrs. Parker + calls on me, reads my stories, and is very good to me. Theodore + asks Louisa "how her worthy parents do," and is otherwise very + friendly to the large, bashful girl who adorns his parlor + steadily. + + Abby is preparing for a busy and, I hope, a profitable winter. + She has music lessons already, French and drawing in store, and, + if her eyes hold out, will keep her word and become what none of + us can be, "an accomplished Alcott." Now, dear Father, I shall + hope to hear from you occasionally, and will gladly answer all + epistles from the Plato whose parlor parish is becoming quite + famous. I got the "Tribune," but not the letter, and shall look + it up. I have been meaning to write, but did not know where you + were. + + Good-by, and a happy birthday from your ever loving child, + + LOUISA. + + +_Journal._ + +_Twenty-four Years Old._ + + _January, 1857._--Had my first new silk dress from good little L. + W.,--very fine; and I felt as if all the Hancocks and Quincys + beheld me as I went to two parties in it on New Year's eve. + + A busy, happy month,--taught, wrote, sewed, read aloud to the + "little mother," and went often to the theatre; heard good + lectures; and enjoyed my Parker evenings very much. + + Father came to see me on his way home; little money; had had a + good time, and was asked to come again. Why don't rich people who + enjoy his talk pay for it? Philosophers are always poor, and too + modest to pass round their own hats. + + Sent by him a good bundle to the poor Forlornites among the + ten-foot drifts in W. + + _February._--Ran home as a valentine on the 14th. + + _March._--Have several irons in the fire now, and try to keep 'em + all hot. + + _April._--May did a crayon head of Mother with Mrs. Murdock; very + good likeness. All of us as proud as peacocks of our "little + Raphael." + + Heard Mrs. Butler read; very fine. + + _May._--Left the L.'s with my thirty-three dollars, glad to rest. + May went home with her picture, happy in her winter's work and + success. + + Father had three talks at W. F. Channing's. Good + company,--Emerson, Mrs. Howe, and the rest. + + Saw young Booth in Brutus, and liked him better than his father; + went about and rested after my labors; glad to be with Father, + who enjoyed Boston and friends. + + Home on the 10th, passing Sunday at the Emerson's. I have done + what I planned,--supported myself, written eight stories, taught + four months, earned a hundred dollars, and sent money home. + + _June._--All happy together. My dear Nan was with me, and we had + good times. Betty was feeble, but seemed to cheer up for a time. + The long, cold, lonely winter has been too hard for the frail + creature, and we are all anxious about her. I fear she may slip + away; for she never seemed to care much for this world beyond + home. + +So gradually the day seemed to be coming to which Louisa had long +looked forward. She found that she could be independent, could help +her family, and even indulge some of her own tastes. + +About this time Miss Alcott mentions a young friend who died in her +arms, and speaks of going to console the sister in her loneliness. +This shows how warmly her heart beat for others while her head was so +busy with her ambitious plans. She speaks also of the hint of a new +story called "The Cost of an Idea." She never lost sight of this plan, +but did not carry it out. Her father's life and character were in her +mind, and she longed to portray the conflict between his high ideal +and the practical difficulties of his life; but it was an impossible +subject. The Fruitlands episode was told in "Transcendental Wild +Oats," and his early life in "Elis's Education." But although her +admiration and affection for him are abundantly shown in her journals, +she never perhaps understood him so thoroughly that she could +adequately portray his personality; neither could she do justice to +all related to him without trenching upon the privacy due to sacred +feelings. + + [Illustration: ORCHARD HOUSE, CONCORD, MASS. Home of the Alcott + Family, 1858.] + +A great shadow fell over Louisa's heart and life from the increasing +illness of her dear younger sister Elizabeth. This young girl was +tenderly beloved by all the family, and was indeed as pure, +refined, and holy as she is represented as Beth in "Little Women." +Her decay was very gradual, and she was so patient and sweet that the +sad time of anxiety was a very precious one in remembrance. + +This sickness added to the pecuniary burdens of the family, and eight +years afterward Louisa paid the bill of the physician who attended her +sister. + +In October, 1857, the family removed again to Concord, and Louisa +remained at home to assist in the care of the beloved invalid. They +lived a few months in a part of a house which they hired until the +Orchard House, which they had bought, was ready for them. Here the +dear sister's life came to a close. + +This was the first break in the household, and the mother's heart +never fully recovered from it. Louisa accepted death with strong, +sweet wisdom. It never seemed to have any terror for her. + +In July they took possession of the Orchard House, which was hereafter +the permanent residence of the family. This was a picturesque old +house on the side of a hill, with an orchard of apple-trees. It was +not far from Mr. Emerson's, and within walking distance of the +village, yet very quiet and rural. Mr. Alcott had his library, and was +always very happy there; but Louisa's heart never clung to it. + +The engagement of the elder sister was a very exciting event to +Louisa, who did not like having the old sisterly relation broken in +upon; but everything was so genuine and true in the love of the newly +betrothed pair that she could not help accepting the change as a +blessing to her sister and taking the new brother into her heart. The +entries in her journal show that the picture she has drawn in "Little +Women" of this noble man is from life, and not exaggerated. + +Louisa went to Boston for a visit, and again had hopes of going on to +the stage; but an accident prevented it; and she returned to Concord +and her writing, working off her disappointment in a story called +"Only an Actress." + +Among her experiences at this time was an offer of marriage, about +which she consulted her mother, telling her that she did not care for +the lover very much. The wise mother saved her from the impulse to +self-sacrifice, which might have led her to accept a position which +would have given help to the family. + +Although this was not the only instance of offers of marriage, more or +less advantageous, made to her, Louisa had no inclination toward +matrimony. Her heart was bound up in her family, and she could hardly +contemplate her own interests as separate from theirs. She loved +activity, freedom, and independence. She could not cherish illusions +tenderly; and she always said that she got tired of everybody, and +felt sure that she should of her husband if she married. She never +wished to make her heroines marry, and the love story is the part of +her books for which she cared least. She yielded to the desire of the +public, who will not accept life without a recognition of this great +joy in it. Still it must be acknowledged that she has sometimes +painted very sweet and natural love scenes, although more often in +quaint and homely guise than in the fashion of ancient romance. "King +of Clubs and Queen of Hearts" is very prettily told; and "Mrs. +Todger's Teapot" is true to that quiet, earnest affection which does +not pass away with youth. + +The writing went on, and she received five, six, or ten dollars apiece +for her stories; but she did not yet venture to give up the sewing and +teaching, which was still the sure reliance. + +Her younger sister now began to exercise her talent, and illustrated a +little book of Louisa's called "Christmas Elves," which she says is +better than "Flower Fables." + + +_Journal._ + + Read Charlotte Bronte's life. A very interesting, but sad one. So + full of talent; and after working long, just as success, love, + and happiness come, she dies. + + Wonder if I shall ever be famous enough for people to care to + read my story and struggles. I can't be a C. B., but I may do a + little something yet. + + _July._--Grandma Alcott came to visit us. A sweet old lady; and I + am glad to know her, and see where Father got his nature. + Eighty-four; yet very smart, industrious, and wise. A house needs + a grandma in it. + + As we sat talking over Father's boyhood, I never realized so + plainly before how much he has done for himself. His early life + sounded like a pretty old romance, and Mother added the love + passages. + + I got a hint for a story; and some day will do it, and call it + "The Cost of an Idea." Spindle Hill, Temple School, Fruitlands, + Boston, and Concord, would make fine chapters. The trials and + triumphs of the Pathetic Family would make a capital book; may I + live to do it. + + _August._--A sad, anxious month. Betty worse; Mother takes her + to the seashore. Father decides to go back to Concord; he is + never happy far from Emerson, the one true friend who loves and + understands and helps him. + + _September._--An old house near R. W. E.'s is bought with + Mother's money, and we propose to move. Mother in Boston with + poor Betty, who is failing fast. Anna and I have a hard time + breaking up. + + _October._--Move to Concord. Take half a house in town till + spring, when the old one is to be made ready. + + Find dear Betty a shadow, but sweet and patient always. Fit up a + nice room for her, and hope home and love and care may keep her. + + People kind and friendly, and the old place looks pleasant, + though I never want to live in it. + + _November._--Father goes West, taking Grandma home. We settle + down to our winter, whatever it is to be. Lizzie seems better, + and we have some plays. Sanborn's school makes things lively, and + we act a good deal. + + Twenty-five this month. I feel my quarter of a century rather + heavy on my shoulders just now. I lead two lives. One seems gay + with plays, etc., the other very sad,--in Betty's room; for + though she wishes us to act, and loves to see us get ready, the + shadow is there, and Mother and I see it. Betty loves to have me + with her; and I am with her at night, for Mother needs rest. + Betty says she feels "strong" when I am near. So glad to be of + use. + + _December._--Some fine plays for charity. + + _January, 1858._--Lizzie much worse; Dr. G. says there is no + hope. A hard thing to hear; but if she is only to suffer, I pray + she may go soon. She was glad to know she was to "get well," as + she called it, and we tried to bear it bravely for her sake. We + gave up plays; Father came home; and Anna took the housekeeping, + so that Mother and I could devote ourselves to her. Sad, quiet + days in her room, and strange nights keeping up the fire and + watching the dear little shadow try to wile away the long + sleepless hours without troubling me. She sews, reads, sings + softly, and lies looking at the fire,--so sweet and patient and + so worn, my heart is broken to see the change. I wrote some lines + one night on "Our Angel in the House." + + [Jo and Beth.--L. M. A.] + + _February._--A mild month; Betty very comfortable, and we hope a + little. + + Dear Betty is slipping away, and every hour is too precious to + waste, so I'll keep my lamentations over Nan's [affairs] till + this duty is over. + + Lizzie makes little things, and drops them out of windows to the + school-children, smiling to see their surprise. In the night she + tells me to be Mrs. Gamp, when I give her her lunch, and tries to + be gay that I may keep up. Dear little saint! I shall be better + all my life for these sad hours with you. + + _March 14th._--My dear Beth died at three this morning, after two + years of patient pain. Last week she put her work away, saying + the needle was "too heavy," and having given us her few + possessions, made ready for the parting in her own simple, quiet + way. For two days she suffered much, begging for ether, though + its effect was gone. Tuesday she lay in Father's arms, and called + us round her, smiling contentedly as she said, "All here!" I + think she bid us good-by then, as she held our hands and kissed + us tenderly. Saturday she slept, and at midnight became + unconscious, quietly breathing her life away till three; then, + with one last look of the beautiful eyes, she was gone. + + A curious thing happened, and I will tell it here, for Dr. G. + said it was a fact. A few moments after the last breath came, as + Mother and I sat silently watching the shadow fall on the dear + little face, I saw a light mist rise from the body, and float up + and vanish in the air. Mother's eyes followed mine, and when I + said, "What did you see?" she described the same light mist. Dr. + G. said it was the life departing visibly. + + For the last time we dressed her in her usual cap and gown, and + laid her on her bed,--at rest at last. What she had suffered was + seen in the face; for at twenty-three she looked like a woman of + forty, so worn was she, and all her pretty hair gone. + + On Monday Dr. Huntington read the Chapel service, and we sang her + favorite hymn. Mr. Emerson, Henry Thoreau, Sanborn, and John + Pratt, carried her out of the old home to the new one at Sleepy + Hollow chosen by herself. So the first break comes, and I know + what death means,--a liberator for her, a teacher for us. + + _April._--Came to occupy one wing of Hawthorne's house (once + ours) while the new one was being repaired. Father, Mother, and I + kept house together; May being in Boston, Anna at Pratt Farm, + and, for the first time, Lizzie absent. I don't miss her as I + expected to do, for she seems nearer and dearer than before; and + I am glad to know she is safe from pain and age in some world + where her innocent soul must be happy. + + Death never seemed terrible to me, and now is beautiful; so I + cannot fear it, but find it friendly and wonderful. + + _May._--A lonely month with all the girls gone, and Father and + Mother absorbed in the old house, which I don't care about, not + liking Concord. + + On the 7th of April, Anna came walking in to tell us she was + engaged to John Pratt; so another sister is gone. J. is a model + son and brother,--a true man,--full of fine possibilities, but so + modest one does not see it at once. He is handsome, healthy, and + happy; just home from the West, and so full of love he is + pleasant to look at. + + I moaned in private over my great loss, and said I'd never + forgive J. for taking Anna from me; but I shall if he makes her + happy, and turn to little May for my comfort. + + [Now that John is dead, I can truly say we all had cause to bless + the day he came into the family; for we gained a son and brother, + and Anna the best husband ever known. + + For ten years he made her home a little heaven of love and peace; + and when he died he left her the legacy of a beautiful life, and + an honest name to his little sons.--L. M. A., 1873.] + + _June._--The girls came home, and I went to visit L. W. in + Boston. Saw Charlotte Cushman, and had a stage-struck fit. Dr. W. + asked Barry to let me act at his theatre, and he agreed. I was to + do Widow Pottle, as the dress was a good disguise and I knew the + part well. It was all a secret, and I had hopes of trying a new + life; the old one being so changed now, I felt as if I must find + interest in something absorbing. But Mr. B. broke his leg, so I + had to give it up; and when it was known, the dear, respectable + relations were horrified at the idea. I'll try again by-and-by, + and see if I have the gift. Perhaps it is acting, not writing, + I'm meant for. Nature must have a vent somehow. + + _July._--Went into the new house and began to settle. Father is + happy; Mother glad to be at rest; Anna is in bliss with her + gentle John; and May busy over her pictures. I have plans + simmering, but must sweep and dust and wash my dish-pans a while + longer till I see my way. + + Worked off my stage fever in writing a story, and felt better; + also a moral tale, and got twenty-five dollars, which pieced up + our summer gowns and bonnets all round. The inside of my head can + at least cover the outside. + + _August._--Much company to see the new house. All seem to be glad + that the wandering family is anchored at last. We won't move + again for twenty years if I can help it. The old people need an + abiding place; and now that death and love have taken two of us + away, I can, I hope, soon manage to care for the remaining four. + + The weeklies will all take stories; and I can simmer novels while + I do my housework, so see my way to a little money, and perhaps + more by-and-by if I ever make a hit. + +Probably owing to the excitement of grief for her sister's death, and +sympathy in Anna's happy betrothal, Louisa became in October more +discouraged than she had ever been, and went to Boston in search of +work. As she walked over the mill dam the running stream brought the +thought of the River of Death, which would end all troubles. It was +but a momentary impulse, and the brave young heart rallied to the +thought, "There is work for me, and I'll have it!" Her journal +narrates how Mr. Parker helped her through this period of anxiety. She +was all ready to go to Lancaster, to hard drudgery at sewing, when her +old place as governess was again offered to her, and her own support +was assured. + + _October._--Went to Boston on my usual hunt for employment, as I + am not needed at home and seem to be the only bread-winner just + now. + + * * * * * + + My fit of despair was soon over, for it seemed so cowardly to run + away before the battle was over I couldn't do it. So I said + firmly, "There _is_ work for me, and I'll have it," and went home + resolved to take Fate by the throat and shake a living out of + her. + + Sunday Mr. Parker preached a sermon on "Laborious Young Women." + Just what I needed; for it said: "Trust your fellow-beings, and + let them help you. Don't be too proud to ask, and accept the + humblest work till you can find the task you want." + + "I will," said I, and went to Mr. P.'s. He was out; but I told + Mrs. P. my wants, and she kindly said Theodore and Hannah would + be sure to have something for me. As I went home I met Mrs. L., + who had not wanted me, as Alice went to school. She asked if I + was engaged, and said A. did not do well, and she thought perhaps + they would like me back. I was rejoiced, and went home feeling + that the tide had begun to turn. Next day came Miss H. S. to + offer me a place at the Girls' Reform School at Lancaster, to sew + ten hours a day, make and mend. I said I'd go, as I could do + anything with a needle; but added, if Mrs. L. wants me I'd rather + do that. + + "Of course you had. Take it if it comes, and if not, try my + work." I promised and waited. That eve, when my bag was packed + and all was ready for Lancaster, came a note from Mrs. L. + offering the old salary and the old place. I sang for joy, and + next day early posted off to Miss S. She was glad and shook + hands, saying, "It was a test, my dear, and you stood it. When I + told Mr. P. that you would go, he said, 'That is a true girl; + Louisa will succeed.'" + + I was very proud and happy; for these things are tests of + character as well as courage, and I covet the respect of such + true people as Mr. P. and Miss S. + + So away to my little girl with a bright heart! for with tales, + and sewing for Mary, which pays my board, there I am fixed for + the winter and my cares over. Thank the Lord! + +She now found publishers eager for her stories, and went on writing +for them. She was encouraged by E. P. Whipple's praise of "Mark +Field's Mistake," and by earning thirty dollars, most of which she +sent home. + + +_Journal._ + + Earned thirty dollars; sent twenty home. Heard Curtis, Parker, + Higginson, and Mrs. Dall lecture. See Booth's Hamlet, and my + ideal done at last. + + My twenty-sixth birthday on the 29th. Some sweet letters from + home, and a ring of A.'s and J.'s hair as a peace-offering. A + quiet day, with many thoughts and memories. + + The past year has brought us the first death and betrothal,--two + events that change my life. I can see that these experiences have + taken a deep hold, and changed or developed me. Lizzie helps me + spiritually, and a little success makes me more self-reliant. Now + that Mother is too tired to be wearied with my moods, I have to + manage them alone, and am learning that work of head and hand is + my salvation when disappointment or weariness burden and darken + my soul. + + In my sorrow I think I instinctively came nearer to God, and + found comfort in the knowledge that he was sure to help when + nothing else could. + + A great grief has taught me more than any minister, and when + feeling most alone I find refuge in the Almighty Friend. If this + is experiencing religion I have done it; but I think it is only + the lesson one must learn as it comes, and I am glad to know it. + + After my fit of despair I seem to be braver and more cheerful, + and grub away with a good heart. Hope it will last, for I need + all the courage and comfort I can get. + + I feel as if I could write better now,--more truly of things I + have felt and therefore _know_. I hope I shall yet do my great + book, for that seems to be my work, and I am growing up to it. I + even think of trying the "Atlantic." There 's ambition for you! + I'm sure some of the stories are very flat. If Mr. L. takes the + one Father carried to him, I shall think I can do something. + + _December._--Father started on his tour West full of hope. Dear + man! How happy he will be if people will only listen to and _pay_ + for his wisdom. + + May came to B. and stayed with me while she took drawing lessons. + Christmas at home. Write an Indian story. + + _January_, 1859.--Send a parcel home to Marmee and Nan. + + Mother very ill. Home to nurse her for a week. Wonder if I ought + not to be a nurse, as I seem to have a gift for it. Lizzie, L. + W., and Mother all say so; and I like it. If I couldn't write or + act I'd try it. May yet. $21 from L.; $15 home. + + * * * * * + + Some day I'll do my best, and get well paid for it. + + [$3,000 for a short serial in 1876. True prophet.--L. M. A.] + + Wrote a sequel to "Mark Field." Had a queer time over it, getting + up at night to write it, being too full to sleep. + + _March._--"Mark" was a success, and much praised. So I found the + divine afflatus did descend. Busy life teaching, writing, sewing, + getting all I can from lectures, books, and good people. Life is + my college. May I graduate well, and earn some honors! + + _April._--May went home after a happy winter at the School of + Design, where she did finely, and was pronounced full of promise. + Mr. T. said good things of her, and we were very proud. No doubt + now what she is to be, if we can only keep her along. + + I went home also, being done with A., who went out of town early. + Won't teach any more if I can help it; don't like it; and if I + can get writing enough can do much better. + + I have done more than I hoped. Supported myself, helped May, and + sent something home. Not borrowed a penny, and had only five + dollars given me. So my third campaign ends well. + + _May._--Took care of L. W., who was ill. Walked from C. to B. one + day, twenty miles, in five hours, and went to a party in the + evening. Not very tired. Well done for a vegetable production! + + _June._--Took two children to board and teach. A busy month, as + Anna was in B. + + _September._--Great State Encampment here. Town full of soldiers, + with military fuss and feathers. I like a camp, and long for a + war, to see how it all seems. I can't fight, but I can nurse. + + [Prophetic again.--L. M. A.] + + _October_, 1859.--May did a fine copy of Emerson's Endymion[7] + for me. + + Mother sixty. God bless the dear, brave woman! + + Good news of Parker in Florence,--my beloved minister and friend. + To him and R. W. E. I owe much of my education. May I be a worthy + pupil of such men! + + _November._--Hurrah! My story was accepted; and Lowell asked if + it was not a translation from the German, it was so unlike most + tales. I felt much set up, and my fifty dollars will be very + happy money. People seem to think it a great thing to get into + the "Atlantic;" but I've not been pegging away all these years in + vain, and may yet have books and publishers and a fortune of my + own. Success has gone to my head, and I wander a little. + Twenty-seven years old, and very happy. + + The Harper's Ferry tragedy makes this a memorable month. Glad I + have lived to see the Antislavery movement and this last heroic + act in it. Wish I could do my part in it. + + _December_, 1859.--The execution of Saint John the Just took + place on the second. A meeting at the hall, and all Concord was + there. Emerson, Thoreau, Father, and Sanborn spoke, and all were + full of reverence and admiration for the martyr. + + I made some verses on it, and sent them to the "Liberator." + +A sickness of Mrs. Alcott through which she nursed her makes Louisa +question whether nursing is not her true vocation. She had an +opportunity to try it later. + +Much interest attaches to this period of Louisa's work, when she +dashed off sensational stories as fast as they were wanted, from the +account which she has given of it in "Little Women." She has +concentrated into one short period there the work and the feelings of +a much longer time. She certainly did let her fancy run riot in these +tales, and they were as sensational as the penny papers desired. She +had a passion for wild, adventurous life, and even for lurid passion +and melodramatic action, which she could indulge to the utmost in +these stories. Louisa was always a creature of moods; and it was a +great relief to work off certain feelings by the safe vent of +imaginary persons and scenes in a story. She had no one to guide or +criticise her; and the fact that these gambols of fancy brought the +much-needed money, and were, as she truly called them, "pot boilers," +certainly did not discourage her from indulging in them. She is +probably right in calling most of them "trash and rubbish," for she +was yet an unformed girl, and had not studied herself or life very +deeply; but her own severe condemnation of them in "Little Women" +might give a false idea. The stories are never coarse or immoral. They +give a lurid, unnatural picture of life, but sin is not made +captivating or immorality attractive. There is often a severe moral +enforced. They did not give poison to her readers, only over-seasoned +unnatural food, which might destroy the relish for wholesome mental +nourishment. + +We are inclined to ask, What did Louisa herself get out of this wild, +Walpurgis-Night ride among ghosts and goblins, letting her fancy run +riot, and indulging every mood as it rose? Did it not give her the +dash and freedom in writing which we find in all her books, a command +of language, and a recognition of the glow and force of life? She +finds life no mere commonplace drudgery, but full of great +possibilities. Did it not also give her an interest in all the wild +fancies and dreams of girls, all the longing for adventure of boys, +and make her hopeful even of the veriest young scamps that they would +work off the turbulent energies of youth safely if activities were +wisely provided for them? + +No writer for children ever was so fully recognized as understanding +them. They never felt that she stood on a pinnacle of wisdom to +censure them, but came right down into their midst to work and play +with them, and at the same time to show them the path out of the +tangled thickets, and to help them to see light in their gloomiest +despair. + +Yet she unquestionably recognized that she was not doing the best work +of which she was capable; and she looked forward still to the books +she was to write, as well as the fortune she was to make. She did not +like any reference to these sensational stories in after life, +although she sometimes re-used plots or incidents in them; and she was +very unwilling to have them republished. + + +_Boston Bulletin,--Ninth Issue._ + + SUNDAY EVE, November, 1858. + + MY BLESSED NAN,--Having finished my story, I can refresh my soul + by a scribble to you, though I have nothing to tell of much + interest. + + Mrs. L. is to pay me my "celery" each month, as she likes to + settle all bills in that way; so yesterday she put $20.85 into my + willing hands, and gave me Saturday P.M. for a holiday. This + unexpected $20, with the $10 for my story (if I get it) and $5 + for sewing, will give me the immense sum of $35. I shall get a + second-hand carpet for the little parlor, a bonnet for you, and + some shoes and stockings for myself, as three times round the + Common in cold weather conduces to chilblains, owing to + stockings with a profusion of toe, but no heel, and shoes with + plenty of heel, but a paucity of toe. The prejudices of society + demand that my feet be covered in the houses of the rich and + great; so I shall hose and shoe myself, and if any of my fortune + is left, will invest it in the Alcott Sinking Fund, the Micawber + R. R., and the Skimpole three per cents. + + Tell me how much carpet you need, and T. S. will find me a good + one. In December I shall have another $20; so let me know what is + wanting, and don't live on "five pounds of rice and a couple of + quarts of split peas" all winter, I beg. + + How did you like "Mark Field's Mistake"? I don't know whether it + is good or bad; but it will keep the pot boiling, and I ask no + more. I wanted to go and see if "Hope's Treasures" was accepted, + but was afeared. M. and H. both appeared; but one fell asleep, + and the other forgot to remember; so I still wait like Patience + on a hard chair, smiling at an inkstand. Miss K. asked me to go + to see Booth for the last time on Saturday. Upon that ravishing + thought I brooded all the week very merrily, and I danced, sang, + and clashed my cymbals daily. Saturday A.M. Miss K. sent word she + couldn't go, and from my pinnacle of joy I was precipitated into + an abyss of woe. While in said abyss Mrs. L. put the $20 into my + hands. That was a moment of awful trial. Every one of those + dollars cried aloud, "What, ho! Come hither, and be happy!" But + eight cold feet on a straw carpet marched to and fro so + pathetically that I locked up the tempting fiend, and fell to + sewing, as a Saturday treat! + + But, lo! virtue was rewarded. Mrs. H. came flying in, and took me + to the Museum to see "Gold" and "Lend Me Five Shillings." Warren, + in an orange tie, red coat, white satin vest, and scarlet + ribbons on his ankles, was the funniest creature you ever saw; + and I laughed till I cried,--which was better for me than the + melancholy Dane, I dare say. + + I'm disgusted with this letter; for I always begin trying to be + proper and neat; but my pen will not keep in order, and ink has a + tendency to splash when used copiously and with rapidity. I have + to be so moral and so dignified nowadays that the jocosity of my + nature will gush out when it gets a chance, and the consequences + are, as you see, rubbish. But you like it; so let's be merry + while we may, for to-morrow is Monday, and the weekly grind + begins again. + +FOOTNOTES: + +[7] A fine bas-relief owned by Mr. Emerson. + + + + +CHAPTER VI. + +THE YEAR OF GOOD LUCK. + + THE CHILDREN'S SONG. + + _Tune._--"Wait for the Wagon." + + The world lies fair about us, and a friendly sky above; + Our lives are full of sunshine, our homes are full of love; + Few cares or sorrows sadden the beauty of our day; + We gather simple pleasures like daisies by the way. + + _Chorus._--Oh! sing with cheery voices, + Like robins on the tree; + For little lads and lasses + As blithe of heart should be. + + The village is our fairyland: its good men are our kings; + And wandering through its by-ways our busy minds find wings. + The school-room is our garden, and we the flowers there, + And kind hands tend and water us that we may blossom fair. + + _Chorus._--Oh! dance in airy circles, + Like fairies on the lee; + For little lads and lasses + As light of foot should be. + + There's the Shepherd of the sheepfold; the Father of the vines; + The Hermit of blue Walden; the Poet of the pines; + And a Friend who comes among us, with counsels wise and mild + With snow upon his forehead, yet at heart a very child. + + _Chorus._--Oh! smile as smiles the river, + Slow rippling to the sea; + For little lads and lasses + As full of peace should be. + + There's not a cloud in heaven but drops its silent dew; + No violet in the meadow but blesses with its blue; + No happy child in Concord who may not do its part + To make the great world better by innocence of heart. + + _Chorus._--Oh! blossom in the sunshine + Beneath the village tree; + For little lads and lasses + Are the fairest flowers we see. + + +After such long and hard struggles, it is pleasant to find the diary +for 1860 headed "A Year of Good Luck." The appointment of Mr. Alcott +as Superintendent of Schools in Concord was a great happiness to the +family. It was a recognition of his character and ability, and gave +him congenial occupation and some small pecuniary compensation. + +Louisa was writing for the "Atlantic," and receiving better pay for +her work; Anna was happy; and May absorbed in her art. + +In the summer Miss Alcott had an experience in caring for a young +friend during a temporary fit of insanity, which she has partially +reproduced in the touching picture of Helen in the story of "Work." It +is a powerful lesson; but it is almost cruelly enforced, and is an +artistic blemish in the book. While the great problem of heredity +should be studied and its lessons enforced, it is yet a mystery, whose +laws are not understood; and it is not wise to paint its possible +effects in the lurid light of excited imagination, which may too often +bring about the very evils which a wise and temperate caution might +prevent. For the physician and teacher such investigations are +important; but they are dangerous to the young and sensitive. + +The following unusually long letter gives a pleasing picture of the +family life at this time:-- + + +_To Mrs. Bond._ + + APPLE SLUMP, Sept. 17, 1860. + + DEAR AUNTIE,--I consider this a practical illustration of one of + Mother's naughty amended sayings, "Cast your bread upon the + waters, and after many days it will return buttered;" and this + "rule of three" don't "puzzle me," as the other did; for my + venerable raiment went away with one if not two feet in the + grave, and came back in the guise of three stout angels, having + been resurrectionized by the spirit who lives on the other side + of a Charles River Jordan. Thank you very much, and be sure the + dreams I dream in them will be pleasant ones; for, whether you + sewed them or not, I know they bring some of the Auntie influence + in their strength, softness, and warmth; and, though a Vandal, I + think any prayers I may say in them will be the better for the + affectionate recollections that will clothe me with the putting + on of these friendly gowns, while my belief in both heavenly and + earthly providences will be amazingly strengthened by the + knowledge of some lives here, whose beauty renders it impossible + to doubt the existence of the life hereafter. + + We were very glad to hear that the Papa was better; for when + paternal "Richards" ain't "themselves," everybody knows the + anxious state of the domestic realms. + + I hope Georgie (last name disremembered) has recovered from the + anguish of discontented teeth and berry-seeds, and that "the + Mama" was as much benefited by the trip as the other parties + were, barring the horse perhaps. + + This amiable town is convulsed just now with a gymnastic fever, + which shows itself with great violence in all the schools, and + young societies generally. Dr. Lewis has "inoculated us for the + disease," and it has "taken finely;" for every one has become a + perambulating windmill, with all its four sails going as if a + wind had set in; and the most virulent cases present the + phenomena of black eyes and excoriation of the knobby parts of + the frame, to say nothing of sprains and breakage of vessels + looming in the future. + + The City Fathers approve of it; and the city sons and daughters + intend to show that Concord has as much muscle as brain, and be + ready for another Concord fight, if Louis Napoleon sees fit to + covet this famous land of Emerson, Hawthorne, Thoreau, Alcott, & + Co. Abby and I are among the pioneers; and the delicate vegetable + productions clash their cymbals in private, when the beef-eating + young ladies faint away and become superfluous _dumb belles_. + + Saturday we had J. G. Whittier, Charlotte Cushman, Miss Stebbins + the sculptress, and Mr. Stuart, conductor of the underground + railroad of this charming free country. So you see our humble + place of abode is perking up; and when the "great authoress and + artist" are fairly out of the shell, we shall be an honor to our + country and terror to the foe,--provided good fortune don't addle + or bad fortune smash us. + + Father continues to stir up the schools like a mild + pudding-stick, Mother to sing Hebron among her pots and pans, + Anna and the Prince Consort to bill and coo in the little + dove-cot, Oranthy Bluggage to launch chips on the Atlantic and + make a gigantic blot of herself in working the vessel, Abby to + teach the fine arts and play propriety for the family, and the + old house to put its best foot foremost and hoot at the idea of + ever returning to the chaos from which it came. + + This is a condensed history of "the pathetic family," which is + also a "happy family," owing to the prevalence of friends and + lots of kindness in the original packages, "which are always + arriving" when the "Widow Cruise's oil-bottle" begins to give + out. + + You know I never _could_ do anything in a neat and proper manner; + so you will receive this topsy-turvy note as you do its writer, + and with love to all from all, believe her, dear auntie, + + Ever lovingly yours, + L. M. A. + + +This characteristic letter not only shows Louisa's affectionate +feelings and gives a picture of her life, but indicates that "The +Pathetic Family," which was the foundation of "Little Women," was +already shaping itself in her mind. + +Mr. Alcott's career as Superintendent of Schools was a gratifying +success, and is still remembered by friends of education in the town. +The year closed with a school festival, for which Louisa wrote a poem, +and in which she took hearty delight. + +In 1861 war was declared with the South. The Alcotts were all alive +with patriotic enthusiasm, and Louisa took an active part in fitting +off the boys for the army. But she also found time for much reading. +Mr. Alcott, in his sonnet, uses the expression about Louisa-- + + "Hast with grave studies vexed a lively brain." + +He may possibly have referred to this period, though she could never +properly be called a student. She was a rapid, intelligent reader, +and her taste was severe and keen. From her childhood she had browsed +in her father's library, full of the works of ancient philosophers and +quaint English poets, and had imbibed from them great thoughts and +noble sentiments; but her reading, like all her education, was +immethodical. Occasionally she would lay out courses of reading, which +she pursued for a time; but in general she followed the cravings of a +healthy appetite for knowledge, reading what came in her way. Later in +life she often read light literature in abundance, to drown the +sensations of pain, and to pass away the hours of invalidism. + +She read French easily, and learned to speak it when abroad; she also +studied German, but did not acquire equal facility in that tongue. Of +ancient languages she had no knowledge. History could not fail to +interest such a student of life, and she loved Nature too well not to +enjoy the revelations of science when brought to her notice; but she +had never time to give to a thorough study of either. + +In her journal at this time she speaks of her religious feelings, +which the experiences of grief and despair and reviving hope had +deepened. Louisa Alcott's was a truly religious soul; she always lived +in the consciousness of a Higher Power sustaining and blessing her, +whose presence was revealed to her through Nature, through the +inspired words of great thinkers and the deep experiences of her own +heart. She never held her life as an isolated possession which she was +free to use for her own enjoyment or glory. Her father truly called +her "Duty's faithful child," and her life was consecrated to the duty +she recognized as specially hers. But for outward forms and rites of +religion she cared little; her home was sacred to her, and she found +her best life there. She loved Theodore Parker, and found great +strength and help from his preaching, and afterward liked to listen to +Dr. Bartol; but she never joined any church. The Bible was not her +favorite reading, though her father had read it much to her in her +childhood, with his own peculiar charm of interpretation. Pilgrim's +Progress was one of the few religious books which became dear to her +in the same way. + +Her sister Anna was married in May; this was of course a great event +in the family. While fully rejoicing in her sister's happiness, Louisa +felt her loss as a constant companion and confidant. The journal gives +a sufficient description of the event. Her strong affection for her +brother-in-law appears in "Little Women" and in "Jo's Boys." About +this time her farce was brought out at the Howard Athenaeum. + +The story-writing continued, as it helped to pay the expenses of the +family; but the continuous, hurried work had begun to affect her +health, and she occasionally suffered from illness. + +In the summer of 1861 Miss Alcott began to write her first novel, +entitled "Moods;" this proved to be the least successful of her books, +and yet like many an unfortunate child, it was the dearest to the +mother's heart. It was not written for money, but for its own sake, +and she was possessed by the plot and the characters. Warwick +represented her ideal of a hero, while her sister preferred the type +of the amiable Moor; yet there is far less of her outward self +revealed in this than in her other stories. It is full of her thoughts +and fancies, but not of her life. The wilful, moody, charming Sylvia +does not affect us like the stormy Jo, who is a real presence to us, +and whom we take to our hearts in spite of her faults. The men are +such as she found in books, but had never known herself, and, +carefully as she has drawn them, have not the individuality of Laurie +and Professor Bhaer. The action takes place in an unreal world; and +though there are many pretty scenes, they have not the real flavor of +New England life. The principal incident, of a young girl going up the +river on a picnic-voyage for some days with her brother and two other +young men, was so contrary to common ideas of decorum, that the motive +hardly seems sufficient for the staid sister's consent; but in the +simple, innocent life which the Alcotts lived in Concord such scruples +were little felt. + +Miss Alcott did not lay stress upon the marriage question as the +principal feature of the book; she cared more to describe the wilful +moods of a young girl, full of good feelings, and longing for a rich +and noble life, but not established in convictions and principles. She +meant to represent much of her own nature in Sylvia, for she was +always a creature of moods, which her family learned to recognize and +respect. But how unlike was the discipline of family work and love, +which saved Louisa from fatal caprices and fitful gusts of fancy +called passion, to the lot of the wealthy and admired Sylvia. Miss +Alcott says that the incidents of the marriage, although not drawn +from life, were so close to an actual case that the wife asked her how +she had known her secret; but such realism is a poor justification in +art. It is that which becomes true to the imagination and heart +through its vivid personation of character which is accepted, not the +bare facts. The great question of the transcendental period was truth +to the inward life instead of the outward law. But in "Moods" the +marriage question is not stated strongly; it does not reach down to +this central principle. It is only in tragedy that such a double +relation could be endured, when the situation is compelled by +fate,--the fate of character and overpowering circumstances,--and when +there is no happy solution possible. But Sylvia's position is made +only by her own weakness, and the love which stands in opposition to +outward duty has no right of existence. If her love for Warwick +_could_ be overcome, there was no question of her duty; and when she +accepts Faith's criticism of him, it is clear that it is a much +lighter spell than love which has fascinated her. We do not accept the +catastrophe which sacrifices a splendid life to make a comfortable +solution of the practical difficulty, and to allow Sylvia to accept a +happy home without a thorough regeneration of heart and mind. But +these were the natural mistakes of youth and inexperience; Louisa had +known but little of such struggles. Love and marriage were rather +uninteresting themes to her, and she had not yet found her true power. + +Still the book has great literary merit. It is well written, in a more +finished style than any of her other work, except "Modern +Mephistopheles," and the dialogue is vigorous and sprightly. In spite +of her careful revision and pruning, there is something left of +youthful gush in it, and this perhaps touched the heart of young +girls, who found in Sylvia's troubles with herself a reflection of +their own. + +The "golden wedding" scenes have some of her usual freedom and +vivacity. She is at home with a troop of mothers and babies and noisy +boys. But the "golden wedding" was a new importation from Germany, and +not at home in the New England farmhouse. Why might it not have been a +true wedding or a harvest feast? + +Louisa never lost her interest in this early work, though it was the +most unlucky of books, and subjected to severe handling. It was sent +to and fro from publisher to author, each one suggesting some change. +Redpath sent it back as being too long. Ticknor found it very +interesting, but could not use it then. Loring liked it, but wanted it +shorter. She condensed and altered until her author's spirit rebelled, +and she declared she would change it no more. + +After her other books had made her famous, "Moods" was again brought +forward and republished as it was originally written. It met with +warmer welcome than before, and a cheap edition was published in +England to supply the popular demand. + +Miss Alcott learned the first painful lesson of over-work on this +book. She was possessed by it, and for three weeks labored so +constantly that she felt the physical effects keenly. Fortunately new +household tasks (for the daughters of John Brown came to board with +them), and the enthusiasm of the time, changed the current of her +thoughts. + + +_Journal._ + + _February_, 1860.--Mr. ---- won't have "M. L.," as it is + antislavery, and the dear South must not be offended. Got a + carpet with my $50, and wild Louisa's head kept the feet of the + family warm. + + _March._--Wrote "A Modern Cinderella," with Nan for the heroine + and John for the hero. + + Made my first ball dress for May, and she was the finest girl at + the party. My tall, blond, graceful girl! I was proud of her. + + Wrote a song for the school festival, and heard it sung by four + hundred happy children. Father got up the affair, and such a + pretty affair was never seen in Concord before. He said, "We + spend much on our cattle and flower shows; let us each spring + have a show of our children, and begrudge nothing for their + culture." All liked it but the old fogies who want things as they + were in the ark. + + _April._--Made two riding habits, and May and I had some fine + rides. Both needed exercise, and this was good for us. So one of + our dreams came true, and we really did "dash away on horseback." + + Sanborn was nearly kidnapped for being a friend of John Brown; + but his sister and A. W. rescued him when he was handcuffed, and + the scamps drove off. Great ferment in town. A meeting and + general flurry. + + Had a funny lover who met me in the cars, and said he lost his + heart at once. Handsome man of forty. A Southerner, and very + demonstrative and gushing, called and wished to pay his + addresses; and being told I didn't wish to see him, retired, to + write letters and haunt the road with his hat off, while the + girls laughed and had great fun over Jo's lover. He went at last, + and peace reigned. My adorers are all queer. + + Sent "Cinderella" to the "Atlantic," and it was accepted. Began + "By the River," and thought that this was certainly to be a lucky + year; for after ten years hard climbing I had reached a good + perch on the ladder, and could look more hopefully into the + future, while my paper boats sailed gaily over the Atlantic. + + _May._--Meg's wedding. + + My farce was acted, and I went to see it. Not very well done; but + I sat in a box, and the good Doctor handed up a bouquet to the + author, and made as much as he could of a small affair. + + Saw Anna's honeymoon home at Chelsea,--a little cottage in a + blooming apple-orchard. Pretty place, simple and sweet. God bless + it! + + The dear girl was married on the 23d, the same day as Mother's + wedding. A lovely day; the house full of sunshine, flowers, + friends, and happiness. Uncle S. J. May married them, with no + fuss, but much love; and we all stood round her. She in her + silver-gray silk, with lilies of the valley (John's flower) in + her bosom and hair. We in gray thin stuff and roses,--sackcloth, + I called it, and ashes of roses; for I mourn the loss of my Nan, + and am not comforted. We have had a little feast, sent by good + Mrs. Judge Shaw; then the old folks danced round the bridal pair + on the lawn in the German fashion, making a pretty picture to + remember, under our Revolutionary elm. + + Then, with tears and kisses, our dear girl, in her little white + bonnet, went happily away with her good John; and we ended our + first wedding. Mr. Emerson kissed her; and I thought that honor + would make even matrimony endurable, for he is the god of my + idolatry, and has been for years. + + _June._--To Boston to the memorial meeting for Mr. Parker, which + was very beautiful, and proved how much he was beloved. Music + Hall was full of flowers and sunshine, and hundreds of faces, + both sad and proud, as the various speakers told the life of love + and labor which makes Theodore Parker's memory so rich a legacy + to Boston. I was very glad to have known so good a man, and been + called "friend" by him. + + Saw Nan in her nest, where she and her mate live like a pair of + turtle doves. Very sweet and pretty, but I'd rather be a free + spinster and paddle my own canoe. + + _August._--"Moods." Genius burned so fiercely that for four weeks + I wrote all day and planned nearly all night, being quite + possessed by my work. I was perfectly happy, and seemed to have + no wants. Finished the book, or a rough draught of it, and put it + away to settle. Mr. Emerson offered to read it when Mother told + him it was "Moods" and had one of his sayings for motto. + + Daresay nothing will ever come of it; but it _had_ to be done, + and I'm the richer for a new experience. + + _September._--Received $75 of Ticknor for "Cinderella," and feel + very rich. Emerson praised it, and people wrote to me about it + and patted me on the head. Paid bills, and began to simmer + another. + + _October._--I went to B. and saw the Prince of Wales trot over + the Common with his train at a review. A yellow-haired laddie + very like his mother. Fanny W. and I nodded and waved as he + passed, and he openly winked his boyish eye at us; for Fanny, + with her yellow curls and wild waving, looked rather rowdy, and + the poor little prince wanted some fun. We laughed, and thought + that we had been more distinguished by the saucy wink than by a + stately bow. Boys are always jolly,--even princes. + + Read Richter, and enjoyed him very much. + + Mother went to see Uncle S. J. May, and I was house-keeper. Gave + my mind to it so energetically that I dreamed dip-toast, talked + apple-sauce, thought pies, and wept drop-cakes. Read my book to + Nan, who came up to cheer me in my struggles; and she laughed and + cried over it and said it was "good." So I felt encouraged, and + will touch it up when duty no longer orders me to make a + burnt-offering of myself. + + _November._--Father sixty-one; L. aged twenty-eight. Our + birthday. Gave Father a ream of paper, and he gave me Emerson's + picture; so both were happy. + + Wrote little, being busy with visitors. The John Brown + Association asked me for a poem, which I wrote. + + Kind Miss R. sent May $30 for lessons, so she went to B. to take + some of Johnstone. She is one of the fortunate ones, and gets + what she wants easily. I have to grub for my help, or go without + it. Good for me, doubtless, or it wouldn't be so; so cheer up, + Louisa, and grind away! + + _December._--More luck for May. She wanted to go to Syracuse and + teach, and Dr. W. sends for her, thanks to Uncle S. J. May. I sew + like a steam-engine for a week, and get her ready. On the 17th go + to B. and see our youngest start on her first little flight + alone into the world, full of hope and courage. May all go well + with her! + + Mr. Emerson invited me to his class when they meet to talk on + Genius; a great honor, as all the learned ladies go. + + Sent "Debby's Debit" to the "Atlantic," and they took it. Asked + to the John Brown meeting, but had no "good gown," so didn't go; + but my "pome" did, and came out in the paper. Not good. I'm a + better patriot than poet, and couldn't say what I felt. + + A quiet Christmas; no presents but apples and flowers. No + merry-making; for Nan and May were gone, and Betty under the + snow. But we are used to hard times, and, as Mother says, "while + there is a famine in Kansas we mustn't ask for sugar-plums." + + All the philosophy in our house is not in the study; a good deal + is in the kitchen, where a fine old lady thinks high thoughts and + does kind deeds while she cooks and scrubs. + + _January, 1861._--Twenty-eight; received thirteen New Year's + gifts. A most uncommon fit of generosity seemed to seize people + on my behalf, and I was blessed with all manner of nice things, + from a gold and ivory pen to a mince-pie and a bonnet. + + Wrote on a new book--"Success" ["Work"]--till Mother fell ill, + when I corked up my inkstand and turned nurse. The dear woman was + very ill, but rose up like a phoenix from her ashes after what + she gayly called "the irrepressible conflict between sickness and + the May constitution." + + Father had four talks at Emerson's; good people came, and he + enjoyed them much; made $30. R. W. E. probably put in $20. He has + a sweet way of bestowing gifts on the table under a book or + behind a candle-stick, when he thinks Father wants a little + money, and no one will help him earn. A true friend is this + tender and illustrious man. + + Wrote a tale and put it away,--to be sent when "Debby" comes out. + "F. T." appeared, and I got a dress, having mended my six-year + old silk till it is more patch and tear than gown. Made the + claret merino myself, and enjoyed it, as I do anything bought + with my "head-money." + + _February._--Another turn at "Moods," which I remodelled. From + the 2d to the 25th I sat writing, with a run at dusk; could not + sleep, and for three days was so full of it I could not stop to + get up. Mother made me a green silk cap with a red bow, to match + the old green and red party wrap, which I wore as a "glory + cloak." Thus arrayed I sat in groves of manuscripts, "living for + immortality," as May said. Mother wandered in and out with + cordial cups of tea, worried because I couldn't eat. Father + thought it fine, and brought his reddest apples and hardest cider + for my Pegasus to feed upon. All sorts of fun was going on; but I + didn't care if the world returned to chaos if I and my inkstand + only "lit" in the same place. + + It was very pleasant and queer while it lasted; but after three + weeks of it I found that my mind was too rampant for my body, as + my head was dizzy, legs shaky, and no sleep would come. So I + dropped the pen, and took long walks, cold baths, and had Nan up + to frolic with me. Read all I had done to my family; and Father + said: "Emerson must see this. Where did you get your + metaphysics?" Mother pronounced it wonderful, and Anna laughed + and cried, as she always does, over my works, saying, "My dear, + I'm proud of you." + + So I had a good time, even if it never comes to anything; thing; + for it was worth something to have my three dearest sit up till + midnight listening with wide-open eyes to Lu's first novel. + + I planned it some time ago, and have had it in my mind ever so + long; but now it begins to take shape. + + Father had his usual school festival, and Emerson asked me to + write a song, which I did. On the 16th the schools all met in the + hall (four hundred),--a pretty posy bed, with a border of proud + parents and friends. Some of the fogies objected to the names + Phillips and John Brown. But Emerson said: "Give it up? No, no; + _I_ will read it." Which he did, to my great contentment; for + when the great man of the town says "Do it," the thing is done. + So the choir warbled, and the Alcotts were uplifted in their vain + minds. + + Father was in glory, like a happy shepherd with a large flock of + sportive lambs; for all did something. Each school had its + badge,--one pink ribbons, one green shoulder-knots, and one + wreaths of pop-corn on the curly pates. One school to whom Father + had read Pilgrim's Progress told the story, one child after the + other popping up to say his or her part; and at the end a little + tot walked forward, saying with a pretty air of wonder,--"And + behold it was all a dream." + + When all was over, and Father about to dismiss them, F. H., a + tall, handsome lad came to him, and looking up confidingly to the + benign old face, asked "our dear friend Mr. Alcott to accept of + Pilgrim's Progress and George Herbert's Poems from the children + of Concord, as a token of their love and respect." + + Father was much touched and surprised, and blushed and stammered + like a boy, hugging the fine books while the children cheered + till the roof rung. + + His report was much admired, and a thousand copies printed to + supply the demand; for it was a new thing to have a report, + neither dry nor dull; and teachers were glad of the hints given, + making education a part of religion, not a mere bread-making + grind for teacher and an irksome cram for children. + + _April._--War declared with the South, and our Concord company + went to Washington. A busy time getting them ready, and a sad day + seeing them off; for in a little town like this we all seem like + one family in times like these. At the station the scene was very + dramatic, as the brave boys went away perhaps never to come back + again. + + I've often longed to see a war, and now I have my wish. I long to + be a man; but as I can't fight, I will content myself with + working for those who can. + + Sewed a good deal getting May's summer things in order, as she + sent for me to make and mend and buy and send her outfit. + + Stories simmered in my brain, demanding to be writ; but I let + them simmer, knowing that the longer the divine afflatus was + bottled up the better it would be. + + John Brown's daughters came to board, and upset my plans of rest + and writing when the report and the sewing were done. I had my + fit of woe up garret on the fat rag-bag, and then put my papers + away, and fell to work at housekeeping. I think disappointment + must be good for me, I get so much of it; and the constant + thumping Fate gives me may be a mellowing process; so I shall be + a ripe and sweet old pippin before I die. + + _May._--Spent our May-day working for our men,--three hundred + women all sewing together at the hall for two days. + + May will not return to S. after her vacation in July; and being a + lucky puss, just as she wants something to do, F. B. S. needs a + drawing teacher in his school and offers her the place. + + Nan found that I was wearing all the old clothes she and May + left; so the two dear souls clubbed together and got me some new + ones; and the great parcel, with a loving letter, came to me as a + beautiful surprise. + + Nan and John walked up from Cambridge for a day, and we all + walked back. Took a sail to the forts, and saw our men on guard + there. Felt very martial and Joan-of-Arc-y as I stood on the + walls with the flag flying over me and cannon all about. + + _June._--Read a good deal; grubbed in my garden, and made the old + house pretty for May. Enjoyed Carlyle's French Revolution very + much. His earthquaky style suits me. + + "Charles Auchester" is charming,--a sort of fairy tale for grown + people. Dear old "Evelina," as a change, was pleasant. Emerson + recommended Hodson's India, and I got it, and liked it; also read + Sir Thomas More's Life. I read Fielding's "Amelia," and thought + it coarse and queer. The heroine having "her lovely nose smashed + all to bits falling from a post shay" was a new idea. What some + one says of Richardson applies to Fielding, "The virtues of his + heroes are the vices of decent men." + + _July._--Spent a month at the White Mountains with L. W.,--a + lovely time, and it did me much good. Mountains are restful and + uplifting to my mind. Lived in the woods, and revelled in brooks, + birds, pines, and peace. + + _August._--May came home very tired, but satisfied with her first + attempt, which has been very successful in every way. She is + quite a belle now, and much improved,--a tall blond lass, full of + grace and spirit. + + _September._--Ticknor sent $50. Wrote a story for C., as Plato + needs new shirts, and Minerva a pair of boots, and Hebe a fall + hat. + + _October._--All together on Marmee's birthday. Sewing and + knitting for "our boys" all the time. It seems as if a few + energetic women could carry on the war better than the men do it + so far. + + A week with Nan in the dove-cot. As happy as ever. + + _November_ and _December_.--Wrote, read, sewed, and wanted + something to do. + +In 1862, at the suggestion of Miss Peabody, Miss Alcott opened a +Kindergarten school; but it was not successful, and she took a final +leave of the teacher's profession, and returned to her writing, which +she found to be her true calling. She wrote much; for "brain was +lively, and work paid for readily." Besides the occasional stories in +papers and magazines, her most important labor was the preparation of +the story called "Work," or, as she originally named it, "Success." +This story however was not published until ten years later. Here she +took the road that was later to lead to fame and fortune, by writing +from her own experience of life. Christie is Louisa herself under very +thin disguise; and all her own experiences, as servant, governess, +companion, seamstress, and actress are brought in to give vividness to +the picture; while many other persons may be recognized as models for +her skilful portraiture. The book has always been deservedly popular. + + _January, 1862._--E. P. Peabody wanted me to open a Kindergarten, + and Mr. Barnard gave a room at the Warren Street Chapel. Don't + like to teach, but take what comes; so when Mr. F. offered $40 to + fit up with, twelve pupils, and his patronage, I began. + + Saw many great people, and found them no bigger than the rest of + the world,--often not half so good as some humble soul who made + no noise. I learned a good deal in my way, and am not half so + much impressed by society as before I got a peep at it. Having + known Emerson, Parker, Phillips, and that set of really great and + good men and women living for the world's work and service of + God, the mere show people seem rather small and silly, though + they shine well, and feel that they are stars. + + _February._--Visited about, as my school did not bring enough to + pay board and the assistant I was made to have, though I didn't + want her. + + Went to lectures; saw Booth at the Goulds',--a handsome, shy man, + glooming in a corner. + + Very tired of this wandering life and distasteful work; but kept + my word and tugged on. + + Hate to visit people who only ask me to help amuse others, and + often longed for a crust in a garret with freedom and a pen. I + never knew before what insolent things a hostess can do, nor what + false positions poverty can push one into. + + _April._--Went to and from C. every day that I might be at home. + Forty miles a day is dull work; but I have my dear people at + night, and am not a beggar. + + Wrote "King of Clubs,"--$30. The school having no real foundation + (as the people who sent didn't care for Kindergartens, and Miss + P. wanted me to take pupils for nothing, to try the new system), + I gave it up, as I could do much better at something else. May + took my place for a month, that I might keep my part of the + bargain; and I cleaned house, and wrote a story which made more + than all my months of teaching. They ended in a wasted winter and + a debt of $40,--to be paid if I sell my hair to do it. + + _May._--School finished for me, and I paid Miss N. by giving her + all the furniture, and leaving her to do as she liked; while I + went back to my writing, which pays much better, though Mr. F. + did say, "Stick to your teaching; you can't write." Being wilful, + I said, "I won't teach; and I can write, and I'll prove it." + + Saw Miss Rebecca Harding, author of "Margret Howth," which has + made a stir, and is very good. A handsome, fresh, quiet woman, + who says she never had any troubles, though she writes about + woes. I told her I had had lots of troubles; so I write jolly + tales; and we wondered why we each did so. + + _June_, _July_, _August._--Wrote a tale for B., and he lost it, + and wouldn't pay. + + Wrote two tales for L. I enjoy romancing to suit myself; and + though my tales are silly, they are not bad; and my sinners + always have a good spot somewhere. I hope it is good drill for + fancy and language, for I can do it fast; and Mr. L. says my + tales are so "dramatic, vivid, and full of plot," they are just + what he wants. + + _September_, _October._--Sewing Bees and Lint Picks for "our + boys" kept us busy, and the prospect of the first grandchild + rejoiced the hearts of the family. + + Wrote much; for brain was lively, and work paid for readily. + Rewrote the last story, and sent it to L., who wants more than I + can send him. So, between blue flannel jackets for "our boys" and + dainty slips for Louisa Caroline or John B., Jr., as the case may + be, I reel off my "thrilling" tales, and mess up my work in a + queer but interesting way. + + War news bad. Anxious faces, beating hearts, and busy minds. + + I like the stir in the air, and long for battle like a war-horse + when he smells powder. The blood of the Mays is up! + + +_After Anna's Marriage._ + + SUNDAY MORN, 1860. + MRS. PRATT: + + MY DEAR MADAM,--The news of the town is as follows, and I present + it in the usual journalesque style of correspondence. After the + bridal train had departed, the mourners withdrew to their + respective homes; and the bereaved family solaced their woe by + washing dishes for two hours and bolting the remains of the + funeral baked meats. At four, having got settled down, we were + all routed up by the appearance of a long procession of children + filing down our lane, headed by the Misses H. and R. Father + rushed into the cellar, and appeared with a large basket of + apples, which went the rounds with much effect. The light + infantry formed in a semi-circle, and was watered by the matron + and maids. It was really a pretty sight, these seventy children + loaded with wreaths and flowers, standing under the elm in the + sunshine, singing in full chorus the song I wrote for them. It + was a neat little compliment to the superintendent and his + daughter, who was glad to find that her "pome" was a favorite + among the "lads and lasses" who sang it "with cheery voices, like + robins on the tree." + + Father put the finishing stroke to the spectacle by going off at + full speed, hoppity-skip, and all the babes followed in a whirl + of rapture at the idea. He led them up and down and round and + round till they were tired; then they fell into order, and with + a farewell song marched away, seventy of the happiest little ones + I ever wish to see. We subsided, and fell into our beds with the + new thought "Annie is married and gone" for a lullaby, which was + not very effective in its results with all parties. + + Thursday we set our house in order, and at two the rush began. It + had gone abroad that Mr. M. and Mrs. Captain Brown were to adorn + the scene, so many people coolly came who were not invited, and + who had no business here. People sewed and jabbered till Mrs. + Brown, with Watson Brown's widow and baby came; then a levee took + place. The two pale women sat silent and serene through the + clatter; and the bright-eyed, handsome baby received the homage + of the multitude like a little king, bearing the kisses and + praises with the utmost dignity. He is named Frederick Watson + Brown, after his murdered uncle and father, and is a fair, + heroic-looking baby, with a fine head, and serious eyes that look + about him as if saying, "I am a Brown! Are these friends or + enemies?" I wanted to cry once at the little scene the + unconscious baby made. Some one caught and kissed him rudely; he + didn't cry, but looked troubled, and rolled his great eyes + anxiously about for some familiar face to reassure him with its + smile. His mother was not there; but though many hands were + stretched to him, he turned to Grandma Bridge, and putting out + his little arms to her as if she was a refuge, laughed and crowed + as he had not done before when she danced him on her knee. The + old lady looked delighted; and Freddy patted the kind face, and + cooed like a lawful descendant of that pair of ancient turtle + doves. + + When he was safe back in the study, playing alone at his mother's + feet, C. and I went and worshipped in our own way at the shrine + of John Brown's grandson, kissing him as if he were a little + saint, and feeling highly honored when he sucked our fingers, or + walked on us with his honest little red shoes, much the worse for + wear. + + Well, the baby fascinated me so that I forgot a raging headache + and forty gabbling women all in full clack. Mrs. Brown, Sen., is + a tall, stout woman, plain, but with a strong, good face, and a + natural dignity that showed she was something better than a + "lady," though she _did_ drink out of her saucer and used the + plainest speech. + + The younger woman had such a patient, heart-broken face, it was a + whole Harper's Ferry tragedy in a look. When we got your letter, + Mother and I ran into the study to read it. Mother read aloud; + for there were only C., A., I, and Mrs. Brown, Jr., in the room. + As she read the words that were a poem in their simplicity and + happiness, the poor young widow sat with tears rolling down her + face; for I suppose it brought back her own wedding-day, not two + years ago, and all the while she cried the baby laughed and + crowed at her feet as if there was no trouble in the world. + + The preparations had been made for twenty at the utmost; so when + forty souls with the usual complement of bodies appeared, we grew + desperate, and our neat little supper turned out a regular "tea + fight." A., C., B., and I rushed like comets to and fro trying to + fill the multitude that would eat fast and drink like sponges. I + filled a big plate with all I could lay hands on, and with two + cups of tea, strong enough for a dozen, charged upon Mr. E. and + Uncle S., telling them to eat, drink, and be merry, for a famine + was at hand. They cuddled into a corner; and then, feeling that + my mission was accomplished, I let the hungry _wait_ and the + thirsty _moan_ for tea, while I picked out and helped the regular + Antislavery set. + + We got through it; but it was an awful hour; and Mother wandered + in her mind, utterly lost in a grove of teapots; while B. + pervaded the neighborhood demanding hot water, and we girls sowed + cake broadcast through the land. + + When the plates were empty and the teapots dry, people wiped + their mouths and confessed at last that they had done. A + conversation followed, in which Grandpa B. and E. P. P. held + forth, and Uncle and Father mildly upset the world, and made a + new one in which every one desired to take a place. Dr. B., Mr. + B., T., etc., appeared, and the rattle continued till nine, when + some Solomon suggested that the Alcotts must be tired, and every + one departed but C. and S. We had a polka by Mother and Uncle, + the lancers by C. and B., and an _etude_ by S., after which + scrabblings of feast appeared, and we "drained the dregs of every + cup," all cakes and pies we gobbled up, etc.; then peace fell + upon us, and our remains were interred decently. + + + + +CHAPTER VII. + +HOSPITAL SKETCHES. + + THOREAU'S FLUTE. + + We sighing said, "Our Pan is dead; + His pipe hangs mute beside the river + Around it wistful sunbeams quiver, + But Music's airy voice is fled. + Spring mourns as for untimely frost; + The bluebird chants a requiem; + The willow-blossom waits for him;-- + The Genius of the wood is lost." + + Then from the flute, untouched by hands, + There came a low, harmonious breath: + "For such as he there is no death;-- + His life the eternal life commands; + Above man's aims his nature rose. + The wisdom of a just content + Made one small spot a continent, + And tuned to poetry life's prose. + + "Haunting the hills, the stream, the wild, + Swallow and aster, lake and pine, + To him grew human or divine,-- + Fit mates for this large-hearted child. + Such homage Nature ne'er forgets, + And yearly on the coverlid + 'Neath which her darling lieth hid + Will write his name in violets. + + "To him no vain regrets belong + Whose soul, that finer instrument, + Gave to the world no poor lament, + But wood-notes ever sweet and strong. + O lonely friend! he still will be + A potent presence, though unseen,-- + Steadfast, sagacious, and serene; + Seek not for him--he is with thee." + + +Miss Alcott could not help feeling deeply the excitement of the hour +when the war broke out. Her father had been one of the earliest +Abolitionists, having joined the Antislavery Society with Garrison, +and she well remembered the fugitive slave whom her mother had hidden +in the oven. Now this feeling could be united with her patriotic zeal +and her strong love of active life, and it was inevitable that she +should long to share personally in the dangers and excitement of the +war. + +Louisa had always been the nurse in the family, and had by nature the +magnetic power which encourages and helps the feeble and suffering; +therefore, since no other way of serving the cause opened to her, it +was most like her to take her own life in her hands and join the corps +of devoted nurses. She was accepted, and went to Washington. Her +journal gives an account of her situation in the Union Hospital at +Georgetown. It was a small hospital, much inferior in its appointments +to those which were afterward arranged. Although Louisa had never been +very ill up to that time, and thought herself exceptionally strong, +yet she had not the rugged constitution fit to bear the labors and +exposures of such a position; and the healthful habits of outdoor life +and simple food to which she had always been accustomed made the +conditions of the crowded, ill-ventilated hospital peculiarly perilous +to her. She says, "I was never ill before this time, and never well +afterward." + +But with all its hardships, Miss Alcott found in the hospital the +varied and intense human life she had longed to know. Her great heart +went out to all the men, black or white, the Virginia blacksmith and +the rough Michigander. She even tried to befriend the one solitary +rebel who had got left behind, and who was taken into the hospital to +the disgust of some of the men; but he was impervious to all kindness, +and she could find nothing in him for sympathy or romance to fasten +upon. + +Miss Alcott remained in the hospital only about six weeks. Yet this +short period had a very strong influence, both for good and evil, on +her future life. The severe attack of fever which drove her from her +post left her with shattered nerves and weakened constitution, and she +never again knew the fulness of life and health which she had before. +The chamber in her quiet home at Concord was evermore haunted by the +fearful visions of delirium, and she could not regain there the peace +she needed for work. But the experience of life, the observation of +men under the excitement of war, the way in which they met the great +conqueror Death, the revelations of heroism and love, and sometimes of +bitterness and hate, brought her a deeper insight into human life than +she ever had before, and gave to her writings greater reality. + +Louisa constantly wrote to the family of her experiences, and these +letters were so interesting that she was persuaded to publish them in +the "Commonwealth" newspaper. They attracted great attention, and +first made her widely and favorably known to a higher public than that +which had read her stories. + +These letters were published by James Redpath in book form, and Miss +Alcott received $200 for the book,--a welcome sum to her at that time. +The sketches are almost a literal reproduction of her letters to her +family; but as they have been so extensively read, and are accessible +to every one, I shall give in preference to them extracts from her +journal kept at the hospital. Other stories growing out of her +experience in the hospital, or more remotely connected with it, have +been published in the same volume in later editions. "My Contraband" +is one of the most dramatic and powerful stories she ever wrote. She +portrays the intensity of hatred in a noble nature,--hatred justified +by the provocation, and yet restrained from fatal execution by the +highest suggestions of religion. This story called forth a letter of +commendation and frank criticism from Col. T. W. Higginson, which was +very encouraging to the young writer. + +The beautiful lines on Thoreau's flute, the most perfect of her poems, +excepting the exquisite tribute to her mother, were first composed in +the watches of the night in the hospital, and afterwards recalled +during the tedious days of convalescence at Concord. This poem was +printed in the "Atlantic," and brought her a welcome ten-dollar bill. + +"Hospital Sketches" were hastily written, and with little regard to +literary execution, but they are fresh and original, and, still more, +they are true, and they appeared at just the time the public wanted +them. Every heart was longing to hear not only from field and camp, +but from the hospitals, where sons and brothers were tenderly cared +for. The generous, hopeful spirit with which Miss Alcott entered into +the work was recognized as that which animated the brave corps of +women who answered so promptly to their country's call, and every +loyal and loving heart vibrated in unison with the strings she touched +so skilfully. + + +_Journal kept at the Hospital, Georgetown, D. C., 1862._ + + _November._--Thirty years old. Decided to go to Washington as + nurse if I could find a place. Help needed, and I love nursing, + and _must_ let out my pent-up energy in some new way. Winter is + always a hard and a dull time, and if I am away there is one less + to feed and warm and worry over. + + I want new experiences, and am sure to get 'em if I go. So I've + sent in my name, and bide my time writing tales, to leave all + snug behind me, and mending up my old clothes,--for nurses don't + need nice things, thank Heaven! + + _December._--On the 11th I received a note from Miss H. M. + Stevenson telling me to start for Georgetown next day to fill a + place in the Union Hotel Hospital. Mrs. Ropes of Boston was + matron, and Miss Kendall of Plymouth was a nurse there, and + though a hard place, help was needed. I was ready, and when my + commander said "March!" I marched. Packed my trunk, and reported + in B. that same evening. + + [Illustration: _From a photograph of Miss Alcott taken about + 1862._] + + We had all been full of courage till the last moment came; then + we all broke down. I realized that I had taken my life in my + hand, and might never see them all again. I said, "Shall I stay, + Mother?" as I hugged her close. "No, go! and the Lord be with + you!" answered the Spartan woman; and till I turned the corner + she bravely smiled and waved her wet handkerchief on the + door-step. Shall I ever see that dear old face again? + + So I set forth in the December twilight, with May and Julian + Hawthorne as escort, feeling as if I was the son of the house + going to war. + + Friday, the 12th, was a very memorable day, spent in running all + over Boston to get my pass, etc., calling for parcels, getting a + tooth filled, and buying a veil,--my only purchase. A. C. gave me + some old clothes; the dear Sewalls money for myself and boys, + lots of love and help; and at 5 P.M., saying "good-by" to a group + of tearful faces at the station, I started on my long journey, + full of hope and sorrow, courage and plans. + + A most interesting journey into a new world full of stirring + sights and sounds, new adventures, and an ever-growing sense of + the great task I had undertaken. + + I said my prayers as I went rushing through the country white + with tents, all alive with patriotism, and already red with + blood. + + A solemn time, but I'm glad to live in it; and am sure it will do + me good whether I come out alive or dead. + + All went well, and I got to Georgetown one evening very tired. + Was kindly welcomed, slept in my narrow bed with two other + room-mates, and on the morrow began my new life by seeing a poor + man die at dawn, and sitting all day between a boy with pneumonia + and a man shot through the lungs. A strange day, but I did my + best; and when I put mother's little black shawl round the boy + while he sat up panting for breath, he smiled and said, "You are + real motherly, ma'am." I felt as if I was getting on. The man + only lay and stared with his big black eyes, and made me very + nervous. But all were well behaved; and I sat looking at the + twenty strong faces as they looked back at me,--the only new + thing they had to amuse them,--hoping that I looked "motherly" to + them; for my thirty years made me feel old, and the suffering + round me made me long to comfort every one. + + _January, 1863. Union Hotel Hospital, Georgetown, D. C._--I never + began the year in a stranger place than this: five hundred miles + from home, alone, among strangers, doing painful duties all day + long, and leading a life of constant excitement in this great + house, surrounded by three or four hundred men in all stages of + suffering, disease, and death. Though often homesick, heartsick, + and worn out, I like it, find real pleasure in comforting, + tending, and cheering these poor souls who seem to love me, to + feel my sympathy though unspoken, and acknowledge my hearty + good-will, in spite of the ignorance, awkwardness, and + bashfulness which I cannot help showing in so new and trying a + situation. The men are docile, respectful, and affectionate, with + but few exceptions; truly lovable and manly many of them. John + Sulie, a Virginia blacksmith, is the prince of patients; and + though what we call a common man in education and condition, to + me is all I could expect or ask from the first gentleman in the + land. Under his plain speech and unpolished manner I seem to see + a noble character, a heart as warm and tender as a woman's, a + nature fresh and frank as any child's. He is about thirty, I + think, tall and handsome, mortally wounded, and dying royally + without reproach, repining, or remorse. Mrs. Ropes and myself + love him, and feel indignant that such a man should be so early + lost; for though he might never distinguish himself before the + world, his influence and example cannot be without effect, for + real goodness is never wasted. + + _Monday, 4th._--I shall record the events of a day as a sample of + the days I spend:-- + + Up at six, dress by gaslight, run through my ward and throw up + the windows, though the men grumble and shiver; but the air is + bad enough to breed a pestilence; and as no notice is taken of + our frequent appeals for better ventilation, I must do what I + can. Poke up the fire, add blankets, joke, coax, and command; but + continue to open doors and windows as if life depended upon it. + Mine does, and doubtless many another, for a more perfect + pestilence-box than this house I never saw,--cold, damp, dirty, + full of vile odors from wounds, kitchens, wash-rooms, and + stables. No competent head, male or female, to right matters, and + a jumble of good, bad, and indifferent nurses, surgeons, and + attendants, to complicate the chaos still more. + + After this unwelcome progress through my stifling ward, I go to + breakfast with what appetite I may; find the uninvitable fried + beef, salt butter, husky bread, and washy coffee; listen to the + clack of eight women and a dozen men,--the first silly, stupid, + or possessed of one idea; the last absorbed with their breakfast + and themselves to a degree that is both ludicrous and provoking, + for all the dishes are ordered down the table _full_ and returned + _empty_; the conversation is entirely among themselves, and each + announces his opinion with an air of importance that frequently + causes me to choke in my cup, or bolt my meals with undignified + speed lest a laugh betray to these famous beings that a "chiel's + amang them takin' notes." + + Till noon I trot, trot, giving out rations, cutting up food for + helpless "boys," washing faces, teaching my attendants how beds + are made or floors are swept, dressing wounds, taking Dr. F. P.'s + orders (privately wishing all the time that he would be more + gentle with my big babies), dusting tables, sewing bandages, + keeping my tray tidy, rushing up and down after pillows, + bed-linen, sponges, books, and directions, till it seems as if I + would joyfully pay down all I possess for fifteen minutes' rest. + At twelve the big bell rings, and up comes dinner for the boys, + who are always ready for it and never entirely satisfied. Soup, + meat, potatoes, and bread is the bill of fare. Charley Thayer, + the attendant, travels up and down the room serving out the + rations, saving little for himself, yet always thoughtful of his + mates, and patient as a woman with their helplessness. When + dinner is over, some sleep, many read, and others want letters + written. This I like to do, for they put in such odd things, and + express their ideas so comically, I have great fun interiorally, + while as grave as possible exteriorally. A few of the men word + their paragraphs well and make excellent letters. John's was the + best of all I wrote. The answering of letters from friends after + some one had died is the saddest and hardest duty a nurse has to + do. + + Supper at five sets every one to running that can run; and when + that flurry is over, all settle down for the evening amusements, + which consist of newspapers, gossip, the doctor's last round, + and, for such as need them, the final doses for the night. At + nine the bell rings, gas is turned down, and day nurses go to + bed. Night nurses go on duty, and sleep and death have the house + to themselves. + + My work is changed to night watching, or half night and half + day,--from twelve to twelve. I like it, as it leaves me time for + a morning run, which is what I need to keep well; for bad air, + food, and water, work and watching, are getting to be too much + for me. I trot up and down the streets in all directions, + sometimes to the Heights, then half way to Washington, again to + the hill, over which the long trains of army wagons are + constantly vanishing and ambulances appearing. That way the + fighting lies, and I long to follow. + + Ordered to keep my room, being threatened with pneumonia. Sharp + pain in the side, cough, fever, and dizziness. A pleasant + prospect for a lonely soul five hundred miles from home! Sit and + sew on the boys' clothes, write letters, sleep, and read; try to + talk and keep merry, but fail decidedly, as day after day goes, + and I feel no better. Dream awfully, and wake unrefreshed, think + of home, and wonder if I am to die here, as Mrs. R., the matron, + is likely to do. Feel too miserable to care much what becomes of + me. Dr. S. creaks up twice a day to feel my pulse, give me doses, + and ask if I am at all consumptive, or some other cheering + question. Dr. O. examines my lungs and looks sober. Dr. J. haunts + the room, coming by day and night with wood, cologne, books, and + messes, like a motherly little man as he is. Nurses fussy and + anxious, matron dying, and everything very gloomy. They want me + to go home, but I _won't_ yet. + + _January 16th._--Was amazed to see Father enter the room that + morning, having been telegraphed to by order of Mrs. R. without + asking leave. I was very angry at first, though glad to see him, + because I knew I should have to go. Mrs. D. and Miss Dix came, + and pretty Miss W., to take me to Willard's to be cared for by + them. I wouldn't go, preferring to keep still, being pretty ill + by that time. + + On the 21st I suddenly decided to go home, feeling very + strangely, and dreading to be worse. Mrs. R. died, and that + frightened the doctors about me; for my trouble was the + same,--typhoid pneumonia. Father, Miss K., and Lizzie T. went + with me. Miss Dix brought a basket full of bottles of wine, tea, + medicine, and cologne, besides a little blanket and pillow, a + fan, and a testament. She is a kind old soul, but very queer and + arbitrary. + + Was very sorry to go, and "my boys" seemed sorry to have me. + Quite a flock came to see me off; but I was too sick to have but + a dim idea of what was going on. + + Had a strange, excited journey of a day and night,--half asleep, + half wandering, just conscious that I was going home; and, when I + got to Boston, of being taken out of the car, with people looking + on as if I was a sight. I daresay I was all blowzed, crazy, and + weak. Was too sick to reach Concord that night, though we tried + to do so. Spent it at Mr. Sewall's; had a sort of fit; they sent + for Dr. H., and I had a dreadful time of it. + + Next morning felt better, and at four went home. Just remember + seeing May's shocked face at the depot, Mother's bewildered one + at home, and getting to bed in the firm belief that the house was + roofless, and no one wanted to see me. + + As I never shall forget the strange fancies that haunted me, I + shall amuse myself with recording some of them. + + The most vivid and enduring was the conviction that I had married + a stout, handsome Spaniard, dressed in black velvet, with very + soft hands, and a voice that was continually saying, "Lie still, + my dear!" This was Mother, I suspect; but with all the comfort I + often found in her presence, there was blended an awful fear of + the Spanish spouse who was always coming after me, appearing out + of closets, in at windows, or threatening me dreadfully all night + long. I appealed to the Pope, and really got up and made a + touching plea in something meant for Latin, they tell me. Once I + went to heaven, and found it a twilight place, with people + darting through the air in a queer way,--all very busy, and + dismal, and ordinary. Miss Dix, W. H. Channing, and other people + were there; but I thought it dark and "slow," and wished I hadn't + come. + + A mob at Baltimore breaking down the door to get me, being hung + for a witch, burned, stoned, and otherwise maltreated, were some + of my fancies. Also being tempted to join Dr. W. and two of the + nurses in worshipping the Devil. Also tending millions of rich + men who never died or got well. + + _February._--Recovered my senses after three weeks of delirium, + and was told I had had a very bad typhoid fever, had nearly died, + and was still very sick. All of which seemed rather curious, for + I remembered nothing of it. Found a queer, thin, big-eyed face + when I looked in the glass; didn't know myself at all; and when I + tried to walk discovered that I couldn't, and cried because my + legs wouldn't go. + + Never having been sick before, it was all new and very + interesting when I got quiet enough to understand matters. Such + long, long nights; such feeble, idle days; dozing, fretting about + nothing; longing to eat, and no mouth to do it with,--mine being + so sore, and full of all manner of queer sensations, it was + nothing but a plague. The old fancies still lingered, seeming so + real I believed in them, and deluded Mother and May with the most + absurd stories, so soberly told that they thought them true. + + Dr. B. came every day, and was very kind. Father and Mother were + with me night and day, and May sang "Birks of Aberfeldie," or + read to me, to wile away the tiresome hours. People sent + letters, money, kind inquiries, and goodies for the old "Nuss." I + tried to sew, read, and write, and found I had to begin all over + again. Received $10 for my labors in Washington. Had all my hair, + a yard and a half long, cut off, and went into caps like a + grandma. Felt badly about losing my one beauty. Never mind, it + might have been my head, and a wig outside is better than a loss + of wits inside. + + _March._--Began to get about a little, sitting up nearly all day, + eating more regularly, and falling back into my old ways. My + first job was characteristic: I cleared out my piece-bags and + dusted my books, feeling as tired as if I had cleaned the whole + house. Sat up till nine one night, and took no lunch at three + A.M.,--two facts which I find carefully recorded in my pocket + diary in my own shaky handwriting. + + Father had two courses of conversations: one at Mr. Quincy's, + very select and fine; the other at a hall not so good. He was + tired out with taking care of me, poor old gentleman; and typhus + was not inspiring. + + Read a great deal, being too feeble to do much else. No end of + rubbish, with a few good things as ballast. "Titan" was the one I + enjoyed the most, though it tired my weak wits to read much at a + time. Recalled, and wrote some lines on "Thoreau's Flute," which + I composed one night on my watch by little Shaw at the hospital. + + On the 28th Father came home from Boston, bringing word that Nan + had a fine boy. We all screamed out when he burst in, snowy and + beaming; then Mother began to cry, May to laugh, and I to say, + like B. Trotwood, "There, I knew it wouldn't be a girl!" We were + all so glad it was safely over, and a jolly little lad was added + to the feminine family. + + Mother went straight down to be sure that "mother and child were + doing well," and I fell to cleaning house, as good work for an + invalid and a vent for a happy aunt. + + +_First Birth in the Alcott and Pratt Branch, 1863._ + + MONDAY EVE. + + DEAREST LITTLE MOTHER,--Allow me to ask who was a true prophet. + + Also to demand, "Where is my niece, Louisa Caroline?" + + No matter, I will forgive you, and propose three cheers for my + _nephew_. Hurrah! hurrah! Hurray! + + I wish you could have seen the performance on Saturday evening. + + We were all sitting deep in a novel, not expecting Father home + owing to the snowstorm, when the door burst open, and in he came, + all wet and white, waving his bag, and calling out, "Good news! + good news! Anna has a fine boy!" + + With one accord we opened our mouths and screamed for about two + minutes. Then Mother began to cry; I began to laugh; and May to + pour out questions; while Papa beamed upon us all,--red, damp, + and shiny, the picture of a proud old Grandpa. Such a funny + evening as we had! Mother kept breaking down, and each time + emerged from her handkerchief saying solemnly, "I must go right + down and see that baby!" Father had told every one he met, from + Mr. Emerson to the coach driver, and went about the house saying, + "Anna's boy! yes, yes, Anna's boy!" in a mild state of + satisfaction. + + May and I at once taxed our brains for a name, and decided upon + "Amos Minot Bridge Bronson May Sewall Alcott Pratt," so that all + the families would be suited. + + I was so anxious to hear more that I went up to town this A.M. + and found John's note. + + Grandma and Grandpa Pratt came to hear the great news; but we + could only inform them of the one tremendous fact, that Pratt, + Jr., had condescended to arrive. Now tell us his weight, inches, + color, etc. + + I know I shall fall down and adore when I see that mite; yet my + soul is rent when I think of the _L. C._ on the pincushion, and + all the plans I had made for "my niece." + + Now get up quickly, and be a happy mamma. Of course John does + _not_ consider his son as _the_ most amazing product of the + nineteenth century. + + Bless the baby! + + Ever your admiring LU. + + _April._--Had some pleasant walks and drives, and felt as if born + again, everything seemed so beautiful and new. I hope I was, and + that the Washington experience may do me lasting good. To go very + near to death teaches one to value life, and this winter will + always be a very memorable one to me. + + Sewed on little shirts and gowns for my blessed nephew, who + increased rapidly in stature and godliness. + + Sanborn asked me to do what Conway suggested before he left for + Europe; viz., to arrange my letters in a printable shape, and put + them in the "Commonwealth." They thought them witty and pathetic. + I didn't; but I wanted money; so I made three hospital sketches. + Much to my surprise, they made a great hit; and people bought the + papers faster than they could be supplied. The second, "A Night" + was much liked, and I was glad; for my beautiful "John Sulie" was + the hero, and the praise belonged to him. More were wanted; and I + added a postscript in the form of a letter, which finished it + up, as I then thought. + + Received $100 from F. L. for a tale which won the prize last + January; paid debts, and was glad that my winter bore visible + fruit. Sent L. another tale. Went to Boston, and saw "our baby;" + thought him ugly, but promising. Got a set of furniture for my + room,--a long-talked-of dream of ours. + + _May._--Spent the first week or two in putting the house in + order. May painted and papered the parlors. I got a new carpet + and rug besides the paper, and put things to rights in a thorough + manner. Mother was away with Nan, so we had full sweep; and she + came home to a clean, fresh house. + + Nan and the Royal Infanta came as bright as a whole gross of + buttons, and as good as a hairless brown angel. Went to + Readville, and saw the 54th Colored Regiment, both there and next + day in town as they left for the South. Enjoyed it very much; + also the Antislavery meetings. + + Had a fresh feather in my cap; for Mrs. Hawthorne showed Fields + "Thoreau's Flute," and he desired it for the "Atlantic." Of + course I didn't say no. It was printed, copied, praised, and + glorified; also _paid for_, and being a mercenary creature, I + liked the $10 nearly as well as the honor of being "a new star" + and "a literary celebrity." + + _June._--Began to write again on "Moods," feeling encouraged by + the commendation bestowed on "Hospital Sketches," which were + noticed, talked of, and inquired about, much to my surprise and + delight. Had a fine letter from Henry James, also one from + Wasson, and a request from Redpath to be allowed to print the + sketches in a book. _Roberts Bros. also asked, but I preferred + the _Redpath_, and said yes; so he fell to work with all his + might. + + Went to Class Day for the first time; had a pleasant day seeing + new sights and old friends. + + G. H. came to the H.'s. Didn't like her as well as Miss H.; too + sharp and full of herself; insisted on talking about religion + with Emerson, who glided away from the subject so sweetly, yet + resolutely, that the energetic lady gave it up at last. + + [1877.--Short-sighted Louisa! Little did you dream that this same + Roberts Bros. were to help you to make your fortune a few years + later. The "Sketches" never made much money, but showed me "my + style," and taking the hint, I went where glory waited me.--L. M. + A.] + + _July._--Sanborn asked for more contributions, and I gave him + some of my old Mountain Letters vamped up. They were not good, + and though they sold the paper, I was heartily ashamed of them, + and stopped in the middle, resolving never again to try to be + funny, lest I should be rowdy and nothing more. I'm glad of the + lesson, and hope it will do me good. + + Had some pleasant letters from Sergeant Bain,--one of my boys who + has not forgotten me, though safely at home far away in Michigan. + It gratified me very much, and brought back the hospital days + again. He was a merry, brave little fellow, and I liked him very + much. His right arm was amputated after Fredericksburg, and he + took it very cheerfully, trying at once to train his left hand to + do duty for both, and never complained of his loss. "Baby B." + + _August._--Redpath carried on the publishing of the "Sketches" + vigorously, sending letters, proof, and notices daily, and making + all manner of offers, suggestions, and prophecies concerning the + success of the book and its author. + + Wrote a story, "My Contraband," and sent it to Fields, who + accepted and paid $50 for it, with much approbation for it and + the "Sketches." L. sent $40 for a story, and wanted another. + + Major M. invited me to Gloucester; but I refused, being too busy + and too bashful to be made a lion of, even in a very small way. + Letters from Dr. Hyde, Wilkie (home with a wound from Wagner), + Charles Sumner, Mr. Hale, and others,--all about the little + "Sketches," which keep on making friends for me, though I don't + get used to the thing at all, and think it must be all a mistake. + + On the 25th my first morning-glory bloomed in my room,--a hopeful + blue,--and at night up came my book in its new dress. I had added + several chapters to it, and it was quite a neat little affair. An + edition of one thousand, and I to have five cents on each copy. + + _September._--Redpath anxious for another book. Send him a volume + of stories and part of a book to look at. He likes both; but I + decide on waiting a little, as I'm not satisfied with the + stories, and the novel needs time. "Sketches" sell well, and a + new edition is called for. + + Dear old Grandma died at Aunt Betsey's in her eighty-ninth + year,--a good woman, and much beloved by her children. I sent + money to help lay her away; for Aunt B. is poor, and it was all I + could do for the kind little old lady. + + Nan and Freddy made us a visit, and we decided that of all + splendid babies he was the king. Such a hearty, happy, funny boy, + I could only play with and adore him all the while he stayed, and + long for him when he went. Nan and John are very fond of "our + son," and well they may be. Grandma and Grandpa think him + perfect, and even artistic Aunty May condescends to say he is "a + very nice thing." + + "My Contraband; or, The Brothers," my story in the "Atlantic," + came out, and was liked. Received $40 from Redpath for + "Sketches,"--first edition; wanted me to be editor of a paper; + was afraid to try, and let it go. + + Poor old "Moods" came out for another touching up. + + _October._--Thought much about going to Port Royal to teach + contrabands. Fields wanted the letters I should write, and asked + if I had no book. Father spoke of "Moods," and he desired to see + it. So I fell to work, and finished it off, thinking the world + must be coming to an end, and all my dreams getting fulfilled in + a most amazing way. If there was ever an astonished young woman, + it is myself; for things have gone on so swimmingly of late I + don't know who I am. A year ago I had no publisher, and went + begging with my wares; now _three_ have asked me for something, + several papers are ready to print my contributions, and F. B. S. + says "any publisher this side of Baltimore would be glad to get a + book." There is a sudden hoist for a meek and lowly scribbler, + who was told to "stick to her teaching," and never had a literary + friend to lend a helping hand! Fifteen years of hard grubbing may + be coming to something after all; and I may yet "pay all the + debts, fix the house, send May to Italy, and keep the old folks + cosey," as I've said I would so long, yet so hopelessly. + + May began to take anatomical drawing lessons of Rimmer. I was + very glad to be able to pay her expenses up and down and clothe + her neatly. Twenty dollars more from Redpath on account. + + _December._--Earnings 1863, $380. + + The principal event of this otherwise quiet month was the + Sanitary Fair in Boston, and our part in it. At G. G. B.'s + request, I dramatized six scenes from Dickens, and went to town + on the 14th to play. Things did not go well for want of a good + manager and more time. Our night was not at all satisfactory to + us, owing to the falling through of several scenes for want of + actors. People seemed to like what there was of it, and after a + wearisome week I very gladly came home again. Our six + entertainments made twenty-five hundred dollars for the Fair. + + Rewrote the fairy tales, one of which was published; but owing to + delays it was late for the holidays, and badly bound in the + hurry; so the poor "Rose Family" fared badly. + + Had a letter from the publisher of a new magazine, called the + "Civil Service Magazine," asking for a long tale. Had no time to + write one; but will by and by, if the thing is good. + + While in town received $10 of F. B. S. and $20 of Redpath, with + which I bought May hat, boots, gloves, ribbons, and other little + matters, besides furnishing money for her fares up and down to + Rimmer. + + _January, 1864._--New Year's Day was a very quiet one. Nan and + Freddy were here, and in the evening we went to a dance at the + hall. A merry time; for all the town was there, as it was for the + Soldiers' Aid Society, and every one wanted to help. Nan and I + sat in the gallery, and watched the young people dance the old + year out, the new year in as the clock struck twelve. + + On looking over my accounts, I find I have earned by my _writing_ + alone nearly _six hundred dollars_ since last January, and spent + less than a hundred for myself, which I am glad to know. May has + had $70 for herself, and the rest has paid debts or bought + necessary things for the family. + + Received from the "Commonwealth" $18 for "A Hospital Christmas." + Wrote a fairy tale, "Fairy Pinafores." "Picket Duty" and other + tales came out,--first of Redpath's series of books for the "Camp + Fires." Richardson sent again for a long story for the "Civil + Service Magazine." Tried a war story, but couldn't make it go. + + _February._--Nan quite sick again. Mother passed most of the + month with her; so I had to be housekeeper, and let my writing + go,--as well perhaps, as my wits are tired, and the "divine + afflatus" don't descend as readily as it used to do. Must wait + and fill up my idea-box before I begin again. There is nothing + like work to set fancy a-going. + + Redpath came flying up on the 4th to get "Moods," promising to + have it out by May. Gave it to him with many fears, and he + departed content. The next day received a telegram to come down + at once and see the printers. Went, and was told the story was + too long for a single volume, and a two-volume novel was bad to + begin with. Would I cut the book down about half? No, I wouldn't, + having already shortened it all it would bear. So I took my + "opus" and posted home again, promising to try and finish my + shorter book in a month. + + A dull, heavy month, grubbing in the kitchen, sewing, cleaning + house, and trying to like my duty. + + Mrs. S. takes a great fancy to May; sends her flowers, offers to + pay for her to go to the new Art School, and arranges everything + delightfully for her. She is a fortunate girl, and always finds + some one to help her as she wants to be helped. Wish I could do + the same, but suppose as I never do that it is best for me to + work and wait and do all for myself. + + Mr. Storrs, D.D., wrote for a sketch for his little paper, "The + Drum Beat," to be printed during the Brooklyn Sanitary Fair. A + very cordial, pleasant letter, which I answered by a little + sketch called "A Hospital Lamp." He sent me another friendly + letter, and all the daily papers as they came out. A very + gentlemanly D.D. is Dr. Storrs. + +The "Hospital Sketches" were fully entitled to their wide and rapid +popularity; and for the first time perhaps Miss Alcott felt sure of +her vocation, and knew that it would bring at last the success which +would enable her to carry out her plans for the family. And yet the +battle was not over. She gained in reputation, was received with great +attention in society, and lionized more than she cared for. But she +still continued writing stories for the various papers at very low +prices. Some of them were refused by the publishers, as she thinks, on +account of the Antislavery sentiments expressed in them. Her "blood +and thunder" stories continued in demand, and she wrote them rapidly, +and was glad of the money they brought. But she had not yet found her +true path, and she suffered at times from keen depression of spirits; +for the way seemed long and dark, and she did not see the end. In more +than one sense she struggled with Moods; for that unhappy book was +still tossed from publisher to publisher, who gave her much praise, +but no satisfaction. + + +_Journal._ + + A busy month getting settled. Freddy's birthday on the 28th, one + year old. He had a dozen nice little presents laid out in a row + when he came down to breakfast, and seemed quite overpowered with + his riches. On being told to take what he liked best, he chose + the picture of little Samuel which Father gave him, and the good + pope was much delighted at that. + + Was asked for a poem for the great album at the St. Louis Fair, + and sent "Thoreau's Flute" as my best. Also received a letter + from the Philadelphia managers asking contributions for the paper + to be printed at their Fair. + + Wrote nothing this month. + + _April._--At Father's request I sent "Moods" to T., and got a + very friendly note from him, saying they had so many books on + hand that they could do nothing about it now. So I put it back on + the shelf, and set about my other work. Don't despair, "Moods," + we'll try again by and by! + + [Alas! we did try again.--L. M. A.] + + Wrote the first part of a story for Professor C. called "Love and + Loyalty,"--flat, patriotic, and done to order. Wrote a new fairy + tale, "Nelly's Hospital." + + _May._--Had a letter from Mrs. Gildersleeve, asking for my + photograph and a sketch of my life, for a book called "Heroic + Women" which she was getting up. Respectfully refused. Also a + letter and flattering notice from "Ruth Hall," and a notice from + a Chicago critic with a long extract from "Rose Family." My tale + "Enigmas" came out, and was much liked by readers of sensation + rubbish. Having got my $50, I was resigned. + + _June._--To town with Father on the 3d to a Fraternity Festival + to which we were invited. Had a fine time, and was amazed to find + my "'umble" self made a lion of, set up among the great ones, + stared at, waited upon, complimented, and made to hold a "layvee" + whether I would or no; for Mr. S. kept bringing up people to be + introduced till I was tired of shaking hands and hearing the + words "Hospital Sketches" uttered in every tone of interest, + admiration, and respect. Mr. Wasson, Whipple, Alger, Clarke, + Calthrop, and Chadwick came to speak to me, and many more whose + names I forget. It was a very pleasant surprise and a new + experience. I liked it, but think a small dose quite as much as + is good for me; for after sitting in a corner and grubbing _a la_ + Cinderella, it rather turns one's head to be taken out and be + treated like a princess all of a sudden. + + _August._--Went to Gloucester for a fortnight with May at the + M.'s. Found a family of six pretty daughters, a pleasant mother, + and a father who was an image of one of the Cheeryble brothers. + Had a jolly time boating, driving, charading, dancing, and + picnicking. One mild moonlight night a party of us camped out on + Norman's Woe, and had a splendid time, lying on the rocks + singing, talking, sleeping, and rioting up and down. Had a fine + time, and took coffee at all hours. The moon rose and set + beautifully, and the sunrise was a picture I never shall forget. + + Wrote another fairy tale, "Jamie's Wonder Book," and sent the + "Christmas Stories" to W. & W., with some lovely illustrations by + Miss Greene. They liked the book very much, and said they would + consult about publishing it, though their hands were full. + + _September._--Mrs. D. made a visit, and getting hold of my old + book of stories liked them, and insisted on taking "Moods" home + to read. As she had had experience with publishers, was a good + business woman, and an excellent critic, I let her have it, + hoping she might be able to give the poor old book the lift it + has been waiting for all these years. She took it, read it, and + admired it heartily, saying that "no American author had showed + so much promise; that the plan was admirable; the execution + unequal, but often magnificent; that I had a great field before + me, and my book must be got out." + + Mrs. D. sent it to L., who liked it exceedingly, and asked me to + shorten it if I could, else it would be too large to sell well. + Was much disappointed, said I'd never touch it again, and tossed + it into the spidery little cupboard where it had so often + returned after fruitless trips. + +At last, in the excited hours of a wakeful night, Miss Alcott thought +of a way to curtail the objectionable length of the book, and she +spent a fortnight in remodelling it,--as she then thought improving it +greatly,--although she afterwards returned to her original version as +decidedly the best. The book was brought out, and she had the pleasure +of presenting the first copy to her mother on her sixty fourth +birthday. She had various projects in her mind, one of which was a +novel, with two characters in it like Jean Paul Richter and Goethe. It +is needless to say this was never carried out. Miss Alcott had great +powers of observation, and a keen insight into character as it fell +within her own range of life, but she had not the creative +imagination which could paint to the life the subtlest workings of +thought and feeling in natures foreign to her own experience. She +could not have portrayed such men: but who could? + + +_Journal._ + + _October._--Wrote several chapters of "Work," and was getting on + finely, when, as I lay awake one night, a way to shorten and + arrange "Moods" came into my head. The whole plan laid itself + smoothly out before me, and I slept no more that night, but + worked on it as busily as if mind and body had nothing to do with + one another. Up early, and began to write it all over again. The + fit was on strong, and for a fortnight I hardly ate, slept, or + stirred, but wrote, wrote, like a thinking machine in full + operation. When it was all rewritten without copying, I found it + much improved, though I'd taken out ten chapters, and sacrificed + many of my favorite things; but being resolved to make it simple, + strong, and short, I let everything else go, and hoped the book + would be better for it. + + [It wasn't. 1867.] + + Sent it to L.; and a week after, as I sat hammering away at the + parlor carpet,--dusty, dismal, and tired,--a letter came from L. + praising the story more enthusiastically than ever, thanking me + for the improvements, and proposing to bring out the book at + once. Of course we all had a rapture, and I finished my work + "double quick," regardless of weariness, toothache, or blue + devils. + + Next day I went to Boston and saw L. A brisk, business-like man + who seemed in earnest and said many complimentary things about + "Hospital Sketches" and its author. It was agreed to bring out + the book immediately, and Mrs. D. offered to read the proof with + me. + + Was glad to have the old thing under way again, but didn't quite + believe it would ever come out after so many delays and + disappointments. + + Sewed for Nan and Mary, heard Anna Dickinson and liked her. Read + "Emily Chester" and thought it an unnatural story, yet just + enough like "Moods" in a few things to make me sorry that it came + out now. + + On Mother's sixty-fourth birthday I gave her "Moods" with this + inscription,--"To Mother, my earliest patron, kindest critic, + dearest reader, I gratefully and affectionately inscribe my first + romance." + + A letter from T. asking me to write for the new magazine "Our + Young Folks," and saying that "An Hour" was in the hands of the + editors. + + _November._--Proof began to come, and the chapters seemed small, + stupid, and no more my own in print. I felt very much afraid that + I'd ventured too much and should be sorry for it. But Emerson + says "that what is true for your own private heart is true for + others." So I wrote from my own consciousness and observation and + hope it may suit some one and at least do no harm. + + I sent "An Hour" to the "Commonwealth" and it was considered + _excellent_. Also wrote a Christmas Story, "Mrs. Todger's + Teapot." T. asked to see the other fairy tales and designs and + poems, as he liked "Nelly's Hospital" so much. + + On my thirty-second birthday received Richter's Life from Nan and + enjoyed it so much that I planned a story of two men something + like Jean Paul and Goethe, only more every-day people. Don't know + what will come of it, but if "Moods" goes well "Success" shall + follow. + + Sewed for Wheeler's colored company and sent them comfort-bags, + towels, books, and bed-sacks. Mr. W. sent me some relics from + Point Look Out and a pleasant letter. + + _December._--Earnings, 1864,--$476. + + On Christmas Eve received ten copies of "Moods" and a friendly + note from L. The book was hastily got out, but on the whole + suited me, and as the inside was considered good I let the + outside go. For a week wherever I went I saw, heard, and talked + "Moods;" found people laughing or crying over it, and was + continually told how well it was going, how much it was liked, + how fine a thing I'd done. I was glad but not proud, I think, for + it has always seemed as if "Moods" grew in spite of me, and that + I had little to do with it except to put into words the thoughts + that would not let me rest until I had. Don't know why. + + By Saturday the first edition was gone and the second ready. + Several booksellers ordered a second hundred, the first went so + fast, and friends could not get it but had to wait till more were + ready. + + Spent a fortnight in town at Mary's, shopping, helping Nan, and + having plays. Heard Emerson once. Gave C. "Mrs. Todger's Teapot," + which was much liked. Sent L. the rest of his story and got $50. + S. paid $35 for "An Hour." R. promised $100 for "Love and + Loyalty," so my year closes with a novel well-launched and about + $300 to pay debts and make the family happy and comfortable till + spring. Thank God for the success of the old year, the promise of + the new! + +The sale of "Moods" was at first very rapid; for "Hospital Sketches" +had created an interest in the author, and welcome recognition came to +her from many sources. She received a handsome sum from the +copyright, and "the year closed with enough to make her feel free of +debt and the family comfortable." She ends the year's journal +triumphantly. + +The following year was spent mostly in Boston. Miss Alcott went into +society and enjoyed the friendly attentions of men and women of +ability. She continued to write stories for money, but now received +fifty, seventy-five, or a hundred dollars for them. She frequently +took part in theatrical performances for charities. She was always +brilliant and successful and enjoyed them with something of her early +zest. + +Her long story of "Success," or "Work," as she afterwards named it, +was still in her mind, but she did not finish it at this time. + + +_Journal._ + + _January, 1865._--The month began with some plays at the town + hall to raise funds for the Lyceum. We did very well and some + Scenes from Dickens were excellent. Father lectured and preached + a good deal, being asked like a regular minister and paid like + one. He enjoyed it very much and said good things on the new + religion which we ought to and shall have. May had orders from + Canada and England for her pretty pen-and-ink work and did well + in that line. + + Notices of "Moods" came from all directions, and though people + didn't understand my ideas owing to my shortening the book so + much, the notices were mostly favorable and gave quite as much + praise as was good for me. I had letters from Mrs. Parker, + Chadwick, Sanborn, E. B. Greene, the artist, T. W. Higginson and + some others. All friendly and flattering. + + Saw more notices of "Moods" and received more letters, several + from strangers and some very funny. People seemed to think the + book finely written, very promising, wise, and interesting; but + some fear it isn't moral, because it speaks freely of marriage. + + Wrote a little on poor old "Work" but being tired of novels, I + soon dropped it and fell back on rubbishy tales, for they pay + best, and I can't afford to starve on praise, when sensation + stories are written in half the time and keep the family cosey. + + Earned $75 this month. + + I went to Boston and heard Father lecture before the Fraternity. + Met Henry James, Sr., there, and he asked me to come and dine, + also called upon me with Mrs. James. I went, and was treated like + the Queen of Sheba. Henry Jr. wrote a notice of "Moods" for the + "North American," and was very friendly. Being a literary youth + he gave me advice, as if he had been eighty and I a girl. My + curly crop made me look young, though thirty-one. + + Acted in some public plays for the N. E. Women's Hospital and had + a pleasant time. + + L. asked me to be a regular contributor to his new paper, and I + agreed if he'd pay beforehand; he said he would, and bespoke two + tales at once, $50 each, longer ones as often as I could, and + whatever else I liked to send. So here's another source of income + and Alcott brains seem in demand, whereat I sing "Hallyluyer" and + fill up my inkstand. + + _April._--Richmond taken on the 2d. Hurrah! Went to Boston and + enjoyed the grand jollification. Saw Booth again in Hamlet and + thought him finer than ever. Had a pleasant walk and talk with + Phillips. + + On the 15th in the midst of the rejoicing came the sad news of + the President's assassination, and the city went into mourning. I + am glad to have seen such a strange and sudden change in a + nation's feelings. Saw the great procession, and though few + colored men were in it, one was walking arm in arm with a white + gentleman, and I exulted thereat. + + Nan went to housekeeping in a pleasant house at Jamaica Plain, + and I went to help her move. It was beautiful to see how Freddy + enjoyed the freedom, after being cooped up all winter, and how + every morning, whether it rained or shone, he looked out and + said, with a smile of perfect satisfaction, "Oh, pretty + day!"--for all days _were_ pretty to him, dear little soul! + + Had a fine letter from Conway, and a notice in the "Reader,"--an + English paper. He advised sending copies to several of the best + London papers. English people don't understand "transcendental + literature," as they call "Moods." My next book shall have no + _ideas_ in it, only facts, and the people shall be as ordinary as + possible; then critics will say it's all right. I seem to have + been playing with edge tools without knowing it. The relations + between Warwick, Moor, and Sylvia are pronounced impossible; yet + a case of the sort exists, and the woman came and asked me how I + knew it. I did _not_ know or guess, but perhaps felt it, without + any other guide, and unconsciously put the thing into my book, + for I changed the ending about that time. It was meant to show a + life affected by _moods_, not a discussion of marriage, which I + knew little about, except observing that very few were happy + ones. + + _June._--Busy writing, keeping house, and sewing. Company often; + and strangers begin to come, demanding to see the authoress, who + does not like it, and is porcupiny. Admire the books, but let + the woman alone, if you please, dear public! + + On the 24th Anna's second boy was born, at half-past three in the + morning,--Lizzie's birthday. A fine, stout, little lad, who took + to life kindly, and seemed to find the world all right. Freddy + could not understand it at first, and told his mother that "the + babee" had got his place. But he soon loved the "tunning sing," + and would stand watching it with a grave face, till some funny + little idea found vent in still funnier words or caresses. + + Nan was very happy with her two boys, so was John, though both + had wished for a daughter. + + _July._--While at Nan's Mrs. B. asked me if I would go abroad + with her sister. I said "yes;" but as I spoke neither French nor + German, she didn't think I'd do. I was sorry; but being used to + disappointment, went to work for Nan, and bided my time, which + came very soon. + + +_To Anna._ + + [Date uncertain.] + + MY LASS,--This must be a frivolous and dressy letter, because you + always want to know about our clothes, and we have been at it + lately. May's bonnet is a sight for gods and men. Black and white + outside, with a great cockade boiling over the front to meet a + red ditto surging from the interior, where a red rainbow darts + across the brow, and a surf of white lace foams up on each side. + I expect to hear that you and John fell flat in the dust with + horror on beholding it. + + My bonnet has nearly been the death of me; for, thinking some + angel might make it possible for me to go to the mountains, I + felt a wish for a tidy hat, after wearing an old one till it fell + in tatters from my brow. Mrs. P. promised a bit of gray silk, and + I built on that; but when I went for it I found my hat was + founded on sand; for she let me down with a crash, saying she + wanted the silk herself, and kindly offering me a flannel + petticoat instead. I was in woe for a spell, having one dollar in + the world, and scorning debt even for that prop of life, a + "bonnet." Then I roused myself, flew to Dodge, demanded her + cheapest bonnet, found one for a dollar, took it, and went home + wondering if the sky would open and drop me a trimming. I am + simple in my tastes, but a naked straw bonnet is a little too + severely chaste even for me. Sky did not open; so I went to the + "Widow Cruise's oil bottle"--my ribbon box--which, by the way, is + the eighth wonder of the world, for nothing is ever put in, yet I + always find some old dud when all other hopes fail. From this + salvation bin I extracted the remains of the old white ribbon + (used up, as I thought, two years ago), and the bits of black + lace that have adorned a long line of departed hats. Of the lace + I made a dish, on which I thriftily served up bows of ribbon, + like meat on toast. Inside put the lace bow, which adorns my form + anywhere when needed. A white flower A. H. gave me sat airily on + the brim,--fearfully unbecoming, but pretty in itself, and in + keeping. Strings are yet to be evolved from chaos. I feel that + they await me somewhere in the dim future. Green ones _pro tem._ + hold this wonder of the age upon my gifted brow, and I survey my + hat with respectful awe. I trust you will also, and see in it + another great example of the power of mind over matter, and the + convenience of a colossal brain in the primeval wrestle with the + unruly atoms which have harassed the feminine soul ever since Eve + clapped on a modest fig-leaf and did up her hair with a thorn for + a hairpin. + + I feel very moral to-day, having done a big wash alone, baked, + swept the house, picked the hops, got dinner, and written a + chapter in "Moods." May gets exhausted with work, though she + walks six miles without a murmur. + + It is dreadfully dull, and I work so that I may not "brood." + Nothing stirring but the wind; nothing to see but dust; no one + comes but rose-bugs; so I grub and scold at the "A." because it + takes a poor fellow's tales and keeps 'em years without paying + for 'em. If I think of my woes I fall into a vortex of debts, + dishpans, and despondency awful to see. So I say, "every path has + its puddle," and try to play gayly with the tadpoles in _my_ + puddle, while I wait for the Lord to give me a lift, or some + gallant Raleigh to spread his velvet cloak and fetch me over dry + shod. + + L. W. adds to my woe by writing of the splendors of Gorham, and + says, "When tired, run right up here and find rest among these + everlasting hills." All very aggravating to a young woman with + one dollar, no bonnet, half a gown, and a discontented mind. It's + a mercy the mountains are everlasting, for it will be a century + before _I_ get there. Oh, me, such is life! + + Now I've done my Jeremiad, and I will go on twanging my harp in + the "willow tree." + + You ask what I am writing. Well, two books half done, nine + stories simmering, and stacks of fairy stories moulding on the + shelf. I can't do much, as I have no time to get into a real good + vortex. It unfits me for work, worries Ma to see me look pale, + eat nothing, and ply by night. These extinguishers keep genius + from burning as I could wish, and I give up ever hoping to do + anything unless luck turns for your + + LU. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII. + +EUROPE AND LITTLE WOMEN. + + LITTLE WOMEN. + + Four little chests all in a row, + Dim with dust and worn by time, + All fashioned and filled long ago + By children now in their prime. + Four little keys hung side by side, + With faded ribbons, brave and gay + When fastened there with childish pride + Long ago on a rainy day. + Four little names, one on each lid, + Carved out by a boyish hand; + And underneath there lieth hid + Histories of the happy band + Once playing here, and pausing oft + To hear the sweet refrain + That came and went on the roof aloft + In the falling summer rain. + + * * * * * + + Four little chests all in a row, + Dim with dust and worn by time: + Four women, taught by weal and woe + To love and labor in their prime; + Four sisters parted for an hour,-- + None lost, one only gone before, + Made by love's immortal power + Nearest and dearest evermore. + Oh! when these hidden stores of ours + Lie open to the Father's sight, + May they be rich in golden hours,-- + Deeds that show fairer for the light, + Deeds whose brave music long shall ring + Like a spirit-stirring strain, + Souls that shall gladly soar and sing + In the long sunshine, after rain. + + +The years which followed the war and Miss Alcott's experience as a +hospital nurse were rather sad and anxious from many causes. Louisa +felt deeply the loss of one sister by death and the separation from +another by marriage. The success of "Hospital Sketches" and a few +other stories published about the same time had given her confidence +in her powers and hopes of a successful future. But for nearly five +years she accomplished nothing which met with equal favor. The +reception of the novel "Moods," in which she thought she had expressed +her best life, was not cheering to her; and she had become wholly +dissatisfied with the sensational stories, which formed the most ready +resource for earning money. Her health was seriously injured by the +fever from which she suffered in the hospital, and she had no longer +the physical energy to sustain the unceasing activity of her brain. + +Under these difficulties she naturally desired a change of +circumstances; and the old longing for a journey to Europe--which she +had felt strongly in her youth, and which, like all Americans of +culture, she felt more and more as time passed on--became her ruling +desire. She was very fond of new scenes and variety of people, and she +often expressed a wish to live many years in Europe. + +The circumstances of the family were not yet such as to justify +Louisa, in her own eyes, in taking her earnings for the desired trip. +But in 1865 an opportunity was offered her to go to Europe as +companion to an invalid lady. From her experience in nursing--for +which she had a natural gift--she and her friends thought her suited +to the position, and advised her acceptance of the offer. + +Although devotedly kind, unselfish, and generous, Louisa had not the +temperament suited to the needs of a nervous invalid. She was +impetuous and impatient, and her own life was too strong within her +and too earnest in its cravings, for her to restrain her moods and +actions within the narrow limits of a companion's service. She found +even what she recognized as fair services wearisome and distasteful, +and sometimes chafed severely under what seemed unnecessary demands on +her time, strength, and patience. Looking back on this experience in +later years, she recognized these facts, and wrote in 1885: "Now, +being a nervous invalid myself, I understand what seemed whims, +selfishness, and folly in others." + +Louisa finally decided to leave her companions and go on alone to +Paris and England, where she would find many of her own and her +father's friends. At Vevay she had made the acquaintance of a young +Polish lad, whom she found very interesting, and who was the original +of the charming Laurie in "Little Women." He met her again in Paris, +and contributed greatly to the pleasure of her stay there. He +afterwards came to America, and visited her; but finally returned to +his own country. + +The journal gives a sufficient account of her life while on this +journey. I have no letters written at this time, as she wished all her +family letters destroyed. Her few weeks in London passed very happily. +Her wide reading in English history and in contemporary fiction, +especially the works of Dickens and Thackeray, filled London with +interesting associations, and she enjoyed thoroughly her free rambles +through the old city, as well as the interesting people, who received +her with great kindness. + +That Louisa might have these few weeks of entire relaxation and +enjoyment, her mother had been obliged to borrow means for the support +of the family; and Louisa was very anxious to clear off this debt like +all others. She was very exact in pecuniary matters. Money to her was +not an end, but a most necessary means. She paid every debt that her +father had incurred, even though outlawed by time. It is often asked +whether she ever sold her beautiful hair, as represented in "Little +Women." The deed was never really done; but she and her sisters always +held this treasure as a possible resource in case of need; and Louisa +once says in her journal, "I will pay my debts, if I have to sell my +hair to do it." She even went so far as to inquire of a barber as to +its money value. + + +_Journal._ + + _1865._--Mr. W., hearing that I was something of a nurse and + wanted to travel, proposed my going with his invalid daughter. I + agreed, though I had my doubts. But every one said "Go;" so after + a week of worry I did go. On the 19th we sailed in the "China." I + could not realize that my long-desired dream was coming true; and + fears that I might not see all the dear home faces when I came + back made my heart very full as we steamed down the harbor and + Boston vanished. + + Was not very sick, but uncomfortable all the way, and found the + Ladies' Saloon my only refuge till we were nearly across; enjoyed + intervals of quiet, and had many fine glimpses of the sea in its + various moods, sunsets and sunrises, fogs, icebergs, rain-storms, + and summer calms. No very pleasant people on board; so I read, + took notes, and _wiled_ away the long days as I best could. + + We had a very quiet and quick passage of nine days, and on + Saturday, the 29th, steamed up the Mersey at dawn, and got to + Liverpool at nine. I was heartily glad to set my feet on the + solid earth, and thought I'd never go to sea again; rested, and + looked about a little. + + _August._--Went up to London, and there spent four dull, drizzly + days. I amused myself in my usual way, looking well about me, and + writing down all I saw in my pocket-diary or letters. Went to the + parks, Westminster Abbey, and some of the famous streets. I felt + as if I'd got into a novel while going about in the places I'd + read so much of; saw no one I knew, and thought English weather + abominable. + + On the 5th to Dover through a lovely green country; took steamer + there to Ostende; but was ill all the way, and saw nothing but a + basin; spent two days at a queer hotel near the fine promenade, + which was a very foreign and brilliant scene. To Brussels on the + 7th. Here I enjoyed much, for the quaint old city was full of + interesting things. The ancient square, where the statues of + Egmont and Horn stand, was my delight; for the old Dutch houses + were still standing, and everything was so new and strange I + wanted to stay a month. + + To Cologne on the 9th, and the country we passed through was like + a big picture-book. The city was very hot, dirty, and + evil-smelling. We saw the Cathedral, got eau de Cologne, and very + gladly left after three days. + + On the 12th began a lovely voyage up the Rhine. It was too + beautiful to describe, so I shall not try; but I feel richer and + better for that memorable day. We reached Coblenz at sunset, and + I was up half the night enjoying the splendid view of the + fortress opposite the town, the moonlit river with its bridges of + boats, and troops crossing at midnight. + + A second day, still more charming, took us through the famous + parts of the Rhine, and filled my head with pictures that will + last all my life. + + Before we reached Bieberich we stopped at a queer little Dutch + town, and had a queer time; for no one spoke English, and we only + a little bad French. Passed the night there, and next day reached + Schwalbach after many trials and tribulations. + + The place is a narrow valley shut in by high hills, the town + being divided into two parts: the lowest is the original + town--queer ale-houses, churches, and narrow streets; the upper + part, near the springs, is full of fine hotels, pleasure-grounds, + and bath-houses. + + We took lodgings with Madame Genth, wife of the Forestmeister + (forest master),--two rooms,--and began the water under Dr. + Genth's care. + + We walked a little, talked a little, bathed and rode a little, + worried a good deal, and I grubbed away at French, with no master + and small success. + + _September._--Still at Schwalbach, A. doing her best to get well, + and I doing mine to help her. Rather dull days,--bathing, + walking, and quiddling about. + + A letter from home on the 20th. All well and happy, thank God. It + touched and pleased me very much to see how they missed me, + thought of me, and longed to have me back. Every little thing I + ever did for them is now so tenderly and gratefully remembered; + and my absence seems to have left so large a gap that I begin to + realize how much I am to them in spite of all my faults. The + letters made me very happy, and everything brightened immensely. + A. got stronger, and when G. came on the 28th was able to start + off next day on the way to Vevay, where we are to pass some weeks + before we are to go to Nice. + + Went to Wiesbaden first, a pleasant, gay place, full of people. + Saw the gambling hall and people playing, the fine grounds and + drives, and then went on to Frankfort. Here I saw and enjoyed a + good deal. The statues of Goethe, Schiller, Faust, Gutenberg, and + Schaeffer are in the squares. Goethe's house is a tall, plain + building, with each story projecting over the lower, and a Dutch + roof; a marble slab over the front door recording the date of + Goethe's birth. I took a look at it and wanted to go in, as it + was empty, but there was no time. Some Americans said, "Who was + Goethe, to fuss about?" + + Frankfort is a pleasant old city on the river, and I'm glad to + have been there. + + _October._--On to Heidelberg, a charming old place surrounded by + mountains. We went to the Castle and had a fine time roving about + the ruins, looking at the view from the great terrace, admiring + the quaint stone images of knights, saints, monsters, and angels, + and visiting the big tun in the cellar by torchlight. + + The moon rose while we were there and completed the enchantment + of the scene. + + The drive home was like looking at a picture-book, for the street + was narrow, the carriage high, and we looked in at the windows, + seeing pretty scenes. Here, men drinking beer in a Dutch-looking + room; there, little children going to bed; a pair of lovers with + a pot of flowers between them; an old woman brooding over the + fire like a witch; and in one room some one lay dead surrounded + by candles. + + From H. we went to Baden-Baden, a very fashionable place. The old + chateau was my delight, and we passed a morning going up and down + to visit it. Next to Freiburg, where the Cathedral delighted me + extremely, being full of old carved images and grotesque designs; + the market-place with the fountains, statues, water running + beside the streets, and queer costumes. + + Basle came next, and a firemen's fete made the city very gay. The + hotel was on the river, and moonlight made a Venetian scene for + me with the lighted bridge, covered with gondola-like boats and + music from both shores. I walk while A. rests, and enjoy sights + from my window when she is asleep, as I cannot leave her at + night. + + On our way to Berne I caught my first glimpse of the Alps, + October 8th, mother's birthday. Tall, white, spectral-looking + shapes they were, towering above the green hills and valleys that + lay between. Clouds half hid them, and the sun glittered on the + everlasting snow that lay upon their tops. Sharp, strange + outlines against the sky they became as night came on, and in the + morning I had a fine view of the Jungfrau, the Bluemlis, the + Wetterhorn, and Moench from the terrace at Berne. + + B. was a queer old city, but I saw little of it except the bears + and shops. No time. + + Freiburg No. 2 was the most romantic place we have been in. The + town is built in a wide crevice or valley between two steep + hills, so that suspension bridges are hung from height to height + over a winding river and the streets of the town. Watch-towers + stand all about on the hills, and give a very romantic air to the + place. The hotel overhung the valley, and from our rooms we went + out along a balcony to a wide, paved platform with a fountain in + the middle, an aviary, and flowers all about. The view down the + valley was charming,--the airy bridges, green or rocky slopes, + busy squares below, cows and goats feeding on the hills, the + towers, the old church, and a lovely blue sky overhead. I longed + to sketch it. + + At Lausanne we stopped at the Hotel Gibbon and saw the garden + where the great historian wrote his history. The view of the lake + was lovely, with rocky mountains opposite, little towns at their + feet, vineyards along the hillsides, and pretty boats on the + lake, the water of which was the loveliest blue. + + To Vevay at last,--a pleasant hour's sail to a very pleasant + place. We took rooms at the Pension Victoria. + + Our landlady was an English woman who had married a French + courier. Very kind sort of people: rooms comfortable, meals good, + and surroundings agreeable. Our fellow-boarders varied from time + to time,--an English doctor and wife, a fine old lady with them + who looked like Marie Antoinette; two Scotch ladies named + Glennie, very pleasant, well-bred ladies who told me about + Beattie who was their grandfather, and Walter Scott whom they + knew; Colonel ---- and family, rebels, and very bitter and rude + to us. Had queer times with them. + + I did not enjoy the life nor the society after the first novelty + wore off, for I missed my freedom and grew very tired of the + daily worry which I had to go through with. + + _November._--(Laurie) Took some French lessons with Mademoiselle + Germain and learned a little, but found it much harder than I + thought, and often got discouraged, I was so stupid. A. got much + better, and some new people came. The doctor and his set left, + and in their place came a Russian family, an Irish lady and + daughter, and a young Pole with whom we struck up a friendship. + Ladislas Wisinewski (Laurie) was very gay and agreeable, and + being ill and much younger we petted him. He played beautifully, + and was very anxious to learn English, so we taught him that and + he taught us French. + + On my birthday A. gave me a pretty painting of Chillon. Ladislas + promised me the notes of the Polish National Hymn, and played me + his sweetest airs as a present after wishing me "All good and + happiness on earth, and a high place in Heaven as my reward." It + was a mild, windy day, very like me in its fitful changes of + sunshine and shade. Usually I am sad on my birthday, but not this + time; for though nothing very pleasant happened, I was happy and + hopeful and enjoyed everything with unusual relish. I feel rather + old with my thirty-three years, but have much to keep me young, + and hope I shall not grow older in heart as the time goes on. I + thought much of dear father on this his sixty-sixth birthday, and + missed the little ceremony that always takes place on these + occasions. Hope I shall be safely at home before another November + comes. + + _December._--Laurie very interesting and good. Pleasant walks and + talks with him in the chateau garden and about Vevay. A lovely + sail on the lake, and much fun giving English and receiving + French lessons. Every one very kind, and the house quite + home-like. Much indecision about going to Nice owing to the + cholera. At last we decided to go, and started on the 6th to meet + G. at Geneva. L. went with us to Lausanne, kissed our hands at + parting, and went back to V. disconsolate. Sad times for all, but + we journeyed away to Nice and tried to forget our troubles. A + flat uninteresting country till we approached the sea. + + Nice very pleasant, climate lovely, and sea beautiful. We lived + in our own rooms, and saw no one but the doctor and Consul and a + few American callers. A pleasant drive every day on the + Promenade,--a wide curving wall along the bay with hotels and + Pensions on one side and a flowery walk on the other. Gay + carriages and people always to be seen; shops full of fine and + curious things; picturesque castles, towers, and walls on one + hill; a lighthouse on each point of the moon-shaped bay; boats + and our fleet on the water; gardens, olive and orange-trees, + queer cacti, and palms all about on the land; monks, priests, + soldiers, peasants, etc. + + A dull Christmas within doors, though a lovely day without. + Windows open, roses blooming, air mild, and city gay. With + friends, health, and a little money how jolly one might be in + this perpetual summer. + + _January, 1866._--Nice. Rained all New Year's day, and I spent it + sewing, writing, and reading an American newspaper which came in + the morning, my only present. I hoped for letters but got none, + and was much disappointed. A. was ill, so I had to receive in + American style. Mr. Perkins, Cooper, and the Consul called. At + dinner we drank the healths of all at home, and did not forget + Laddie (Laurie). + + A quiet, dull time generally, driving sometimes, walking little, + and writing letters. Now and then I got a pleasant walk by myself + away among the vineyards and olive-trees or down into the queer + old city. I soon tired of the fashionable Promenade, for every + one was on exhibition. Sometimes before or after the fashionable + hour I walked there and enjoyed the sea and sky. + + A ball was given at our Pension and we went. A queer + set,--Russians, Spaniards, French, English, Americans, Italians, + Jews, and Sandwich Islanders. They danced wildly, dressed gayly, + and sounded as if the "confusion of tongues" was come again. A + few pleasant Americans called on us, but we were very lonely and + uncomfortable. + + Decided to take an apartment No. 10 Rue Geoffredo, paying six + hundred francs for ten weeks, six rooms, all large and handsome. + Dr. P. got us a good maid, and on the 17th we went to our new + quarters. Madame Rolande was French governess for six years to + Victoria's children, and was a funny old party. + + Couldn't sleep at all for some nights, and felt very poorly, for + my life didn't suit me and the air was too exciting. + + _February._--Got on excellently with our housekeeping, for Julie + proved a treasure and we were very comfortable. Had many lovely + drives, and saw something of Nice and its beauties. To Cimies, an + old Franciscan monastery near the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre. + The convent stands where a temple of Diana once stood, and is + surrounded by ancient ilex trees. A monk in his cowl, brown robe, + sandals, and rope girdle did the honors of the church, which was + dark and full of bad pictures. San Andre with its chateau and + grotto, Villa Franca in a lovely little bay, the wood of Var + where the daisies grew, Valrosa, a villa in a rose garden, and + the Porte were all interesting. Also Castle Hill, which overlooks + the town. + + I decided to go home in May, though A. wants me to stay. I'm + tired of it, and as she is not going to travel, my time is too + valuable to be wasted. + + The carnival occurred. Funny, but not so fine a sight as I + expected. Also went to the theatre to see "Lady Tartuffe." Had a + pleasant time, though I couldn't understand much. The acting was + so natural and good that I caught the plot, and with a little + telling from Hosmer knew what was going on. + + Wrote a little on three stories which would come into my head and + worry me till I gave them a "vent." + + Good letters from home. All well and busy, and longing for me in + the spring. + + _March._--A tedious month, which might have been quite the + reverse had I been free to enjoy it in my own way. Read French, + walked to my favorite places, and wrote letters when I found + time. + + Went often to Valrosa, a lovely villa buried in roses. Got a + wheeled chair and a man to draw it, then with books, lunch, and + work, I tempted A. out into the woods, and we had some pleasant + hours. + + _April._--Went to the Cathedral to see the Easter ceremonies. + Fine music, the Gloria was sung, a Franciscan monk preached, the + Bishop blessed every one, and was fussed over like a great doll. + A very splendid scene. + + Saw Ristori twice, once in "Medea" and once in "Elizabeth." Never + saw such acting; especially in Queen Bess, it was splendid, as + she changes from the young, violent, coquettish woman to the + peevish old crone dying with her crown on, vain, ambitious, and + remorseful. + + _May._--On the first day of the month left A. and Nice and + started alone for Paris, feeling as happy as a freed bird. + + A pleasant journey, Laddie waiting for me in Paris to take me to + my room at Madame Dyne's. A very charming fortnight here; the + days spent in seeing sights with my Laddie, the evenings in + reading, writing, hearing "my boy" play, or resting. Saw all that + I wished to see in a very pleasant way, and on the 17th + reluctantly went to London. + + Passed a fortnight at a lovely old place on Wimbledon Common with + the Conways, going to town with them to see the lions, Royal + Exhibition, Hampton Court, Kensington and British Museums, + Crystal Palace, and many other pleasant places. But none were + lovelier to me than the old farm-house with the thatched roof, + the common of yellow gorse, larks going up in the morning, + nightingales flying at night, hawthorne everywhere, and Richmond + Park full of deer close by. Also Robin Hood's barn. + + _June._--Passed the first ten days of the month at Aubrey House + with the Peter Taylors. A lovely English home with kind, pure, + and friendly people. Saw many interesting persons,--Miss Cobbe, + Jean Ingelow, Dr. Garrett, Madame Bodichon, Matilde Blinde, Mill, + Bright, Gladstone, Hughes, and the rest at the House of Commons + where Mr. T. took me. + + Went to a dinner-party or two, theatres, to hear Dickens read, a + concert, _conversazione_ and receptions, seeing English society, + or rather one class of it, and liking what I saw. + + On the 11th went to board with Mrs. Travers in Westbourne Grove + Terrace. A pleasant little room, plain living, and for society + Mrs. T. and daughter, two sisters from Dublin, and ten young + men,--barristers, clerks, ministers, and students. A guinea a + week. + + Very free and jolly, roaming about London all day, dining late + and resting, chatting, music, or fun in the evening. + + Saw the Tower, Windsor, Parks, Gardens, and all manner of haunts + of famous men and women,--Milton's house, Johnson's in Bolt + Court, Lamb's, Sairy Gamp's, Saracen's Head, the Charter House + where Thackeray was when a lad, Furnival's Inn where Dickens + wrote Pickwick, Bacon's Walk, and endless memorable sights. St. + Paul's I liked better than Notre Dame. + + _July._--At Mrs. Travers's till the 7th. Saw Routledge about + "Moods." He took it, would like another book, and was very + friendly. Said good-by all round, and at six A.M. on the 7th left + for Liverpool with Mr. W., who saw to my luggage and went part + way. Reached the "Africa" safely. + + A trip of fourteen stormy, dull, long, sick days, but at last at + eleven at night we sailed up the harbor in the moonlight, and I + saw dear John waiting for me on the wharf. Slept on board, and + next day reached home at noon to find Father at the station, Nan + and babies at the gate, May flying wildly round the lawn, and + Marmee crying at the door. Into her arms I went, and was at home + at last. + + Happy days, talking and enjoying one another. Many people came to + see me, and all said I was much improved; of which I was glad, as + there was, is, and always will be room for it. + + Found Mother looking old, sick, and tired; Father as placid as + ever; Nan poorly, but blest in her babies; May full of plans, as + usual; Freddy very stout and loving; and my Jack the dearest, + prettiest, merriest baby boy that ever kissed and loved + everybody. + + _August._--Soon fell to work on some stories, for things were, as + I expected, behindhand when the money-maker was away. Found + plenty to do, as orders from E., L., "Independent," "U. S. C. S. + Magazine," and several other offers waited for me. Wrote two long + tales for L. and got $200 for them. One for E. for which he paid + $75, also a bit of poetry for $5. He wanted a long story in + twenty-four chapters, and I wrote it in a fortnight,--one hundred + and eighty-five pages,--besides work, sewing, nursing, and + company. + + Sent S. E. S. the first $100 on my account; could have sent $300, + but it was needed, so I gave it up unwillingly, and must work + away for the rest. Mother borrowed the money that I might stay + longer and see England, as I had missed much while condemned to + "hard work and solitary confinement for nine months," as she + expressed it. + + _September._--Mother sick, did little with my pen. Got a girl, + and devoted myself to Mother, writing after she was abed. In this + way finished a long tale. But E. would not have it, saying it was + too long and too sensational! + + _November._--Mother slowly mending. A sensible Western woman + "rubbed" her, and did her a great deal of good. She left her room + and seemed more like herself. I never expect to see the strong, + energetic Marmee of old times, but, thank the Lord! she is still + here, though pale and weak, quiet and sad; all her fine hair + gone, and face full of wrinkles, bowed back, and every sign of + age. Life has been so hard for her, and she so brave, so glad to + spend herself for others. Now we must live for her. + +On Miss Alcott's return from Europe in July, 1866, she devoted herself +as earnestly as ever to the personal care of her mother and to +story-writing for the support of the family. She agreed to write a +fifty-dollar tale once a month, and besides this wrote many short +stories for other publishers. Her father's return from the West with +two hundred dollars, earned on his western trip, gave her some relief; +and she was cheered by hearing that "Moods" was selling well in +Europe. But she was not well, and she felt anxious and troubled about +many things. Her journal of these months is very meagre; and January, +1867, opens with the statement that she is "sick from too hard work." +Yet the account of stories furnished to publishers continues till +August, when she went to Clark's Island for a few weeks of recreation. +Here her spirits returned, and she spent, as she says, "a +harem-scarem fortnight," which must have given her great refreshment. +She says: "Got to work again after my long vacation, for bills +accumulate and worry me. I dread debt more than anything." + +In the journal occurs this slight notice of the first step in one of +the most important achievements of her life, of which I shall speak +more fully hereafter:-- + + +_Journal._ + + _September, 1867._--Niles, partner of Roberts, asked me to write + a girls' book. Said I'd try. + + F. asked me to be the editor of "Merry's Museum." Said I'd try. + + Began at once on both new jobs; but didn't like either. + + The Radical Club met at Sargent's. Fine time. Bartol inspired; + Emerson chairman; Alcott on his legs; strong-minded ladies out in + full force; aesthetic tea for refreshment. + + _October._--Agreed with F. to be editor for $500 a year. Read + manuscripts, write one story each month and an editorial. On the + strength of this engagement went to Boston, took a room--No. 6 + Hayward Place--furnished it, and set up housekeeping for myself. + Cannot keep well in C., so must try Boston, and not work too + hard. + + On the 28th rode to B. on my load of furniture with Fred, feeling + as if I was going to camp out in a new country; hoped it would + prove a hospitable and healthy land. + +This incident appears in "The Old-fashioned Girl" (p. 153), where the +country girl goes into the city in a farmer's cart, with a squash pie +in her hand given her at parting by an old friend. Her sister May had +a drawing class at her room every day, which gave Louisa the pleasure +of companionship. + +Miss Alcott was an enthusiastic admirer of Dickens, and she entered +into the humor of his homely characters most heartily. She acted "Mrs. +Jarley displaying her waxwork" nine times this winter, and was always +successful in giving life and variety to the representation. She was +constantly called upon to act for charity. She enjoyed the fun, and as +she could not give money, it satisfied her generous nature to be able +to help in any way. + +She wrote an article for Mr. B., called "Happy Women," in which she +gratified her love of single life by describing the delightful +spinsters of her acquaintance. Her sketches are all taken from life, +and are not too highly colored. The Physician, the Artist, the +Philanthropist, the Actress, the Lawyer, are easily recognizable. They +were a "glorious phalanx of old maids," as Theodore Parker called the +single women of his Society, who aided him so much in his work. + + +_To her Mother._ + + JANUARY, 1868. + + Things look promising for the new year. F. $20 for the little + tales, and wrote two every month; G. $25 for the "Bells;" L. $100 + for the two "Proverb" stories. L. takes all I'll send; and F. + seems satisfied. + + So my plan will work well, and I shall make my $1,000 this year + in spite of sickness and worry. Praise the Lord and keep busy, + say I. + + I am pretty well, and keep so busy I haven't time to be sick. + Every one is very clever to me; and I often think as I go larking + round, independent, with more work than I can do, and + half-a-dozen publishers asking for tales, of the old times when I + went meekly from door to door peddling my first poor little + stories, and feeling so rich with $10. + + It's clear that Minerva Moody is getting on, in spite of many + downfalls, and by the time she is a used up old lady of seventy + or so she may finish her job, and see her family well off. A + little late to enjoy much maybe; but I guess I shall turn in for + my last long sleep with more content, in spite of the mortal + weariness, than if I had folded my hands and been supported in + elegant idleness, or gone to the devil in fits of despair because + things moved so slowly. + + Keep all the money I send; pay up every bill; get comforts and + enjoy yourselves. Let's be merry while we may, and lay up a bit + for a rainy day. + + With which gem from Aristotle, I am, honored Madam, your dutiful + and affectionate + + L. M. ALCOTT. + + Regards to Plato. Don't he want new socks? Are his clothes + getting shiny? + +Although, as I have said, little direct European influence is +observable in Miss Alcott's writings from her journeys in Europe, yet +this first visit had a marked effect upon her life and writings. She +was unfavorably situated to gain the refreshment she sorely needed; +and yet she did get a great deal from the entire change of +surroundings, from the larger horizon into which she entered, from her +rich enjoyment of scenery, and from the variety of companions she +met. Probably she looked through new spectacles at her own work, as +she describes herself as looking through those of Professor Bhaer, and +she saw all the defects of the pot-boiling stories which she had been +pouring out one after another, without strong purpose, or regard for +artistic excellence. She had also the chance to look upon her own +early life and home from a distance; and as she thought of the +incidents of those years they grouped into more harmonious lines, and +she saw how much they contained of real life, of true poetry and +humor, as well as moral significance. So the old idea of "The Pathetic +Family" took shape anew in her mind. + +In July, 1863, the enterprising firm of Roberts Brothers asked her for +the publication in book form of "Hospital Sketches," which were then +appearing in the "Commonwealth" newspaper, being struck by their +intense reality and originality. At the time, as she states in her +journal, she preferred to allow Mr. Redpath to publish them. Later, in +September, 1867, Roberts Brothers asked her to write a girls' book for +them, and in May, 1868, they repeated the request through her father, +who had brought to them a collection of short stories for publication. + +Miss Alcott's fancy had always been for depicting the life of boys +rather than girls; but she fortunately took the suggestion of the +publisher, and said, like Col. Miller, "I'll try, sir." The old idea +of "The Pathetic Family" recurred to her mind; and she set herself to +describe the early life of her home. The book was finished in July, +named "Little Women," and sent to the publishers, who promptly +accepted it, making Miss Alcott an outright offer for the copyright, +but at the same time advising her not to part with it. It was +published in October, and the result is well known. She was quite +unconscious of the unusual merit of the book, thinking, as she says, +the first chapters dull, and so was quite surprised at her success. +"It reads better than I expected," she says; and she truly adds, "We +really lived most of it, and if it succeeds, that will be the reason +of it." + +But that is not the whole secret of its success. Through many trials +and many failures Louisa had learned her literary art. By her +experience in melodrama she had proved the emptiness of sensational +writing, and knew how to present the simple and true,--seemingly +without art, but really with the nicest art of discrimination and +emphasis. All her previous training and experience were needed to fit +her for the production of her masterpiece; for in spite of all the +good work she did later, this remains her masterpiece, by which she +will be remembered and loved. Already twenty-one years have passed, +and another generation has come up since she published this book, yet +it still commands a steady sale; and the mothers who read it in their +childhood renew their enjoyment as they watch the faces of their +little girls brighten with smiles over the theatricals in the barn, or +moisten with tears at the death of the beloved sister. One of the +greatest charms of the book is its perfect truth to New England life. +But it is not merely local; it touches the universal heart deeply. + +The excitement of the children was intense; they claimed the author as +their own property, and felt as if she were interpreting their very +lives and thoughts. The second series was anticipated with the +eagerness of a bulletin from the war and the stock market. But unlike +Miss Alcott herself, the children took especial interest in the +love-story, and when poor Laurie was so obstinately refused by Jo, +"they wept aloud, and refused to be comforted," and in some instances +were actually made ill by grief and excitement. + +Miss Alcott had now secured publishers in whom she placed perfect +confidence, and who henceforth relieved her of the worry of business +matters, dealing directly and fairly by her, and consulting her +interests as well as their own. This is abundantly shown by her +private journals and letters. + +The success of "Little Women" was so well assured that Miss Alcott at +once set about preparing the second part, which was eagerly demanded +by the little women outside, who wanted all the girls to marry, and +rather troubled her by wishing to settle matters their own way. She +finished writing the sequel, which had been rapid work, Jan. 1, 1869. + +The success of "Little Women" was not confined to this country. The +book was translated into French, German, and Dutch, and has become +familiarly known in England and on the Continent. In Holland the first +series was published under the title "Under the Mother's Wings," and +the second part as "On Their Own Wings;" and these two books with +"Work" established her fame among the children, who still continue to +read her stories with fresh delight. + +It is hardly necessary to analyze or criticise this happy production. +It is a realistic transcript of life, but idealized by the tenderness +of real feeling. It teaches the lessons of every-day conduct and +inculcates the simplest virtues of truth, earnest effort, and loving +affection. There is abundant humor, but no caricature, and tender, +deep feeling without sentimentality. + +Miss Alcott herself did not wish her representative, Jo, to marry; but +the demand of the publisher and the public was so imperative that she +created her German professor, of whom no prototype existed. While some +of her romantic young readers were not satisfied at Jo's preferring +him to the charming Laurie, he is certainly a genuine, warm-hearted +man, who would probably have held her affections by his strong moral +and intellectual traits. That he became a very living personality to +the author is evident from his reappearance in "Jo's Boys," where he +has the same strong, cheery influence in the school and home that she +found from him in her girlhood. The style of the book is thoroughly +easy and colloquial; and the girls talk and act like girls, and not +like prim little women. The influence of the book has been wide and +deep, and has helped to make a whole generation of girls feel a deeper +sense of family love and the blessings to be gained from lives of +earnest effort, mutual sacrifice, and high aims. + +Much interest has been expressed in regard to the originals of the +characters in "Little Women." This is the author's own statement:-- + + Facts in the stories that are true, though often changed as to + time and place:-- + + "Little Women"--The early plays and experiences; Beth's death; + Jo's literary and Amy's artistic experiences; Meg's happy home; + John Brooke and his death; Demi's character. Mr. March did not go + to the war, but Jo did. Mrs. March is all true, only not half + good enough. Laurie is not an American boy, though every lad I + ever knew claims the character. He was a Polish boy, met abroad + in 1865. Mr. Lawrence is my grandfather, Colonel Joseph May. Aunt + March is no one. + + +_Journal._ + + _January, 1868. Gamp's Garret, Hayward Place, Boston._--The year + begins well and cheerfully for us all. Father and Mother + comfortable at home; Anna and family settled in Chelsea; May busy + with her drawing classes, of which she has five or six, and the + prospect of earning $150 a quarter; also she is well and in good + spirits. + + I am in my little room, spending busy, happy days, because I have + quiet, freedom, work enough, and strength to do it. F. pays me + $500 a year for my name and some editorial work on Merry's + Museum; "The Youth's Companion" pays $20 for two short tales each + month; L. $50 and $100 for all I will send him; and others take + anything I have. My way seems clear for the year if I can only + keep well. I want to realize my dream of supporting the family + and being perfectly independent. Heavenly hope! + + I have written twenty-five stories the past year, besides the + fairy book containing twelve. Have earned $1,000, paid my own + way, sent home some, paid up debts, and helped May. + + For many years we have not been so comfortable: May and I both + earning, Annie with her good John to lean on, and the old people + in a cosey home of our own. + + After last winter's hard experience, we cannot be too grateful. + + To-day my first hyacinth bloomed, white and sweet,--a good + omen,--a little flag of truce, perhaps, from the enemies whom we + have been fighting all these years. Perhaps we are to win after + all, and conquer poverty, neglect, pain, and debt, and march on + with flags flying into the new world with the new year. + + _Thursday, 7th._--A queer day. Up early, and had my bread and + milk and baked apples. Fed my doves. Made May a bonnet, and cut + out a flannel wrapper for Marmee, who feels the cold in the + Concord snowbanks. Did my editorial work in the P.M., and fixed + my dresses for the plays. L. sent $50, and F. $40, for tales. A. + and boys came. + + To Dorchester in evening, and acted Mrs. Pontifex, in "Naval + Engagements," to a good house. A gay time, had flowers, etc. + Talked half the night with H. A. about the fast ways of young + people nowadays, and gave the child much older-sisterly advice, + as no one seems to see how much she needs help at this time of + her young life. + + Dreamed that I was an opera dancer, and waked up prancing. + + _Wednesday, 15th._--Wrote all day. Did two short tales for F. In + the evening with A. M. to hear Fanny Kemble read "The Merchant of + Venice." She was a whole stock company in herself. Looked younger + and handsomer than ever before, and happy, as she is to be with + her daughters now. We went to supper afterwards at Mrs. + Parkman's, and saw the lioness feed. It was a study to watch her + face, so full of varying expression was it,--always strong, + always sweet, then proud and fierce as she sniffed at nobodies + who passed about her. Being one, I kept away, and enjoyed the + great creature afar off, wondering how a short, stout, red woman + _could_ look so like a queen in her purple velvet and point lace. + + Slipped behind a door, but Dr. Holmes found me out, and affably + asked, "How many of you children are there?" As I was looking + down on the top of his illustrious head, the question was funny. + But I answered the little man with deep respect, "Four, sir." He + seemed to catch my naughty thought, and asked, with a twinkle in + his eye, looking up as if I were a steeple, "And all as tall as + you?" Ha! ha! + + _18th._--Played again at D., and had a jolly time. Home early, + and putting off my fine feathers, fell to work on my stories. F. + seems to expect me to write the whole magazine, which I did not + bargain for. + + To Nan's in p. m., to take care of her while the Papa and Freddie + went to C. The dear little man, so happy and important with his + bit of a bag, six pennies, and a cake for refreshment during the + long journey of an hour. + + We brooded over Johnny as if he were a heavenly sort of fire to + warm and comfort us with his sunny little face and loving ways. + She is a happy woman! I sell _my_ children; and though they feed + me, they don't love me as hers do. + + Little Tranquillity played alone all day, and made a pretty + picture sitting in "marmar's" lap in his night-gown, talking + through the trumpet to her. She never heard his sweet little + voice in any other way. Poor Nan! + + _Wednesday, 22d._--To the Club with Father. A good paper on the + "Historical View of Jesus." Father spoke finely. It amuses me to + see how people listen and applaud _now_ what was hooted at twenty + years ago. + + The talk lasted until two, and then the hungry philosophers + remembered they had bodies and rushed away, still talking. + + [Hard to feed.--L. M. A.] + + Got a snow-slide on my bonnet, so made another in the P.M., and + in the evening to the Antislavery Festival. All the old faces and + many new ones. Glad I have lived in the time of this great + movement, and known its heroes so well. War times suit me, as I + am a fighting _May_. + + _24th._--My second hyacinth bloomed pale blue, like a timid hope, + and I took the omen for a good one, as I _am_ getting on, and + have more than I can do of the work that I once went begging for. + Enjoyed the little spring my little flower made for me, and + Buzzy, my pet fly, moved into the sweet mansion from his hanging + garden in the ivy pot. + + Acted in Cambridge, Lucretia Buzzard and Mrs. Jarley. + + _Sunday, 31st._--Last day of the month, but I'm not satisfied + with my four weeks' work. Acting for charity upsets my work. The + change is good for me, and so I do it, and because I have no + money to give. + + Four tales this month. Received $70; sent $30 home. No debts. + + _February 1st._--Arranged "Hospital Sketches and War Stories" for + a book. By taking out all Biblical allusions, and softening all + allusions to rebs., the book may be made "quite perfect," I am + told. Anything to suit customers. + + _Friday, 14th._--My third hyacinth bloomed this A.M., a lovely + pink. So I found things snug, and had a busy day chasing----who + dodged. Then I wrote my tales. Made some shirts for my boys, and + went out to buy a squash pie for my lonely supper. It snowed; was + very cold. No one paid, and I wanted to send some money home. + Felt cross and tired as I trudged back at dusk. My pie turned a + somersault, a boy laughed, so did I, and felt better. On my + doorstep I found a gentleman who asked if Miss A. lived here. I + took him up my winding stair and found him a very delightful fly, + for he handed me a letter out of which fell a $100 bill. With + this bait Mr. B. lured me to write "one column of Advice to Young + Women," as Mrs. Shaw and others were doing. If he had asked me + for a Greek oration I would have said "yes." So I gave a receipt, + and the very elegant agent bowed himself away, leaving my + "'umble" bower full of perfume, and my soul of peace. + + Thriftily taking advantage of the enthusiastic moment, I planned + my article while I ate my dilapidated pie, and then proceeded to + write it with the bill before me. It was about old maids. "Happy + Women" was the title, and I put in my list all the busy, useful, + independent spinsters I know, for liberty is a better husband + than love to many of us. This was a nice little episode in my + trials of an authoress, so I record it. + + So the pink hyacinth was a true prophet, and I went to bed a + happy millionaire, to dream of flannel petticoats for my blessed + Mother, paper for Father, a new dress for May, and sleds for my + boys. + + _Monday, 17th._--Father came full of plans about his book. Went + with him to the Club. P. read a paper, and the Rabbi Nathan + talked. A curious jumble of fools and philosophers. The Club + should be kept more select, and not be run by one person. + + _Tuesday, 25th._--Note from Lady Amberly as I sat sewing on my + ninepenny dress. She wanted to come and see me, and I told her to + do so, and I'd show her how I lived in my sky-parlor,--spinning + yarns like a spider. Met her at the Club, and liked her, so + simple and natural. + + Acted for Mr. Clarke's Church Fair in the evening. Did Mrs. + Jarley three times. Very hoarse with a cold, but kept my promise. + + "Proverb Stories" suggested, and "Kitty's Class-Day" written. + + _Friday, 28th._--Packed for home, as I am needed there, and acted + Jarley for the third evening. Have done it nine times this week, + and my voice is gone. + + I am sorry to leave my quiet room, for I've enjoyed it very much. + + Written eight long tales, ten short ones, read stacks of + manuscripts, and done editorial work. Acted for charity twelve + times. + + Not a bad two months' work. I can imagine an easier life, but + with love, health, and work I can be happy; for these three help + one to do, to be, and to endure all things. + + _March, April, and May._--Had the pleasure of providing Marmee + with many comforts, and keeping the hounds of care and debt from + worrying her. She sits at rest in her sunny room, and that is + better than any amount of fame to me. + + _May, 1868._--Father saw Mr. Niles about a fairy book. Mr. N. + wants a _girls' story_, and I begin "Little Women." Marmee, Anna, + and May all approve my plan. So I plod away, though I don't enjoy + this sort of thing. Never liked girls or knew many, except my + sisters; but our queer plays and experiences may prove + interesting, though I doubt it. + + [Good joke.--L. M. A.] + + _June._--Sent twelve chapters of "L. W." to Mr. N. He thought it + _dull_; so do I. But work away and mean to try the experiment; + for lively, simple books are very much needed for girls, and + perhaps I can supply the need. + + Wrote two tales for Ford, and one for F. L. clamors for more, but + must wait. + + _July 15th._--Have finished "Little Women," and sent it off,--402 + pages. May is designing some pictures for it. Hope it will go, + for I shall probably get nothing for "Morning Glories." + + Very tired, head full of pain from overwork, and heart heavy + about Marmee, who is growing feeble. + + [Too much work for one young woman. No wonder she broke down. + 1876.--L. M. A.] + + _August._--Roberts Bros. made an offer for the story, but at the + same time advised me to keep the copyright; so I shall. + + [An honest publisher and a lucky author, for the copyright made + her fortune, and the "dull book" was the first golden egg of the + ugly duckling. 1885.--L. M. A.] + + _August 26th._--Proof of whole book came. It reads better than I + expected. Not a bit sensational, but simple and true, for we + really lived most of it; and if it succeeds that will be the + reason of it. Mr. N. likes it better now, and says some girls who + have read the manuscripts say it is "splendid!" As it is for + them, they are the best critics, so I should be satisfied. + + _September._--Father's book ["Tablets"] came out. Very simple + outside, wise and beautiful within. Hope it will bring him praise + and profit, for he has waited long. + + No girl, Mother poorly, May busy with pupils, Nan with her boys, + and much work to be done. We don't like the kitchen department, + and our tastes and gifts lie in other directions, so it is hard + to make the various Pegasuses pull the plan steadily. + + _October 8th._--Marmee's birthday; sixty-eight. After breakfast + she found her gifts on a table in the study. Father escorted her + to the big red chair, the boys prancing before blowing their + trumpets, while we "girls" marched behind, glad to see the dear + old Mother better and able to enjoy our little fete. The boys + proudly handed her the little parcels, and she laughed and cried + over our gifts and verses. + + I feel as if the decline had begun for her; and each year will + add to the change which is going on, as time alters the + energetic, enthusiastic home-mother into a gentle, feeble old + woman, to be cherished and helped tenderly down the long hill she + has climbed so bravely with her many burdens. + + _October 26th._--Came to Boston, and took a quiet room in + Brookline Street. Heard Emerson in the evening. Sent a report of + it to A. P. for the "Standard" at his desire. + + Anna is nicely settled in her new house, and Marmee is with her. + Helped put down carpets and settle things. + + _30th._--Saw Mr. N. of Roberts Brothers, and he gave me good news + of the book. An order from London for an edition came in. First + edition gone and more called for. Expects to sell three or four + thousand before the New Year. + + Mr. N. wants a second volume for spring. Pleasant notices and + letters arrive, and much interest in my little women, who seem to + find friends by their truth to life, as I hoped. + + _November 1st._--Began the second part of "Little Women." I can + do a chapter a day, and in a month I mean to be done. A little + success is so inspiring that I now find my "Marches" sober, nice + people, and as I can launch into the future, my fancy has more + play. Girls write to ask who the little women marry, as if that + was the only end and aim of a woman's life. I _won't_ marry Jo to + Laurie to please any one. + + _Monday, 16th._--To the Club for a change, as I have written like + a steam engine since the 1st. Weiss read a fine paper on "Woman + Suffrage." Good talk afterward. Lunched with Kate Field, Celia + Thaxter, and Mr. Linton. Woman's Club in P.M. + + _17th._--Finished my thirteenth chapter. I am so full of my work, + I can't stop to eat or sleep, or for anything but a daily run. + + _29th._--My birthday; thirty-six. Spent alone, writing hard. No + presents but Father's "Tablets." + + I never seem to have many presents, as some do, though I give a + good many. That is best perhaps, and makes a gift very precious + when it does come. + + _December._--Home to shut up the house, as Father goes West and + Mother to Anna's. A cold, hard, dirty time; but was so glad to be + off out of C. that I worked like a beaver, and turned the key on + Apple Slump with joy. + + May and I went to the new Bellevue Hotel in Beacon Street. She + doesn't enjoy quiet corners as I do, so we took a sky-parlor, and + had a queer time whisking up and down in the elevator, eating in + a marble cafe, and sleeping on a sofa bed, that we might be + genteel. It did not suit me at all. A great gale nearly blew the + roof off. Steam pipes exploded, and we were hungry. I was very + tired with my hard summer, with no rest for the brains that earn + the money. + + _January, 1869._--Left our lofty room at Bellevue and went to + Chauncey Street. Sent the sequel of "L. W." to Roberts on New + Year's Day. Hope it will do as well as the first, which is + selling finely, and receives good notices. F. and F. both want me + to continue working for them, and I shall do so if I am able; but + my head-aches, cough, and weariness keep me from working as I + once could, fourteen hours a day. + + In March we went home, as Mother was restless at Nan's, and + Father wanted his library. Cold and dull; not able to write; so + took care of Marmee and tried to rest. + + Paid up all the debts, thank the Lord!--every penny that money + can pay,--and now I feel as if I could die in peace. My dream is + beginning to come true; and if my head holds out I'll do all I + once hoped to do. + + _April._--Very poorly. Feel quite used up. Don't care much for + myself, as rest is heavenly even with pain; but the family seem + so panic-stricken and helpless when I break down, that I try to + keep the mill going. Two short tales for L., $50; two for Ford, + $20; and did my editorial work, though two months are unpaid for. + Roberts wants a new book, but am afraid to get into a vortex lest + I fall ill. + + +_To her Publishers._ + + BOSTON, Dec. 28, 1869. + + Many thanks for the check which made my Christmas an unusually + merry one. + + After toiling so many years along the uphill road,--always a + hard one to women writers,--it is peculiarly grateful to me to + find the way growing easier at last, with pleasant little + surprises blossoming on either side, and the rough places made + smooth by the courtesy and kindness of those who have proved + themselves friends as well as publishers. + + With best wishes for the coming year, + + I am yours truly, + L. M. ALCOTT. + + AUGUST, 1871. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--Many thanks for the fortune and the kind note + accompanying it. Please hand the money to S. E. S., and he will + put it somewhere for me.... + + You are very kind to find a minute out of your hurried day to + attend to this affair.... I'm not sure but I shall try Dr. B. if + my present and ninth doctor fails to cure my aching bones. I + haven't a bit of faith in any of them; but my friends won't let + me gently slip away where bones cease from troubling, so I must + keep trying. + + Very gratefully your friend, + L. M. A. + +Written in 1871, just after the publication of "Little Men":-- + + AUGUST 5TH. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--Thanks for the parcel and notes. + + ... The letters were very gushing from Nellie and Dollie and + Sallie Somebody asking for pictures, autographs, family history, + and several new books right away. + + I must give Dr. R. a fair trial, and if he fails I'll try Dr. B., + just to make up the number of doctors to a round ten. + + "Happy Thoughts" is very funny, especially the trip to Antwerp. + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + + + +CHAPTER IX. + +EUROPE. + + THE LAY OF A GOLDEN GOOSE. + + Long ago in a poultry yard + One dull November morn, + Beneath a motherly soft wing + A little goose was born. + + Who straightway peeped out of the shell + To view the world beyond, + Longing at once to sally forth + And paddle in the pond. + + "Oh! be not rash," her father said, + A mild Socratic bird; + Her mother begged her not to stray + With many a warning word. + + But little goosey was perverse, + And eagerly did cry, + "I've got a lovely pair of wings, + Of course I ought to fly." + + In vain parental cacklings, + In vain the cold sky's frown, + Ambitious goosey tried to soar, + But always tumbled down. + + The farm-yard jeered at her attempts, + The peacocks screamed, "Oh fie! + You're only a domestic goose, + So don't pretend to fly." + + Great cock-a-doodle from his perch + Crowed daily loud and clear, + "Stay in the puddle, foolish bird, + That is your proper sphere." + + The ducks and hens said, one and all, + In gossip by the pool, + "Our children never play such pranks; + My dear, that fowl's a fool." + + The owls came out and flew about, + Hooting above the rest, + "No useful egg was ever hatched + From transcendental nest." + + Good little goslings at their play + And well-conducted chicks + Were taught to think poor goosey's flights + Were naughty, ill-bred tricks. + + _They_ were content to swim and scratch, + And not at all inclined + For any wild-goose chase in search + Of something undefined. + + Hard times she had as one may guess, + That young aspiring bird, + Who still from every fall arose + Saddened but undeterred. + + She knew she was no nightingale, + Yet spite of much abuse, + She longed to help and cheer the world, + Although a plain gray goose. + + She could not sing, she could not fly, + Nor even walk with grace, + And all the farm-yard had declared + A puddle was her place. + + But something stronger than herself + Would cry, "Go on, go on! + Remember, though an humble fowl, + You're cousin to a swan." + + So up and down poor goosey went, + A busy, hopeful bird. + Searched many wide unfruitful fields, + And many waters stirred. + + At length she came unto a stream + Most fertile of all _Niles_, + Where tuneful birds might soar and sing + Among the leafy isles. + + Here did she build a little nest + Beside the waters still, + Where the parental goose could rest + Unvexed by any _bill_. + + And here she paused to smooth her plumes, + Ruffled by many plagues; + When suddenly arose the cry, + "This goose lays golden eggs." + + At once the farm-yard was agog; + The ducks began to quack; + Prim Guinea fowls relenting called, + "Come back, come back, come back." + + Great chanticleer was pleased to give + A patronizing crow, + And the contemptuous biddies clucked, + "I wish my chicks did so." + + The peacocks spread their shining tails, + And cried in accents soft, + "We want to know you, gifted one, + Come up and sit aloft." + + Wise owls awoke and gravely said, + With proudly swelling breasts, + "Rare birds have always been evoked + From transcendental nests!" + + News-hunting turkeys from afar + Now ran with all thin legs + To gobble facts and fictions of + The goose with golden eggs. + + But best of all the little fowls + Still playing on the shore, + Soft downy chicks and goslings gay, + Chirped out, "Dear Goose, lay more." + + But goosey all these weary years + Had toiled like any ant, + And wearied out she now replied, + "My little dears, I can't. + + "When I was starving, half this corn + Had been of vital use, + Now I am surfeited with food + Like any Strasbourg goose." + + So to escape too many friends, + Without uncivil strife, + She ran to the Atlantic pond + And paddled for her life. + + Soon up among the grand old Alps + She found two blessed things, + The health she had so nearly lost, + And rest for weary limbs. + + But still across the briny deep + Couched in most friendly words, + Came prayers for letters, tales, or verse, + From literary birds. + + Whereat the renovated fowl + With grateful thanks profuse, + Took from her wing a quill and wrote + This lay of a Golden Goose. + + BEX, SWITZERLAND, August, 1870. + + +The year 1869 was less fruitful in work than the preceding one. Miss +Alcott spent the winter in Boston and the summer in Concord. She was +ill and very tired, and felt little inclined for mental effort. +"Hospital Sketches," which had been first published by Redpath, was +now republished by Roberts Brothers, with the addition of six shorter +"Camp and Fireside Stories." The interest of the public in either the +author or the work had not lessened; for two thousand copies of the +book in its new form were sold the first week. In her weary condition +she finds her celebrity rather a burden than a pleasure, and says in +her journal:-- + + People begin to come and stare at the Alcotts. Reporters haunt + the place to look at the authoress, who dodges into the woods _a + la_ Hawthorne, and won't be even a very small lion. + + Refreshed my soul with Goethe, ever strong and fine and alive. + Gave S. E. S. $200 to invest. What richness to have a little not + needed! + +Miss Alcott had some pleasant refreshment in travelling during the +summer. + + _July._-- ... Spent in Canada with my cousins, the Frothinghams, + at their house at Riviere du Loup,--a little village on the St. + Lawrence, full of queer people. Drove, read, and walked with the + little ones. A pleasant, quiet time. + + _August._-- ... A month with May at Mt. Desert. A gay time, and a + little rest and pleasure before the old pain and worry began + again. + + Made up $1,000 for S. E. S. to invest. Now I have $1,200 for a + rainy day, and no debts. With that thought I can bear neuralgia + gayly. + +In the autumn the whole family went to Boston, the father and mother +staying with Mrs. Pratt; while Louisa and her sister May, "the +workers," occupied rooms in Pinckney Street. Not being well enough to +do much new work, Louisa began using up her old stories, and found +that the little women "helped their rejected sisters to good places +where once they went a-begging." In January, 1870, she suffered from +loss of voice, for which she tried "heroic treatment" under a +distinguished physician. She got well enough to write a little, and in +February wrote the conclusion to "The Old-fashioned Girl," which was +published in March. She says:-- + + I wrote it with left hand in a sling, one foot up, head aching, + and no voice. Yet, as the book is funny, people will say, "Didn't + you enjoy doing it?" I often think of poor Tom Hood as I + scribble, rather than lie and groan. I certainly earn my living + by the sweat of my brow. + +The book does not reveal this condition; for nothing could be fresher, +brighter, and more wholesome than the heroine Polly, many of whose +adventures are drawn from the author's own experience. She steps out +of her usual surroundings into the fashionable life of the city, but +betrays her own want of sympathy with it. The book has always been +very popular. + +In 1870, the success of "Hospital Sketches" and the continued receipts +from "Little Women" put their author in a pecuniary position which +enabled her to go abroad for the rest and refreshment which she sorely +needed. The younger sister was invited to go by her friend A. B. on +condition that Louisa would accompany them. This journey was very free +and independent. She has given an account--somewhat travestied +certainly, but very true to the general facts--in "Shawl Straps," +although the reader would hardly suppose the old lady described in +that book had not yet reached her fortieth year. These sketches were +arranged after her return, at the request of Mrs. Stowe, for the +"Christian Union," and were published in a book forming one volume of +"Aunt Jo's Scrap-Bag" in 1872. + +Fortunately we have many of Louisa's original letters preserved in her +father's copies, which have escaped the destruction of her +correspondence. With some extracts from her journals, they give a +sufficient account of this journey. In many respects the contrast to +her former visit to Europe is most pleasant. She has now become +pecuniarily independent by her own exertions, and has a popular +reputation which brings her welcome and recognition wherever she goes. +But she has paid a heavy price for these gains. Her health has become +seriously shattered. The long application to writing, sometimes even +for fourteen hours a day,--a pressure of excitement which kept her +from eating and sleeping,--added to sorrow and anxiety, have told upon +her nerves and strength, and she is often unfitted to enjoy the +pleasures which are open to her. Yet her journal and letters are as +full of wit and humor as ever; and she laid up stores of pleasant +memories which lasted her through life. Readers of "Shawl Straps" will +recognize the originals of those bright sketches in the series of +letters from Dinan. + + +_Second Trip to Europe._ + + _April._--... On the first day of the month (fit day for _my_ + undertaking I thought) May and I went to N. Y. to meet A. B., + with John for escort. Every one very kind. Thirty gifts, a + parting ball among our house-mates, and a great cake. + Half-a-dozen devoted beings at the station to see us off. But I + remember only Father and Mother as they went away the day before, + leaving the two ambitious daughters to sail away, perhaps + forever. + + Marmee kept up bravely, and nodded and smiled; but at the corner + I saw the white handkerchief go up to the eyes, after being + gayly waved to us. May and I broke down, and said, "We won't go;" + but next day we set forth, as young birds will, and left the nest + empty for a year. + + Sailed on the 2d in a gale of wind in the French steamer + "Lafayette" for Brest. Our adventures are told in "Shawl Straps." + + "O. F. G." came out in March, and sold well. Train-boy going to + N. Y. put it into my lap; and when I said I didn't care for it, + exclaimed with surprise,-- + + "Bully book, ma'am! Sell a lot; better have it." + + John told him I wrote it; and his chuckle, stare, and astonished + "No!" was great fun. On the steamer little girls had it, and came + in a party to call on me, very sea-sick in my berth, done up like + a mummy. + + Spent some charming weeks in Brittany. + + _June and July._--"O. F. G." was published in London by Sampson + Low & Co. We left Dinan on the 15th, and had a lovely trip + through France to Vevay and Bex. + + Talk of war between France and Prussia. + + Much excitement at Vevay. Refugees from Lyons come in. Isabella + and Don Carlos were there, with queer followers. + + _September._--... On the 3d came news of the Emperor's surrender. + Great wailing among the French here. All well at home. Books + going finely; no debts. + + We decide to go to Rome for the winter, as May pines for the + artist's Paradise; and war will not trouble us I hope. + + SHIP "LAFAYETTE," April 9, 1870. + + DEAREST MARMEE,--To-morrow we come to our long journey's end + [Brest, France], thank the Lord. It has been a good one on the + whole, and I have got along as well as I expected. But it is + tiresome to be day after day doing nothing; for my head will not + let me read. May has done well, and has been very kind to me and + good, and is the life of the table, I guess. I never go up to + meals, for Marie takes such good care of me; I lie and peck all + sorts of funny messes, and receive calls in my den. People seem + to think we are "guns," and want to know us; but as they are not + interesting, we are on the reserve, and it has a fine effect. + About three thousand miles away does not seem possible in so + little while. How do you all get along,--Marmee, Father, the + laddies, my lass, and dear old John? He was so good and kind all + the way I had no care or worry, but just lopped round and let him + do all the work. Bless the dear! + + I shall despatch a good long letter as soon as we arrive and have + something to tell. We send this to ease your mind. Letters here + are not prepaid, so pay for mine out of my money. Don't forget to + tell the post-master in Boston about my letters. + + Bless you all, says your + + LU. + + MORLAIX, April 14, 1870. + + DEAREST MARMEE,--Having got our "poise" a bit by a day and night + on land, I begin at once to scribble to you, as I mean to keep a + letter on hand all the time, and send them off as fast as they + are done. We had a twelve days' passage, owing to a double screw + which they were trying and which delayed us, though it is safer + than one. The weather was cold and rainy, and the sea rough, so I + only went up once or twice, and kept warm in my den most of the + time. After the first two days I didn't feel sick, except my head + as usual. I slept, ate, ruminated, and counted the hours. May + poked about more, and was liked by all. + + We got to Brest about noon Wednesday. A. and I got our trunks + through the custom-house, and after some squabbling with the men, + got all aboard for Morlaix, which is a curious old place worth + seeing. It was a lovely day, warm as our June, and we had a + charming trip of three hours through a country already green and + flowery. We reached our hotel all right, and after a nice dinner + had baths and went to bed. May's room being some way from mine, + she came and bunked in with me in my little bed, and we slept. + + To-day is lovely, warm, and I am sitting at an open window + looking at the square, enjoying the queer sights and sounds; for + the air resounds with the rattle of wooden shoes on the stones. + + Market-women sit all about selling queer things, among which are + snails; they buy them by the pint, pick them out with a pin like + nuts, and seem to relish them mightily. We went out this A.M. + after breakfast, and took a stroll about the queer old town. May + was in heaven, and kept having raptures over the gables, the + turrets with storks on them, the fountains, people, and churches. + She is now sketching the tower of St. Melanie, with a crowd of + small boys round her enjoying the sight and criticising the work. + It don't seem very new to me, but I enjoy it, and feel pretty + well. We are to study French every day when we settle, and I am + to do the mending, etc., for A., who is to talk for us, and make + our bargains. So far we go well together. + + To-morrow we go on to Lamballe, where we take the diligence to + Dinan, fourteen miles farther, and there settle for some weeks. I + wish the boys could see the funny children here in little wooden + shoes like boats, the girls in blue cloth caps, aprons, and + shawls, just like the women, and the boys in funny hats and + sheepskin jackets. Now I must go and get May, who can't speak a + word of French, and has a panic if any one speaks to her. The + beggars afflict her, and she wants to give them money on all + occasions. This P.M. we go for a drive to see all there is, as + neither A. nor I are good walkers; "adoo" till by and by. I wish + I could send you this balmy day. + + DINAN, Sunday, April 17, 1870. + + Here we are, all settled at our first neat stopping-place, and + are in clover, as you will see when I tell you how plummy and + lovely it is. We left Morlaix Friday at 8 A.M., and were so + amazed at the small bill presented us that we couldn't praise the + town enough. You can judge of the cheapness of things, when I say + that my share of the expenses from Brest here, including two days + at a hotel, car, 'bus, and diligence fare, fees, and everything, + was $8. The day was divine, and we had a fine little journey to + Lamballe, where the fun began; for instead of a big diligence, we + found only a queer ramshackle thing like an insane carryall, with + a wooden boot and queer porch for the driver. + + Our four trunks were piled up behind and tied on with old ropes, + our bags stowed in a wooden box on top, and ourselves inside with + a fat Frenchman. The humpbacked driver "ya hooped" to the horses, + and away we clattered at a wild pace, all feeling dead sure that + something would happen, for the old thing bounded and swayed + awfully, the trunks were in danger of tumbling off, and to our + dismay we soon discovered that the big Frenchman was tipsy. He + gabbled to A. as only a tipsy person could, quoted poetry; said + he was Victor Hugo's best friend, and a child of Nature; that + English ladies were all divine, but too cold,--for when he + pressed A.'s hand she told him it was not allowed in England, and + he was overwhelmed with remorse; bowed, sighed, rolled his eyes, + and told her that he drank much ale, because it flew to his head + and gave him "commercial ideas." + + I never saw anything so perfectly absurd as it was, and after we + got used to it we laughed ourselves sick over the lark. You ought + to have seen us and our turnout, tearing over the road at a + breakneck pace, pitching, creaking, and rattling, the funny + driver hooting at the horses, who had their tails done up in + chignons, blue harness, and strings of bells, the drunken man + warbling, exhorting, and languishing at us all by turns, while A. + headed him off with great skill. I sat, a mass of English dignity + and coolness, suffering alternate agonies of anxiety and + amusement, and May, who tied her head up in a bundle, looked like + a wooden image. + + It was rich; and when we took up first a peasant woman in wooden + shoes and fly-away cap, and then a red-nosed priest smoking a + long pipe, we were a superb spectacle. In this style we banged + into Dinan, stopped at the gate, and were dumped bag and baggage + in the square. Finding Madame Coste's man was not here for us, we + hired a man to bring our trunks up. To our great amazement, an + oldish woman, who was greasing the wheels of a diligence, came, + and catching up our big trunks, whipped them into two broad + carts, and taking one trotted down the street at a fine pace, + followed by the man with the other. That was the finishing touch; + and we went laughing after them through the great arched gate + into the quaintest, prettiest, most romantic town I ever saw. + Narrow streets with overhanging gables, distracting roofs, + windows, and porches, carved beams, and every sort of richness. + The strong old lady beat the man, and finally landed us close by + another old gate at a charming house fronting the south, + overlooking a lovely green valley, full of gardens, blooming + plum and peach trees, windmills, and a ruined castle, at sight of + which we all skipped. Madame Coste received us with rapture, for + A. brought a letter from Mrs. L., who stayed here and was the joy + of the old lady's soul. We were in great luck, for being early in + the season she had three rooms left, and we nabbed them at + once,--a salon with old oak walls and wardrobes, blue damask + furniture, a fireplace, funny windows, and quaint furniture. A + little room out of it for A., and upstairs a larger room for May + and me, with two beds draped in green chintz, and carved big + wardrobe, etc., and best of all, a sunny window toward the + valley. For these rooms and our board we each pay $1 a day, and I + call that cheap. It would be worth that to get the fun and air + alone, for it is like June, and we sit about with open windows, + flowers in the fields, birds singing, and everything spring-like. + + We took possession at once, and dressed for a dinner at six. We + were then presented to our fellow-boarders,--Madame Forney, a + buxom widow, her son Gaston, a handsome Frenchy youth of + twenty-three, and her daughter, a homely girl of twenty, who is + to be married here on the 3d of May. After a great bowing and + scraping we had a funny fish dinner, it being Good Friday. When + they found we didn't speak French they were "desolated," and + begged us to learn at once, which we solemnly vowed to do. Gaston + "knew English," so May at once began to teach him more, and the + ice being broken we got gay and friendly at once. I could + understand them pretty well, but can't talk, and A. told them + that I was forbidden to say much on account of my throat. This + will give me a chance to get a fair start. May pegs away at her + grammar, and with that and the elegant Gaston, she will soon + begin to "parlez-vous." + + After dinner we were borne to the great salon, where a fire, + lights, and a piano appeared. Every one sat round and gabbled + except the Alcotts, who looked and laughed. Mademoiselle Forney + played, and then May convulsed them by singing some _Chants + Ameriques_, which they thought very lively and droll. They were + all attention and devotion to Madame Coste,--a tall old lady with + whiskers, who kept embracing A. and beaming at us in her great + content at being friends of _chere_ Madame L. A. told them that I + was a celebrated authoress, and May a very fine artist, and we + were beamed at more than ever. Being tired, we turned in early, + after a jolly time in our own little salon, eating chocolate and + laying plans. + + DINAN, April 20, 1870. + + ... A. and I went shopping. A. got a little bird to enliven our + parlor, a sort of sparrow, gray with a red head and a lively + song. We named him Bernard du Guesclin (the hero of the town), + and call him Bernie. I got some nice gloves for three francs + (sixty cents), and a white sun-umbrella for May (forty cents). + She needs it when she sketches, and there is always a crowd of + children round her to watch and admire; she gives one of them a + sou to hold the umbrella, and so gets on nicely. + + In the P.M. A. and I went to the little village of Lahou, in the + valley where the ruined castle is, to a fair. It was a very + picturesque sight, for the white-capped women, sitting about on + the green hillside, looked like flowers, and the blue blouses of + the men and wide-brimmed hats added to the effect. The little + street was lined with booths, where they sold nuts, queer cakes, + hot sausages, and pancakes, toys, etc. I got a funny cake, just + the size and shape of a deep pie-dish, and a jack-knife, for a + sou. We also indulged in nuts, and sat on our campstools in a + shady place and ate them boldly in the public mart, while + enjoying the lively scene. French and English people went by in + droll parties, and we coolly sat and stared at them. May is going + to sketch the castle, so I won't waste paper describing the + pretty place with the ruined church full of rooks, the old mill + with the waterwheel housed in vines, or the winding river, and + meadows full of blue hyacinths and rosy daisies. + + Yesterday, A. and I had to return the call of Mademoiselle M., + and as she speaks English I got on very well. The stairs to her + apartment were so steep that we held on by a velvet-covered rope + as we climbed up. In the P.M. we had fun, for we took two donkey + carriages and rode to the mineral spring. Gaston was sick and + couldn't go, as we had planned, so May drove herself in one, and + A. and I in the other. I wish the boys could have seen us, it was + so funny. The carriages were bath-chairs with a wee donkey + harnessed to each, so small, so neat, and looking so venerable + with thin long ears and bits of feet that I felt as if I was + driving my grandmother. May was a very imposing sight, alone in + her chair under her new umbrella, in her gray suit, with bright + gloves and a big whip, driving a gray rat who wouldn't trot + unless pounded and banged and howled at in the maddest way. Our + steed was bigger, but the most pig-headed old scamp you ever saw, + for it took two big women to make him go. I drove, and A. + thrashed away with all her might,--our joint efforts only + producing occasional short trots which enraged us dreadfully. + + We laughed till we were sick, it was so very absurd; while May + trundled serenely along, enjoying the fine views regardless of + her rat, who paced along at his ease, wagging his ears and + meditating. + + We had a nice trip, but didn't drink the water, as iron don't + suit us. Coming home, we passed the home of the donkeys, and they + at once turned in, and were with much difficulty persuaded to go + on by two short girls in caps and short gowns, who ran and + shouted "E! E! va oui!" and punched sticks into the poor asses, + rattling us over the stones till our eyes danced in our heads. We + found it rather hard work, and A. means to buy a horse and straw + pony-chaise, so we can drive ourselves in peace where we like.... + + A. is bargaining for a horse which an Englishman wishes to sell + for $50, including harness and cart. We can't hire horses for + less than $2 a drive, and donkeys are vile, so it is cheaper to + buy, and sell when we go away, and so drive as much as we like. + A. knows about such things, and takes all the responsibility.... + To-morrow we go on a little excursion in the steamboat down the + river, and return _a la_ donkey with the English ladies, who have + returned our call and are very friendly. + + Please forward this little note in an envelope to its address. + The child wrote me a pretty letter, which N. sent, and the pa + said I wouldn't answer. The child said, "I know she will, she is + so nice." So I do. Best love to every one. Don't go home too + soon. I shall write to Fred and Jack next time. Good-by. + + LU. + + +_To M. S._ + + ... They call each other pet names that convulse us,--"my little + pig," "my sweet hen," "my cabbage," and "my tom-cat." A French + lady with her son and daughter board here, and their ways amuse + us mightily. The girl is to be married next week to a man whom + she has seen twice, and never talked to but an hour in her life. + She writes to him what her mother dictates, and says she should + be ashamed to love him before they were married. Her wedding + clothes absorb her entire mind, and her Jules will get a pretty + doll when he takes Mademoiselle A. F. to wife. Gaston, the son, + puts on _blase_ airs, though only twenty-two, and languishes at + May, for they can't talk, as he does not know English nor she + French. + + April 27. + + I left my letter to drive to a ruined chateau, which we went all + over, as a part is inhabited by a farmer who keeps his hog in the + great banqueting hall, his grain in the chapel, and his hens in + the lady's chamber. It was very picturesque; the old rooms, with + ivy coming in at the windows, choking up the well, and climbing + up the broken towers. The lady of the chateau was starved to + death by her cruel brothers, and buried in the moat, where her + bones were found long afterward, and her ghost still haunts the + place they say. Here we had cider, tell Pa. + + Coming home we saw a Dolmen, one of the Druidical remains. It + stood in a grove of old pines,--a great post of gray stone, some + twenty-five feet high, and very big round. It leaned as if + falling, and had queer holes in it. Brittany is full of these + relics, which no one can explain, and I was glad to see the + mysterious things. + + Yesterday we took a little trip down the river in a tiny steamer, + going through a lock and skimming along between the green banks + of the narrow river to Miss M.'s country-house, where we had new + milk, and lay on the grass for an hour or so. Then May and Miss + M. walked home, and A. and I went in a donkey cart. + + To-day the girls have gone to La Garaye with Gaston on donkeys. + The weather has been cold for a day or two with easterly winds. + So I feel it at once and keep warm. It is very unusual at this + time, but comes, I suppose, because I've travelled hundreds of + miles to get rid of them. It won't last long, and then we shall + be hot enough. + + We lead such quiet, lazy lives I really have nothing to tell. + + Oh, yes, the _fiance_ of Mademoiselle has arrived, and amuses us + very much. He is a tiny man in uniform, with a red face, big + moustache, and blue eyes. He thinks he talks English, and makes + such very funny mistakes. He asked us if we had been to + "promenade on monkeys" meaning donkeys, and called the Casino + "the establishment of dance." He addresses all his attentions to + the ma, and only bows to his future wife, who admires her + diamonds and is contented. We are going away on the day of the + wedding, as it is private. + + The girls have just returned in great spirits, for A.'s donkey + kept lying down, and it took all three to get him up again. They + sat in a sort of chair, and looked very funny with the four + little legs under them and long ears flopping before. I shall go + to Garaye some fine day, and will tell you about it. + + Adieu, love to all. + + Yours, + LU. + + _Dinan_, May 6, 1870. + + DEAR PEOPLE,--I have just got a fat letter full of notices from + N.,--all good, and news generally pleasant. + + The great event of the season is over, and Miss F. is Mrs. C. It + was a funny scene, for they had a breakfast the day before, then + on Tuesday the wedding. We did not go, as the church is like a + tomb, but we saw the bride, in white satin, pearls, orange + flowers, and lace, very pretty, and like other brides. Her ma, in + purple moire and black lace, was fine to see; and the little + groom, in full regimentals, with a sabre as large as himself, was + very funny. A lot of people came in carriages to escort them to + church; and our little square was full of queer turnouts, smartly + dressed people, and a great bustle. There was some mistake about + the bride's carriage, and it did not drive up in time, so she + stood on the steps till it came as near as it could, and then she + trotted out to it on Gaston's arm, with her maid holding up her + satin train. Uncle, ma, bride, and brother drove off, but the + groom's carriage was delayed by the breaking of a trace, and + there he sat, with his fat pa and ma, after every one had gone, + fuming, and poking his little cocked hat out of the window, while + the man mended the harness, and every one looked on with + breathless interest. + + We went to D---- with Coste in the P.M., and had a fine view of + the sea and San Malo. We didn't like D----, and won't go there. + When we got home about eight o'clock the wedding dinner was in + full blast, and I caught a glimpse of a happy pair at the head of + the table, surrounded by a lot of rigged-up ladies and fine men, + all gabbing and gabbling as only French folk can. The couple are + still here, resting and getting acquainted before they go to + Lamballe for a week of festivity. A church wedding is a very + funny thing, and I wish you could have seen it. + + The dry season continues, and the people have processions and + masses to pray for rain. One short flurry of hail is all we have + had, and the cold winds still blow. When our month is out we + shall go somewhere near the sea if it is at all warm. Nothing + could be kinder than dear old Coste, and I couldn't be in a + better place to be poorly in than this; she coddles me like a + mother, and is so grieved that I don't get better. + + Send Ma a bit of the gorse flower with which the fields are now + yellow. + + Yours, + LU. + + DINAN, May 13, 1870. + + DEAREST FOLKS,--We drove to Guildo yesterday to see if we should + like it for July. It is a queer little town on the seashore, with + ruins near by, bright houses, and lots of boats. Rooms a franc a + day, and food very cheap. The man of the house--a big, brown, + Peggotty sailor--has a sloop, and promised the girls as much + sailing as they liked. We may go, but our plans are very vague, + and one day we say we will go to one place and the next to + another, and shall probably end by staying where we are. + + Yours, + LU. + + DINAN, May 17, 1870. + + DEAREST PEOPLE,--We run out and do errands in the cool before + breakfast at ten, then we write, sew, and read, and look round, + till four, when we go to drive. May and I in the cherry bounce + with M. Harmon to drive us, and A. on horseback; for, after + endless fuss, she has at last evoked a horse out of chaos, and + comes galloping gayly after us as we drive about the lovely roads + with the gallant hotel-keeper, Adolph Harmon. We are getting + satiated with ruins and chateaux, and plan a trip by water to + Nantes; for the way they do it is to hire a big boat and be towed + by a horse in the most luxurious manner. + + +_To Anna._ + + DINAN, May 25, 1870. + + DEAR BETSEY,[8]--All well. We have also had fun about the queer + food, as we don't like brains, liver, etc. A. does; and when we + eat some mess, not knowing what it is, and find it is sheep's + tails or eels, she exults over us, and writes poems. + + I wander dreadfully, but the girls are racketing, birdie singing + like mad, and nine horses neighing to one another in the place, + so my ideas do not flow as clearly as they should. Besides, I + expect Gaston to come in every minute to show us his rig; for he + is going to a picnic in Breton costume,--a very French affair, + for the party are to march two and two, with fiddlers in front, + and donkeys bearing the feast in the rear. Such larks! + + Yesterday we had a funny time. We went to drive in a basket + chair, very fine, with a perch behind and a smart harness; but + most of the horses here are stallions, and act like time. Ours + went very well at first, but in the town took to cutting up, and + suddenly pounced on to a pile of brush, and stuck his head into a + bake-shop. We tried to get him out, but he only danced and + neighed, and all the horses in town seemed to reply. A man came + and led him on a bit, but he didn't mean to go, and whisked over + to the other side, where he tangled us and himself up with a long + string of team horses. I flew out and May soon followed. A. was + driving, and kept in while the man led the "critter" back to the + stable. I declined my drive with the insane beast, and so we left + him and bundled home in the most ignominious manner. All the + animals are very queer here, and, unlike ours, excessively big. + + We went to a ruin one day, and were about to explore the castle, + when a sow, with her family of twelve, charged through the + gateway at us so fiercely that we fled in dismay; for pigs are + not nice when they attack, as we don't know where to bone 'em, + and I saw a woman one day whose nose had been bitten off by an + angry pig. I flew over a hedge; May tried to follow. I pulled + her over head first, and we tumbled into the tower like a routed + garrison. It wasn't a nice ruin, but we were bound to see it, + having suffered so much. And we did see it, in spite of the pigs, + who waylaid us on all sides, and squealed in triumph when we + left,--dirty, torn, and tired. The ugly things wander at their + own sweet will, and are tall, round-backed, thin wretches, who + run like race horses, and are no respecters of persons. + + Sunday was a great day here, for the children were confirmed. It + was a pretty sight to see the long procession of little girls, in + white gowns and veils, winding through the flowery garden and the + antique square, into the old church, with their happy mothers + following, and the boys in their church robes singing as they + went. The old priest was too ill to perform the service, but the + young one who did announced afterward that if the children would + pass the house the old man would bless them from his bed. So all + marched away down the street, with crosses and candles, and it + was very touching to see the feeble old man stretch out his hands + above them as the little white birds passed by with bended heads, + while the fresh, boyish voices chanted the responses. This old + priest is a very interesting man, for he is a regular saint, + helping every one, keeping his house as a refuge for poor and old + priests, settling quarrels among the people, and watching over + the young people as if they were his own. I shall put him in a + story. + + _Voila!_ Gaston has just come in, rigged in a white embroidered + jacket, with the Dinan coat-of-arms worked in scarlet and yellow + silk on it fore and aft; a funny hat, with streamers, and a belt, + with a knife, horn, etc. He is handsome, and as fond of finery as + a girl. I'll send you his picture next time, and one of Dinan. + + You will see that Marmee has all she needs, and a girl, and as + much money as she wants for being cosey and comfortable. S. E. S. + will let her have all she wants, and make her take it. I'm sorry + the chapel $100 didn't come, for she likes to feel that she has + some of her very own. + + I have written to Conway and Mrs. Taylor, so that if we decide to + take a run to England before we go to Italy, the way will be + open.... + + But Dinan is so healthy and cosey, that we shall linger till the + heat makes us long for the sea. Roses, cherries, strawberries, + and early vegetables are come, and we are in clover. Dear old + Coste broods over us like a motherly hen, and just now desired me + to give her affectionate and respectful compliments to my _bonne + mere_. + + Now I'm spun out; so adieu, my darling Nan. Write often, and I + will keep sending,--trusting that you will get them in time. + + Kisses all round. + + Yours, + LU. + + DINAN, May 30, 1870. + + DEAR FOLKS,--May has made up such a big letter that I will only + add a line to give you the last news of the health of her + Highness Princess Louisa. She is such a public character nowadays + that even her bones are not her own, and her wails of woe cannot + be kept from the long ears of the world,--old donkey as it is! + + Dr. Kane, who was army surgeon in India, and doctor in England + for forty years, says my leg trouble and many of my other woes + come from the calomel they gave me in Washington. He has been + through the same thing with an Indian jungle fever, and has never + got the calomel out of him.... I don't know anything about it, + only my leg is the curse of my life. But I think Dr. K.'s iodine + of potash will cure it in the end, as it did his arms, after + taking it for three months. It is simple, pleasant, and seems to + do something to the bones that gives them ease; so I shall sip + away and give it a good trial. + + We are now revelling in big strawberries, green peas, early + potatoes, and other nice things, on which we shall grow fat as + pigs. + + We are beginning to think of a trip into Normandy, where the H.'s + are. + + Love to all. By-by! + + Your loving + LU. + + No news except through N., who yesterday sent me a nice letter + with July account of $6,212,--a neat little sum for "the Alcotts, + who can't make money!" With $10,000 well invested, and more + coming in all the time, I think we may venture to enjoy + ourselves, after the hard times we have all had. + + The cream of the joke is, that we made our own money ourselves, + and no one gave us a blessed penny. That does soothe my rumpled + soul so much that the glory is not worth thinking of. + + +_To Anna._ + + DINAN, June 4, 1870. + + * * * * * + + The present excitement is the wood which Coste is having put in. + Loads keep coming in queer, heavy carts drawn by four horses + each, and two men to work the machine. Two men chop the great oak + stumps, and a woman puts it in down cellar by the armful. The men + get two francs a day,--forty cents! (Wouldn't our $3 a day + workmen howl at that sort of wages!) When several carts arrive at + once the place is a lively scene. Just now there were three carts + and twelve horses, and eight were all up in a snarl, while + half-a-dozen ladies stood at their doors and gave advice. One + had a half-dressed baby in her arms; one a lettuce she was + washing; another her distaff; and a fourth her little bowl of + soup, which she ate at on the sidewalk, in the intervals + gesticulating so frantically that her sabots rattled on the + stones. The horses had a free fight, and the man couldn't seem to + manage one big one, who romped about like a wild elephant, till + the lady with the baby suddenly set the half-naked cherub on the + doorsteps, charged in among the rampant beasts, and, by some + magic howl or jerk, brought the bad horse to order, when she + quietly returned to her baby, who had sat placidly eating dirt, + and with a calm _Voila, messieurs_, she skipped little Jean into + his shirt, and the men sat down to smoke. + + We are now in great excitement over Gaston, who has lately become + so very amiable that we don't know him. We began by letting the + spoiled child severely alone. This treatment worked well, and now + he offers us things at table, bows when we enter, and to-day + presented us with green tulips, violet shrubs, and queer medals + all round. We have let little bits of news leak out about us, and + they think we are dukes and duchesses in _Amerique_, and + pronounce us _tres spirituelles; tres charmantes; tres seductives + femmes_. We laugh in private, and are used to having the entire + company rise when we enter, and embrace us with ardor, listen + with uplifted hands and shrieks of _mon Dieu! grand ciel!_ etc., + to all remarks, and point us out in public as _les dames + Americaines_. Such is fame! + + An English lady arrived to-day--a Miss B.--dressed, with English + taste, in a little green skirt, pink calico waist, a large + crumpled frill, her hair in a tight knot, one front tooth + sticking straight out, and a golden oriole in a large cage. She + is about forty, very meek and pursy, and the old ladies have been + sitting in a heap since breakfast, talking like mad. + + May has "sack" on the brain just now, and A. has "hose" on the + brain; and at this moment they are both gabbling wildly, one + saying, "I shall trim it with blue and have it pinked!" the other + shrieking, "My hose must be red, with little dragons in black all + over it, like small-pox!" and the bird flies to her upper perch + in dismay at the riot, while I sit and laugh, with an occasional + duennaish, "Young ladies, less noise if you please!" + + It rained last eve, and we are waiting for it to dry before going + out in the donkey chaise to buy a warm bun and some strawberries + for lunch, to be eaten as we parade the town and drink ale at + intervals. + + * * * * * + + Do tell me how things are about my pictures. I see they are + advertised, and if they sell I want my share of the profits. Send + me one of those that are in the market, after taking off the + heavy card. + + Love to all, and the best of luck. + + Ever your + LU. + + HOTEL D'UNIVERSE, TOURS, June 17, 1870. + + DEAREST PEOPLE,--Our wanderings have begun again, and here we are + in this fine old city in a cosey hotel, as independent and happy + as three old girls can be. We left Dinan Wednesday at 7 A.M. + Gaston got up to see us off,--a most unusual and unexpected + honor; also Mrs. B. and all the old ladies, whom we left + dissolved in tears. + + We had a lovely sail down the river to St. Malo, where we + breakfasted at Hotel Franklin, a quaint old house in a flowery + corner. At twelve we went by rail to Le Mans,--a long trip,--and + arrived at 6 P.M. so tired that we went to bed in the moonlight + while a band played in the square before the hotel, and the + sidewalks before the cafe were full of people taking ices and + coffee round little tables. + + Next morning we went to see the famous cathedral and had + raptures, for it is like a dream in stone. Pure Gothic of the + twelfth century, with the tomb of Berengaria, wife of Coeur de + Leon, stained glass of the richest kind, dim old chapels with + lamps burning, a gorgeous high altar all crimson and gold and + carmine, and several organs. Anything more lovely and divine I + never saw, for the arches, so light and graceful, seemed to soar + up one above the other like the natural curves of trees or the + spray of a great fountain. We spent a long time here and I sat + above in the quaint old chapel with my eyes and heart full, and + prayed a little prayer for my family. Old women and men knelt + about in corners telling their beads, and the priest was quietly + saying his prayers at the altar. Outside it was a pile of gray + stone, with towers and airy pinnacles full of carved saints and + busy rooks. I don't think we shall see anything finer anywhere. + It was very hot for there had been no rain for four months, so we + desired to start for town at 5 and get in about 8 as it is light + then. + + We had a pleasant trip in the cool of the day, and found Tours a + great city, like Paris on a small scale. Our hotel is on the + boulevard, and the trees, fountains, and fine carriages make our + windows very tempting. We popped into bed early; and my bones are + so much better that I slept without any opium or anything,--a + feat I have not performed for some time. + + This morning we had coffee and rolls in bed, then as it was a + fine cool day we dressed up clean and nice and went out for a + walk. At the post-office we found your letters of May 31, one + from Nan and Ma, and one from L. We were exalted, and went into + the garden and read them in bliss, with the grand cathedral right + before us. Cathedral St. Martin, twelfth century, with tomb of + Charles XIII.'s children, the armor of Saint Louis, fine pictures + of Saint Martin, his cloak, etc. May will tell you about it and I + shall put in a photograph, if I can find one. We are now--12 + o'clock--in our pleasant room all round the table writing letters + and resting for another trip by and by. + + The _Fete Dieu_ is on Monday,--very splendid,--and we shall then + see the cathedral in its glory. To-day a few hundred children + were having their first communion there, girls all in white, with + scarlet boys, crosses, candles, music, priests, etc. Get a + Murray, and on the map of France follow us to Geneva, _via_ St. + Malo, Le Mans, Tours, Amboise and Blois, Orleans, Nevers, Autun. + We may go to the Vosges instead of the Jura if Mrs. H. can go, as + A. wants to see her again. But we head for the Alps of some sort + and will report progress as we go. + + My money holds out well so far, as we go second class. + + +_To her Father._ + + TOURS, June 20, 1870. + + DEAR PAPA,--Before we go on to fresh "chateaux and churches new," + I must tell you about the sights here in this pleasant, clean, + handsome old city. May has done the church for you, and I send a + photograph to give some idea of it. The inside is very beautiful; + and we go at sunset to see the red light make the gray walls + lovely outside and the shadows steal from chapel to chapel + inside, filling the great church with what is really "a dim + religious gloom." We wandered about it the other evening till + moonrise, and it was very interesting to see the people scattered + here and there at their prayers; some kneeling before Saint + Martin's shrine, some in a flowery little nook dedicated to the + infant Christ, and one, a dark corner with a single candle + lighting up a fine picture of the Mater Dolorosa, where a widow + all in her weeds sat alone, crying and praying. In another a sick + old man sat, while his old wife knelt by him praying with all her + might to Saint Gratien (the patron saint of the church) for her + dear old invalid. Nuns and priests glided about, and it was all + very poetical and fine, till I came to an imposing priest in a + first class chapel who was taking snuff and gaping, instead of + piously praying. + + The _Fete Dieu_ was yesterday, and I went out to see the + procession. The streets were hung with old tapestry, and sheets + covered with flowers. Crosses, crowns, and bouquets were + suspended from house to house, and as the procession approached, + women ran out and scattered green boughs and rose-leaves before + the train. A fine band and a lot of red soldiers came first, then + the different saints on banners, carried by girls, and followed + by long trains of girls bearing the different emblems. Saint + Agnes and her lamb was followed by a flock of pretty young + children all in white, carrying tall white lilies that filled the + air with their fragrance. + + "Mary our Mother" was followed by orphans with black ribbons + crossed on their breasts. Saint Martin led the charity boys in + their gray suits, etc. The Host under a golden canopy was borne + by priests in gorgeous rig, and every one knelt as it passed with + censors swinging, candles burning, boys chanting, and flowers + dropping from the windows. A pretty young lady ran out and set + her baby in a pile of green leaves in the middle of the street + before the Host, and it passed over the little thing who sat + placidly staring at the show and admiring its blue shoes. I + suppose it is a saved and sacred baby henceforth. + + It was a fine pageant and quite touching, some of it; but as + usual, I saw something funny to spoil the solemnity. A very fat + and fine priest, who walked with his eyes upon his book and sung + like a pious bumblebee, suddenly destroyed the effect by rapping + a boy over the head with his gold prayer-book, as the black sheep + strayed a little from the flock. I thought the old saint swore + also. + + The procession went from the cathedral to Charlemagne's Tower, an + old, old relic, all that is left of the famous church which once + covered a great square. We went to see it, and the stones looked + as if they were able to tell wonderful tales of the scenes they + had witnessed all these hundreds of years. I think the + "Reminiscences of a Rook" would be a good story, for these old + towers are full of them, and they are long-lived birds. + + AMBOISE, THE GOLDEN LION, + Tuesday, June 21, 1870. + + Here we go again! now in an utterly different scene from Tours. + We left at 5 P.M., and in half an hour were here on the banks of + the Loire in a queer little inn where we are considered duchesses + at least, owing to our big trunks and A.'s good French. I am the + Madame, May Mam'selle, and A. the companion. + + Last evening being lovely, we went after dinner up to the castle + where Charles VIII. was born in 1470. The Arab chief, + Abd-el-Kader, and family were kept prisoners here, and in the old + garden is a tomb with the crescent over it where some of them + were buried. May was told about the terrace where the Huguenots + hung thick and the court enjoyed the sight till the Loire, + choked up with dead bodies, forced them to leave. We saw the + little low door where Anne of Brittany's first husband Charles + VIII. "bumped his head" and killed himself, as he was running + through to play bowls with his wife. + + It has been modernized and is now being restored as in old times, + so the interior was all in a toss. But we went down the winding + road inside the tower, up which the knights and ladies used to + ride. Father would have enjoyed the _pleached_ walks, for they + are cut so that looking down on them, it is like a green floor, + and looking up it is a thick green wall. There also Margaret of + Anjou and her son were reconciled to Warwick. Read Murray, I beg, + and see all about it. We sat in the twilight on the terrace and + saw what Fred would have liked, a little naked boy ride into the + river on one horse after another, and swim them round in the deep + water till they were all clean and cool. + + This morning at 7 o'clock we drove to Chenonceaux, the chateau + given by Henry II. to Diane de Poictiers. It was a lovely day, + and we went rolling along through the most fruitful country I + ever saw. Acre on acre of yellow grain, vineyards miles long, + gardens and orchards full of roses and cherries. The Cher is a + fine river winding through the meadows, where haymakers were at + work and fat cattle feeding. It was a very happy hour, and the + best thing I saw was May's rapturous face opposite, as she sat + silently enjoying everything, too happy to talk. + + The chateau built over the water is very interesting; Catherine + de Medicis took it away from Diane when the king died, and her + room is still seen as she left it; also a picture of Diane, a + tall simpering woman in a tunic, with hounds, stag, cupids, and + other rubbish round her. The gallery of pictures was fine; for + here were old, old portraits and bas-reliefs, Agnes Sorel, + Montaigne, Rabelais, many kings and queens, and among them + Lafayette and dear old Ben Franklin. + + There is a little theatre where Rousseau's plays were acted. This + place at the time of the Revolution belonged to the grandmother + of George Sand, and she was so much respected that no harm was + done to it. So three cheers for Madame Dupin! Among the pictures + were Ninon D'Enclos, and Madame Sevigne holding a picture of her + beloved daughter. The Guidos, etc. I don't care for so much as + they were all grimy and convulsive, and I prefer pictures of + people who really lived, to these impossible Venuses and + repulsive saints,--bad taste, but I can't help it. The walls were + hung with stamped leather and tapestry, carved chairs in which + queens had sat, tables at which kings had eaten, books they had + read, and glasses that had reflected their faces were all about, + and I just revelled. The old kitchen had a fireplace quaint + enough to suit Pa, with immense turn-spits, cranes, andirons, + etc. The chapel, balcony, avenue, draw-bridge, and all the other + pleasing bits were enjoyed, and I stole a sprig of jasmine from + the terrace which I shall press for Mamma. Pray take extra care + of the photographs, for if lost, we cannot replace them, and I + want to make a fine album of pictures with flowers and + descriptions after I get home.... But all goes well and we enjoy + much every day. Love to all, + + LU. + + +_To her Mother._ + + BLOIS, June 24, 1870. + + DEAR MARMEE,--On this, Lizzie's and Johnny's birthday, I'll begin + a letter to you. We found at the Poste Restante here two "Moods" + and a paper for me, one book from L., and one from N. I think + the pictures horrid, and sent them floating down the Loire as + soon as possible, and put one book at the bottom of my trunk and + left the other where no one will find it. I couldn't read the + story, and try to forget that I ever wrote it. + + Blois is a noisy, dusty, soldierly city with nothing to admire + but the river, nearly dry now with this four months' drought, and + the old castle where Francis I., Louis XII., Catherine de + Medicis, and other great folks lived. It has been very splendidly + restored by the Government, and the ceilings are made with beams + blazoned with coats-of-arms, the walls hung with cameos, painted + with the same design as the stamped leather in old times, and the + floors inlaid with colored tiles. Brown and gold, scarlet, blue, + and silver, quaint dragons and flowers, porcupines and + salamanders, crowns and letters, glittered everywhere. We saw the + guard-room and the very chimney where the Duc de Guise was + leaning when the king Henry III. sent for him; the little door + where the king's gentlemen fell upon and stabbed him with forty + wounds; the cabinet where the king and his mother plotted the + deed; the chapel where the monks prayed for success; and the + great hall where the body lay covered with a cloak till the king + came and looked at it and kicked his dead enemy, saying, "I did + not think he was so tall." We also saw the cell where the brother + of the duke was murdered the next day, and the attic entire where + their bodies were burnt, after which the ashes were thrown into + the Loire by order of the king; the window out of which Marie de + Medicis lowered herself when her son Louis XIII. imprisoned her + there; the recess where Catherine de Medicis died; and many other + interesting places. What a set of rascals these old kings and + queens were! + + The _Salle des Etats_ was very gorgeous, and here in a week or so + are to be tried the men who lately fired at the Emperor. It will + be a grand, a fine sight when the great arched hall is full. I + got a picture of the castle, and one of a fireplace for Pa. It is + a mass of gold and color, with the porcupine of Louis XIII. and + the ermine of his wife Anne of Brittany, their arms, in medallion + over it. + + At 5 P.M. we go on to Orleans for a day, where I shall get some + relics of Joan of Arc for Nan. We shall pass Sunday at Bourges + where the great church is, and then either to Geneva or the Jura, + for a few weeks of rest. + + GENEVA, June 29, 1870. + + It seems almost like getting home again to be here where I never + thought to come again when I went away five years ago. We are at + the Metropole Hotel right on the lake with a glimpse of Mount + Blanc from our windows. It is rather fine after the grimy little + inns of Brittany, and we enjoy a sip of luxury and put on our + best gowns with feminine satisfaction after living in old + travelling suits for a fortnight. + + I began my letter at Blois, where we spent a day or two. At + Orleans we only passed a night, but we had time to see the famous + statue of the Maid, put up in gratitude by the people of the city + she saved. It is a fine statue of Joan in her armor on horseback, + with her sword drawn. Round the base of the statue are bronzed + bas-reliefs of her life from the girl with her sheep, to the + martyr at the stake. They were very fine, but don't show much in + the photograph which I got for Nan, remembering the time when she + translated Schiller's play for me. + + At Bourges we saw the great cathedral, but didn't like it as well + as that in Tours. We only spent a night there, and A. bought an + antique ring of the time of Francis I.,--an emerald set in + diamonds. It cost $9, and is very quaint and handsome. + + Moulins we reached Sunday noon, and at 3 o'clock went to vespers + in the old church, where we saw a good deal of mumbo-jumbo by + red, purple, and yellow priests, and heard a boy with a lovely + voice sing in the hidden choir like a little angel among the + clouds. A. had a fancy to stay a week, if we could find rooms out + of town in some farm-house; for the handsome white cattle have + captivated her, and we were rather tired. So the old lady at the + hotel said she had a little farm-house out in the fields, and we + should go see it with her in basket _chay_. After dinner we all + piled in and went along a dusty road to a little dirty + garden-house with two rooms and a few cabbages and rose-bushes + round it. She said we could sleep and eat at the hotel and come + down here for the day. That didn't suit at all, so we declined; + and on Monday morning we set out for Lyons. It was a very + interesting trip under, over, and through the mountains with two + engines and much tunnelling and up-and-down grading. May was + greatly excited at the queer things we did, and never knew that + cars could turn such sharp corners. We wound about so that we + could see the engine whisking out of sight round one corner while + we were turning another, and the long train looked like a snake + winding through the hills. The tunnels were so long that lamps + were lighted, and so cold we put on our sacks while passing in + the darkness. The scenery was very fine; and after we left Lyons, + where we merely slept, the Alps began to appear, and May and I + stared in blissful silence; for we had two tall old men opposite, + and a little priest, so young that we called him the Rev. boy. He + slept and said his prayers most of the time, stealing sly looks + at May's hair, A.'s pretty hands, and my buckled shoes, which + were like his own and seemed to strike him as a liberty on my + part. The old boys were very jolly, especially the one with three + chins, who smiled paternally upon us and tried to talk. But we + were very English and mum, and he thought we didn't understand + French, and confided to his friend that he didn't see "how the + English could travel and know not the French tongue." They sang, + gabbled, slept, and slapped one another at intervals, and were + very amusing till they left, and another very handsome Booth-like + priest took their places. + + +_To her Father._ + + BEX, July 14, 1870. + + DEAR PA,--As I have not written to you yet, I will send you a + picture-letter and tell you about the very interesting old Count + Sz-- who is here. This morning he asked us to go to the hills and + see some curious trees which he says were planted from acorns and + nuts brought from Mexico by Atala. We found some very ancient + oaks and chestnuts, and the enthusiastic old man told us the + story about the Druids who once had a church, amphitheatre, and + sacrificial altar up there. No one knows much about it, and he + imagines a good deal to suit his own pet theory. You would have + liked to hear him hold forth about the races and Zoroaster, + Plato, etc. He is a Hungarian of a very old family, descended + from Semiramide and Zenobia. He believes that the body can be + cured often by influencing the soul, and that doctors should be + priests, and priests doctors, as the two affect the body and soul + which depend on one another. He is doing a great deal for Miss + W., who has tried many doctors and got no help. I never saw such + a kindly, simple, enthusiastic, old soul, for at sixty-seven he + is as full of hope and faith and good-will as a young man. I told + him I should like my father to see a little book he has written, + and he is going to give me one. + + We like this quiet little place among the mountains, and pass + lazy days; for it is very warm, and we sit about on our balconies + enjoying the soft air, the moonlight, and the changing aspect of + the hills. + + May had a fine exciting time going up St. Bernard, and is now + ready for another.... + + The Polish Countess and her daughter have been reading my books + and are charmed with them. Madame says she is not obliged to turn + down any pages so that the girls may not read them, as she does + in many books, "All is so true, so sweet, so pious, she may read + every word." + + I send by this mail the count's little pamphlet. I don't know as + it amounts to much, but I thought you might like to see it. + + Love to every one, and write often to your + + Affectionate daughter + L. M. A. + + BEX, July 18, 1870. + + DEAR PEOPLE,--The breaking out of this silly little war between + France and Prussia will play the deuce with our letters. I have + had none from you for a long time; and Alexandre, the English + waiter here, says that the mails will be left to come as they + can, for the railroads are all devoted to carrying troops to the + seat of war. The French have already crossed the Rhine, and + rumors of a battle came last eve; but the papers have not + arrived, and no letters for any one, so all are fuming for news, + public and private, and I am howling for my home letter, which is + more important than all the papers on the continent.... + + Don't be worried if you don't hear regularly, or think us in + danger. Switzerland is out of the mess, and if she gets in, we + can skip over into Italy, and be as cosey as possible. It will + make some difference in money, perhaps, as Munroe in Paris is our + banker, and we shall be plagued about our letters, otherwise the + war won't effect us a bit; I dare say you know as much about it + as we do, and Marmee is predicting "a civil war" all over the + world. We hear accounts of the frightful heat with you. Don't + wilt away before we come.... + + Lady Amberley is a trump, and I am glad she says a word for her + poor sex though she _is_ a peeress.... + + I should like to have said of me what Hedge says of Dickens; and + when I die, I should prefer such a memory rather than a tomb in + Westminster Abbey. + + * * * * * + + I hope to have a good letter from Nan soon. May does the + descriptions so well that I don't try it, being lazy. + + LU. + + +_To Anna._ + + SUNDAY, July 24, 1870. + + ... The war along the Rhine is sending troops of travellers to + Switzerland for refuge; and all the large towns are brimful of + people flying from Germany. It won't trouble us, for we have done + France and don't mean to do Germany. So when August is over, we + shall trot forward to Italy, and find a warm place for our + winter-quarters. At any time twenty-four hours carries us over + the Simplon, so we sit at ease and don't care a straw for old + France and Prussia. Russia, it is reported, has joined in the + fight, but Italy and England are not going to meddle, so we can + fly to either "in case of fire."[9] + + BEX, July 27, 1870. + + We heard of Dickens's death some weeks ago and have been reading + notices, etc., in all the papers since. One by G. Greenwood in + the Tribune was very nice. I shall miss my old Charlie, but he is + not the old idol he once was.... + + Did you know that Higginson and a little girl friend had written + out the Operatic Tragedy in "Little Women" and set the songs to + music and it was all to be put in "Our Young Folks." What are we + coming to in our old age? Also I hope to see the next designs N. + has got for "Little Women." I know nothing about them. + + +_To her Mother._ + + 3 P.M., BEX, July 31, 1870. + + Papers are suppressed by the Government so we know nothing about + the war, except the rumors that float about. But people seem to + think that Europe is in for a general fight, and there is no + guessing when it will end. + + The trouble about getting into Italy is, that civil war always + breaks out there and things are so mixed up that strangers get + into scrapes among the different squabblers. When the P.'s were + abroad during the last Italian fuss, they got shut up in some + little city and would have been killed by Austrians, who were + rampaging round the place drunk and mad, if a woman had not hid + them in a closet for a day and night, and smuggled them out at + last, when they ran for their lives. I don't mean to get into any + mess, and between Switzerland and England we can manage for a + winter. London is so near home and so home-like that we shall be + quite handy and can run up to Boston at any time. Perhaps Pa will + step across to see us. + + All these plans may be knocked in the head to-morrow and my next + letter may be dated from the Pope's best parlor or Windsor + Castle; but I like to spin about on ups and downs so you can have + something to talk about at Apple Slump. Uncertainty gives a + relish to things, so we chase about and have a dozen plans a day. + It is an Alcott failing you know.... + + Love to all and bless you, + + Ever yours + LU. + + BEX, Aug. 7, 1870. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--I keep receiving requests from editors to write + for their papers and magazines. I am truly grateful, but having + come abroad for rest I am not inclined to try the treadmill till + my year's vacation is over. So to appease these worthy gentlemen + and excuse my seeming idleness I send you a trifle in rhyme,[10] + which you can (if you think it worth the trouble) set going as a + general answer to everybody; for I can't pay postage in replies + to each separately,--"it's very costly." Mr. F. said he would pay + me $10, $15, $20 for any little things I would send him; so + perhaps you will let him have it first. + + The war makes the bankers take double toll on our money, so we + feel very poor and as if we ought to be earning, not spending; + only we are _so_ lazy we can't bear to think of it in earnest.... + + We shall probably go to London next month if the war forbids + Italy for the winter; and if we can't get one dollar without + paying five for it, we shall come home disgusted. + + Perhaps if I can do nothing else this year I could have a book of + short stories, old and new, for Christmas. F. and F. have some + good ones, and I have the right to use them. We could call them + "Jo March's Necessity Stories." Would it go with new ones added + and good illustrations? + + I am rising from my ashes in a most phoenix-like manner. + + L. M.A. + + +_To her Mother._ + + VEVAY, PENSION PARADIS, Aug. 11, 1870. + + DEAR MARMEE,--.... This house is very cosey, and the food + excellent. I thought it would be when I heard gentlemen liked + it,--they always want good fodder. There are only three now,--an + old Spaniard and his son, and a young Frenchman. We see them at + meals, and the girls play croquet with them.... + + This is the gay season here, and in spite of the war Vevay is + full. The ex-Queen of Spain and her family are here at the Grand + Hotel; also Don Carlos, the rightful heir to the Spanish throne. + Our landlady says that her house used to be full of Spaniards, + who every day went in crowds to call on the two kings, Alphonse + and Carlos. We see brown men and women with black eyes driving + round in fine coaches, with servants in livery, who I suppose are + the Court people. + + The papers tell us that the French have lost two big battles; the + Prussians are in Strasbourg, and Paris in a state of siege. The + papers are also full of theatrical messages from the French to + the people, asking them to come up and be slaughtered for _la + patrie_, and sober, cool reports from the Prussians. I side with + the Prussians, for they sympathized with us in our war. Hooray + for old Pruss!... + + France is having a bad time. Princess Clotilde passed through + Geneva the other day with loads of baggage, flying to Italy; and + last week a closed car with the imperial arms on it went by here + in the night,--supposed to be Matilde and other royal folks + flying away from Paris. The Prince Imperial has been sent home + from the seat of war; and poor Eugenie is doing her best to keep + things quiet in Paris. The French here say that a republic is + already talked of; and the Emperor is on his last legs in every + way. He is sick, and his doctor won't let him ride, and so + nervous he can't command the army as he wanted to. Poor old man! + one can't help pitying him when all his plans fail. + + We still dawdle along, getting fat and hearty. The food is + excellent. A breakfast of coffee and tip-top bread, fresh butter, + with eggs or fried potatoes, at 8; a real French dinner at 1.30, + of soup, fish, meat, game, salad, sweet messes, and fruit, with + wine; and at 7 cold meat, salad, sauce, tea, and bread and + butter. It is grape time now, and for a few cents we get pounds, + on which we feast all day at intervals. We walk and play as well + as any one, and feel so well I ought to do something.... + + Fred and Jack would like to look out of my window now and see the + little boys playing in the lake. They are there all day long like + little pigs, and lie around on the warm stones to dry, splashing + one another for exercise. One boy, having washed himself, is now + washing his clothes, and all lying out to dry together.... + + Ever yours, + LU. + + +_To Anna._ + + VEVAY, Aug. 21, 1870. + + I had such a droll dream last night I must tell you. I thought I + was returning to Concord after my trip, and was alone. As I + walked from the station I missed Mr. Moore's house, and turning + the corner, found the scene so changed that I did not know where + I was. Our house was gone, and in its place stood a great gray + stone castle, with towers and arches and lawns and bridges, very + fine and antique. Somehow I got into it without meeting any one + of you, and wandered about trying to find my family. At last I + came across Mr. Moore, papering a room, and asked him where his + house was. He didn't know me, and said,-- + + "Oh! I sold it to Mr. Alcott for his school, and we live in Acton + now." + + "Where did Mr. Alcott get the means to build this great concern?" + I asked. + + "Well, he _gave_ his own land, and took the great pasture his + daughter left him,--the one that died some ten years ago." + + "So I am dead, am I?" says I to myself, feeling so queerly. + + "Government helped build this place, and Mr. A. has a fine + college here," said Mr. Moore, papering away again. + + I went on, wondering at the news, and looked into a glass to see + how I looked dead. I found myself a fat old lady, with gray hair + and specs,--very like E. P. P. I laughed, and coming to a Gothic + window, looked out and saw hundreds of young men and boys in a + queer flowing dress, roaming about the parks and lawns; and among + them was Pa, looking as he looked thirty years ago, with brown + hair and a big white neckcloth, as in the old times. He looked so + plump and placid and young and happy I was charmed to see him, + and nodded; but he didn't know me; and I was so grieved and + troubled at being a Rip Van Winkle, I cried, and said I had + better go away and not disturb any one,--and in the midst of my + woe, I woke up. It was all so clear and funny, I can't help + thinking that it may be a foreshadowing of something real. I used + to dream of being famous, and it has partly become true; so why + not Pa's college blossom, and he get young and happy with his + disciples? I only hope he won't quite forget me when I come back, + fat and gray and old. Perhaps his dream is to come in another + world, where everything is fresh and calm, and the reason why he + didn't recognize me was because I was still in this work-a-day + world, and so felt old and strange in this lovely castle in the + air. Well, he is welcome to my fortune; but the daughter who did + die ten years ago is more likely to be the one who helped him + build his School of Concord up aloft. + + I can see how the dream came; for I had been looking at Silling's + boys in their fine garden, and wishing I could go in and know the + dear little lads walking about there, in the forenoon. I had got + a topknot at the barber's, and talked about my gray hairs, and + looking in the glass thought how fat and old I was getting, and + had shown the B.'s Pa's picture, which they thought saintly, etc. + I believe in dreams, though I am free to confess that + "cowcumbers" for tea may have been the basis of this + "ally-gorry-cal wision."... + + As we know the Consul at Spezzia,--that is, we have letters to + him, as well as to many folks in Rome, etc.,--I guess we shall + go; for the danger of Europe getting into the fight is over now, + and we can sail to England or home any time from Italy.... Love + to every one. + + Kiss my _cousin_ for me. + + Ever your + LU. + + +_To Mr. Niles._ + + AUGUST 23, 1870. + + Your note of August 2 has just come, with a fine budget of + magazines and a paper, for all of which many thanks. + + * * * * * + + Don't give my address to any one. I don't want the young ladies' + notes. They can send them to Concord, and I shall get them next + year. + + * * * * * + + The boys at Silling's school are a perpetual source of delight to + me; and I stand at the gate, like the Peri, longing to go in and + play with the lads. The young ladies who want to find live + Lauries can be supplied here, for Silling has a large assortment + always on hand. + + My B. says she is constantly trying to incite me to literary + effort, but I hang fire. So I do,--but only that I may go off + with a bang by and by, _a la mitrailleuse_. + + L. M. A. + + +_To her Family._ + + VEVAY, Aug. 29, 1870. + + DEAR PEOPLE,--... M. Nicaud, the owner of this house,--a funny + old man, with a face so like a parrot that we call him M. + Perrot,--asked us to come and visit him at his _chalet_ up among + the hills. He is building a barn there, and stays to see that all + goes well; so we only see him on Sundays, when he convulses us by + his funny ways. Last week seven of us went up in a big landau, + and the old dear entertained us like a prince. We left the + carriage at the foot of a little steep path, and climbed up to + the dearest old _chalet_ we ever saw. Here Pa Nicaud met us, took + us up the outside steps into his queer little salon, and regaled + us with his sixty-year old wine and nice little cakes. We then + set forth, in spite of clouds and wind, to view the farm and + wood. It showered at intervals, but no one seemed to care; so we + trotted about under umbrellas, getting mushrooms, flowers, and + colds, viewing the Tarpeian Rock, and sitting on rustic seats to + enjoy the _belle vue_, which consisted of fog. It was such a + droll lark that we laughed and ran, and enjoyed the damp picnic + very much. Then we had a tip-top Swiss dinner, followed by + coffee, three sorts of wine, and cigars. Every one smoked, and as + it poured guns, the old Perrot had a blazing fire made, round + which we sat, talking many languages, singing, and revelling. We + had hardly got through dinner and seen another foggy view when + tea was announced, and we stuffed again, having pitchers of + cream, fruit, and a queer but very nice dish of slices of light + bread dipped in egg and fried, and eaten with sugar. The buxom + Swiss maid flew and grinned, and kept serving up some new mess + from her tiny dark kitchen. It cleared off, and we walked home in + spite of our immense exploits in the eating line. Old Perrot + escorted us part way down, and we gave three cheers for him as we + parted. Then we showed Madame and the French governess and Don + Juan (the Spanish boy) some tall walking, though the roads were + very steep and rough and muddy. We tramped some five miles; and + our party (May, A., the governess, and I) got home long before + Madame and Don Juan, who took a short cut, and wouldn't believe + that we didn't get a lift somehow. I felt quite proud of my old + pins; for they were not tired, and none the worse for the long + walk. I think they are really all right now, for the late cold + weather has not troubled them in the least; and I sleep--O ye + gods, how I do sleep!--ten or twelve hours sound, and get up so + drunk with dizziness it is lovely to see. Aint I grateful? Oh, + yes! oh, yes! + + We began French lessons to-day, May and I, of the French + governess,--a kind old girl who only asks two francs a lesson. We + _must_ speak the language, for it is disgraceful to be so stupid; + so we have got to work, and mean to be able to _parlez-vous_ or + die. The war is still a nuisance, and we may be here some time, + and really need some work; for we are so lazy we shall be spoilt, + if we don't fall to.... + + I gave Count C. Pa's message, and he was pleased. He reads no + English, and is going to Hungary soon; so Pa had better not send + the book.... + + LU. + + VEVAY, Sept. 10, 1870. + + DEAR PEOPLE,--As all Europe seems to be going to destruction, I + hasten to drop a line before the grand smash arrives. We mean to + skip over the Alps next week, if weather and war permit; for we + are bound to see Milan and the lakes, even if we have to turn and + come back without a glimpse of Rome. The Pope is beginning to + perk up; and Italy and England and Russia seem ready to join in + the war, now that France is down. Think of Paris being bombarded + and smashed up like Strasbourg. We never shall see the grand old + cathedral at Strasbourg now, it is so spoilt. + + Vevay is crammed with refugees from Paris and Strasbourg. Ten + families applied here yesterday.... + + Our house is brimful, and we have funny times. The sick Russian + lady and her old Ma make a great fuss if a breath of air comes in + at meal times, and expect twenty people to sit shut tight in a + smallish room for an hour on a hot day. We protested, and Madame + put them in the parlor, where they glower as we pass, and lock + the door when they can. The German Professor is learning English, + and is a quiet, pleasant man. The Polish General, a little + cracked, is very droll, and bursts out in the middle of the + general chat with stories about transparent apples and golden + horses.... Benda, the crack book-and-picture man, has asked May + if she was the Miss Alcott who wrote the popular books; for he + said he had many calls for them, and wished to know where they + could be found. We told him "at London," and felt puffed up.... + + May and I delve away at French; but it makes my head ache, and I + don't learn enough to pay for the trouble. I never could _study_, + you know, and suffer such agony when I try that it is piteous to + behold. The little brains I have left I want to keep for future + works, and not exhaust them on grammar,--vile invention of Satan! + May gets on slowly, and don't have fits after it; so she had + better go on (the lessons only cost two francs).... + + L. M. A. + + +_To her Mother._ + + LAGO DI COMO, Oct. 8, 1870. + + DEAREST MARMEE,--A happy birthday, and many of 'em! Here we + actually are in the long-desired Italy, and find it as lovely as + we hoped. Our journey was a perfect success,--sunlight, + moonlight, magnificent scenery, pleasant company, no mishaps, and + one long series of beautiful pictures all the way. + + Crossing the Simplon is an experience worth having; for without + any real danger, fatigue, or hardship, one sees some of the + finest as well as most awful parts of these wonderful Alps. + + The road,--a miracle in itself! for all Nature seems to protest + against it, and the elements never tire of trying to destroy it. + Only a Napoleon would have dreamed of making a path through such + a place; and he only cared for it as a way to get his men and + cannon into an enemy's country by this truly royal road. + + May has told you about our trip; so I will only add a few bits + that she forgot. + + Our start in the dawn from Brieg, with two diligences, a + carriage, and a cart, was something between a funeral and a + caravan: first an immense diligence with seven horses, then a + smaller one with four, then our _caleche_ with two, and finally + the carrier's cart with one. It was very exciting,--the general + gathering of sleepy travellers in the dark square, the tramping + of horses, the packing in, the grand stir of getting off; then + the slow winding up, up, up out of the valley toward the sun, + which came slowly over the great hills, rising as we never saw it + rise before. The still, damp pine-forests kept us in shadow a + long time after the white mountain-tops began to shine. Little by + little we wound through a great gorge, and then the sun came + dazzling between these grand hills, showing us a new world. Peak + after peak of the Bernese Oberland rose behind us, and great + white glaciers lay before us; while the road crept like a narrow + line, in and out over chasms that made us dizzy to look at, under + tunnels, and through stone galleries with windows over which + dashed waterfalls from the glaciers above. Here and there were + refuges, a hospice, and a few _chalets_, where shepherds live + their wild, lonely lives. In the P.M. we drove rapidly down + toward Italy through the great Valley of Gondo,--a deep rift in + rock thousands of feet deep, and just wide enough for the road + and a wild stream that was our guide; a never-to-be-forgotten + place, and a fit gateway to Italy, which soon lay smiling below + us. The change is very striking; and when we came to Lago + Maggiore lying in the moonlight we could only sigh for happiness, + and love and look and look. After a good night's rest at Stresa, + we went in a charming gondola-sort of boat to see Isola + Bella,--the island you see in the chromo over the fireplace at + home,--a lovely island, with famous castle, garden, and town on + it. The day was as balmy as summer, and we felt like butterflies + after a frost, and fluttered about, enjoying the sunshine all + day. + + A sail by steamer brought us to Luino, where we went on the + diligence to Lugano. Moonlight all the way, and a gay driver, who + wound his horn as we clattered into market-places and over + bridges in the most gallant style. The girls were on top, and in + a state of rapture all the way. After supper in a vaulted, + frescoed hall, with marble floors, pillars, and galleries, we + went to a room which had green doors, red carpet, blue walls, and + yellow bed-covers,--all so gay! It was like sleeping in a + rainbow. + + As if a heavenly lake under our windows with moonlight _ad + libitum_ wasn't enough, we had music next door; and on leaning + out of a little back window, we made the splendid discovery that + we could look on to the stage of the opera-house across a little + alley. My Nan can imagine with what rapture I stared at the + scenes going on below me, and how I longed for her as I stood + there wrapped in my yellow bed-quilt, and saw gallant knights in + armor warble sweetly to plump ladies in masks, or pretty peasants + fly wildly from ardent lovers in red tights; also a dishevelled + maid who tore her hair in a forest, while a man aloft made + thunder and lightning,--and _I saw him do it_! + + It was the climax to a splendid day; for few travellers can go to + the opera luxuriously in their night-gowns, and take naps between + the acts as I did. + + A lovely sail next morning down the lake; then a carriage to + Menaggio; and then a droll boat, like a big covered market-wagon + with a table and red-cushioned seats, took us and our trunks to + Cadenabbia, for there is only a donkey road to the little town. + At the hotel on the edge of the lake we found Nelly L., a sweet + girl as lovely as Minnie, and so glad to see us; for since her + mother died in Venice last year she has lived alone with her + maid. She had waited for us, and next day went to Milan, where + we join her on Monday. She paints; and May and she made plans at + once to study together, and enjoy some of the free art-schools at + Milan and Naples or Florence, if we can all be together. It is a + great chance for May, and I mean she shall have a good time, and + not wait for tools and teachers; for all is in the way of her + profession, and of use to her. + + Cadenabbia is only two hotels and a few villas opposite Bellagio, + which is a town, and fashionable. We were rowed over to see it by + our boatman, who spends his time at the front of the stone steps + before the hotel, and whenever we go out he tells us, "The lake + is tranquil; the hour is come for a walk on the water," and is as + coaxing as only an Italian can be. He is amiably tipsy most of + the time. + + To-day it rains so we cannot go out, and I rest and write to my + Marmee in a funny room with a stone floor inlaid till it looks + like castile soap, a ceiling in fat cupids and trumpeting + fairies, a window on the lake, with balcony, etc. Hand-organs + with jolly singing boys jingle all day, and two big bears go by + led by a man with a drum. The boys would laugh to see them dance + on their hind legs, and shoulder sticks like soldiers. + + ... All looks well, and if the winter goes on rapidly and + pleasantly as the summer we shall soon be thinking of home, + unless one of us decides to stay. I shall post this at Milan + to-morrow, and hope to find letters there from you. By-by till + then. + + +_Journal._ + + _October_, 1870.--A memorable month.... Off for Italy on the 2d. + A splendid journey over the Alps and Maggiore by moonlight. + + Heavenly days at the lakes, and so to Milan, Parma, Pisa, + Bologna, and Florence. Disappointed in some things, but found + Nature always lovely and wonderful; so didn't mind faded + pictures, damp rooms, and the cold winds of "sunny Italy." Bought + furs at Florence, and arrived in Rome one rainy night. + + _November 10th._--In Rome, and felt as if I had been there before + and knew all about it. Always oppressed with a sense of sin, + dirt, and general decay of all things. Not well; so saw things + through blue glasses. May in bliss with lessons, sketching, and + her dreams. A. had society, her house, and old friends. The + artists were the best company; counts and princes very dull, what + we saw of them. May and I went off on the Campagna, and + criticised all the world like two audacious Yankees. + + Our apartment in Piazza Barbarini was warm and cosey; and I + thanked Heaven for it, as it rained for two months, and my first + view most of the time was the poor Triton with an icicle on his + nose. + + We pay $60 a month for six good rooms, and $6 a month for a girl, + who cooks and takes care of us. + + _29th._--My thirty-eighth birthday. May gave me a pretty sketch, + and A. a fine nosegay. + +In Rome Miss Alcott was shocked and grieved by the news of the death +of her well-beloved brother-in-law, Mr. Pratt. She has drawn so +beautiful a picture of him in "Little Women" and in "Little Men," that +it is hardly needful to dwell upon his character or the grief which +his death caused her. With her usual care for others, her thoughts at +once turned to the support of the surviving family, and she found +comfort in writing "Little Men" with the thought of the dear sister +and nephews constantly in her heart. + +In spite of this great sorrow and anxiety for the dear ones at home, +the year of travel was very refreshing to her. Her companions were +congenial, she took great delight in her sister's work, and she was +independent in her plans, and could go whither and when she would. + +The voyage home was a hard one; there was small-pox on board, but Miss +Alcott fortunately escaped the infection. "Little Men" was out the day +she arrived, as a bright red placard in the carriage announced, and +besides all the loving welcomes from family and friends, she received +the pleasing news that fifty thousand of the books were already sold. + +But the old pains and weariness came home with her also. She could not +stay in Concord, and went again to Boston, hoping to rest and work. +Her young sister came home to brighten up the family with her hopeful, +helpful spirit. + +At forty years of age Louisa had accomplished the task she set for +herself in youth. By unceasing toil she had made herself and her +family independent; debts were all paid, and enough was invested to +preserve them from want. And yet wants seemed to increase with their +satisfaction, and she felt impelled to work enough to give to all the +enjoyments and luxuries which were fitted to them after the +necessaries were provided for. It may be that her own exhausted +nervous condition made it impossible for her to rest, and the demand +which she fancied came from without was the projection of her own +thought. + + +_Journal._ + + 1871.--_Rome._--Great inundation. Streets flooded, churches with + four feet of water in them, and queer times for those who were in + the overflowed quarters. Meals hoisted up at the window; people + carried across the river-like streets to make calls; and all + manner of funny doings. We were high and dry at Piazza Barbarini, + and enjoyed the flurry. + + To the Capitol often, to spend the A.M. with the Roman emperors + and other great men. M. Aurelius as a boy was fine; Cicero looked + very like W. Phillips; Agrippina in her chair was charming; but + the other ladies, with hair _a la sponge_, were ugly; Nero & Co. + a set of brutes and bad men. But a better sight to me was the + crowd of poor people going to get the bread and money sent by the + king; and the splendid snow-covered hills were finer than the + marble beauty inside. Art tires; Nature never. + + Professor Pierce and his party just from Sicily, where they had + been to see the eclipse,--all beaming with delight, and well + repaid for the long journey by a _two minutes'_ squint at the sun + when darkest. + + Began to write a new book, "Little Men," that John's death may + not leave A. and the dear little boys in want. John took care + that they should have enough while the boys are young, and worked + very hard to have a little sum to leave, without a debt anywhere. + + In writing and thinking of the little lads, to whom I must be a + father now, I found comfort for my sorrow. May went on with her + lessons, "learning," as she wisely said, how little she knew and + how to go on. + + _February._--A gay month in Rome, with the carnival, artists' + fancy ball, many parties, and much calling. + + Decided to leave May for another year, as L. sends $700 on + "Moods," and the new book will provide $1,000 for the dear girl; + so she may be happy and free to follow her talent. + + _March._--Spent at Albano. A lovely place. Walk, write, and rest. + A troop of handsome officers from Turin, who clatter by, casting + soft glances at my two blonde signorinas, who enjoy it very + much.[11] Baron and Baroness Rothschild were there, and the W.'s + from Philadelphia, Dr. O. W. and wife, and S. B. Mrs. W. and A. + B. talk _all day_, May sketches, I write, and so we go on. Went + to look at rooms at the Bonapartes. + + _April._--Venice. Floated about for two weeks seeing sights. A + lovely city for a short visit. Not enough going on to suit brisk + Americans. May painted, A. hunted up old jewelry and friends, and + I dawdled after them. + + A very interesting trip to London,--over the Brenner Pass to + Munich, Cologne, Antwerp, and by boat to London. + + _May._--A busy month. Settled in lodgings, Brompton Road, and + went sight-seeing. Mrs. P. Taylor, Conway, and others very kind. + Enjoyed showing May my favorite places and people. + + A. B. went home on the 11th, after a pleasant year with us. I am + glad to know her, for she is true and very interesting. May took + lessons of Rowbotham and was happy. "Little Men" came out in + London. + + I decided to go home on the 25th, as I am needed. A very pleasant + year in spite of constant pain, John's death, and home anxieties. + Very glad I came, for May's sake. It has been a very useful year + for her. + + _June._--After an anxious passage of twelve days, got safely + home. Small-pox on board, and my room-mate, Miss D., very ill. I + escaped, but had a sober time lying next door to her, waiting to + see if my turn was to come. She was left at the island, and I + went up the harbor with Judge Russell, who took some of us off in + his tug. + + Father and T. N. came to meet me with a great red placard of + "Little Men" pinned up in the carriage. After due precautions, + hurried home and found all well. My room refurnished and much + adorned by Father's earnings. + + Nan well and calm, but under her sweet serenity is a very sad + soul, and she mourns for her mate like a tender turtle-dove. + + The boys were tall, bright lads, devoted to Marmee, and the life + of the house. + + Mother feeble and much aged by this year of trouble. I shall + never go far away from her again. Much company, and loads of + letters, all full of good wishes and welcome. + + "Little Men" was out the day I arrived. Fifty thousand sold + before it was out. + + A happy month, for I felt well for the first time in two years. I + knew it wouldn't last, but enjoyed it heartily while it did, and + was grateful for rest from pain and a touch of the old + cheerfulness. It was much needed at home. + + _July, August, September._--Sick. Holiday soon over. Too much + company and care and change of climate upset the poor nerves + again. Dear Uncle S. J. May died; our best friend for years. + Peace to his ashes. He leaves a sweeter memory behind him than + any man I know. Poor Marmee is the last of her family now. + + _October._--Decided to go to B.; Concord is so hard for me, with + its dampness and worry. Get two girls to do the work, and leave + plenty of money and go to Beacon Street to rest and try to get + well that I may work. A lazy life, but it seemed to suit; and + anything is better than the invalidism I hate worse than death. + + Bones ached less, and I gave up morphine, as sunshine, air, and + quiet made sleep possible without it. Saw people, pictures, + plays, and read all I could, but did not enjoy much, for the + dreadful weariness of nerves makes even pleasure hard. + + _November._--May sent pleasant letters and some fine copies of + Turner. She decides to come home, as she feels she is needed as I + give out. Marmee is feeble, Nan has her boys and her sorrow, and + one strong head and hand is wanted at home. A year and a half of + holiday is a good deal, and duty comes first always. Sorry to + call her back, but her eyes are troublesome, and housework will + rest them and set her up. Then she can go again when I am better, + for I don't want her to be thwarted in her work more than just + enough to make her want it very much. + + On the 19th she came. Well, happy, and full of sensible plans. A + lively time enjoying the cheerful element she always brings into + the house. Piles of pictures, merry adventures, and interesting + tales of the fine London lovers. + + Kept my thirty-ninth and Father's seventy-second birthday in the + old way. + + Thanksgiving dinner at Pratt Farm. All well and all together. + Much to give thanks for. + + _December._--Enjoyed my quiet, sunny room very much; and this + lazy life seems to suit me, for I am better, mind and body. All + goes well at home, with May to run the machine in her cheery, + energetic style, and amuse Marmee and Nan with gay histories. Had + a furnace put in, and all enjoyed the new climate. No more + rheumatic fevers and colds, with picturesque open fires. Mother + is to be cosey if money can do it. She seems to be now, and my + long-cherished dream has come true; for she sits in a pleasant + room, with no work, no care, no poverty to worry, but peace and + comfort all about her, and children glad and able to stand + between trouble and her. Thank the Lord! I like to stop and + "remember my mercies." Working and waiting for them makes them + very welcome. + + Went to the ball for the Grand Duke Alexis. A fine sight, and the + big blonde boy the best of all. Would dance with the pretty + girls, and leave the Boston dowagers and their diamonds in the + lurch. + + To the Radical Club, where the philosophers mount their hobbies + and prance away into time and space, while we gaze after them and + try to look wise. + + A merry Christmas at home. Tree for the boys, family dinner, and + frolic in the evening. + + A varied, but on the whole a good year, in spite of pain. Last + Christmas we were in Rome, mourning for John. What will next + Christmas bring forth? I have no ambition now but to keep the + family comfortable and not ache any more. Pain has taught me + patience, I hope, if nothing more. + + _January_, 1872.--Roberts Brothers paid $4,400 as six months' + receipts for the books. A fine New Year's gift. S. E. S. invested + $3,000, and the rest I put in the bank for family needs. Paid for + the furnace and all the bills. What bliss it is to be able to do + that and ask no help! + + * * * * * + + Mysterious bouquets came from some unknown admirer or friend. + Enjoyed them very much, and felt quite grateful and romantic as + day after day the lovely great nosegays were handed in by the + servant of the unknown. + + _February and March._--At Mrs. Stowe's desire, wrote for the + "Christian Union" an account of our journey through France, and + called it "Shawl Straps."... Many calls and letters and + invitations, but I kept quiet, health being too precious to risk, + and sleep still hard to get for the brain that would work instead + of rest. + + Heard lectures,--Higginson, Bartol, Frothingham, and Rabbi + Lilienthal. Much talk about religion. I'd like to see a little + more really _lived_. + + _April and May._--Wrote another sketch for the "Independent,"--"A + French Wedding;" and the events of my travels paid my winter's + expenses. All is fish that comes to the literary net. Goethe puts + his joys and sorrows into poems; I turn my adventures into bread + and butter. + + * * * * * + + _June_, 1872.--Home, and begin a new task. Twenty years ago I + resolved to make the family independent if I could. At forty that + is done. Debts all paid, even the outlawed ones, and we have + enough to be comfortable. It has cost me my health, perhaps; but + as I still live, there is more for me to do, I suppose. + +FOOTNOTES: + +[8] Betsey Prig was a pet name for her sister, as she herself was +Sairey Gamp. + +[9] This was a family joke as Mrs. Alcott always ended her +instructions to her children "in case of fire." + +[10] This is the poem prefixed to the chapter. + +[11] See Shawl Straps, p. 179. + + + + +CHAPTER X. + +FAMILY CHANGES. + + TRANSFIGURATION.[12] + + IN MEMORIAM. + +Lines written by Louisa M. Alcott on the death of her mother. + + Mysterious death! who in a single hour + Life's gold can so refine, + And by thy art divine + Change mortal weakness to immortal power! + + Bending beneath the weight of eighty years, + Spent with the noble strife + Of a victorious life, + We watched her fading heavenward, through our tears. + + But ere the sense of loss our hearts had wrung, + A miracle was wrought; + And swift as happy thought + She lived again,--brave, beautiful, and young. + + Age, pain, and sorrow dropped the veils they wore + And showed the tender eyes + Of angels in disguise, + Whose discipline so patiently she bore. + + The past years brought their harvest rich and fair; + While memory and love, + Together, fondly wove + A golden garland for the silver hair. + + How could we mourn like those who are bereft, + When every pang of grief + Found balm for its relief + In counting up the treasures she had left?-- + + Faith that withstood the shocks of toil and time; + Hope that defied despair; + Patience that conquered care; + And loyalty, whose courage was sublime; + + The great deep heart that was a home for all,-- + Just, eloquent, and strong + In protest against wrong; + Wide charity, that knew no sin, no fall; + + The spartan spirit that made life so grand, + Mating poor daily needs + With high, heroic deeds, + That wrested happiness from Fate's hard hand. + + We thought to weep, but sing for joy instead, + Full of the grateful peace + That follows her release; + For nothing but the weary dust lies dead. + + Oh, noble woman! never more a queen + Than in the laying down + Of sceptre and of crown + To win a greater kingdom, yet unseen; + + Teaching us how to seek the highest goal, + To earn the true success,-- + To live, to love, to bless,-- + And make death proud to take a royal soul. + + +The history of the next six years offers little variety of incident in +Miss Alcott's busy life. She could not work at home in Concord as well +as in some quiet lodging in Boston, where she was more free from +interruption from visitors; but she spent her summers with her mother, +often taking charge of the housekeeping. In 1872 she wrote "Work," one +of her most successful books. She had begun it some time before, and +originally called it "Success." It represents her own personal +experience more than any other book. She says to a friend: "Christie's +adventures are many of them my own; Mr. Power is Mr. Parker; Mrs. +Wilkins is imaginary, and all the rest. This was begun at eighteen, +and never finished till H. W. Beecher wrote to me for a serial for the +'Christian Union' in 1872, and paid $3,000 for it." + +Miss Alcott again sent May to Europe in 1873 to finish her studies, +and herself continued writing stories to pay the expenses of the +family. The mother's serious illness weighed heavily on Louisa's +heart, and through the summer of 1873 she was devoted to the invalid, +rejoicing in her partial recovery, though sadly feeling that she would +never be her bright energetic self again. Mrs. Alcott was able, +however, to keep her birthday (October 8) pleasantly, and out of this +experience came a story called "A Happy Birthday." This little tale +paid for carriages for the invalid. It is included in "Aunt Jo's +Scrap-Bag." + +Louisa and her mother decided to spend the winter in Boston, while Mr. +Alcott was at the West. Her thoughts dwell much upon her father's +life, and she is not content that he has not all the recognition and +enjoyment that she would gladly give him. She helps her mother to +perform the sacred duty of placing a tablet on Colonel May's grave, +and the dear old lady recognizes that her life has gone down into the +past, and says, "This isn't my Boston, and I never want to see it any +more." + +Louisa was at this time engaged in writing for "St. Nicholas" and "The +Independent." + +The return of the young artist, happy in her success, brings +brightness to the home-circle. In the winter of 1875 Miss Alcott takes +her old place at the Bellevue, where May can have her drawing-classes. +She was herself ill, and the words, "No sleep without morphine!" tell +the story of nervous suffering. + + +_Journal._ + + _July_, 1872.--May makes a lovely hostess, and I fly round behind + the scenes, or skip out of the back window when ordered out for + inspection by the inquisitive public. Hard work to keep things + running smoothly, for this sight-seeing fiend is a new torment to + us. + + _August._--May goes to Clark's Island for rest, having kept hotel + long enough. I say "No," and shut the door. People _must_ learn + that authors have some rights; I can't entertain a dozen a day, + and write the tales they demand also. I'm but a human worm, and + when walked on must turn in self-defence. + + Reporters sit on the wall and take notes; artists sketch me as I + pick pears in the garden; and strange women interview Johnny as + he plays in the orchard. + + It looks like impertinent curiosity to me; but it is called + "fame," and considered a blessing to be grateful for, I find. Let + 'em try it. + + _September._--To Wolcott, with Father and Fred. A quaint, lovely + old place is the little house on Spindle Hill, where the boy Amos + dreamed the dreams that have come true at last. + + Got hints for my novel, "The Cost of an Idea," if I ever find + time to write it. + + Don't wonder the boy longed to climb those hills, and see what + lay beyond. + + _October._--Went to a room in Allston Street, in a quiet, + old-fashioned house. I can't work at home, and need to be alone + to spin, like a spider. + + Rested; walked; to the theatre now and then. Home once a week + with books, etc., for Marmee and Nan. Prepared "Shawl Straps" for + Roberts. + + _November._--Forty on the 29th. Got Father off for the West, all + neat and comfortable. I enjoyed every penny spent, and had a + happy time packing his new trunk with warm flannels, neat shirts, + gloves, etc., and seeing the dear man go off in a new suit, + overcoat, hat, and all, like a gentleman. We both laughed over + the pathetic old times with tears in our eyes, and I reminded him + of the "poor as poverty, but serene as heaven" saying. + + Something to do came just as I was trying to see what to take up, + for work is my salvation. H. W. Beecher sent one of the editors + of the "Christian Union" to ask for a serial story. They have + asked before, and offered $2,000, which I refused; now they + offered $3,000, and I accepted. + + Got out the old manuscript of "Success," and called it "Work." + Fired up the engine, and plunged into a vortex, with many doubts + about getting out. Can't work slowly; the thing possesses me, and + I must obey till it's done. One thousand dollars was sent as a + seal on the bargain, so I was bound, and sat at the oar like a + galley-slave. + + F. wanted eight little tales, and offered $35 apiece; used to pay + $10. Such is fame! At odd minutes I wrote the short ones, and so + paid my own expenses. "Shawl Straps," Scrap-Bag, No. 2, came out, + and went well. + + Great Boston fire; up all night. Very splendid and terrible + sight. + + _December._--Busy with "Work." Write three pages at once on + impression paper, as Beecher, Roberts, and Low of London all want + copy at once. + + [This was the cause of the paralysis of my thumb, which disabled + me for the rest of my life.--L. M. A.] + + Nan and the boys came to visit me, and break up the winter. + Rested a little, and played with them. + + Father very busy and happy. On his birthday had a gold-headed + cane given him. He is appreciated out there. + +During these western trips, Mr. Alcott found that his daughter's fame +added much to the warmth of his reception. On his return he loved to +tell how he was welcomed as the "grandfather of 'Little Women.'" When +he visited schools, he delighted the young audiences by satisfying +their curiosity as to the author of their favorite book, and the truth +of the characters and circumstances described in it. + + BOSTON, 1872. + + DEAR MARMEE,--Had a very transcendental day yesterday, and at + night my head was "swelling wisibly" with the ideas cast into it. + + The club was a funny mixture of rabbis and weedy old ladies, the + "oversoul" and oysters. Papa and B. flew clean out of sight like + a pair of Platonic balloons, and we tried to follow, but + couldn't. + + In the P.M. went to R. W. E.'s reading. All the literary birds + were out in full feather. This "'umble" worm was treated with + distinguished condescension. Dr. B. gave me his noble hand to + press, and murmured compliments with the air of a bishop + bestowing a benediction. Dear B. beamed upon me from the depths + of his funny little cloak and said, "We are getting on well, + ain't we?" W. bowed his Jewish head, and rolled his fine eye at + me. Several dreadful women purred about me, and I fled. + + M. said what I liked,--that he'd sent my works to his mother, and + the good old lady told him to tell me that she couldn't do a + stroke of work, but just sat and read 'em right through; she + wished she was young so as to have a long life in which to keep + on enjoying such books. The peacock liked that. + + I have paid all my own expenses out of the money earned by my + little tales; so I have not touched the family income. + + Didn't mean to write; but it has been an expensive winter, and my + five hundred has made me all right. The $500 I lent K. makes a + difference in the income; but I could not refuse her, she was so + kind in the old hard times. + + At the reading a man in front of me sat listening and knitting + his brows for a time, but had to give it up and go to sleep. + After it was over some one said to him, "Well, what do you think + of it?" "It's all very fine I have no doubt; but I'm blessed if I + can understand a word of it," was the reply.... + + The believers glow when the oracle is stuck, rustle and beam when + he is audible, and nod and smile as if they understood perfectly + when he murmurs under the desk! We are a foolish set! + + +_Journal_. + + _January_, 1873.--Getting on well with "Work;" have to go slowly + now for fear of a break-down. All well at home. + + A week at Newport with Miss Jane Stewart. Dinners, balls, calls, + etc. Saw Higginson and "H. H." Soon tired of gayety, and glad to + get home to my quiet den and pen. + + Roberts Brothers paid me $2,022 for books. S. E. S. invested most + of it, with the $1,000 F. sent. Gave C. M. $100,--a + thank-offering for my success. I like to help the class of + "silent poor" to which we belonged for so many years,--needy, but + respectable, and forgotten because too proud to beg. Work + difficult to find for such people, and life made very hard for + want of a little money to ease the necessary needs. + + _February and March._--Anna very ill with pneumonia; home to + nurse her. Father telegraphed to come home, as we thought her + dying. She gave me her boys; but the dear saint got well, and + kept the lads for herself. Thank God! + + Back to my work with what wits nursing left me. + + Had Johnny for a week, to keep all quiet at home. Enjoyed the + sweet little soul very much, and sent him back much better. + + Finished "Work,"--twenty chapters. Not what it should be,--too + many interruptions. Should like to do one book in peace, and see + if it wouldn't be good. + + _April_--The job being done I went home to take May's place. Gave + her $1,000, and sent her to London for a year of study. She + sailed on the 26th, brave and happy and hopeful. I felt that she + needed it, and was glad to be able to help her. + + I spent seven months in Boston; wrote a book and ten tales; + earned $3,250 by my pen, and am satisfied with my winter's work. + + _May._--D. F. wanted a dozen little tales, and agreed to pay $50 + apiece, if I give up other things for this. Said I would, as I + can do two a day, and keep house between times. Cleaned and + grubbed, and didn't mind the change. Let head rest, and heels and + feet do the work. + + Cold and dull; but the thought of May free and happy was my + comfort as I messed about. + + _June and July._--Settled the servant question by getting a neat + American woman to cook and help me with the housework. + + Peace fell upon our troubled souls, and all went well. Good + meals, tidy house, cheerful service, and in the P.M. an + intelligent young person to read and sew with us. + + It was curious how she came to us. She had taught and sewed, and + was tired, and wanted something else; decided to try for a + housekeeper's place, but happened to read "Work," and thought + she'd do as Christie did,--take anything that came. + + I was the first who answered her advertisement, and when she + found I wrote the book, she said, "I'll go and see if Miss A. + practises as she preaches." + + She found I did, and we had a good time together. My new helper + did so well I took pale Johnny to the seaside for a week; but was + sent for in haste, as poor Marmee was very ill. Mental + bewilderment came after one of her heart troubles (the dropsy + affected the brain), and for three weeks we had a sad time. + Father and I took care of her, and my good A. S. kept house + nicely and faithfully for me. + + Marmee slowly came back to herself, but sadly feeble,--never to + be our brave, energetic leader any more. She felt it, and it was + hard to convince her that there was no need of her doing anything + but rest. + + _August, September, October._--Mother improved steadily. Father + went to the Alcott festival in Walcott, A. and boys to Conway + for a month; and it did them all much good. + + I had quiet days with Marmee; drove with her, and had the great + pleasure of supplying all her needs and fancies. + + May busy and happy in London. A merry time on Mother's birthday, + October 8. All so glad to have her still here; for it seemed as + if we were to lose her. + + Made a little story of it for F.,--"A Happy Birthday."--and spent + the $50 in carriages for her. + + _November and December._--Decided that it was best not to try a + cold, lonely winter in C., but go to B. with Mother, Nan, and + boys, and leave Father free for the West. + + Took sunny rooms at the South End, near the Park, so the lads + could play out and Marmee walk. She enjoyed the change, and sat + at her window watching people, horse-cars, and sparrows with + great interest. Old friends came to see her, and she was happy. + Found a nice school for the boys; and Nan enjoyed her quiet days. + + _January_, 1874.--Mother quite ill this month. Dr. Wesselhoeft + does his best for the poor old body, now such a burden to her. + The slow decline has begun, and she knows it, having nursed her + mother to the same end. + + Father disappointed and rather sad, to be left out of so much + that he would enjoy and should be asked to help and adorn. A + little more money, a pleasant house and time to attend to it, and + I'd bring all the best people to see and entertain _him_. When I + see so much twaddle going on I wonder those who can don't get up + something better, and have really good things. + + When I had the youth I had no money; now I have the money I have + no time; and when I get the time, if I ever do, I shall have no + health to enjoy life. I suppose it's the discipline I need; but + it's rather hard to love the things I do and see them go by + because duty chains me to my galley. If I come into port at last + with all sail set that will be reward perhaps. + + Life always was a puzzle to me, and gets more mysterious as I go + on. I shall find it out by and by and see that it's all right, if + I can only keep brave and patient to the end. + + May still in London painting Turners, and doing pretty panels as + "pot-boilers." They sell well, and she is a thrifty child. Good + luck to our mid-summer girl. + + _February._--Father has several conversations at the Clubs and + Societies and Divinity School. No one pays anything; but they + seem glad to listen. There ought to be a place for him. + + Nan busy with her boys, and they doing well at school,--good, + gay, and intelligent; a happy mother and most loving little sons. + + I wrote two tales, and got $200. Saw Charles Kingsley,--a + pleasant man. His wife has Alcott relations, and likes my books. + Asked us to come and see him in England; is to bring his + daughters to Concord by and by. + + _March._--May came home with a portfolio full of fine work. Must + have worked like a busy bee to have done so much. + + Very happy in her success; for she has proved her talent, having + copied Turner so well that Ruskin (meeting her in the National + Gallery at work) told her that she had "caught Turner's spirit + wonderfully." She has begun to copy Nature, and done well. Lovely + sketches of the cloisters in Westminster Abbey, and other + charming things. + + I write a story for all my men, and make up the $1,000 I planned + to earn by my "pot-boilers" before we go back to C. + + A tablet to Grandfather May is put in Stone Chapel, and one + Sunday A.M. we take Mother to see it. A pathetic sight to see + Father walk up the broad aisle with the feeble old wife on his + arm as they went to be married nearly fifty years ago. Mother sat + alone in the old pew a little while and sung softly the old + hymns; for it was early, and only the sexton there. He asked who + she was and said his father was sexton in Grandfather's time. + + Several old ladies came in and knew Mother. She broke down + thinking of the time when she and her mother and sisters and + father and brothers all went to church together, and we took her + home saying, "This isn't my Boston; all my friends are gone; I + never want to see it any more." + + [She never did.--L. M. A.] + + _April and May._--Back to Concord, after May and I had put all in + fine order and made the old house lovely with her pictures. When + all were settled, with May to keep house, I went to B. for rest, + and took a room in Joy Street. + + The Elgin Watch Company offered me a gold watch or $100 for a + tale. Chose the money, and wrote the story "My Rococo Watch"[13] + for them. + + _October._--Took two nice rooms at the Hotel Bellevue for the + winter; May to use one for her classes. Tried to work on my book, + but was in such pain could not do much. Got no sleep without + morphine. Tried old Dr. Hewett, who was sure he could cure the + woe.... + + _November._--Funny time with the publishers about the tale; for + all wanted it at once, and each tried to outbid the other for an + unwritten story. I rather enjoyed it, and felt important with + Roberts, Low, and Scribner all clamoring for my "'umble" works. + No peddling poor little manuscripts now, and feeling rich with + $10. The golden goose can sell her eggs for a good price, if she + isn't killed by too much driving. + + _December._--Better and busier than last month. + + All well at home, and Father happy among his kind Westerners. + Finish "Eight Cousins," and get ready to do the temperance tale, + for F. offers $700 for six chapters,--"Silver Pitchers." + + _January_, 1875.-- ... Father flourishing about the Western + cities, "riding in Louisa's chariot, and adored as the + grandfather of 'Little Women,'" he says. + + _February._--Finish my tale and go to Vassar College on a visit. + See M. M., talk with four hundred girls, write in stacks of + albums and school-books, and kiss every one who asks me. Go to + New York; am rather lionized, and run away; but things look + rather jolly, and I may try a winter there some time, as I need a + change and new ideas. + + _March._--Home again, getting ready for the centennial fuss. + + _April._--On the 19th a grand celebration. General _break-down_, + owing to an unwise desire to outdo all the other towns; too many + people.... + +Miss Alcott was very much interested in the question of Woman +Suffrage, and exerted herself to get up a meeting in Concord. The +subject was then very unpopular, and there was an ill-bred effort to +destroy the meeting by noise and riot. Although not fond of speaking +in public, she always put herself bravely on the side of the +unpopular cause, and lent to it all the argument of her heroic life. +When Mrs. Livermore lectured at Concord, Miss Alcott sat up all night +talking with her on the great question. She had an opportunity of +trying which was most exhausting, abuse or admiration, when she went +to a meeting of the Women's Congress at Syracuse, in October. She was +introduced to the audience by Mrs. Livermore, and the young people +crowded about her like bees about a honeycomb. She was waylaid in the +streets, petitioned for autographs, kissed by gushing young maidens, +and made emphatically the lion of the hour. It was all so genial and +spontaneous, that she enjoyed the fun. No amount of adulation ever +affected the natural simplicity of her manners. She neither despised +nor overrated her fame; but was glad of it as a proof of success in +what she was ever aiming to do. She spent a few weeks in New York +enjoying the gay and literary society which was freely opened to her; +but finding most satisfaction in visiting the Tombs, Newsboys' Home, +and Randall's Island, for she liked these things better than parties +and dinners. + + +_Journal._ + + _June, July, August_, 1875.--Kept house at home, with two Irish + incapables to trot after, and ninety-two guests in one month to + entertain. Fame is an expensive luxury. I can do without it. This + is my worst scrape, I think. I asked for bread, and got a + stone,--in the shape of a pedestal. + + _September and October_, 1875.--I go to Woman's Congress in + Syracuse, and see Niagara. Funny time with the girls. + + Write loads of autographs, dodge at the theatre, and am kissed to + death by gushing damsels. One energetic lady grasped my hand in + the crowd, exclaiming, "If you ever come to Oshkosh, your feet + will not be allowed to touch the ground: you will be borne in the + arms of the people! Will you come?" "Never," responded Miss A., + trying to look affable, and dying to laugh as the good soul + worked my arm like a pump-handle, and from the gallery + generations of girls were looking on. "This, this, is fame!" + + _November, December._--Take a room at Bath Hotel, New York, and + look about me. Miss Sally Holly is here, and we go about + together. She tells me much of her life among the freedmen, and + Mother is soon deep in barrels of clothes, food, books, etc., for + Miss A. to take back with her. + + See many people, and am very gay for a country-mouse. Society + unlike either London or Boston. + + Go to Sorosis, and to Mrs. Botta's, O. B. Frothingham's, Miss + Booth's, and Mrs. Croly's receptions. + + Visit the Tombs, Newsboys' Home, and Randall's Island on + Christmas Day with Mrs. Gibbons. A memorable day. Make a story of + it. Enjoy these things more than the parties and dinners. + + +_To Mrs. Dodge._ + + NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 1875. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--So far, New York seems inviting, though I have + not seen or done much but "gawk round" as the country folks do. I + have seen Niagara, and enjoyed my vacation very much, especially + the Woman's Congress in Syracuse. I was made a member, so have + the honor to sign myself, + + Yours truly, + L. M. ALCOTT, M. C. + + +_To her Father._ + + NEW YORK, Nov. 26, 1875. + + DEAR SEVENTY-SIX,--As I have nothing else to send you on our + joint birthday, I'll despatch a letter about some of the people I + have lately seen in whom you take an interest. + + Tuesday we heard Gough on "Blunders," and it was very good,--both + witty and wise, earnest and sensible. Wednesday eve to Mr. + Frothingham's for his Fraternity Club meeting. Pleasant people. + Ellen F.; Abby Sage Richardson, a very lovely woman; young Putnam + and wife; Mrs. Stedman; Mattie G. and her spouse, Dr. B., who + read a lively story of Mormon life; Mrs. Dodge; O. Johnson and + wife, and many more whose names I forget. + + After the story the given subject for discussion was brought + up,--"Conformity and Noncomformity." Mr. B., a promising young + lawyer, led one side, Miss B. the other, and Mr. F. was in the + chair. It was very lively; and being called upon, I piped up, and + went in for nonconformity when principle was concerned. Got + patted on the head for my remarks, and didn't disgrace myself + except by getting very red and talking fast. + + Ellen F. was very pleasant, and asked much about May. Proudly I + told of our girl's achievements, and E. hoped she would come to + New York. Mrs. Richardson was presented, and we had some + agreeable chat. She is a great friend of O. B. F., and is + lecturing here on "Literature." Shall go and hear her, as she is + coming to see me. + + O. B. F. was as polished and clear and cool and witty as usual; + most gracious to the "'umble" Concord worm; and Mrs. F. asked me + to come and see them. + + Yesterday took a drive with Sally H. in Central Park as it was + fine, and she had no fun on her Thanksgiving. I dined at Mrs. + Botta's, for she kindly came and asked me. Had a delightful time, + and felt as if I'd been to Washington; for Professor Byng, a + German ex-consul, was there, full of Capitol gossip about Sumner + and all the great beings that there do congregate. Mr. Botta you + know,--a handsome, long-haired Italian, very cultivated and + affable. + + Also about Lord H., whom B. thought "an amiable old woman," glad + to say pretty things, and fond of being lionized. Byng knew Rose + and Una, and asked about them; also told funny tales of Victor + Emmanuel and his Court, and queer adventures in Greece, where he, + B., was a consul, or something official. It was a glimpse into a + new sort of world; and as the man was very accomplished, elegant, + and witty, I enjoyed it much. + + We had music later, and saw some fine pictures. Durant knew Miss + Thackeray, J. Ingelow, and other English people whom I did, so we + had a good dish of gossip with Mrs. Botta, while the others + talked three or four languages at once. + + It is a delightful house, and I shall go as often as I may, for + it is the sort of thing I like much better than B. H. and + champagne. + + To-night we go to hear Bradlaugh; to-morrow, a new play; Sunday, + Frothingham and Bellows; and Monday, Mrs. Richardson and + Shakespeare. + + But it isn't all play, I assure you. I'm a thrifty butterfly, + and have written three stories. The "G." has paid for the little + Christmas tale; the "I." has "Letty's Tramp;" and my "girl paper" + for "St. Nick" is about ready. Several other papers are waiting + for tales, so I have a ballast of work to keep me steady in spite + of much fun. + + Mr. Powell has been twice to see me, and we go to visit the + charities of New York next week. I like to see both sides, and + generally find the busy people most interesting. + + So far I like New York very much, and feel so well I shall stay + on till I'm tired of it. People begin to tell me how much better + I look than when I came, and I have not an ache to fret over. + This, after such a long lesson in bodily ails, is a blessing for + which I am duly grateful. + + Hope all goes well with you, and that I shall get a line now and + then. I'll keep them for you to _bind_ up by and by instead of + mine.... + + We can buy a carriage some other time, and a barn likewise, and a + few other necessities of life. Rosa has proved such a good + speculation we shall dare to let May venture another when the + ship comes in. I am glad the dear "rack-a-bones" is a comfort to + her mistress, only don't let her break my boy's bones by any + antics when she feels her oats. + + I suppose you are thinking of Wilson just now, and his quiet + slipping away to the heavenly council chambers where the good + senators go. Rather like Sumner's end, wasn't it? No wife or + children, only men and servants. Wilson was such a genial, + friendly soul I should have thought he would have felt the + loneliness very much. Hope if he left any last wishes his mates + will carry them out faithfully.... + + Now, dear Plato, the Lord bless you, and keep you serene and + happy for as many years as He sees fit, and me likewise, to be a + comfort as well as a pride to you. + + Ever your loving + FORTY-THREE + + +_To her Nephews._ + + NEW YORK, Dec. 4, 1875. + + DEAR FRED AND DONNY,--We went to see the news-boys, and I wish + you'd been with us, it was so interesting. A nice big house has + been built for them, with dining-room and kitchen on the first + floor, bath-rooms and school-room next, two big + sleeping-places,--third and fourth stories,--and at the top a + laundry and gymnasium. We saw all the tables set for + breakfast,--a plate and bowl for each,--and in the kitchen great + kettles, four times as big as our copper boiler, for tea and + coffee, soup, and meat. They have bread and meat and coffee for + breakfast, and bread and cheese and tea for supper, and get their + own dinners out. School was just over when we got there, and one + hundred and eighty boys were in the immense room with desks down + the middle, and all around the walls were little cupboards + numbered. Each boy on coming in gives his name, pays six cents, + gets a key, and puts away his hat, books, and jacket (if he has + 'em) in his own cubby for the night. They pay five cents for + supper, and schooling, baths, etc., are free. They were a + smart-looking set, larking round in shirts and trousers, + barefooted, but the faces were clean, and the heads smooth, and + clothes pretty decent; yet they support themselves, for not one + of them has any parents or home but this. One little chap, only + six, was trotting round as busy as a bee, locking up his small + shoes and ragged jacket as if they were great treasures. I asked + about little Pete, and the man told us his brother, only nine, + supported him and took care of him entirely; and wouldn't let + Pete be sent away to any home, because _he_ wished to have "his + family" with him. + + Think of that, Fred! How would it seem to be all alone in a big + city, with no mamma to cuddle you; no two grandpa's houses to + take you in; not a penny but what you earned, and Donny to take + care of? Could you do it? Nine-year-old Patsey does it capitally; + buys Pete's clothes, pays for his bed and supper, and puts + pennies in the savings-bank. There's a brave little man for you! + I wanted to see him; but he is a newsboy, and sells late papers, + because, though harder work, it pays better, and the coast is + clear for those who do it. + + The savings-bank was a great table all full of slits, each one + leading to a little place below and numbered outside, so each boy + knew his own. Once a month the bank is opened, and the lads take + out what they like, or have it invested in a big bank for them to + have when they find homes out West, as many do, and make good + farmers. One boy was putting in some pennies as we looked, and I + asked how much he had saved this month. "Fourteen dollars, + ma'am," says the thirteen-year-older, proudly slipping in the + last cent. A prize of $3 is offered to the lad who saves the most + in a month. + + The beds upstairs were in two immense rooms, ever so much larger + than our town hall,--one hundred in one, and one hundred and + eighty in another,--all narrow beds with a blue quilt, neat + pillow, and clean sheet. They are built in long rows, one over + another, and the upper boy has to climb up as on board ship. I'd + have liked to see one hundred and eighty all in their "by-lows" + at once, and I asked the man if they didn't train when all were + in. "Lord, ma'am, they're up at five, poor little chaps, and are + so tired at night that they drop off right away. Now and then + some boy kicks up a little row, but we have a watchman, and he + soon settles 'em." + + He also told me how that very day a neat, smart young man came + in, and said he was one of their boys who went West with a farmer + only a little while ago; and now he owned eighty acres of land, + had a good house, and was doing well, and had come to New York to + find his sister, and to take her away to live with him. Wasn't + that nice? Lots of boys do as well. Instead of loafing round the + streets and getting into mischief, they are taught to be tidy, + industrious, and honest, and then sent away into the wholesome + country to support themselves. + + It was funny to see 'em scrub in the bath-room,--feet and + faces,--comb their hair, fold up their old clothes in the dear + cubbies, which make them so happy because they feel that they + _own_ something. + + The man said every boy wanted one, even though he had neither + shoes nor jacket to put in it; but would lay away an old rag of a + cap or a dirty tippet with an air of satisfaction fine to see. + Some lads sat reading, and the man said they loved it so they'd + read all night, if allowed. At nine he gave the word, "Bed!" and + away went the lads, trooping up to sleep in shirts and trousers, + as nightgowns are not provided. How would a boy I know like + that,--a boy who likes to have "trommin" on his nighties? Of + course, I don't mean dandy Don! Oh, dear no! + + After nine [if late in coming in] they are fined five cents; + after ten, ten cents; and after eleven they can't come in at all. + This makes them steady, keeps them out of harm, and gives them + time for study. Some go to the theatre, and sleep anywhere; some + sleep at the Home, but go out for a better breakfast than they + get there, as the swell ones are fond of goodies, and live well + in their funny way. Coffee and cakes at Fulton Market is "the + tip-top grub," and they often spend all their day's earnings in a + play and a supper, and sleep in boxes or cellars after it. + + Lots of pussies were round the kitchen; and one black one I + called a bootblack, and a gray kit that yowled loud was a + newsboy. That made some chaps laugh, and they nodded at me as I + went out. Nice boys! but I know some nicer ones. Write and tell + me something about my poor Squabby. + + By-by, your + WEEDY. + + +_To her Family._ + + SATURDAY EVENING, Dec. 25, 1875. + + DEAR FAMILY,-- ... I had only time for a word this A.M., as the + fourth letter was from Mrs. P. to say they could not go; so I + trotted off in the fog at ten to the boat, and there found Mr. + and Mrs. G. and piles of goodies for the poor children. She is a + dear little old lady in a close, Quakerish bonnet and plain suit, + but wide-awake and full of energy. It was grand to see her tackle + the big mayor and a still bigger commissioner, and tell them what + _ought_ to be done for the poor things on the Island, as they are + to be routed; for the city wants the land for some dodge or + other. Both men fled soon, for the brave little woman was down on + 'em in a way that would have made Marmee cry "Ankore!" and clap + her dress-gloves to rags. + + When the rotundities had retired, she fell upon a demure priest, + and read him a sermon; and then won the heart of a boyish + reporter so entirely that he stuck to us all day, and helped + serve out dolls and candy like a man and a brother. Long life to + him! + + Mr. G. and I discussed pauperism and crime like two old + wiseacres; and it was sweet to hear the gray-headed couple say + "thee" and "thou," "Abby" and "James," to one another, he + following with the bundles wherever the little poke-bonnet led + the way. I've had a pretty good variety of Christmases in my day, + but never one like this before. First we drove in an old + ramshackle hack to the chapel, whither a boy had raced before us, + crying joyfully to all he met, "She's come! Miss G.--she's come!" + And all faces beamed, as well they might, since for thirty years + she has gone to make set after set of little forlornities happy + on this day. + + The chapel was full. On one side, in front, girls in blue gowns + and white pinafores; on the other, small chaps in pinafores + likewise; and behind them, bigger boys in gray suits with cropped + heads, and larger girls with ribbons in their hair and pink + calico gowns. They sang alternately; the girls gave "Juanita" + very well, the little chaps a pretty song about poor children + asking a "little white angel" to leave the gates of heaven ajar, + so they could peep in, if no more. Quite pathetic, coming from + poor babies who had no home but this. + + The big boys spoke pieces, and I was amused when one bright lad + in gray, with a red band on his arm, spoke the lines I gave + G.,--"Merry Christmas." No one knew me, so I had the joke to + myself; and I found afterward that I was taken for the mayoress, + who was expected. Then we drove to the hospital, and there the + heart-ache began, for me at least, so sad it was to see these + poor babies, born of want and sin, suffering every sort of + deformity, disease, and pain. Cripples half blind, scarred with + scrofula, burns, and abuse,--it was simply awful and + indescribable! + + As we went in, I with a great box of dolls and the young + reporter with a bigger box of candy, a general cry of delight + greeted us. Some children tried to run, half-blind ones stretched + out their groping hands, little ones crawled, and big ones + grinned, while several poor babies sat up in their bed, beckoning + us to "come quick." + + One poor mite, so eaten up with sores that its whole face was + painted with some white salve,--its head covered with an oilskin + cap; one eye gone, and the other half filmed over; hands + bandaged, and ears bleeding,--could only moan and move its feet + till I put a gay red dolly in one hand and a pink candy in the + other; then the dim eye brightened, the hoarse voice said feebly, + "Tanky, lady!" and I left it contentedly sucking the sweetie, and + _trying_ to _see_ its dear new toy. It can't see another + Christmas, and I like to think I helped make this one happy, even + for a minute. + + It was pleasant to watch the young reporter trot round with the + candy-box, and come up to me all interest to say, "One girl + hasn't got a doll, ma'am, and looks _so_ disappointed." + + After the hospital, we went to the idiot house; and there I had a + chance to see faces and figures that will haunt me a long time. A + hundred or so of half-grown boys and girls ranged down a long + hall, a table of toys in the middle, and an empty one for Mrs. + G.'s gifts. A cheer broke out as the little lady hurried in + waving her handkerchief and a handful of gay bead necklaces, and + "Oh! Ohs!" followed the appearance of the doll-lady and the candy + man. + + A pile of gay pictures was a new idea, and Mrs. G. told me to + hold up some bright ones and see if the poor innocents would + understand and enjoy them. I held up one of two kittens lapping + spilt milk, and the girls began to mew and say "Cat! ah, + pretty." Then a fine horse, and the boys bounced on their benches + with pleasure; while a ship in full sail produced a cheer of + rapture from them all. + + Some were given out to the good ones, and the rest are to be + pinned round the room; so the pictures were a great success. All + wanted dolls, even boys of nineteen; for all were children in + mind. But the girls had them, and young women of eighteen cuddled + their babies and were happy. The boys chose from the toy-table, + and it was pathetic to see great fellows pick out a squeaking dog + without even the wit to pinch it when it was theirs. One dwarf of + thirty-five chose a little Noah's ark, and brooded over it in + silent bliss. + + Some with beards sucked their candy, and stared at a toy cow or + box of blocks as if their cup was full. One French girl sang the + Marseillaise in a feeble voice, and was so overcome by her new + doll that she had an epileptic fit on the spot, which made two + others go off likewise; and a slight pause took place while they + were kindly removed to sleep it off. + + A little tot of four, who hadn't sense to put candy in its mouth, + was so fond of music that when the girls sang the poor vacant + face woke up, and a pair of lovely soft hazel eyes stopped + staring dully at nothing, and went wandering to and fro with + light in them, as if to find the only sound that can reach its + poor mind. + + I guess I gave away two hundred dolls, and a soap-box of candy + was empty when we left. But rows of sticky faces beamed at us, + and an array of gay toys wildly waved after us, as if we were + angels who had showered goodies on the poor souls. + + Pauper women are nurses; and Mrs. G. says the babies die like + sheep, many being deserted so young nothing can be hoped or done + for them. One of the teachers in the idiot home was a Miss C., + who remembered Nan at Dr. Wilbur's. Very lady-like, and all + devotion to me. But such a life! Oh, me! Who _can_ lead it, and + not go mad? + + At four, we left and came home, Mrs. G. giving a box of toys and + sweeties on board the boat for the children of the men who run + it. So leaving a stream of blessings and pleasures behind her, + the dear old lady drove away, simply saying, "There now, I shall + feel better for the next year!" Well she may; bless her! + + She made a speech to the chapel children after the Commissioner + had prosed in the usual way, and she told 'em that _she_ should + come as long as she could, and when she was gone her children + would still keep it up in memory of her; so for thirty years more + she hoped this, their one holiday, would be made happy for them. + I could have hugged her on the spot, the motherly old dear! + + Next Wednesday we go to the Tombs, and some day I am to visit the + hospital with her, for I like this better than parties, etc. + + I got home at five, and then remembered that I'd had no lunch; so + I took an apple till six, when I discovered that all had dined at + one so the helpers could go early this evening. Thus my Christmas + day was without dinner or presents, for the first time since I + can remember. Yet it has been a very memorable day, and I feel as + if I'd had a splendid feast seeing the poor babies wallow in + turkey soup, and that every gift I put into their hands had come + back to me in the dumb delight of their unchild-like faces trying + to smile. + +After the pleasant visit in New York, Miss Alcott returned to Boston, +where she went into society more than usual, often attending clubs, +theatres, and receptions. She was more lionized than ever, and had a +natural pleasure in the attention she received. + +The summer of 1876 she spent at Concord, nursing her mother, who was +very ill. She here wrote "Rose in Bloom," the sequel to "Eight +Cousins," in three weeks. It was published in November. + +Louisa was anxious that her sister should have a home for her young +family. Mrs. Pratt invested what she could of her husband's money in +the purchase, and Louisa contributed the rest. This was the so-called +Thoreau House on the main street in Concord, which became Mrs. Pratt's +home, and finally that of her father. + +Louisa spent the summer of 1877 in Concord. Her mother's illness +increased, and she was herself very ill in August. Yet she wrote this +summer one of her brightest and sweetest stories, "Under the Lilacs." +Her love of animals is specially apparent in this book, and she +records going to the circus to make studies for the performing dog +Sanch. + +During the winter of 1877, Miss Alcott went to the Bellevue for some +weeks, and having secured the necessary quiet, devoted herself to the +writing of a novel for the famous No Name Series published by Roberts +Brothers. This book had been in her mind for some time, as is seen by +the journal. As it was to appear anonymously, and was not intended for +children, she was able to depart from her usual manner, and indulge +the weird and lurid fancies which took possession of her in her +dramatic days, and when writing sensational stories. She was much +interested, and must have written it very rapidly, as it was published +in April. She enjoyed the excitement of her _incognito_, and was much +amused at the guesses of critics and friends, who attributed the book +to others, and were sure Louisa Alcott did not write it, because its +style was so unlike hers. + +It certainly is very unlike the books Miss Alcott had lately written. +It has nothing of the home-like simplicity and charm of "Little +Women," "Old-Fashioned Girl," and the other stories with which she was +delighting the children, and, with "Moods," must always be named as +exceptional when speaking of her works. Still, a closer study of her +life and nature will reveal much of her own tastes and habits of +thought in the book; and it is evident that she wrote _con amore_, and +was fascinated by the familiars she evoked, however little charm they +may seem to possess to others. She was fond of Hawthorne's books. The +influence of his subtle and weird romances is undoubtedly perceptible +in the book, and it is not strange that it was attributed to his son. +She says it had been simmering in her brain ever since she read +"Faust" the year before; and she clearly wished to work according to +Goethe's thought,--that the Prince of Darkness was a gentleman, and +must be represented as belonging to the best society. + +The plot is powerful and original. A young poet, with more ambition +than genius or self-knowledge, finds himself, at nineteen, friendless, +penniless, and hopeless, and is on the point of committing suicide. +He is saved by Helwyze, a middle-aged man, who has been severely +crippled by a terrible fall, and his heart seared by the desertion of +the woman he loved. A man of intellect, power, imagination, and +wealth, but incapable of conscientious feeling or true love, he is a +dangerous savior for the impulsive poet; but he takes him to his home, +warms, feeds, and shelters him, and promises to bring out his book. +The brilliant, passionate woman who gave up her lover when his health +and beauty were gone, returned to him when youth had passed, and would +gladly have devoted herself to soothing his pain and enriching his +life. Her feeling is painted with delicacy and tenderness. + +But Helwyze's heart knew nothing of the divine quality of forgiveness; +for his love there was no resurrection; and he only valued the power +he could exercise over a brilliant woman, and the intellectual +entertainment she could bring him. A sweet young girl, Olivia's +protegee, completes the very limited _dramatis personae_. + +The young poet, Felix Canaris, under the guidance of his new friend, +wins fame, success, and the young girl's heart; but his wayward fancy +turns rather to the magnificent Olivia. The demoniac Helwyze works +upon this feeling, and claims of Olivia her fair young friend Gladys +as a wife for Felix, who is forced to accept her at the hands of his +master. She is entirely responsive to the love which she fancies she +has won, and is grateful for her fortunate lot, and devotes herself to +the comfort and happiness of the poor invalid who delights in her +beauty and grace. For a time Felix enjoys a society success, to which +his charming wife, as well as his book, contribute. But at last this +excitement flags. He writes another book, which he threatens to burn +because he is dissatisfied with it. Gladys entreats him to spare it, +and Helwyze offers to read it to her. She is overcome and melted with +emotion at the passion and pathos of the story; and when Helwyze asks, +"Shall I burn it?" Felix answers, "No!" Again the book brings success +and admiration, but the tender wife sees that it does not insure +happiness, and that her husband is plunging into the excitement of +gambling. + +The demon Helwyze has complete control over the poet, which he +exercises with such subtle tyranny that the young man is driven to the +dreadful thought of murder to escape from him; but he is saved from +the deed by the gentle influence of his wife, who has won his heart at +last, unconscious that it had not always been hers. + +Helwyze finds his own punishment. One being resists his power,--Gladys +breathes his poisoned atmosphere unharmed. He sends for Olivia as his +ally to separate the wife from her husband's love. A passion of +curiosity possesses him to read her very heart; and at last he resorts +to a strange means to accomplish his purpose. He gives her an exciting +drug without her knowledge, and under its influence she speaks and +acts with a rare genius which calls forth the admiration of all the +group. Left alone with her, Helwyze exercises his magnetic power to +draw forth the secrets of her heart; but he reads there only a pure +and true love for her husband, and fear of the unhallowed passion +which he is cherishing. The secret of his power over the husband is at +last revealed. Canaris has published as his own the work of Helwyze, +and all the fame and glory he has received has been won by deceit, and +is a miserable mockery. + +The tragic result is inevitable. Gladys dies under the pressure of a +burden too heavy for her,--the knowledge of deceit in him she had +loved and trusted; while the stricken Helwyze is paralyzed, and lives +henceforth only a death in life. + +With all the elements of power and beauty in this singular book, it +fails to charm and win the heart of the reader. The circumstances are +in a romantic setting, but still they are prosaic; and tragedy is only +endurable when taken up into the region of the ideal, where the +thought of the universal rounds out all traits of the individual. In +Goethe's Faust, Margaret is the sweetest and simplest of maidens; but +in her is the life of all wronged and suffering womanhood. + +The realism which is delightful in the pictures of little women and +merry boys is painful when connected with passions so morbid and lives +so far removed from joy and sanity. As in her early dramas and +sensational stories, we do not find Louisa Alcott's own broad, +generous, healthy life, or that which lay around her, in this book, +but the reminiscences of her reading, which she had striven to make +her own by invention and fancy. + +This note refers to "A Modern Mephistopheles":-- + + [1877.] + + DEAR MR. NILES,--I had to keep the proof longer than I meant + because a funeral came in the way. + + The book as last sent is lovely, and much bigger than I expected. + + Poor "Marmee," ill in bed, hugged it, and said, "It is perfect! + only I do wish your name could be on it." She is very proud of + it; and tender-hearted Anna weeps and broods over it, calling + Gladys the best and sweetest character I ever did. So much for + home opinion; now let's see what the public will say. + + May clamors for it; but I don't want to send this till she has + had one or two of the others. Have you sent her "Is That All?" If + not, please do; then it won't look suspicious to send only "M. + M." + + I am so glad the job is done, and hope it won't disgrace the + series. Is not another to come before this? I hope so; for many + people suspect what is up, and I could tell my fibs about No. 6 + better if it was not mine. + + Thanks for the trouble you have taken to keep the secret. Now the + fun will begin. + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + P. S.--Bean's expressman grins when he hands in the daily parcel. + He is a Concord man. + +By Louisa's help the younger sister again went abroad in 1876; and her +bright affectionate letters cheered the little household, much +saddened by the mother's illness. + + +_Journal._ + + _January_, 1876.--Helped Mrs. Croly receive two hundred + gentlemen. + + A letter from Baron Tauchnitz asking leave to put my book in his + foreign library, and sending 600 marks to pay for it. Said, "Yes, + thank you, Baron." + + Went to Philadelphia to see Cousin J. May installed in Dr. + Furness's pulpit. Dull place is Philadelphia. Heard Beecher + preach; did not like him.... + + Went home on the 21st, finding I could not work here. Soon tire + of being a fine lady. + + _February and March._--Took a room in B., and fell to work on + short tales for F. T. N. wanted a centennial story; but my + frivolous New York life left me no ideas. Went to Centennial Ball + at Music Hall, and got an idea. + + Wrote a tale of "'76," which with others will make a catchpenny + book. Mother poorly, so I go home to nurse her. + + _April, May, and June._--Mother better. Nan and boys go to P. + farm. May and I clean the old house. It seems as if the dust of + two centuries haunted the ancient mansion, and came out spring + and fall in a ghostly way for us to clear up. + + Great freshets and trouble. + + Exposition in Philadelphia; don't care to go. America ought to + pay her debts before she gives parties. "Silver Pitchers," etc., + comes out, and goes well. Poor stuff; but the mill must keep on + grinding even chaff. + + _June._--Lovely month! Keep hotel and wait on Marmee. + + Try to get up steam for a new serial, as Mrs. Dodge wants one, + and Scribner offers $3,000 for it. Roberts Brothers want a novel; + and the various newspapers and magazines clamor for tales. My + brain is squeezed dry, and I can only wait for help. + + _July, August._--Get an idea and start "Rose in Bloom," though I + hate sequels. + + _September._--On the 9th my dear girl sails in the "China" for a + year in London or Paris. God be with her! She has done her + distasteful duty faithfully, and deserved a reward. She cannot + find the help she needs here, and is happy and busy in her own + world over there. + + [She never came home.--L. M. A.] + + Finish "Rose." + + * * * * * + + _November._--"Rose" comes out; sells well. + + ... Forty-four years old. My new task gets on slowly; but I keep + at it, and can be a prop, if not an angel, in the house, as Nan + is. + + _December._--Miss P. sends us a pretty oil sketch of May,--so + like the dear soul in her violet wrapper, with yellow curls piled + up, and the long hand at work. Mother delights in it. + + She (M.) is doing finely, and says, "I am getting on, and I feel + as if it was not all a mistake; for I have some talent, and will + prove it." Modesty is a sign of genius, and I think our girl has + both. The money I invest in her pays the sort of interest I like. + I am proud to have her show what she can do, and have her depend + upon no one but me. Success to little Raphael! My dull winter is + much cheered by her happiness and success. + + _January, February, 1877._--The year begins well. Nan keeps + house; boys fine, tall lads, good and gay; Father busy with his + new book; Mother cosey with her sewing, letters, Johnson, and + success of her "girls." + + Went for some weeks to the Bellevue, and wrote "A Modern + Mephistopheles" for the No Name Series. It has been simmering + ever since I read Faust last year. Enjoyed doing it, being tired + of providing moral pap for the young. Long to write a novel, but + cannot get time enough. + + May's letters our delight. She is so in earnest she will not stop + for pleasure, rest, or society, but works away like a Trojan. Her + work admired by masters and mates for its vigor and character. + + _March._--Begin to think of buying the Thoreau place for Nan. The + $4,000 received from the Vt. and Eastern R. Rs. must be invested, + and she wants a home of her own, now the lads are growing up. + + Mother can be with her in the winter for a change, and leave me + free to write in B. Concord has no inspiration for me. + + _April._--May, at the request of her teacher, M. Muller, sends a + study of still life to the Salon. The little picture is accepted, + well hung, and praised by the judges. No friend at court, and the + modest work stood on its own merits. She is very proud to see her + six months' hard work bear fruit. A happy girl, and all say she + deserves the honor. + + "M. M." appears and causes much guessing. It is praised and + criticised, and I enjoy the fun, especially when friends say, "I + know _you_ didn't write it, for you can't hide your peculiar + style." + + Help to buy the house for Nan,--$4,500. So she has _her_ wish, + and is happy. When shall I have mine? Ought to be contented with + knowing I help both sisters by my brains. But I'm selfish, and + want to go away and rest in Europe. Never shall. + + _May, June._--Quiet days keeping house and attending to Marmee, + who grows more and more feeble. Helped Nan get ready for her new + home. + + Felt very well, and began to hope I had outlived the neuralgic + worries and nervous woes born of the hospital fever and the hard + years following. + + May living alone in Paris, while her mates go jaunting,--a + solitary life; but she is so busy she is happy and safe. A good + angel watches over her. Take pleasant drives early in the A.M. + with Marmee. She takes her comfort in a basket wagon, and we + drive to the woods, picking flowers and stopping where we like. + It keeps her young, and rests her weary nerves. + + _July._--Got too tired, and was laid up for some weeks. A curious + time, lying quite happily at rest, wondering what was to come + next. + + _August._--As soon as able began "Under the Lilacs," but could + not do much. + +Mrs. Alcott grew rapidly worse, and her devoted daughter recognized +that the final parting was near. As Louisa watched by the bedside she +wrote "My Girls," and finished "Under the Lilacs." + +The journal tells the story of the last days of watching, and of the +peaceful close of the mother's self-sacrificing yet blessed life. +Louisa was very brave in the presence of death. She had no dark +thoughts connected with it; and in her mother's case, after her long, +hard life, she recognized how "growing age longed for its peaceful +sleep." + +The tie between this mother and daughter was exceptionally strong and +tender. The mother saw all her own fine powers reproduced and +developed in her daughter; and if she also recognized the passionate +energy which had been the strength and the bane of her own life, it +gave her only a more constant watchfulness to save her child from the +struggles and regrets from which she had suffered herself. + + +_Journal._ + + _September_, 1877.--On the 7th Marmee had a very ill turn, and + the doctor told me it was the beginning of the end. [Water on the + chest.] She was so ill we sent for Father from Walcott; and I + forgot myself in taking care of poor Marmee, who suffered much + and longed to go. + + As I watched with her I wrote "My Girls," to go with other tales + in a new "Scrap Bag," and finished "Under the Lilacs." I foresaw + a busy or a sick winter, and wanted to finish while I could, so + keeping my promise and earning my $3,000. + + Brain very lively and pen flew. It always takes an exigency to + spur me up and wring out a book. Never have time to go slowly and + do my best. + + _October._--Fearing I might give out, got a nurse and rested a + little, so that when the last hard days come I might not fail + Marmee, who says, "Stay by, Louy, and help me if I suffer too + much." I promised, and watched her sit panting life away day + after day. We thought she would not outlive her seventy-seventh + birthday, but, thanks to Dr. W. and homoeopathy, she got + relief, and we had a sad little celebration, well knowing it + would be the last. Aunt B. and L. W. came up, and with fruit, + flowers, smiling faces, and full hearts, we sat round the brave + soul who faced death so calmly and was ready to go. + + I overdid and was very ill,--in danger of my life for a + week,--and feared to go before Marmee. But pulled through, and + got up slowly to help her die. A strange month. + + _November._--Still feeble, and Mother failing fast. On the 14th + we were both moved to Anna's at Mother's earnest wish. + + A week in the new home, and then she ceased to care for + anything. Kept her bed for three days, lying down after weeks in + a chair, and on the 25th, at dusk, that rainy Sunday, fell + quietly asleep in my arms. + + She was very happy all day, thinking herself a girl again, with + parents and sisters round her. Said her Sunday hymn to me, whom + she called "Mother," and smiled at us, saying, "A smile is as + good as a prayer." Looked often at the little picture of May, and + waved her hand to it, "Good-by, little May, good-by!" + + Her last words to Father were, "You are laying a very soft pillow + for me to go to sleep on." + + We feared great suffering, but she was spared that, and slipped + peacefully away. I was so glad when the last weary breath was + drawn, and silence came, with its rest and peace. + + On the 27th it was necessary to bury her, and we took her quietly + away to Sleepy Hollow. A hard day, but the last duty we could do + for her; and there we left her at sunset beside dear Lizzie's + dust,--alone so long. + + On the 28th a memorial service, and all the friends at + Anna's,--Dr. Bartol and Mr. Foote of Stone Chapel. A simple, + cheerful service, as she would have liked it. + + Quiet days afterward resting in her rest. + + My duty is done, and now I shall be glad to follow her. + + _December._--Many kind letters from all who best knew and loved + the noble woman. + + I never wish her back, but a great warmth seems gone out of life, + and there is no motive to go on now. + + My only comfort is that I _could_ make her last years + comfortable, and lift off the burden she had carried so bravely + all these years. She was so loyal, tender, and true; life was + hard for her, and no one understood all she had to bear but we, + her children. I think I shall soon follow her, and am quite + ready to go now she no longer needs me. + + _January_, 1878.--An idle month at Nan's, for I can only suffer. + + Father goes about, being restless with his anchor gone. Dear Nan + is house-mother now,--so patient, so thoughtful and tender; I + need nothing but that cherishing which only mothers can give. + + May busy in London. Very sad about Marmee; but it was best not to + send for her, and Marmee forbade it, and she has some very + _tender friends_ near her. + + _February._--... Wrote some lines on Marmee. + + +_To Mrs. Dodge._ + + CONCORD, June 3 [1877]. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--The tale[14] goes slowly owing to + interruptions, for summer is a busy time, and I get few quiet + days. Twelve chapters are done, but are short ones, and so will + make about six or seven numbers in "St. Nicholas." + + I will leave them divided in this way that you may put in as many + as you please each month; for trying to suit the magazine hurts + the story in its book form, though this way does no harm to the + monthly parts, I think. + + I will send you the first few chapters during the week for Mrs. + Foote, and with them the schedule you suggest, so that my infants + may not be drawn with whiskers, and my big boys and girls in + pinafores, as in "Eight Cousins." + + I hope the new baby won't be set aside too soon for my + illustrations; but I do feel a natural wish to have one story + prettily adorned with good pictures, as hitherto artists have + much afflicted me. + + I am daily waiting with anxiety for an illumination of some sort, + as my plot is very vague so far; and though I don't approve of + "sensations" in children's books, one must have a certain thread + on which to string the small events which make up the true sort + of child-life. + + I intend to go and simmer an afternoon at Van Amburg's great + show, that I may get hints for the further embellishment of Ben + and his dog. I have also put in a poem by F. B. S.'s small + son,[15] and that hit will give Mrs. Foote a good scene with the + six-year-old poet reciting his verses under the lilacs. + + I shall expect the small tots to be unusually good, since the + artist has a live model to study from. Please present my + congratulations to the happy mamma and Mr. Foote, Jr. + + Yours _warmly_, + L. M. A. + + AUGUST 21, 1879. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--I have not been able to do anything on the + serial.... But after a week at the seaside, to get braced up for + work, I intend to begin. The Revolutionary tale does not seem to + possess me. I have casually asked many of my young folks, when + they demand a new story, which they would like, one of that sort + or the old "Eight Cousin" style, and they all say the latter. It + would be much the easier to do, as I have a beginning and a plan + all ready,--a village, and the affairs of a party of children. We + have many little romances going on among the Concord boys and + girls, and all sorts of queer things, which will work into "Jack + and Jill" nicely. Mrs. Croly has been anxious for a story, and I + am trying to do a short one, as I told her you had the refusal + of my next serial. I hope you will not be very much disappointed + about the old-time tale. It would take study to do it well, and + leisure is just what I have not got, and I shall never have, I + fear, when writing is to be done. I will send you a few chapters + of "Jack and Jill" when in order, if you like, and you can decide + if they will suit. I shall try to have it unlike the others if + possible, but the dears _will_ cling to the "Little Women" style. + + I have had a very busy summer, but have been pretty well, and + able to do my part in entertaining the four hundred philosophers. + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + SEPTEMBER 17 [1879]. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--Don't let me _prose_. If I seem to be declining + and falling into it, pull me up, and I'll try to prance as of + old. Years tame down one's spirit and fancy, though they only + deepen one's love for the little people, and strengthen the + desire to serve them wisely as well as cheerfully. Fathers and + mothers tell me they use my books as helps for themselves; so now + and then I like to slip in a page for them, fresh from the + experience of some other parent, for education seems to me to be + _the_ problem in our times. + + Jack and Jill are right out of our own little circle, and the + boys and girls are in a twitter to know what is going in; so it + will be a "truly story" in the main. + + Such a long note for a busy woman to read! but your cheery word + was my best "starter;" and I'm, more than ever, + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + +MAY ALCOTT NIERIKER. + + Born at Concord, July, 1840. Died in Paris, December, 1879. + +This younger sister became so dear to Louisa, and through the legacy +which she left to her of an infant child, exercised so great an +influence over the last ten years of her life, that it will not be +uninteresting to trace out the course of her life and the development +of her character. May was born before the experiments at Fruitlands, +and her childhood passed during the period when the fortunes of the +family were at the lowest ebb; but she was too young to feel in all +their fulness the cares which weighed upon the older sisters. Her +oldest sister--the affectionate, practical Anna--almost adopted May as +her own baby, and gave her a great deal of the attention and care +which the mother had not time for amid her numerous avocations. The +child clung to Anna with trust and affection; but with her quick fancy +and lively spirit, she admired the brilliant qualities of Louisa. +Hasty in temperament, quick and impulsive in action, she quarrelled +with Louisa while she adored her, and was impatient with her rebukes, +which yet had great influence over her. She had a more facile nature +than the other sisters, and a natural, girlish love of attention, and +a romantic fondness for beauty in person and style in living. Graceful +in figure and manners, with a fine complexion, blue eyes, and a +profusion of light wavy hair, she was attractive in appearance; and a +childish frankness, and acceptance of sympathy or criticism, disarmed +those who were disposed to find fault with her. + +May is very truly described in "Little Women," and her character is +painted with a discerning but loving hand: "A regular snow maiden, +with blue eyes, and yellow hair curling on her shoulders, pale and +slender, and always carrying herself like a young lady mindful of her +manners." Many little touches of description show the consciousness of +appearance and love of admiration which she innocently betrayed, and +illustrate the relation of the sisters: "'Don't stop to quirk your +little finger and prink over your plate, Amy,' cried Jo." Her mother +says of this daughter in her diary: "She does all things well; her +capabilities are much in her eyes and fingers. When a child, I +observed with what ease and grace she did little things." + +According to Louisa, "If anybody had asked Amy what the greatest trial +of her life was, she would have answered at once, 'My nose.' No one +minded it but herself, and it was doing its best to grow; but Amy felt +deeply the want of a Grecian nose, and drew whole sheets of handsome +ones to console herself." "Little Raphael," as the sisters called her, +very early developed a love and talent for drawing which became the +delight of her life. She covered her books with sketches, but managed +to escape reprimand by being a model of deportment. Always having in +her mind an ideal of elegant life, the many little trials of their +times of poverty were of course severe mortifications to her; and the +necessity of wearing dresses which came to her from others, and which +were ugly in themselves or out of harmony with her own appearance, +caused her much affliction. She was always generous and easily +reconciled after a quarrel, and was a favorite with her companions, +and the heroine of those innocent little love episodes which, as +Tennyson says,-- + + "Are but embassies of love + To tamper with the feelings, ere he found + Empire for life."[16] + +While May was too young to take the part in the support of the family +which fell to Anna and Louisa, she was yet a blessing and comfort by +her kind, bright nature. After the death of Elizabeth in 1858, her +mother speaks of "turning to the little May for comfort," and her +father's letters show how dear she was to him, although she never +entered into his intellectual life. + +May shared in the blessing of Louisa's first success, for she went to +the School of Design in 1859 for the lessons in her art, for which she +longed so eagerly. In 1860 an old friend sent her thirty dollars for +lessons in drawing, and she had the best instruction she could then +receive in Boston. + +In 1863, Louisa procured for her the great advantage of study with Dr. +Rimmer, who was then giving his precious lessons in art anatomy in +Boston. Under his instructions, May gave some attention to modelling, +and completed an ideal bust. Although she did not pursue this branch +of art, it was undoubtedly of great service in giving her more +thorough knowledge of the head, and a bolder and firmer style of +drawing than she would have gained in any other way. + +As will be seen from Louisa's journal, May was frequently with her in +Boston, engaged in studying or teaching. By the kindness of a friend, +she went to Europe in 1870, when Louisa accompanied her. Louisa sent +her to Europe for a year of study in 1873, and again in 1877. In +London and Paris she had good opportunities for study, and improved +rapidly in her art. She made some admirable copies from Turner which +attracted the attention of Ruskin; and a picture from still life was +accepted at the Paris Salon, which event gave great happiness to the +family circle and friends at home. + +May was very generous in giving to others help in the art she loved. +While at home, in the intervals of her studies in Europe, she tried to +form an art centre in Concord, and freely gave her time, her +instruction, and the use of her studio to young artists. She wrote a +little book to aid them in prosecuting their studies abroad, called +"Studying Art Abroad, and How to do it Cheaply." + +Like the rest of the family, May composed with great ease, and +sometimes wrote little stories. Her letters are very sprightly and +agreeable. + +While residing in London, May had become acquainted with a young Swiss +gentleman, whose refined and artistic tastes were closely in unison +with her own. During the sad days of bereavement caused by her +mother's death he was a kind and sympathetic friend, soothing her +grief and cheering her solitude by his music. Thus, frequently +together, their friendship became love, and they were betrothed. The +course of this true love, which for a time ran swiftly and smoothly, +is most exquisitely depicted in May's letters to her family. The +charming pictures of herself and her young lover are so like Amy and +her Laurie in his happiest moods, that we almost feel as if Miss +Alcott had been prophetic in her treatment of these characters in +"Little Women." + +I wish I could give her own natural, frank account of this event. May +had the secret of perpetual youth, at least in spirit; and in reading +her letters, one has no consciousness that more than thirty years had +passed over her head, for they had taken no drop of freshness from her +heart. + +The union of this happy pair was not a surprise to the friends at +home, who had read May's heart, revealed in her frank, innocent +letters, more clearly than she had supposed. When the claims of +business called Mr. Nieriker from London, the hearts of the young +couple quailed before the idea of separation, and they decided to be +married at once, and go together. The simple ceremony was performed in +London, March 22, 1878; and May started on her journey, no longer +alone, but with a loving friend by her side. + +May's letters are full of the most artless joy in her new life. The +old days of struggle and penury are gone; the heart-loneliness is no +more; the world is beautiful, and everybody loving and kind. Life in +the modest French home is an idyllic dream, and she writes to her +sisters of every detail of her household. The return of her husband at +sunset is a feast, and the evening is delightful with poetry and +music. Her blue dress, her crimson furniture, satisfy her artistic +sense. She does not neglect her art, but paints with fresh +inspiration, and waits for his criticism and praise. She says, "He is +very ambitious for my artistic success, and is my most severe critic." +In the morning she finds her easel set out for her, a fire burning +ready for her comfort, and her husband in the big arm-chair waiting to +read to her, or to take his violin and pose for his picture in gray +velvet paletot and red slippers.[17] + +For the time conjugal love is all sufficient, and May wonders at +herself that the happiness of the moment can so drown every +remembrance of sorrow. Yet a pathetic note is occasionally heard, as +she mourns for the mother who is gone, or yearns for the sister who +has been such a strength to her through life. The picturesqueness and +ease of French life make America look stupid and forlorn, and she has +no wish to go home, but only to have her dear ones share in her +happiness. Her work in art was successful; and the money she received +for it was not unacceptable, although her husband's income sufficed +for their modest wants. She was justified in her grateful feeling that +she was singularly blessed. Her husband's family were German-Swiss of +high standing, artistic temperament, and warm affections. His mother +and sister came to visit them, and took May to their hearts with +cordial love. + +Among the pictures painted by May at this time the most remarkable is +the portrait of a negro girl, which is a very faithful study from +life, and gives the color and characteristic traits of a beautiful +negro without exaggeration. The expression of the eyes is tender and +pathetic, well-suited to the fate of a slave girl. Such earnest study +would have borne richer fruit if longer life had been hers. + +May's own nature seems to have blossomed out like a flower in this +sunny climate. In her youth at home she was impulsive, affectionate, +and generous, but quick in temper and sometimes exacting; but the +whole impression she made upon her husband and his family was of grace +and sweetness, and she herself declares that her sisters at home would +not recognize her, she has "become so sweet in this atmosphere of +happiness." + +We would gladly linger over these records of a paradisiacal home where +Adam and Eve renewed their innocent loves and happy labors. When +musing over the sorrows of humanity it refreshes us to know that such +joy is possible, and needs only love and simple hearts to make it +real. + +May's note of happiness is touchingly echoed from the heart of her +bereaved father, who recalls the days of his own courtship. He +cherished every tender word from her; and the respectful and loving +words of his new son, to whom he responds affectionately, were like +balm to his stricken heart. + +May's joy was heightened by the expectation of motherhood. Her health +was excellent, and she had the loving care of her new mother and +sister. The anxious family at home received the news of the birth of a +daughter with heartfelt delight. It was a great disappointment to +Louisa that she could not be with her sister at this time; but her +health was not equal to the voyage, and she felt that May had most +loving and sufficient care. An American friend in Paris kindly wrote +to Louisa full details of the little niece and of the mother's +condition. "It is difficult," she says, "to say which of that happy +household is the proudest over that squirming bit of humanity." + +For about two weeks all seemed well; but alarming symptoms began to +appear, and the mother's strength failed rapidly. The brain was the +seat of disease; and she was generally unconscious, although she had +intervals of apparent improvement, when she recognized her friends. +She passed away peacefully December 29, 1879. + +An American clergyman in Paris took charge of the funeral service, +which according to May's expressed desire was very simple, and she was +laid in the tranquil cemetery of Montrouge outside of the +fortifications. + +Foreseeing the possibility of a fatal termination to her illness, May +had made every preparation for the event, and obtained a promise from +her sister-in-law that she would carry the baby to Louisa to receive +the devoted care that she knew would be given it. The child became a +source of great comfort to Miss Alcott as will be seen from the +journals. After her death Mr. Nieriker visited his little girl in +America, and in June, 1889, her aunt took her to his home in Zurich, +Switzerland. + +Before the sad letters describing May's illness could reach America, +came the cable message of her death. It was sent to Mr. Emerson, the +never-failing friend of the family, who bore it to Louisa, her father +being temporarily absent. His thoughtfulness softened the blow as much +as human tenderness could, but still it fell with crushing weight upon +them all. + +The father and sister could not sleep, and in the watches of the night +he wrote that touching ode, the cry of paternal love and grief +entitled "Love's Morrow." + + +_To Mrs. Bond._ + + CONCORD, Jan. 1, 1880. + + DEAR AUNTIE,--It is hard to add one more sorrow to your already + full heart, particularly one of this sort, but I did not want you + to hear it from any one but us. Dear May is dead. Gone to begin + the new year with Mother, in a world where I hope there is no + grief like this. Gone just when she seemed safest and happiest, + after nearly two years of such sweet satisfaction and love that + she wrote us, "If I die when baby comes, remember I have been so + unspeakably happy for a year that I ought to be content...." + + And it is all over. The good mother and sister have done + everything in the most devoted way. We can never repay them. My + May gave me her little Lulu, and in the spring I hope to get my + sweet legacy. Meantime the dear grandma takes her to a home full + of loving friends and she is safe. I will write more when we + know, but the cruel sea divides us and we must wait. + + Bless you dear Auntie for all your love for May; she never forgot + it, nor do we. + + Yours ever, + LOUISA. + + JANUARY 4. + + DEAR AUNTIE,--I have little further news to tell, but it seems to + comfort me to answer the shower of tender sympathetic letters + that each mail brings us.... + + So we must wait to learn how the end came at last, where the dear + dust is to lie, and how soon the desolate little home is to be + broken up. It only remains for May's baby to be taken away to + fill our cup to overflowing. But perhaps it would be best so, for + even in Heaven with Mother, I know May will yearn for the darling + so ardently desired, so tenderly welcomed, bought at such a + price. + + In all the troubles of my life I never had one so hard to bear, + for the sudden fall from such high happiness to such a depth of + sorrow finds me unprepared to accept or bear it as I ought. + + Sometime I shall know why such things are; till then must try to + trust and wait and hope as you do.... Sorrow has its lonely side, + and sympathy is so sweet it takes half its bitterness away. + + Yours ever, + L. + +After May's marriage and death Louisa remained awhile in Concord, +trying to forget her grief in care for others. She went to the prison +in Concord, and told a story to the prisoners which touched their +hearts, and was long remembered by some of them. + +She wrote some short stories for "St Nicholas," among them "Jimmy's +Cruise in the Pinafore," called out by the acting of the popular opera +of that name by a juvenile troupe. + +She spent some weeks at Willow Cottage, Magnolia, which she has +described in her popular story of "Jack and Jill." The scene of the +story is mostly laid in Concord, or "Harmony" as she calls it, and she +has introduced many familiar scenes and persons into the book. + +This summer, too, the long-dreamed of School of Philosophy was +established. The opening of the School was a great event to Mr. +Alcott, as it was the realization of the dream of years. Louisa +enjoyed his gratification, and took pains to help him to reap full +satisfaction from it. She carried flowers to grace the opening +meeting, and was friendly to his guests. She occasionally attended +lectures given by her friends,--Dr. Bartol, Mrs. Howe, and +others,--and she could not fail to enjoy meeting many of the bright +people who congregated there; but she did not care for the speculative +philosophy. Her keen sense of humor led her to see all that was +incongruous or funny or simply novel in the bearing of the +philosophers. She felt that her father had too much of the trying +details, and perhaps did not appreciate how much joy of recognition it +brought him. She had not much faith in the practical success of the +experiment. Philosophy was much associated in her mind with early +poverty and suffering, and she did not feel its charms. She was +usually at the seashore at this season, as she suffered from the heat +at Concord. Frequent allusions to the school appear in her journal. +The following anecdote is given by a friend. + +"It was at Concord on Emerson day. After a morning with Bartol and +Alcott and Mrs. Howe, I lunched with the Alcotts', who had for guest +the venerable Dr. McCosh. Naturally the conversation turned on the +events of the morning. 'I was thinking,' said the Doctor, 'as I looked +among your audience, that there were no young men; and that with none +but old men your school would soon die with them. By the way, madam,' +he continued, addressing Miss Alcott, 'will you tell me what is your +definition of a philosopher?' + +"The reply came instantly, 'My definition is of a man up in a balloon, +with his family and friends holding the ropes which confine him to +earth and trying to haul him down.' + +"The laugh which followed this reply was heartily joined in by the +philosopher himself." + + +_Journal._ + + _March_, 1878.--A happy event,--May's marriage to Ernest + Nieriker, the "tender friend" who has consoled her for Marmee's + loss, as John consoled Nan for Beth's. He is a Swiss, handsome, + cultivated, and good; an excellent family living in Baden, and E. + has a good business. May is old enough to choose for herself, and + seems so happy in the new relation that we have nothing to say + against it. + + They were privately married on the 22d, and went to Havre for the + honeymoon, as E. had business in France; so they hurried the + wedding. Send her $1,000 as a gift, and all good wishes for the + new life. + + _April._--Happy letters from May, who is enjoying life as one can + but once. E. writes finely to Father, and is a son to welcome I + am sure. May sketches and E. attends to his business by day, and + both revel in music in the evening, as E. is a fine violin + player. + + How different our lives are just now!--I so lonely, sad, and + sick; she so happy, well, and blest. She always had the cream of + things, and deserved it. My time is yet to come somewhere else, + when I am ready for it. + + Anna clears out the old house; for we shall never go back to it; + it ceased to be "home" when Marmee left it. + + I dawdle about, and wait to see if I am to live or die. If I + live, it is for some new work. I wonder what? + + _May._--Begin to drive a little, and enjoy the spring. Nature is + always good to me. + + May settles in her own house at Meudon,--a pretty apartment, with + balcony, garden, etc.... I plan and hope to go to them, if I am + ever well enough, and find new inspiration in a new life. May and + E. urge it, and I long to go, but cannot risk the voyage yet. I + doubt if I ever find time to lead my own life, or health to try + it. + + _June and July._--Improving fast, in spite of dark predictions + and forebodings. The Lord has more work for me, so I am spared. + + Tried to write a memoir of Marmee; but it is too soon, and I am + not well enough. + + * * * * * + + May has had the new mother and brother-in-law with her, and finds + them most interesting and lovable. They seem very proud of her, + and happy in her happiness. Bright times for our youngest! May + they last! + + [They did.--L. M. A.] + + * * * * * + + Got nicely ready to go to May in September; but at the last + moment gave it up, fearing to undo all the good this weary year + of ease has done for me, and be a burden on her. A great + disappointment; but I've learned to wait. I long to see her happy + in her own home. + + Nan breaks her leg; so it is well I stayed, as there was no one + to take her place but me. Always a little chore to be done. + + _October, November._--Nan improved. Rode, nursed, kept house, and + tried to be contented, but was not. Make no plans for myself now; + do what I can, and should be glad not to have to sit idle any + longer. + + On the 8th, Marmee's birthday, Father and I went to Sleepy Hollow + with red leaves and flowers for her. A cold, dull day, and I was + glad there was no winter for her any more. + + _November 25th._--A year since our beloved Marmee died. A very + eventful year. May marries, I live instead of dying, Father comes + to honor in his old age, and Nan makes her home our refuge when + we need one. + + _December._--A busy time. Nan gets about again. I am so well I + wonder at myself, and ask no more. + + Write a tale for the "Independent," and begin on an art novel, + with May's romance for its thread. Went to B. for some weeks, and + looked about to see what I could venture to do.... + + So ends 1878,--a great contrast to last December. Then I thought + I was done with life; now I can enjoy a good deal, and wait to + see what I am spared to do. Thank God for both the sorrow and the + joy. + + _January_, 1879.--At the Bellevue in my little room writing. + + Got two books well started, but had too many interruptions to do + much, and dared not get into a vortex for fear of a break-down. + + Went about and saw people, and tried to be jolly. Did Jarley for + a fair, also for Authors' Carnival at Music Hall. A queer time; + too old for such pranks. A sad heart and a used-up body make play + hard work, I find. + + Read "Mary Wollstonecraft," "Dosia," "Danieli," "Helene," etc. I + like Greville's books. + + Invest $1,000 for Fred's schooling, etc. Johnny has his $1,000 + also safely in the bank for his education and any emergency. + + _February._--Home to Concord rather used up. Find a very quiet + life is best; for in B. people beset me to do things, and I try, + and get so tired I cannot work. Dr. C. says rest is my salvation; + so I rest. Hope for Paris in the spring, as May begs me to come. + She is leading what she calls "an ideal life,"--painting, music, + love, and the world shut out. People wonder and gossip; but M. + and E. laugh and are happy. Wise people to enjoy this lovely + time! + + Went to a dinner, at the Revere House, of the Papyrus Club. Mrs. + Burnett and Miss A. were guests of honor. Dr. Holmes took me in, + and to my surprise I found myself at the president's right hand, + with Mrs. B., Holmes, Stedman, and the great ones of the land. + Had a gay time. Dr. H. very gallant. "Little Women" often toasted + with more praise than was good for me. + + Saw Mrs. B. at a lunch, and took her and Mrs. M. M. Dodge to + Concord for a lunch. Most agreeable women. + + A visit at H. W.'s. Mission time at Church of the Advent. Father + Knox-Little preached, and waked up the sinners. H. hoped to + convert me, and took me to see Father K.-L., a very interesting + man, and we had a pleasant talk; but I found that we meant the + same thing, though called by different names; and his religion + had too much ceremony about it to suit me. So he gave me his + blessing, and promised to send me some books. + + [Never did.--L. M. A.] + + Pleasant times with my "rainy-day friend," as I call Dr. W. She + is a great comfort to me, with her healthy common-sense and + tender patience, aside from skill as a doctor and beauty as a + woman. I love her much, and she does me good. + + * * * * * + + Happy letters from May. Her hopes of a little son or daughter in + the autumn give us new plans to talk over. I _must_ be well + enough to go to her then. + + _April._--Very poorly and cross; so tired of being a prisoner to + pain. Long for the old strength when I could do what I liked, and + never knew I had a body. Life not worth living in this way; but + having over-worked the wonderful machine, I must pay for it, and + should not growl, I suppose, as it is just. + + To B. to see Dr. S. Told me I was better than she ever dreamed I + could be, and need not worry. So took heart, and tried to be + cheerful, in spite of aches and nerves. Warm weather comforted + me, and green grass did me good. + + Put a fence round A.'s garden. Bought a phaeton, so I might + drive, as I cannot walk much, and Father loves to take his guests + about. + + _May and June._--Go to B. for a week, but don't enjoy seeing + people. Do errands, and go home again. Saw "Pinafore;" a pretty + play. + + Much company. + + E.'s looked at the Orchard House and liked it; will hire it, + probably. Hope so, as it is forlorn standing empty. I never go by + without looking up at Marmee's window, where the dear face used + to be, and May's, with the picturesque vines round it. No + golden-haired, blue-gowned Diana ever appears now; she sits + happily sewing baby-clothes in Paris. Enjoyed fitting out a box + of dainty things to send her. Even lonely old spinsters take an + interest in babies. + + _June._--A poor month. Try to forget my own worries, and enjoy + the fine weather, my little carriage, and good friends. Souls are + such slaves to bodies it is hard to keep up out of the slough of + despond when nerves jangle and flesh aches. + + Went with Father on Sunday to the prison, and told the men a + story. Thought I could not face four hundred at first; but after + looking at them during the sermon, I felt that I could at least + _amuse_ them, and they evidently needed something new. So I told + a hospital story with a little moral to it, and was so interested + in watching the faces of some young men near me, who drank in + every word, that I forgot myself, and talked away "like a + mother." One put his head down, and another winked hard, so I + felt that I had caught them; for even one tear in that dry, hard + place would do them good. Miss McC. and Father said it was well + done, and I felt quite proud of my first speech. [Sequel later.] + + _July._--Wrote a little tale called "Jimmy's Cruise in the + Pinafore," for "St. Nicholas;" $100. + + _14th._--The philosophers begin to swarm, and the buzz starts + to-morrow. How much honey will be made is still doubtful, but the + hive is ready and drones also. + + On the 15th, the School of Philosophy began in the study at + Orchard House,--thirty students; Father, the dean. He has his + dream realized at last, and is in glory, with plenty of talk to + swim in. People laugh, but will enjoy something new in this dull + old town; and the fresh Westerners will show them that all the + culture of the world is not in Concord. I had a private laugh + when Mrs. ---- asked one of the new-comers, with her superior + air, if she had ever looked into Plato. And the modest lady from + Jacksonville answered, with a twinkle at me, "We have been + reading Plato in _Greek_ for the past six years." Mrs. ---- + subsided after that. + + [Oh, wicked L. M. A., who hates sham and loves a joke.--L. M. A.] + + Was the first woman to register my name as a voter. + + _August._--To B. with a new "Scrap Bag." "Jimmy" to the fore. + Wrote a little tale. + + The town swarms with budding philosophers, and they roost on our + steps like hens waiting for corn. Father revels in it, so we keep + the hotel going, and try to look as if we liked it. If they were + philanthropists, I should enjoy it; but speculation seems a waste + of time when there is so much real work crying to be done. Why + discuss the "unknowable" till our poor are fed and the wicked + saved? + + A young poet from New York came; nice boy. + + Sixteen callers to-day. Trying to stir up the women about + suffrage; so timid and slow. + + Happy letters from May. Sophie N. is with her now. All well in + the Paris nest. + + Passed a week in Magnolia with Mrs. H. School ended for this + year. Hallelujah! + + _September._--Home from the seaside refreshed, and go to work on + a new serial for "St. Nicholas,"--"Jack and Jill." Have no plan + yet but a boy, a girl, and a sled, with an upset to start with. + Vague idea of working in Concord young folks and their doings. + After two years of rest, I am going to try again; it is so easy + to make money now, and so pleasant to have it to give. A chapter + a day is my task, and not that if I feel tired. No more fourteen + hours a day; make haste slowly now. + + Drove about and drummed up women to my suffrage meeting. So hard + to move people out of the old ruts. I haven't patience enough; + if they won't see and work, I let 'em alone, and steam along my + own way. + + May sent some nice little letters of an "Artist's Holiday," and I + had them printed; also a book for artists abroad,--very useful, + and well done. + + Eight chapters done. Too much company for work. + + _October 8th._--Dear Marmee's birthday. Never forgotten. Lovely + day. Go to Sleepy Hollow with flowers. Her grave is green; + blackberry vines with red leaves trail over it. A little white + stone with her initials is at the head, and among the tall grass + over her breast a little bird had made a nest; empty now, but a + pretty symbol of the refuge that tender bosom always was for all + feeble and sweet things. Her favorite asters bloomed all about, + and the pines sang overhead. So she and dear Beth are quietly + asleep in God's acre, and we remember them more tenderly with + each year that brings us nearer them and home. + + Went with Dr. W. to the Woman's Prison, at Sherburne. A lovely + drive, and very remarkable day and night. Read a story to the + four hundred women, and heard many interesting tales. A much + better place than Concord Prison, with its armed wardens, and + "knock down and drag out" methods. Only women here, and they work + wonders by patience, love, common-sense, and the belief in + salvation for all. + + First proof from Scribner of "Jack and Jill." Mrs. D. likes the + story, so I peg away very slowly. Put in Elly D. as one of my + boys. The nearer I keep to nature, the better the work is. Young + people much interested in the story, and all want to "go in." I + shall have a hornet's nest about me if all are not _angels_. + + Father goes West. + + I mourn much because all say I must not go to May; not safe; and + I cannot add to Mamma Nieriker's cares at this time by another + invalid, as the voyage would upset me, I am so sea-sick. + + Give up my hope and long-cherished plan with grief. May sadly + disappointed. I know I shall wish I had gone; it is my luck. + + _November._--Went to Boston for a month, as some solace for my + great disappointment. Take my room at the Bellevue, and go about + a little. Write on "J. and J." Anxious about May. + + _8th._--Little Louisa May Nieriker arrived in Paris at 9 p. m., + after a short journey. All doing well. Much rejoicing. Nice + little lass, and May very happy. Ah, if I had only been there! + Too much happiness for me. + + _25th._--Two years since Marmee went. How she would have enjoyed + the little granddaughter, and all May's romance! Perhaps she + does. + + Went home on my birthday (forty-seven). Tried to have a little + party for Nan and the boys, but it was rather hard work. + + Not well enough to write much, so give up my room. Can lie round + at home, and it's cheaper. + + _December._--May not doing well. The weight on my heart is not + all imagination. She was too happy to have it last, and I fear + the end is coming. Hope it is my nerves; but this peculiar + feeling has never misled me before. + + Invited to the breakfast to O. W. H. No heart to go. + + _8th._--Little Lu one month old. Small, but lively. Oh, if I + could only be there to see,--to help! This is a penance for all + my sins. Such a tugging at my heart to be by poor May, alone, so + far away. The N.'s are devoted, and all is done that can be; but + not one of her "very own" is there. + + Father came home. + + _29th._--May died at 8 a. m., after three weeks of fever and + stupor. Happy and painless most of the time. At Mr. W.'s funeral + on the 30th, I _felt_ the truth before the news came. + + _Wednesday, 31st._--A dark day for us. A telegram from Ernest to + Mr. Emerson tells us "May is dead." Anna was gone to B.; Father + to the post-office, anxious for letters, the last being overdue. + I was alone when Mr. E. came. E. sent to him, knowing I was + feeble, and hoping Mr. E. would soften the blow. I found him + looking at May's portrait, pale and tearful, with the paper in + his hand. "My child, I wish I could prepare you; but alas, alas!" + There his voice failed, and he gave me the telegram. + + I was not surprised, and read the hard words as if I knew it all + before. "I _am_ prepared," I said, and thanked him. He was much + moved and very tender. I shall remember gratefully the look, the + grasp, the tears he gave me; and I am sure that hard moment was + made bearable by the presence of this our best and tenderest + friend. He went to find Father but missed him, and I had to tell + both him and Anna when they came. A very bitter sorrow for all. + + The dear baby may comfort E., but what can comfort us? It is the + distance that is so hard, and the thought of so much happiness + ended so soon. "Two years of perfect happiness" May called these + married years, and said, "If I die when baby comes, don't mourn, + for I have had as much happiness in this short time as many in + twenty years." She wished me to have her baby and her pictures. A + very precious legacy! Rich payment for the little I could do for + her. I see now why I lived,--to care for May's child and not + leave Anna all alone. + + _January 1st_, 1880.--A sad day mourning for May. Of all the + trials in my life I never felt any so keenly as this, perhaps + because I am so feeble in health that I cannot bear it well. It + seems so hard to break up that happy little home and take May + just when life was richest, and to leave me who had done my task + and could well be spared. Shall I ever know why such things + happen? + + Letters came telling us all the sad story. May was unconscious + during the last weeks, and seemed not to suffer. Spoke now and + then of "getting ready for Louy," and asked if she had come. All + was done that love and skill could do, but in vain. E. is + broken-hearted, and good Madame N. and Sophie find their only + solace in the poor baby. + + May felt a foreboding, and left all ready in case she died. Some + trunks packed for us, some for the N. sisters. Her diary written + up, all in order. Even chose the graveyard where she wished to + be, out of the city. E. obeys all her wishes sacredly. + + Tried to write on "J. and J." to distract my mind; but the wave + of sorrow kept rolling over me, and I could only weep and wait + till the tide ebbed again. + + _February._--More letters from E. and Madame N. Like us, they + find comfort in writing of the dear soul gone, now there is + nothing more to do for her. I cannot make it true that our May is + dead, lying far away in a strange grave, leaving a husband and + child whom we have never seen. It all reads like a pretty + romance, now death hath set its seal on these two happy years; + and we shall never know all that she alone could tell us. + + Many letters from friends in France, England, and America, full + of sympathy for us, and love and pride and gratitude for May, + who was always glad to help, forgive, and love every one. It is + our only consolation now. + + Father and I cannot sleep, but he and I make verses as we did + when Marmee died. Our grief seems to flow into words. He writes + "Love's Morrow" and "Our Madonna." + + Lulu has gone to Baden with Grandmamma. + + Finish "J. and J." The world goes on in spite of sorrow, and I + must do my work. Both these last serials were written with a + heavy heart,--"Under the Lilacs" when Marmee was failing, and + "Jack and Jill" while May was dying. Hope the grief did not get + into them. + + Hear R. W. E. lecture for his one hundredth time. Mary Clemmer + writes for a sketch of my life for a book of "Famous Women." + Don't belong there. + + Read "Memoirs of Madame de Remusat." Not very interesting. + Beauties seldom amount to much. Plain Margaret Fuller was worth a + dozen of them. "Kings in Exile," a most interesting book, a very + vivid and terrible picture of Parisian life and royal weakness + and sorrow. + + Put papers, etc., in order. I feel as if one should be ready to + go at any moment.... + + _March._--A box came from May, with pictures, clothes, vases, her + ornaments, a little work-basket, and, in one of her own sepia + boxes, her pretty hair tied with blue ribbon,--all that is now + left us of this bright soul but the baby, soon to come. Treasures + all. + + A sad day, and many tears dropped on the dear dress, the blue + slippers she last wore, the bit of work she laid down when the + call came the evening Lulu was born. The fur-lined sack feels + like May's arms round me, and I shall wear it with pleasure. The + pictures show us her great progress these last years. + + To Boston for a few days on business, and to try to forget. Got + gifts for Anna's birthday on the 16th,--forty-nine years old. My + only sister now, and the best God ever made. Repaired her house + for her. + + Lulu is not to come till autumn. Great disappointment; but it is + wiser to wait, as summer is bad for a young baby to begin here. + + _29th._--Town meeting. Twenty women there, and voted first, + thanks to Father. Polls closed,--in joke, we thought, as Judge + Hoar proposed it; proved to be in earnest, and _we_ elected a + good school committee. Quiet time; no fuss. + + JANUARY 20, 1880. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--I have been so bowed down with grief at the + loss of my dear sister just when our anxiety was over that I have + not had a thought or care for anything else. + + The story is done; but the last chapters are not copied, and I + thought it best to let them lie till I could give my mind to the + work. + + I never get a good chance to do a story without interruption of + some sort. "Under the Lilacs" was finished by my mother's bedside + in her last illness, and this one when my heart was full of care + and hope and then grief over poor May. + + I trust the misery did not get into the story; but I'm afraid it + is not as gay as I meant most of it to be. + + I forgot to number the pages of the last two chapters, and so + cannot number these. I usually keep the run, but this time sent + off the parcel in a hurry. Can you send me the right number to go + on with in chapter seventeen? I can send you four more as soon as + I hear. + + I don't believe I shall come to New York this winter. May left + me her little daughter for my own; and if she comes over soon, I + shall be too busy singing lullabies to one child to write tales + for others, or go anywhere, even to see my kind friends. + + A sweeter little romance has just ended in Paris than any I can + ever make; and the sad facts of life leave me no heart for + cheerful fiction. + + Yours truly, + L. M. ALCOTT. + +FOOTNOTES: + +[12] This poem was first published anonymously in "The Masque of +Poets," in 1878. + +[13] In Spinning-Wheel Stories. + +[14] Under the Lilacs. + +[15] Under the Lilacs, page 78. + +[16] Gardener's Daughter. + +[17] This interesting picture is in the possession of her sister. + + + + +CHAPTER XI. + +LAST YEARS. + + MY PRAYER. + (Written October, 1886.) + + Courage and patience, these I ask, + Dear Lord, in this my latest strait; + For hard I find my ten years' task, + Learning to suffer and to wait. + + Life seems so rich and grand a thing, + So full of work for heart and brain, + It is a cross that I can bring + No help, no offering, but pain. + + The hard-earned harvest of these years + I long to generously share; + The lessons learned with bitter tears + To teach again with tender care; + + To smooth the rough and thorny way + Where other feet begin to tread; + To feed some hungry soul each day + With sympathy's sustaining bread. + + So beautiful such pleasures show, + I long to make them mine; + To love and labor and to know + The joy such living makes divine. + + But if I may not, I will only ask + Courage and patience for my fate, + And learn, dear Lord, thy latest task,-- + To suffer patiently and wait. + + +The early part of the year 1880 was in the deep shadow of sadness, +from the death of Louisa's sister. Boxes full of May's pictures, +clothes, and books came home to call up anew all the memories of the +bright spirit who had blossomed into such beautiful life so quickly to +fade away. + +Miss Alcott tried to rise above her grief and busy herself with new +interests. She took an active part in the voting of the women in +Concord, and rejoiced in the election of a good school committee. In +April she returned to her old rooms at the Bellevue, where she busied +herself with dramatizing "Michael Strogoff," which she never +completed. She kept up her interest in young girls, and received with +pleasure a visit from thirty pupils of the Boston University, and she +helped to give the children of the North End Mission a happy day at +Walden Pond. She went to York for rest and refreshment during the +summer. Her heart was filled with longing for the child, and +everything was done with reference to its coming. + +As September brought cooler weather, over the sea came the little babe +to the warm hearts that were longing to welcome her. No woman as true +and loving as Louisa Alcott but has the mother-nature strong in her +heart; and she could not help feeling a new spring of love and life +when the child of one so dear was put into her arms to be her very +own. Rosy and healthy, full of life and energy,--not a model of +sainthood, but a real human nature, with a will to be regulated, not +broken, with impulses to be trained, talents and tendencies to be +studied, and a true, loving heart to be filled with joy,--Louisa +found the child a constant source of interest and pleasure. She +brought her up as she herself had been trained,--more by influences +than by rules,--and sought to follow the leadings which she found in +the young nature rather than to make it over after a plan of her own. +This new care and joy helped to fill up the void in her life from the +loss of the mother for whom she had worked so faithfully and the pet +sister to whom she had ever been a good providence. + +The principal interest of the next few years was the care of this +child. It was a pleasant occupation to Louisa, occupying her heart, +and binding her with new ties to younger generations. The journal +tells all the simple story of the "voyage across the seas." + +Miss Alcott was very attractive to children, especially to the little +ones, who thronged about her and pleaded for stories; but this was the +first one who ever really filled the mother-longing in her heart. She +was now truly a "marmee;" and remembering the blessing which her own +mother had been to her, her standard of motherhood must have been very +high. Much care was now also given to her father, and she speaks with +pride of her handsome old philosopher in his new suit of clothes. + +Miss Alcott was gratified by a visit from one of the men to whom she +had spoken at Concord Prison. He told her his story, and she assisted +him to find work, and had the satisfaction of hearing of his +well-doing. + +There is little record of writing done at this period, Louisa's time +and thoughts being absorbed by the child. In the autumn of 1881 she +wrote a preface to a new edition of the "Prayers of Theodore Parker," +and also one to the new edition of "Moods." + +Louisa kept the birthdays of November, though with saddened heart. She +wrote a tale for the Soldiers' Home,--"My Red Cap," in "Proverb +Stories,"--and another for the New England Hospital fair,--"A Baby's +Birthday;" and also one for her old publisher. Such was the feeling +toward her as a universal benefactor, that a poor woman wrote her +begging her to send some Christmas gifts to her children, as they had +asked her to write to Santa Claus for some. With Lulu's help she got +up a box for the poor family, and then made a story out of the +incident, for which she received a hundred dollars. + +A new project was that of a temperance society, which was felt to be +needed in Concord. + +Louisa occupied herself much in looking over her mother's papers, and +unfortunately destroyed them, instead of preparing a memoir of her as +she had intended to do. It is a matter of great regret that she did +not feel able to do this work, for Mrs. Alcott's letters would have +been a most valuable record of the life of her time, as well as a +treasury of bright thought and earnest feeling. Louisa was not willing +to commit the task to any other hand, and the opportunity is gone. + + +_To Mrs. Dodge._ + + CONCORD, May 29. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--I was away from home, so your letter did not + reach me till I got back yesterday. + + Thanks for your kind thought of me, and recollections of the + pleasant week when the L. L.'s had a lark. I should like another; + but in this work-a-day world busy folk don't get many, as we + know. + + If I write a serial, you shall have it; but I have my doubts as + to the leisure and quiet needed for such tasks being possible + with a year-old baby. Of course little Lu is a _very_ remarkable + child, but I fancy I shall feel as full of responsibility as a + hen with one chick, and cluck and scratch industriously for the + sole benefit of my daughter. + + She may, however, have a literary turn, and be my assistant, by + offering hints and giving studies of character for my work. She + comes in September, if well. + + If I do begin a new story, how would "An Old-Fashioned Boy" and + his life do? I meant that for the title of a book, but another + woman took it. You proposed a revolutionary tale once, but I was + not up to it; for this I have quaint material in my father's + journals, letters, and recollections. He was born with the + century, and had an uncle in the war of 1812; and his life was + very pretty and pastoral in the early days. I think a new sort of + story wouldn't be amiss, with fun in it, and the queer old names + and habits. I began it long ago, and if I have a chance will + finish off a few chapters and send them to you, if you like. + + Yours cordially, + L. M. ALCOTT. + + +_To Mr. Niles, about the new illustrated edition of "Little Women."_ + + YORK, July 20, 1880. + + The drawings are all capital, and we had great fun over them down + here this rainy day.... Mr. Merrill certainly deserves a good + penny for his work. Such a fertile fancy and quick hand as his + should be well paid, and I shall not begrudge him his well-earned + compensation, nor the praise I am sure these illustrations will + earn. It is very pleasant to think that the lucky little story + has been of use to a fellow-worker, and I am much obliged to him + for so improving on my hasty pen-and-ink sketches. What a dear + rowdy boy Teddy is with the felt basin on! + + The papers are great gossips, and never get anything quite + straight, and I do mean to set up my own establishment in Boston + (D.V.). Now I have an excuse for a home of my own, and as the + other artistic and literary spinsters have a house, I am going to + try the plan, for a winter at least. + + Come and see how cosey we are next October at 81 Pinckney Street. + Miss N. will receive. + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + +_To Mrs. Dodge._ + + 81 PINCKNEY STREET, 1880. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--The editor of "Harper's Young People" asked for + a serial, and I declined; then they wanted a short story for + Christmas, and I sent one. But it was not long enough, though + longer than most of my short $100 tales. + + So I said, "If you don't want it, send it to 'Saint Nicholas.'" + + Therefore if "How It Happened" comes straying along, you will + know what it means. If you don't want it, please send it to me in + Boston, 81 Pinckney Street; for Christmas tales are always in + demand, and I have no time to write more. + + You will like to know that my baby is safely here,--a healthy, + happy little soul, who comes like sunshine to our sad hearts, and + takes us all captive by her winning ways and lovely traits. + + I shall soon be settled for the winter, and I hope have good + times after the hard ones. + + Affectionately yours, + L. M. A. + + +_Journal._ + + _April_, 1880.--So sad and poorly; went to B. for a change. Old + room at the Bellevue. + + Amused myself dramatizing "Michael Strogoff;" read, walked, and + rested. Reporters called for story of my life; did not get much. + Made my will, dividing all I have between Nan and the boys, with + Father as a legacy to Nan, and to Lulu her mother's pictures and + small fortune of $500. + + _May._--Thirty girls from Boston University called; told stories, + showed pictures, wrote autographs. Pleasant to see so much + innocent enthusiasm, even about so poor a thing as a used-up old + woman. Bright girls! simple in dress, sensible ideas of life, and + love of education. I wish them all good luck. + + Ordered a stone for May's grave like Marmee's and Beth's, for + some day I hope to bring her dust home. + + Twenty-third is the anniversary of Mother's wedding. If she had + lived, it would have been the golden wedding. + + Went to see St. Botolph's Club rooms. Very prim and neat, with + easy chairs everywhere; stained glass, and a pious little _bar_, + with nothing visible but a moral ice-pitcher and a butler like a + bishop. The reverend gentlemen will be comfortable and merry, I + fancy, as there is a smoking-room and card-tables, as well as a + library and picture-gallery. Divines nowadays are not as godly as + in old times, it seems. + + Mrs. Dodge wants a new serial, but I doubt if I can do it; boys, + babies, illness, and business of all sorts leave no time for + story-telling. + + _June._--We all enjoy the new rooms very much, and Father finds + his study delightful. Prepare the Orchard House for W. T. Harris, + who is to rent it. + + North End Mission children at Walden Pond. Help give them a happy + day,--eleven hundred of them. Get Anna and John off to Walpole. + Cleaned house. + + Madame N. sends a picture of Lulu,--a funny, fat little thing in + her carriage. Don't realize that it is May's child, and that she + is far away in a French cemetery, never to come home to us again. + + It is decided that Baby is to come to us in September. + + _24th._--Lizzie's birthday and Johnny's. He is fifteen,--a + lovely, good boy, whom every one loves. Got the Dean a new suit + of clothes, as he must be nice for his duties at the School. + Plato's toga was not so costly, but even he did not look better + than my handsome old philosopher. + + _July and August._--To York with boys. Rest and enjoy the fine + air. Home in August, and let Anna go down. Four hundred callers + since the School began. Philosophy is a bore to outsiders. + + Got things ready for my baby,--warm wrapper, and all the dear can + need on her long journey. On the 21st saw Mrs. Giles (who went + for baby) off; the last time I went, it was to see May go. She + was sober and sad, not gay as before; seemed to feel it might be + a longer voyage than we knew. The last view I had of her, was + standing alone in the long blue cloak waving her hand to us, + smiling with wet eyes till out of sight. How little we dreamed + what an experience of love, joy, pain, and death she was going + to! + + A lonely time with all away. My grief meets me when I come home, + and the house is full of ghosts. + + _September._--Put papers in order, and arrange things generally, + to be in order when our Lulu comes. Make a cosey nursery for the + darling, and say my prayers over the little white crib that waits + for her, if she ever comes. God watch over her! + + Paid my first _poll_-tax. As my _head_ is my most valuable piece + of property, I thought $2 a cheap tax on it. Saw my townswomen + about voting, etc. Hard work to stir them up; cake and servants + are more interesting. + + _18th._--In Boston, waiting for the steamer that brings my + treasure. The ocean seems very wide and terrible when I think of + the motherless little creature coming so far to us. + + _19th._--Lulu and Sophie N. arrived with poor G., worn out by + anxiety. A stormy passage, and much care, being turned out of the + stateroom I had engaged for them and paid for, by a rude New York + dressmaker. No help for it, so poor G. went to a rat-hole below, + and did her best. + + As I waited on the wharf while the people came off the ship, I + saw several babies, and wondered each time if that was mine. At + last the captain appeared, and in his arms a little + yellow-haired thing in white, with its hat half off as it looked + about with lively blue eyes and babbled prettily. Mrs. G. came + along by it, and I knew it was Lulu. Behind, walked a lovely + brown-eyed girl with an anxious face, all being new and strange + to Sophie. + + I held out my arms to Lulu, only being able to say her name. She + looked at me for a moment, then came to me, saying "Marmar" in a + wistful way, and resting close as if she had found her own people + and home at last,--as she had, thank Heaven! I could only listen + while I held her, and the others told their tale. Then we got + home as soon as we could, and dear baby behaved very well, though + hungry and tired. + + The little princess was received with tears and smiles, and being + washed and fed went quietly to sleep in her new bed, while we + brooded over her and were never tired of looking at the little + face of "May's baby." + + She is a very active, bright child, not pretty yet, being browned + by sea air, and having a yellow down on her head, and a pug nose. + Her little body is beautifully formed, broad shoulders, fine + chest, and lovely arms. A happy thing, laughing and waving her + hands, confiding and bold, with a keen look in the eyes so like + May, who hated shams and saw through them at once. She always + comes to me, and seems to have decided that I am really "Marmar." + My heart is full of pride and joy, and the touch of the dear + little hands seems to take away the bitterness of grief. I often + go at night to see if she is really _here_, and the sight of the + little head is like sunshine to me. Father adores her, and she + loves to sit in his strong arms. They make a pretty picture as he + walks in the garden with her to "see birdies." Anna tends her as + she did May, who was her baby once, being ten years younger, and + we all find life easier to live now the baby has come. Sophie is + a sweet girl, with much character and beauty. A charming sister + in love as in law. + + _October._--Happy days with Lulu and Sophie; getting acquainted + with them. Lulu is rosy and fair now, and grows pretty in her + native air,--a merry little lass, who seems to feel at home and + blooms in an atmosphere of adoration. People come to see "Miss + Alcott's baby," and strangers waylay her little carriage in the + street to look at her; but she does not allow herself to be + kissed. + + As Father wants to go West I decide to hire Cousin L. W.'s house + furnished for the winter, so that Sophie and the boys can have a + pleasant time. S. misses the gayety of her home-life in stupid + Concord, where the gossip and want of manners strike her very + disagreeably. Impertinent questions are asked her, and she is + amazed at the queer, rude things people say. + + _November 8th._--Lulu's birthday. One year old. Her gifts were + set out on a table for her to see when she came down in the + afternoon,--a little cake with _one_ candle, a rose crown for the + queen, a silver mug, dolly, picture-books, gay ball, toys, + flowers, and many kisses. She sat smiling at her treasures just + under her mother's picture. Suddenly, attracted by the sunshine + on the face of the portrait which she knows is "Marmar," she held + up a white rose to it calling "Mum! Mum!" and smiling at it in a + way that made us all cry. A happy day for her, a sad one to us. + + _Thanksgiving._--Family dinner. + + Father at Syracuse, having conversations at Bishop Huntington's + and a fine time everywhere. + + _December._--Too busy to keep much of a journal. My life is + absorbed in my baby. On the twenty-third she got up and walked + alone; had never crept at all, but when ready ran across the room + and plumped down, laughing triumphantly at her feat. + + _Christmas._--Tried to make it gay for the young folks, but a + heavy day for Nan and me. Sixty gifts were set out on different + tables, and all were much pleased. Sophie had many pretty things, + and gave to all generously. + + A hard year for all, but when I hold my Lulu I feel as if even + death had its compensations. A new world for me. + + Called down one day to see a young man. Found it one of those to + whom I spoke at the prison in Concord last June. Came to thank me + for the good my little story did him, since it kept him straight + and reminded him that it is never too late to mend. Told me about + himself, and how he was going to begin anew and wipe out the + past. He had been a miner, and coming East met some fellows who + made him drink; while tipsy he stole something in a doctor's + office, and having no friends here was sentenced to three years + in prison. Did well, and was now out. Had a prospect of going on + an expedition to South America with a geological surveying party. + An interesting young man. Fond of books, anxious to do well, + intelligent, and seemed eager to atone for his one fault. Gave + him a letter to S. G. at Chicago. Wrote to the warden, who + confirmed D.'s story and spoke well of him. Miss Willard wrote me + later of him, and he seemed doing well. Asked if he might write + to me, and did so several times, then went to S. A. and I hear no + more. Glad to have said a word to help the poor boy. + + _March_, 1881.--Voted for school committee. + + _October._--Wrote a preface for Parker's Prayers, just got out by + F. B. Sanborn. + + _November._--Forty-nine on 29th. Wrote a preface to the new + edition of "Moods." + + _8th._--Gave my baby _two_ kisses when she woke, and escorted her + down to find a new chair decked with ribbons, and a doll's + carriage tied with pink; toys, pictures, flowers, and a cake, + with a red and a blue candle burning gayly. + + Wrote a tale for the Soldiers' Home,--"My Red Cap,"--and one for + the Woman's Hospital fair,--"A Baby's Birthday." Also a tale for + F. + + _December._--A poor woman in Illinois writes me to send her + children some Christmas gifts, being too poor and ill to get any. + They asked her to write to Santa Claus and she wrote to _me_. + Sent a box, and made a story about it,--$100. Lulu much + interested, and kept bringing all her best toys and clothes "for + poor little boys." A generous baby. + + +_To Mr. Niles._ + + FEBRUARY 12, 1881. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--Wendell Phillips wrote me a letter begging me to + write a preface for Mrs. Robinson's "History of the Suffrage + Movement;" but I refused him, as I did Mrs. R., because I don't + write prefaces well, and if I begin to do it there will be no + end.... + + Cannot you do a small edition for her? All the believers will buy + the book, and I think the sketches of L. M. Child, Abby May, + Alcott, and others will add much to the interest of the book. + + Has she seen you about it? Will you look at the manuscripts by + and by, or do you scorn the whole thing? Better not; for we are + going to win in time, and the friend of literary ladies ought to + be also the friend of women generally. + + We are going to meet the Governor, council, and legislature at + Mrs. Tudor's next Wednesday eve and have a grand set-to. I hope + he will come out of the struggle alive. + + Do give Mrs. R. a lift if you can, and your petitioners will ever + pray. + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + February 19, 1881. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--Thank you very much for so kindly offering to + look at Mrs. R.'s book. It is always pleasant to find a person + who can conquer his prejudices to oblige a friend, if no more. + + I think we shall be glad by and by of every little help we may + have been able to give to this reform in its hard times, for + those who take the tug now will deserve the praise when the work + is done. + + I can remember when Antislavery was in just the same state that + Suffrage is now, and take more pride in the very small help we + Alcotts could give than in all the books I ever wrote or ever + shall write. + + "Earth's fanatics often make heaven's saints," you know, and it + is as well to try for that sort of promotion in time. + + If Mrs. R. does send her manuscripts I will help all I can in + reading or in any other way. If it only records the just and wise + changes Suffrage has made in the laws for women, it will be worth + printing; and it is time to keep account of these first steps, + since they count most. + + I, for one, don't want to be ranked among idiots, felons, and + minors any longer, for I am none of the three, but very + gratefully yours, + + L. M. A. + + +_To Mrs. Stearns._ + + FEBRUARY 21, 1881. + + _Dear Mrs. Stearns_,--Many thanks for the tender thoughtfulness + which sends us the precious little notes from the dear dead + hands. + + They are so characteristic that they bring both Mother and May + clearly up before me, alive and full of patient courage and happy + hopes. I am resigned to my blessed mother's departure, since life + was a burden, and the heroic past made a helpless future very + hard to think of. But May's loss, just when life was fullest and + sweetest, seems very bitter to me still, in spite of the sweet + baby who is an unspeakable comfort. I wish you could see the + pretty creature who already shows many of her mother's traits and + tastes. Her love of pictures is a passion, but she will not look + at the common gay ones most babies enjoy. She chooses the + delicate, well-drawn, and painted figures of Caldecott and Miss + Greenaway; over these she broods with rapture, pointing her + little fingers at the cows or cats, and kissing the children with + funny prattlings to these dumb playmates. She is a fine, tall + girl, full of energy, intelligence, and health; blonde and + blue-eyed like her mother, but with her father's features, for + which I am glad, for he is a handsome man. Louisa May bids fair + to be a noble woman; and I hope I may live to see May's child as + brave and bright and talented as she was and, much happier in her + fate. + + Father is at the West, busy and well. Anna joins me in thanks and + affectionate regards. + + Ever yours, + L. M. Alcott. + + +_Journal._ + + _March_, 1882.--Helped start a temperance society; much needed in + C. A great deal of drinking, not among the Irish, but young + American gentlemen, as well as farmers and mill hands. Women + anxious to do something, but find no interest beyond a few. Have + meetings, and try to learn how to work. I was secretary, and + wrote records, letters, and sent pledges, etc.; also articles in + "Concord Freeman" and "Woman's Journal" about the union and town + meetings. + + _April._--Read over and destroyed Mother's diaries, as she wished + me to do so. A wonderfully interesting record of her life, from + her delicate, cherished girlhood through her long, hard, romantic + married years, old age, and death. Some time I will write a story + or a memoir of it. + + Lulu's teeth trouble her; but in my arms she seems to find + comfort, for I tell stories by the dozen; and lambs, piggies, and + "tats" soothe her little woes. Wish I were stronger, so that I + might take all the care of her. We seem to understand each other, + but my nerves make me impatient, and noise wears upon me. + + Mr. Emerson ill. Father goes to see him. E. held his hand, + looking up at the tall, sorry old man, and saying, with that + smile of love that has been Father's sunshine for so many years, + "_You_ are very well,--keep so, keep so." After Father left, he + called him back and grasped his hand again, as if he knew it was + for the last time, and the kind eyes said, "Good-by, my friend!" + +April 27, 1882, Louisa speaks most tenderly of the death of Mr. +Emerson. He had been to her and to her family the truest and best of +friends; and her own profound reverence for him had been a strong +influence, from the time when she played games with his children in +the barn until she followed him to his honored grave. Let critics and +philosophers judge him by his intellect; in the hearts of this family, +and in many an humble home besides, he will always be remembered as +the tenderest, most sympathetic, most loyal of all friends, whose +bounty fell on them silently as the dew from heaven, and whose +presence could brighten the highest joy and soothe the keenest sorrow +they could ever know. + + +_Journal._ + + _Thursday, 27th._--Mr. Emerson died at 9 P.M. suddenly. Our best + and greatest American gone. The nearest and dearest friend Father + has ever had, and the man who has helped me most by his life, his + books, his society. I can never tell all he has been to me,--from + the time I sang Mignon's song under his window (a little girl) + and wrote letters _a la_ Bettine to him, my Goethe, at fifteen, + up through my hard years, when his essays on Self-Reliance, + Character, Compensation, Love, and Friendship helped me to + understand myself and life, and God and Nature. Illustrious and + beloved friend, good-by! + + _Sunday, 30th._--Emerson's funeral. I made a yellow lyre of + jonquils for the church, and helped trim it up. Private services + at the house, and a great crowd at the church. Father read his + sonnet, and Judge Hoar and others spoke. Now he lies in Sleepy + Hollow among his brothers, under the pines he loved. + + I sat up till midnight to write an article on R. W. E. for the + "Youth's Companion," that the children may know something of him. + A labor of love. + + _May._--Twenty-seven boys signed pledge. Temperance work. + Meetings. I give books to schools. Wrote an article for Mrs. + Croly on R. W. E. + + _June._--I visited A. B. in Mattapoisset for a week. A queer + time, driving about or talking over our year in Europe. School + children called upon me with flowers, etc. + + _24th._--John's seventeenth birthday. A dear boy, good and gay, + full of love, manliness, and all honest and lovely traits, like + his father and mother. Long life to my boy! + + _July._--School of Philosophy opens on the 17th in full force. I + arrange flowers, oak branches, etc., and then fly before the + reporters come. Father very happy. Westerners arrive, and the + town is full with ideal speculators. Penny has a new barge; we + call it the "Blue Plato" (not the "Black Maria"), and watch it + rumble by with Margaret Fullers in white muslin and Hegels in + straw hats, while stout Penny grins at the joke as he puts money + in his purse. The first year Concord people stood aloof, and the + strangers found it hard to get rooms. Now every one is eager to + take them, and the School is pronounced a success because it + brings money to the town. Even philosophers can't do without + food, beds, and washing; so all rejoice, and the new craze + flourishes. If all our guests paid we should be well off; several + hundred a month is rather wearing. Father asked why we never + went, and Anna showed him a long list of four hundred names of + callers, and he said no more. + + _October._--To Hotel Bellevue with John. + + Missed my dear baby, but need quiet. Brain began to work, and + plans for tales to simmer. Began "Jo's Boys," as Mrs. Dodge wants + a serial. + +In the autumn of 1882 Mr. Alcott was attacked by a severe stroke of +paralysis, from which he never fully recovered; and for the rest of +his life his daughters shared in the duty of tending and caring for +him in his enfeebled state. It had been the great reward of Louisa's +years of hard work that she could surround her mother with every +comfort that could make her happy in her last declining years. Not +less had she delighted to gratify every wish of her father. His +library was fitted up with exquisite taste, his books and manuscripts +bound, and he was "throned in philosophic ease" for the rest of his +days. What a relief it was now that she could have the faithful nurse +ready at his call; that she could give him the pleasant drives which +he enjoyed so much; and lighten her sister's labors with every +assistance that money could procure! + +The Orchard House, which had been the family home for twenty-five +years, was sold to Mr. Harris, and Mrs. Pratt's house was the home of +all. Louisa spent part of the summer at the seashore, and finally +bought a small house at Nonquit, where the children could all spend +the summer, while she and her sister alternated in the care of her +father. + +In the autumn of 1885, Miss Alcott decided to take a furnished house +in Louisburg Square. Her nephews were established in Boston, and their +mother wished to be with them. Mr. Alcott bore the moving well, and +they found many comforts in the arrangement. Louisa's health was very +feeble. She had great trouble in the throat, and her old dyspeptic +symptoms returned to annoy her. Still she cannot give up work, and +busies herself in preparing "Lulu's Library" for publication, and +hopes to be able to work on "Jo's Boys." + +"Lulu's Library" was a collection of stories which had been the +delight of the child. The first series was published in 1885, the +second in 1887, and the third in 1889. They are full of Louisa's +charming qualities, and have a special interest from the tender +feeling with which she gathered them up for her niece. The touching +preface to "Jo's Boys" tells of the seven years of occasional work on +this book, and reveals the depth of feeling which would not allow her +to write as formerly of Marmee and Amy, who were no longer here to +accept their own likenesses. During the latter part of her work on +this book, she could only write from half an hour to one or two hours +a day. This was published in September, 1886. It contains an engraving +of her from a bas-relief by Mr. Ricketson. + +This book was written under hard circumstances, and cost its author +more effort perhaps than any other. It is evidently not the overflow +of her delight and fun in life like "Little Women," but it is full of +biographical interest. Her account of her own career, and of the +annoyances to which her celebrity exposed her, is full of her old +spirit and humor. She has expressed many valuable thoughts on +education, and her spirit is as hopeful for her boys as in her days of +youth and health. She has too many characters to manage; but we feel a +keen interest in the fortunes of Dan and Emil, and in the courtship by +the warm-hearted Tom of his medical sweetheart. + + +_Preface to "Jo's Boys."_ + + Having been written at long intervals during the past seven + years, this story is more faulty than any of its very imperfect + predecessors; but the desire to atone for an unavoidable + disappointment, and to please my patient little friends, has + urged me to let it go without further delay. + + To account for the seeming neglect of Amy, let me add, that, + since the original of that character died, it has been impossible + for me to write of her as when she was here to suggest, + criticise, and laugh over her namesake. The same excuse applies + to Marmee. But the folded leaves are not blank to those who knew + and loved them and can find memorials of them in whatever is + cheerful, true, or helpful in these pages. + + L. M. ALCOTT. + CONCORD, JULY 4, 1886. + + +_To Mr. Horace Chandler._ + + DEAR MR. CHANDLER,--The corrections are certainly rather + peculiar, and I fear my struggles to set them right have only + produced greater confusion. + + Fortunately punctuation is a free institution, and all can pepper + to suit the taste. I don't care much, and always leave + proof-readers to quibble if they like. + + Thanks for the tickets. I fear I cannot come till Thursday, but + will try, and won't forget the office, since I am not that + much-tried soul the editor. + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + +_To Mrs. Williams (Betsey Prig)._ + + NONQUIT, August 25. + + DEAR BETSEY,--I am so sorry the darling Doll is ill! Brood over + him, and will him well; for mother-love works wonders. + + My poppet is a picture of health, vigor, and delightful + naughtiness. She runs wild in this fine place with some twenty + other children to play with,--nice babies, well-bred, and with + pleasant mammas for me to gossip with. + + It would be a good place for your little people, as the air is + delicious, bathing safe and warm, and cottages to be quiet in if + one cares to keep house. Do try it next year. Let me know early. + I can get a nice little cot for you (near mine) for $100, or + perhaps less, from June to October,--if you care to stay; I + do.... + + We have been here since July, and are all hearty, brown, and gay + as larks. + + "John Inglesant" was too political for me. I am too lazy here to + read much; mean to find a den in Boston and work for a month or + two; then fly off to New York, and perhaps run over and see my + Betsey. I shall be at home in October, and perhaps we may see you + then, if the precious little shadow gets nice and well again, and + I pray he may. + + Lulu has some trifling ail now and then,--just enough to show me + how dear she is to us all, and what a great void the loss of our + little girl would make in hearts and home. She is very + intelligent and droll. When I told her the other day that the + crickets were hopping and singing in the grass with their mammas, + she said at once, "No; their Aunt Weedys." Aunty is nearer than + mother to the poor baby; and it is very sweet to have it so, + since it must be. + + Now, my blessed Betsey, keep a brave heart, and I am sure all + will be well in the nest. Love and kisses to the little birds, + and all good wishes to the turtle-dove and her mate. + + Yours ever, + L. M. A. + + The older birthdays are 29th of November, Lulu's the 8th; so we + celebrate for Grandpa, Auntie, and Lulu all at once, in great + style,--eighty-three, fifty, and three years old. + + When I get on my pins I'm going (D. V.) to devote myself to + settling poor souls who need a gentle boost in hard times. + + +_To Mr. Niles._ + + JUNE 23, 1883. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--Thanks for the Goethe book. I want everything + that comes out about him. "Princess Amelia" is charming, and the + surprise at the end well done. Did the author of "My Wife's + Sister" write it? + + I told L. C. M. she might put "A Modern Mephistopheles" in my + list of books. Several people had found it out, and there was no + use in trying to keep it secret after that. + + Mrs. Dodge begged me to consider myself mortgaged to her for + tales, etc., and as I see no prospect of any time for writing + books, I may be able to send her some short stories from time to + time, and so be getting material for a new set of books like + "Scrap-bag," but with a new name. You excel in names, and can be + evolving one meantime.... + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + JULY 15, 1884. + + I wish I might be inspired to do those dreadful boys ["Jo's + Boys"]; but rest is more needed than money. Perhaps during + August, my month at home, I may take a grind at the old mill. + + +_Journal._ + + _October_ 24, 1882.--Telegram that Father had had a paralytic + stroke. Home at once, and found him stricken down. Anxious days; + little hope. + + _November._--Gave up our rooms, and I went home to help with the + new care. My Lulu ran to meet me, rosy and gay, and I felt as if + I could bear anything with this little sunbeam to light up the + world for me. + + Poor Father dumb and helpless; feeble mind slowly coming back. He + knows us; but he's asleep most of the time. Get a nurse, and wait + to see if he will rally. It is sad to see the change one moment + makes, turning the hale, handsome old man into this pathetic + wreck. The forty sonnets last winter and the fifty lectures at + the School last summer were too much for a man of eighty-three. + He was warned by Dr. W., but thought it folly to stop; and now + poor Father pays the penalty of breaking the laws of health. I + have done the same: may I be spared this end! + + _January_, 1883.--Too busy to keep a diary. Can only jot down a + fact now and then. + + Father improving. Much trouble with nurses; have no idea of + health; won't walk; sit over the fire, and drink tea three times + a day; ought to be an intelligent, hearty set of women. Could do + better myself; have to fill up all the deficiencies and do double + duty. + + People come to see Father; but it excites him, and we have to + deny him. + + _February._--To B. for a week of rest, having got Mrs. H. settled + with Father, and all comfortable for November. + + Began a book called "Genius." Shall never finish it, I dare say, + but must keep a vent for my fancies to escape at. This double + life is trying, and my head will work as well as my hands. + + _March._--To give A. rest I took Lulu and maid to the Bellevue + for a month. Lulu very happy with her new world. Enjoys her + walks, the canary I got her, and the petting _she_ gets from all. + Showed her to friends; want them to know May's child. Had her + picture taken by Notman; very good. + + _April 2d._--Town meeting. Seven women vote. I am one of them, + and A. another. A poor show for a town that prides itself on its + culture and independence. + + _6th._--Go home to stay; Father needs me. New nurse; many + callers; Lulu fretful, Anna tired, Father feeble,--hard times for + all. + + Wrote a story for "St. Nicholas" at odd moments. Nurses and + doctors take a deal of money. + + _May._--Take care of Lulu, as we can find no good woman to walk + and dress and play with her. The ladies are incapable or proud; + the girls vulgar or rough; so my poor baby has a bad time with + her little temper and active mind and body. Could do it myself if + I had the nerves and strength, but am needed elsewhere, and must + leave the child to some one. Long to go away with her and do as I + like. Shall never lead my own life. + + _July._--Go to Nonquit with Miss H. and Lulu for the summer. A + quiet, healthy place, with pleasant people and fine air. Turn + Lulu loose, with H. to run after her, and try to rest. + + Lulu takes her first bath in the sea. Very bold; walks off toward + Europe up to her neck, and is much afflicted that I won't let her + go to the bottom and see the "little trabs;" makes a cupid of + herself, and is very pretty and gay. + + The boys revel in the simple pleasures of Nonquit,--a fine place + for them to be in. + + Wrote a tale for "St. Nicholas,"--"Sophie's Secret,"--$100. + + _August._--Home to C., and let A. come for her holiday. Much + company. + + P. C. Mozoomdar preached, and had a conversation at Mrs. + Emerson's; a most interesting man. Curious to hear a Hindu tell + how the life of Christ impressed him. + + _November 27th._--Decide to lessen care and worry at home; so + take rooms in Boylston Street, and with Lulu set forth to make a + home of our own. The whole parlor floor gives my lady room to run + in doors, and the Public Garden opposite is the out-door + play-ground. Miss C. comes as governess, and we settle down. Fred + boards with us. Heard Mathew Arnold. + + _29th._--Birthday,--fifty-one. Home with gifts to poor + Father,--eighty-four. Found a table full for myself. + + _December 25th._--Home with gifts for all; sad day. See H. + Martineau's statue; very fine. + + _January_, 1884.--New Year's Day is made memorable by my solemnly + spanking my child. Miss C. and others assure me it is the only + way to cure her wilfulness. I doubt it; but knowing that mothers + are usually too tender and blind, I correct my dear in the + old-fashioned way. She proudly says, "Do it, do it!" and when it + is done is heartbroken at the idea of Aunt Wee-wee's giving her + pain. Her bewilderment was pathetic, and the effect, as I + expected, a failure. Love is better; but also endless patience. + + _February 2d._--Wendell Phillips died. I shall mourn for him next + to R. W. E. and Parker. + + _6th._--Funeral at Hollis Street Church. Sat between Fred + Douglas and his wife. A goodly gathering of all left of the old + workers. Glad and proud to be among them. + + * * * * * + + _June._--Sell the Orchard House to W. T. Harris. Glad to be done + with it, though after living in it twenty-five years, it is full + of memories; but places have not much hold on me when the dear + persons who made them dear are gone.... + + Bought a cottage at Nonquit, with house and furniture. All like + it, and it is a good investment I am told. + + _24th._--To Nonquit with Lulu and K. and John. Fixed my house, + and enjoyed the rest and quiet immensely. Lulu wild with joy at + the freedom.... + + _July and August._--Restful days in my little house, which is + cool and quiet, and without the curse of a kitchen to spoil it. + + Lulu happy and well, and every one full of summer fun. + + On the 7th of August I went home, and let A. go for her holiday. + + Took care of Father and house, and idled away the hot days with + books and letters. Drove with Father, as he enjoyed it very + much.... + + _October._--To Boston with John, and take rooms at the Bellevue. + Very tired of home-worry, and fly for rest to my old refuge, with + J. and L. to look after and make a home for. + + Saw Irving. Always enjoy him, though he is very queer. Ellen + Terry always the same, though charming in her way. + + _November._--Find Bellevue uncomfortable and expensive, so take + rooms in Chestnut Street for self and boys. + + _8th._--My Lulu's birthday. Go home with flowers, gifts, and a + grateful heart that the dear little girl is so well and happy and + good. A merry day with the little queen of the house. + + _29th._--Our birthday,--Father eighty-five; L. M. A. fifty-two. + Quiet day; always sad for thinking of Mother and John and May, + who all left us at this season. + + _December._--Began again on "Jo's Boys," as T. N. wants a new + book very much, and I am tired of being idle. Wrote two hours for + three days, then had a violent attack of vertigo, and was ill for + a week. Head won't bear work yet. Put away papers, and tried to + dawdle and go about as other people do. + + Pleasant Christmas with Lulu and Nan and poor Father, who loves + to see us about him. A narrow world now, but a happy one for him. + + Last day of the year. All well at home except myself; body + feeble, but soul improving. + + _January_ 1, 1885.--Pleasant greeting from brother Ernest by + telegram,--never forgets us. Opera in the evening,--Emma Nevada. + Sent box home. Very cold. + + John had his first dress-suit. Happy boy! Several pleasant Sunday + evenings at E. P. W.'s. See Mrs. Burnett, and like her. + + Visit Blind Asylum and North End Mission. Lulu passed a week with + me for a change. + + _19th._--An old-fashioned party in an old-time house. All in + antique costume; Lulu very pretty in hers. Country kitchen and + country fare; spinning and weaving; old songs and dances; + tally-ho coach with P. as an ancient Weller,--very funny. + + * * * * * + + _June._--Read Life of Saint Elizabeth by D'Alembert,--quaint and + sweet; also French novels. Write out the little tales I tell Lulu + for a new Christmas book, having nothing else. Send one, "The + Candy Country," to "St. Nicholas." + + * * * * * + + _August 8th._--Go home, and A. goes to N. Take care of Father, + arrange the little tales, and look at houses in B. Have a plan to + take a furnished house for the winter, and all be together. A. is + lonely in C.; boys must be near business. I want Lulu, and Father + will enjoy a change. + + Sorted old letters, and burned many. Not wise to keep for curious + eyes to read and gossip-lovers to print by and by. + + Lived in the past for days, and felt very old, recalling all I + have been through. Experiences go deep with me, and I begin to + think it might be well to keep some record of my life, if it will + help others to read it when I'm gone. People seem to think our + lives interesting and peculiar. + + _September._--After a lively time with house-brokers, I take a + house in Louisburg Square for two years. It is a large house, + furnished, and well suited to our needs,--sunny, trees in front, + good air, and friends near by. All are pleased, and we prepare to + move October 1st.... + + Father drove down very nicely. Pleased with his new room; Lulu + charmed with her big, sunny nursery and the play-house left for + her; boys in clover; and Nan ready for the new sort of + housekeeping. + + I shall miss my quiet, care-free life in B.; but it is best for + all, so I shall try to bear the friction and the worry many + persons always bring me. + + It will be an expensive winter; but T. N. tells me the books + never sold better, so a good run in January will make all safe. + + "Lulu's Library" as a "pot-boiler" will appease the children, and + I may be able to work on "Jo's Boys." + + _March_, 1886.--To Mrs. H.'s to hear Mr. Snyder read the "Iliad;" + enjoyed it. + + Sixteen little girls call, and the autograph fiend is abroad. + + _27th._--Another attack of vertigo,--ill for a week; sleepless + nights. Head worked like a steam-engine; would not stop. Planned + "Jo's Boys" to the end, and longed to get up and write it. Told + Dr. W. that he had better let me get the ideas _out_, then I + could rest. He very wisely agreed, and said, "As soon as you can, + write half an hour a day, and see if it does you good. Rebellious + brains want to be attended to, or trouble comes." So I began as + soon as able, and was satisfied that we were right; for my head + felt better very soon, and with much care about not overdoing, I + had some pleasant hours when I forgot my body and lived in my + mind. + + _April._--Went on writing one or two hours a day, and felt no ill + effects. + + _May._--Began to think of Concord, and prepare to go back for the + summer. Father wants his books; Lulu, her garden; Anna, her small + house; and the boys, their friends. I want to go away and rest. + + Anna goes up the last of the month and gets the house ready. We + send Lulu and Father later, and the boys and I shut up No. 10.... + + _June._--Home in C.,--sunny, clean, and pleasant. Put Lulu in + order, and get ready for a month in Princeton with Mrs. H. Very + tired. + + A quiet three weeks on the hillside,--a valley pink with laurel + in front, Mount Wachusett behind us, and green hills all round. A + few pleasant people. I read, sleep, walk, and write,--get fifteen + chapters done. Instinct was right; after seven years of rest, the + old brain was ready for work and tired of feeding on itself, + since work it must at something. Enjoyed Hedge's "Hours with + German Classics," and "Baldwin," by Vernon Lee. + + Home in time to get Anna and Lulu off to N. for the summer. A. + needs the rest very much, and Lulu the freedom. I shall revel in + the quiet, and finish my book. + + _July._--The seashore party get off, and peace reigns. I rest a + day, and then to work. Finish "Jo's Boys," and take it to T. N. + Much rejoicing over a new book. Fifty thousand to be the first + edition; orders coming in fast. Not good,--too great intervals + between the parts, as it was begun long ago; but the children + will be happy, and my promise kept. Two new chapters were needed, + so I wrote them, and gladly corked my inkstand. + + What next? Mrs. Dodge wants a serial, and T. N. a novel. I have a + dozen plots in my head, but think the serial better come first. + Want a great deal of money for many things; every poor soul I + ever knew comes for help, and expenses increase. I am the only + money-maker, and must turn the mill for others, though my own + grist is ground and in the barn. + + The School begins. Father feeble, but goes,--for the last time, I + think. + +A series of letters to her father's friend, Mrs. Stearns, show how +tenderly and carefully Louisa watched over the slow decline of the +stricken man, but they are too full of details of the sickroom for +publication. A few extracts will give her feeling. + + MAY 23 [1885]. + + DEAR MRS. STEARNS,--Many thanks for the sweet nosegay you sent + me. It came in good time, for to-day is the anniversary of + Father's wedding-day and my sister's silver wedding. Rather sad + for both mateless ones; but we have done our best to cheer them + up, and the soft rain is very emblematic of the memories their + own quiet tears keep green. + + Father remembered you, and smelled his flowers with pleasure. He + is very tired of living, and wants to "go up," as he expresses + it. A little more or little less light would make him happier; + but the still active mind beats against the prison bars, and + rebels against the weakness of body that prevents the old + independent life. I am afraid the end is not to be peaceful + unless it is sudden, as I hope it may be for all our sakes; it is + so wearing to see this slow decline, and be able to do little but + preach and practise patience. + + * * * * * + + Affectionately yours, + L. M. A. + + SUNDAY. + + * * * * * + + It is only a temporary change, perhaps; but I still hope that it + will last, and his mind grow still clearer. These painless, + peaceful days have a certain sweetness, sad as it is to see the + dear, hale old man so feeble. If he can know us, and enjoy + something of the old life, it is worth having, though the end may + come at any moment.... + + Now and then a word comes without effort. "Up!" was the first + one, and seems very characteristic of this beautiful, aspiring + soul, almost on the wing for heaven. + + +_To Mr. Niles._ + + NONQUIT, July 13, 1885. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--I want to know if it is too late to do it and if + it is worth doing; namely, to collect some of the little tales I + tell Lulu and put them with the two I shall have printed the + last year and the "Mermaid Tale" to match the pictures we bought, + and call it "Lulu's Library"? I have several tiny books written + down for L.; and as I can do no great work, it occurred to me + that I might venture to copy these if it would do for a Christmas + book for the younger set. + + I ache to fall on some of the ideas that are simmering in my + head, but dare not, as my one attempt since the last "Jo's Boys" + break-down cost me a week or two of woe and $30 for the doctor. I + have lovely long days here, and can copy these and see 'em along + if you want them. One has gone to "Harper's Young People," and + one is for "St. Nicholas" when it is done,--about the + Kindergarten for the blind. These with Lulu's would make a little + book, and might begin a series for small folks. Old ladies come + to this twaddle when they can do nothing else. What say you?... + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + SEPTEMBER 18, 1885. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--I send you some funny sketches by Mrs. L. She + seems to be getting on. How would it do to ask her to illustrate + the fairy book? She has a pretty taste in elves, and her little + girl was good. I hope to touch up the other stories this winter, + and she can illustrate, and next Christmas (or whenever it is + ready) we can have a little book out. This sort of work being all + I dare do now, I may as well be clearing the decks for action + when the order comes to "Up, and at 'em!" again, if it ever does. + + [Illustration: _Fac-simile of Miss Alcott's Writing._ ] + + I'd like to help Mrs. L. if I could, as we know something of her, + and I fancy she needs a lift. Perhaps we could use these pictures + in some way if she liked to have us. Maybe I could work them + into a story of out "cullud bredren." + + Thanks for the books. Dear Miss ---- is rather prim in her story, + but it is pretty and quite _correct_. So different from Miss + Alcott's slap-dash style. + + The "H. H." book ["Ramona"] is a noble record of the great wrongs + of her chosen people, and ought to wake up the sinners to + repentance and justice before it is too late. It recalls the old + slavery days, only these victims are red instead of black. It + will be a disgrace if "H. H." gave her work and pity all in vain. + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + [1885.] + + DEAR MR. NILES,--Thanks for the book which I shall like to read. + + Please tell Miss N. that she will find in Sanborn's article in + "St. Nicholas" or Mrs. Moulton's in the "Eminent Women" book all + that I wish to have said about myself. You can add such facts + about editions, etc., as you think best. I don't like these + everlasting notices; one is enough, else we poor people feel like + squeezed oranges, and nothing is left sacred. + + George Eliot's new life and letters is well done, and we are not + sorry we have read them. Mr. Cross has been a wise man, and + leaves us all our love and respect instead of spoiling them as + Froude did for Carlyle, + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + January 2, 1886. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--Thanks for the good wishes and news. Now that I + cannot work, it is very agreeable to hear that the books go so + well, and that the lazy woman need not worry about things. + + I appreciate my blessings, I assure you. I heartily wish I could + "swamp the book-room with 'Jo's Boys,'" as Fred says, and hope to + do it by and by when head and hand can safely obey the desire of + the heart, which will never be too tired or too old to remember + and be grateful. + + Your friend, + L. M. Alcott. + + Monday, A.M. [1886]. + + Dear Mr. Niles,--My doctor forbids me to begin a long book or + anything that will need much thought this summer. So I must give + up "Tragedy of To-day," as it will need a good deal of thinking + to be what it ought. + + I can give you a girls' book however, and I think that will be + better than a novel. I have several stories done, and can easily + do more and make a companion volume for "Spinning-Wheel Stories" + at Christmas if you want it. + + This, with the Lulu stories, will be better than the set of + novels I am sure.... Wait till I can do a novel, and then get out + the set in style, if Alcott is not forgotten by that time. + + I was going to send Mrs. Dodge one of the tales for girls, and if + there is time she might have more. But nearly all new ones would + make a book go well in the holiday season. You can have those + already done now if you want them. "Sophie's Secret" is one, "An + Ivy Spray: or Cinderella's Slippers" another, and "Mountain + Laurel" is partly done. "A Garland for Girls" might do for a + title perhaps, as they are all for girls. + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + +In the spring of 1886, Dr. Rhoda Lawrence took charge of Miss Alcott's +health, and gave her treatment by massage and other appropriate +means, from which she received benefit. The summer was spent at +Concord with her father, and was varied by a pleasant trip to the +mountains. Miss Alcott finished "Jo's Boys," which was published in +September. She occupied herself also in looking over old journals and +letters, and destroyed many things which she did not wish to have come +under the public eye. She had enjoyed her life at Princeton, and said +that she felt better than for fifteen years; but in August she was +severely attacked with rheumatism and troubled with vertigo. She +suffered very much, and was in a very nervous condition. + +Miss Alcott always looked bravely and calmly upon all the +possibilities of life, and she now made full preparations for the +event of her own death. Her youngest nephew had always been especially +beloved, and she decided to take out papers of adoption, to make him +legally her son and heir. She wished him to assume the name of Alcott, +and to be her representative. + +Louisa's journal closes July, 1886, with the old feeling,--that she +must grind away at the mill and make money to supply the many claims +that press upon her from all sides. She feels the burden of every +suffering human life upon her own soul. She knew that she could write +what was eagerly desired by others and would bring her the means of +helping those in need, and her heart and head united in urging her to +work. Whether it would have been possible for her to have rested more +fully, and whether she might then have worked longer and better, is +one of those questions which no one is wise enough to answer. Yet the +warning of her life should not be neglected, and the eager brain +should learn to obey the laws of life and health while it is yet time. + +In September, 1886, Miss Alcott returned to Louisburg Square, and +spent the winter in the care of her father, and in the society of her +sister and nephews and the darling child. She suffered much from +hoarseness, from nervousness and debility, and from indigestion and +sleeplessness, but still exerted herself for the comfort of all around +her. She had a happy Christmas, and sympathized with the joy of her +oldest nephew in his betrothal. In December she was so weary and worn +that she went out to Dr. Lawrence's home in Roxbury for rest and care. +She found such relief to her overtasked brain and nerves from the +seclusion and quiet of Dunreath Place, that she found her home and +rest there for the remainder of her life. + +It was a great trial to Louisa to be apart from her family, to whom +she had devoted her life. She clung to her dying father, and to the +dear sister still left to her, with increasing fondness, and she +longed for her boys and her child; but her tired nerves could not bear +even the companionship of her family, and sometimes for days she +wanted to be all alone. "I feel so safe out here!" she said once. + +Mr. Alcott spent the summer at Melrose, and Louisa went there to visit +him in June. In June and July, 1887, she went to Concord and looked +over papers and completed the plan for adopting her nephew. She +afterward went to Princeton, accompanied by Dr. Lawrence. She spent +eight weeks there, and enjoyed the mountain air and scenery with +something of her old delight. She was able to walk a mile or more, and +took a solitary walk in the morning, which she greatly enjoyed. Her +evening walk was less agreeable, because she was then exposed to the +eager curiosity of sight-seers, who constantly pursued her. + +Miss Alcott had a great intellectual pleasure here in the society of +Mr. James Murdock and his family. The distinguished elocutionist took +great pains to gratify her taste for dramatic reading by selecting her +favorite scenes for representation, and she even attended one of his +public readings given in the hall of the hotel. The old pain in her +limbs from which she suffered during her European journey again +troubled her, and she returned to Dr. Lawrence's home in the autumn, +where she was tenderly cared for. + +Miss Alcott was still continually planning stories. Dr. Lawrence read +to her a great deal, and the reading often suggested subjects to her. +She thought of a series to be called "Stories of All Nations," and had +already written "Trudel's Siege," which was published in "St. +Nicholas," April, 1888, the scene of which was laid at the siege of +Leyden. The English story was to be called "Madge Wildfire," and she +had thought of plots for others. She could write very little, and kept +herself occupied and amused with fancy work, making flowers and +pen-wipers of various colors, in the form of pinks, to send to her +friends. + +On her last birthday Louisa received a great many flowers and pleasant +remembrances, which touched her deeply, and she said, "I did not mean +to cry to-day, but I can't help it, everybody is so good." She went in +to see her father every few days, and was conscious that he was +drawing toward the end. + +While riding with her friend, Louisa would tell her of the stories she +had planned, one of which was to be called "The Philosopher's Wooing," +referring to Thoreau. She also had a musical novel in her mind. She +could not be idle, and having a respect for sewing, she busied herself +with it, making garments for poor children, or helping the Doctor in +her work. She insisted upon setting up a work-basket for the Doctor, +amply supplied with necessary materials, and was pleased when she saw +them used. A flannel garment for a poor child was the last work of her +hands. Her health improved in February, especially in the comfort of +her nights, as the baths she took brought her the long-desired sleep. +"Nothing so good as sleep," she said. But a little too much excitement +brought on violent headaches. + +During these months Miss Alcott wrote part of the "Garland for Girls," +one of the most fanciful and pleasing of her books. These stories were +suggested by the flowers sent to her by different friends, which she +fully enjoyed. She rode a great deal, but did not see any one. + +Her friends were much encouraged; and although they dared not expect +full recovery, they hoped that she might be "a comfortable invalid, +able to enjoy life, and give help and pleasure to others." She did +not suffer great pain, but she was very weak; her nervous system +seemed to be utterly prostrated by the years of work and struggle +through which she had passed. She said, "I don't want to live if I +can't be of use." She had always met the thought of death bravely; and +even the separation from her dearest friends was serenely borne. She +believed in their continued presence and influence, and felt that the +parting was for a little time. She had no fear of God, and no doubt of +the future. Her only sadness was in leaving the friends whom she loved +and who might yet need her. + +A young man wrote asking Miss Alcott if she would advise him to devote +himself to authorship; she answered, "Not if you can do anything else. +Even dig ditches." He followed her advice, and took a situation where +he could support himself, but he still continued to write stories. A +little boy sent twenty-five cents to buy her books. She returned the +money, telling him it was not enough to buy books, but sent him +"Little Men." Scores of letters remained unanswered for want of +strength to write or even to read. + +Early in March Mr. Alcott failed very rapidly. Louisa drove in to see +him, and was conscious that it was for the last time. Tempted by the +warm spring-like day, she had made some change in her dress, and +absorbed in the thought of the parting, when she got into the carriage +she forgot to put on the warm fur cloak she had worn. + +The next morning she complained of violent pain in her head, amounting +to agony. The physician who had attended her for the last weeks was +called. He felt that the situation was very serious. She herself +asked, "Is it not meningitis?" The trouble on the brain increased +rapidly. She recognized her dear young nephew for a moment and her +friendly hostess, but was unconscious of everything else. So, at 3.30 +P.M., March 6, 1888, she passed quietly on to the rest which she so +much needed. She did not know that her father had already preceded +her. + +The friends of the family who gathered to pay their last tribute of +respect and love to the aged father were met at the threshold by the +startling intelligence, "Louisa Alcott is dead," and a deeper sadness +fell upon every heart. The old patriarch had gone to his rest in the +fulness of time, "corn ripe for the sickle," but few realized how +entirely his daughter had worn out her earthly frame. Her friends had +hoped for renewed health and strength, and for even greater and nobler +work from her with her ripened powers and greater ease and leisure. + +Miss Alcott had made every arrangement for her death; and by her own +wish the funeral service was very simple, in her father's rooms at +Louisburg Square, and attended only by a few of her family and nearest +friends. They read her exquisite poem to her mother, her father's +noble tribute to her, and spoke of the earnestness and truth of her +life. She was remembered as she would have wished to be. Her body was +carried to Concord and placed in the beautiful cemetery of Sleepy +Hollow where her dearest ones were already laid to rest. "Her boys" +went beside her as "a guard of honor," and stood around as she was +placed across the feet of father, mother, and sister, that she might +"take care of them as she had done all her life." + +Of the silent grief of the bereaved family I will not speak, but the +sound of mourning filled all the land, and was re-echoed from foreign +shores. The children everywhere had lost their friend. Miss Alcott had +entered into their hearts and revealed them to themselves. In her +childish journal her oldest sister said, "I have not a secret from +Louisa; I tell her everything, and am not afraid she will think me +silly." It was this respect for the thought and life of children that +gave Louisa Alcott her great power of winning their respect and +affection. Nothing which was real and earnest to them seemed +unimportant to her. + + * * * * * + + +LAST LETTERS. + + +_To Mr. Niles._ + + SUNDAY, 1886. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--The goodly supply of books was most welcome; for + when my two hours pen-work are over I need something to comfort + me, and I long to go on and finish "Jo's Boys" by July 1st. + + My doctor frowns on that hope, and is so sure it will do mischief + to get up the steam that I am afraid to try, and keep Prudence + sitting on the valve lest the old engine run away and have + another smash-up. + + I send you by Fred several chapters, I wish they were neater, as + some were written long ago and have knocked about for years; but + I can't spare time to copy, so hope the printers won't be in + despair. + + I planned twenty chapters and am on the fifteenth. Some are long, + some short, and as we are pressed for time we had better not try + to do too much. + + ... I have little doubt it will be done early in July, but things + are so contrary with me I can never be sure of carrying out a + plan, and I don't want to fail again; so far I feel as if I + could, without harm, finish off these dreadful boys. + + Why have any illustrations? The book is not a child's book, as + the lads are nearly all over twenty, and pretty pictures are not + needed. Have the bas-relief if you like, or one good thing for + frontispiece. + + I can have twenty-one chapters and make it the size of "Little + Men." Sixteen chapters make two hundred and sixteen pages, and I + may add a page here and there later,--or if need be, a chapter + somewhere to fill up. + + I shall be at home in a week or two, much better for the rest and + fine air; and during my quiet days in C. I can touch up proofs + and confer about the book. Sha'n't we be glad when it is done? + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + +_To Mrs. Dodge_. + + JUNE 29. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--I will evolve something for December (D. V.) + and let you have it as soon as it is done. + + Lu and I go to Nonquit next week; and after a few days of rest, I + will fire up the old engine and see if it will run a short + distance without a break-down. + + There are usually about forty young people at N., and I think I + can get a hint from some of them. + + Had a call from Mr. Burroughs and Mr. Gilder last eve. Mr. G. + asked if you were in B., but I didn't know. + + Father remains comfortable and happy among his books. Our lads + are making their first visit to New York, and may call on "St. + Nick," whom they have made their patron saint. + + I should like to own the last two bound volumes of "St. + Nicholas," for Lulu. She adores the others, and they are nearly + worn out with her loving but careless luggings up and down for + "more towries, Aunt Wee-wee." Charge to + + Yours affectionately, + L. M. A. + + P. S.--Wasn't I glad to see you in my howling wilderness of + wearisome domestic worrits! Come again. + + CONCORD, August 15. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--I like the idea of "Spinning-Wheel Stories," + and can do several for a series which can come out in a book + later. Old-time tales, with a thread running through all from the + wheel that enters in the first one. + + A Christmas party of children might be at an old farm-house and + hunt up the wheel, and grandma spins and tells the first story; + and being snow-bound, others amuse the young folks each evening + with more tales. Would that do? The mother and child picture + would come in nicely for the first tale,--"Grandma and her + Mother." + + Being at home and quiet for a week or so (as Father is nicely and + has a capable nurse), I have begun the serial, and done two + chapters; but the spinning-tales come tumbling into my mind so + fast I'd better pin a few while "genius burns." Perhaps you would + like to start the set Christmas. The picture being ready and the + first story can be done in a week, "Sophie's Secret" can come + later. Let me know if you would like that, and about how many + pages of the paper "S. S." was written on you think would make + the required length of tale (or tail?). If you don't want No. 1 + yet, I will take my time and do several. + + The serial was to be "Mrs. Gay's Summer School," and have some + city girls and boys go to an old farm-house, and for fun dress + and live as in old times, and learn the good, thrifty old ways, + with adventures and fun thrown in. That might come in the spring, + as it takes me longer to grind out yarns now than of old. + + Glad you are better. Thanks for kind wishes for the little house; + come and see it, and gladden the eyes of forty young admirers by + a sight of M. M. D. next year. + + Yours affectionately, + L. M. A. + + 31 CHESTNUT ST., DECEMBER 31. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--A little cousin, thirteen years old, has + written a story and longs to see it in print. It is a well + written bit and pretty good for a beginner, so I send it to you + hoping it may find a place in the children's corner. She is a + grandchild of S. J. May, and a bright lass who paints nicely and + is a domestic little person in spite of her budding + accomplishments. Good luck to her! + + I hoped to have had a Christmas story for some one, but am + forbidden to write for six months, after a bad turn of vertigo. + So I give it up and take warning. All good wishes for the New + Year. + + From yours affectionately, + L. M. ALCOTT. + + +_To Mr. Niles_. + + 1886. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--Sorry you don't like the bas-relief [of + herself]; I do. A portrait, if bright and comely, wouldn't be me, + and if like me would disappoint the children; so we had better + let them imagine "Aunt Jo young and beautiful, with her hair in + two tails down her back," as the little girl said. + + In haste, + L. M. A. + + +_To Mrs. Bond._ + + CONCORD, Tuesday, 1886. + + DEAR AUNTIE,--I want to find Auntie Gwinn, and don't know whom to + ask but you, as your big motherly heart yearns over all the poor + babies, and can tell them where to go when the nest is bare. A + poor little woman has just died, leaving four children to a + drunken father. Two hard-working aunts do all they can, and one + will take the oldest girl. We want to put the two small girls and + boy into a home till we can see what comes next. Lulu clothes + one, and we may be able to put one with a cousin. But since the + mother died last Wednesday they are very forlorn, and must be + helped. If we were not so full I'd take one; but Lu is all we can + manage now. + + There is a home at Auburndale, but it is full; and I know of no + other but good Auntie Gwinn's. What is her address, please? I + shall be in town on Saturday, and can go and see her if I know + where. + + Don't let it be a bother; but one turns at once in such cases to + the saints for direction, and the poor aunts don't known what to + do; so this aunt comes to the auntie of all. + + I had a pleasant chat with the Papa in the cars, and was very + glad to hear that W. is better. My love to both and S. + + Thanks for the news of portraits. I'll bear them in mind if G. H. + calls. Lulu and Anna send love, and I am as always, + + Your + LOUISA ALCOTT. + + +_To Mrs. Dodge._ + + APRIL 13, 1880. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--I am glad you are going to have such a fine + outing. May it be a very happy one. + + I cannot promise anything, but hope to be allowed to write a + little, as my doctor has decided that it is as well to let me put + on paper the tales "knocking at the saucepan lid and demanding to + be taken out" (like Mrs. Cratchit's potatoes), as to have them go + on worrying me inside. So I'm scribbling at "Jo's Boys," long + promised to Mr. Niles and clamored for by the children. I may + write but one hour a day, so cannot get on very fast; but if it + is ever done, I can think of a serial for "St. Nicholas." I began + one, and can easily start it for '88, if head and hand allow. I + will simmer on it this summer, and see if it can be done. Hope + so, for I don't want to give up work so soon. + + I have read "Mrs. Null," but don't like it very well,--too slow + and colorless after Tolstoi's "Anna Karanina." + + I met Mr. and Mrs. S. at Mrs. A.'s this winter. Mr. Stockton's + child-stories I like very much. The older ones are odd but + artificial. + + Now, good-by, and God be with you, dear woman, and bring you + safely home to us all. + + Affectionately yours, + L. M. ALCOTT. + + +_To Mrs. Bond._ + + DUNREATH PLACE, ROXBURY, March 15, 1887 + + DEAR AUNTIE,--I have been hoping to get out and see you all + winter, but have been so ill I could only live on hope as a + relish to my gruel,--that being my only food, and not of a nature + to give me strength. Now I am beginning to live a little, and + feel less like a sick oyster at low tide. The spring days will + set me up I trust, and my first pilgrimage shall be to you; for I + want you to see how prettily my May-flower is blossoming into a + fine off-shoot of the old plant. + + Lizzy Wells has probably told you our news of Fred and his little + bride, and Anna written you about it as only a proud mamma can. + + Father is very comfortable, but says sadly as he looks up from + his paper, "Beecher has gone now; all go but me." Please thank + Mr. Bond for the poems, which are interesting, even to a poor, + ignorant worm who does not know Latin. Mother would have enjoyed + them very much. I should have acknowledged his kindness sooner; + but as I am here in Roxbury my letters are forwarded, and often + delayed. + + I was sorry to hear that you were poorly again. Isn't it hard to + sit serenely in one's soul when one's body is in a dilapidated + state? I find it a great bore, but try to do it patiently, and + hope to see the why by and by, when this mysterious life is made + clear to me. I had a lovely dream about that, and want to tell it + you some day. + + Love to all. + Ever yours, + L. M. A. + +Her publisher wished to issue a new edition of "A Modern +Mephistopheles," and to add to it her story "A Whisper in the Dark," +to which she consented. + + MAY 6, 1887. + + DEAR MR. NILES.--This is about what I want to say. You may be + able to amend or suggest something. I only want it understood + that the highfalutin style was for a disguise, though the story + had another purpose; for I'm not ashamed of it, and like it + better than "Work" or "Moods." + + Yours in haste, + L. M. A. + + P. S.--Do you want more fairy tales? + + +_Preface._ + + "A Modern Mephistopheles" was written among the earlier volumes + of the No Name Series, when the chief idea of the authors was to + puzzle their readers by disguising their style as much as + possible, that they might enjoy the guessing and criticism as + each novel appeared. This book was very successful in preserving + its incognito; and many persons still insist that it could not + have been written by the author of "Little Women." As I much + enjoyed trying to embody a shadow of my favorite poem in a story, + as well as the amusement it has afforded those in the secret for + some years, it is considered well to add this volume to the few + romances which are offered, not as finished work by any means, + but merely attempts at something graver than magazine stories or + juvenile literature. + + L. M. ALCOTT. + + [Illustration: _Fac-simile of Preface to "A Modern + Mephistopheles."_] + + SATURDAY A.M., May 7, 1887. + + DEAR MR. NILES,--Yours just come. "A Whisper" is rather a lurid + tale, but might do if I add a few lines to the preface of + "Modern Mephistopheles," saying that this is put in to fill the + volume, or to give a sample of Jo March's necessity stories, + which many girls have asked for. Would that do? + + It seems to me that it would be better to wait till I can add a + new novel, and then get out the set. Meantime let "Modern + Mephistopheles" go alone, with my name, as a summer book before + Irving comes [Irving as Faust]. + + I hope to do "A Tragedy of To-day" this summer, and it can come + out in the fall or next spring, with "Modern Mephistopheles," + "Work," and "Moods." + + A spunky new one would make the old ones go. "Hospital Sketches" + is not cared for now, and is filled up with other tales you + know.... + + Can that plan be carried out? I have begun my tragedy, and think + it will be good; also a shorter thing called "Anna: An Episode," + in which I do up Boston in a jolly way, with a nice little + surprise at the end. It would do to fill up "Modern + Mephistopheles," as it is not long, unless I want it to be. + + I will come in next week and see what can be done. + + Yours truly, + L. M. A. + + +_To Mrs. Bond._ + + SUNDAY, Oct. 16, [1887]. + + DEAR AUNTIE,--As you and I belong to the "Shut-in Society," we + may now and then cheer each other by a line. Your note and verse + are very good to me to-day, as I sit trying to feel all right in + spite of the stiffness that won't walk, the rebel stomach that + won't work, and the tired head that won't rest. + + My verse lately has been from the little poem found under a good + soldier's pillow in the hospital. + + I am no longer eager, bold, and strong,-- + All that is past; + I am ready not to do + At last--at last. + My half-day's work is done, + And this is all my part. + I give a patient God + My patient heart. + + The learning not to do is so hard after being the hub to the + family wheel so long. But it is good for the energetic ones to + find that the world can get on without them, and to learn to be + still, to give up, and wait cheerfully. + + As we have "fell into poetry," as Silas Wegg says, I add a bit of + my own; for since you are Marmee now, I feel that you won't laugh + at my poor attempts any more than she did, even when I burst + forth at the ripe age of eight. + + Love to all the dear people, and light to the kind eyes that have + made sunshine for others so many years. + + Always your + LU. + + +_To Mrs. Bond, with first copy of "Lulu's Library," second volume._ + + OCTOBER, 1887. + + DEAR AUNTIE,--I always gave Mother the first author's copy of a + new book. As her representative on earth, may I send you, with my + love, the little book to come out in November? + + The tales were told at sixteen to May and her playmates; then are + related to May's daughter at five; and for the sake of these two + you may care to have them for the little people. + + I am still held by the leg, but seem to gain a little, and hope + to be up by and by. Slow work, but part of the discipline I + need, doubtless; so I take it as well as I can. + + You and I won't be able to go to the golden wedding of S. J. May. + I have been alone so long I feel as if I'd like to see any one, + and be in the good times again. L. W. reports you as "nicely, and + sweet as an angel;" so I rejoice, and wish I could say the same + of + + Your loving + LU. + + +_To Mrs. Dodge._ + + DECEMBER 22, 1887. + + DEAR MRS. DODGE,--I send you the story your assistant editor + asked for. As it is needed at once I do not delay to copy it, for + I can only write an hour a day and do very little. You are used + to my wild manuscript, and will be able to read it. I meant to + have sent the Chinese tale, but this was nearly done, and so it + goes, as it does not matter where we begin.... I hope you are + well, and full of the peace which work well done gives the happy + doer. + + I mend slowly, but surely, and my good Doctor says my best work + is yet to come; so I will be content with health if I can get it. + With all good wishes, + + Yours affectionately, + L. M. A. + + +_To Mrs. Bond._ + + FEBRUARY 7 [1888]. + + DEAR AUNTIE,--My blessed Anna is so busy, and I can do so little + to help her, I feel as if I might take upon me the pleasant duty + of writing to you. + + Father is better, and we are all so grateful, for just now we + want all to be bright for our boy. + + The end is not far off, but Father rallies wonderfully from each + feeble spell, and keeps serene and happy through everything. + + I don't ask to keep him now that life is a burden, and am glad to + have him go before it becomes a pain. We shall miss the dear old + white head and the feeble saint so long our care; but as Anna + says, "He will be with Mother." So we shall be happy in the hope + of that meeting. + + Sunday he seemed very low, and I was allowed to drive in and say + "good-by." He knew me and smiled, and kissed "Weedy," as he calls + me, and I thought the drowsiness and difficulty of breathing + could not last long. But he revived, got up, and seemed so much + as usual, I may be able to see him again. It is a great grief + that I am not there as I was with Lizzie and Mother, but though + much better, the shattered nerves won't bear much yet, and quiet + is my only cure. + + I sit alone and bless the little pair like a fond old + grandmother. You show me how to do it. With love to all, + + Yours ever, + LU. + + +_Her last note. To Mrs. Bond._ + + FEBRUARY 8, 1888. + _Air_,-"Haste to the Wedding." + + DEAR AUNTIE,--I little knew what a sweet surprise was in store + for me when I wrote to you yesterday. + + As I awoke this morning my good Doctor L. came in with the lovely + azalea, her round face beaming through the leaves like a full + moon. + + It was very dear of you to remember me, and cheer up my lonely + day with such a beautiful guest. + + It stands beside me on Marmee's work-table, and reminds me + tenderly of her favorite flowers; and among those used at her + funeral was a spray of this, which lasted for two weeks + afterward, opening bud after bud in the glass on her table, where + lay the dear old "Jos. May" hymn book, and her diary with the pen + shut in as she left it when she last wrote there, three days + before the end, "The twilight is closing about me, and I am going + to rest in the arms of my children." + + So you see I love the delicate flower, and enjoy it very much. + + I can write now, and soon hope to come out and see you for a few + minutes, as I drive out every fine day, and go to kiss my people + once a week for fifteen minutes. + + Slow climbing, but I don't slip back; so think up my mercies, and + sing cheerfully, as dear Marmee used to do, "Thus far the Lord + has led me on!" + + Your loving + LU. + + + + +CHAPTER XII. + +CONCLUSION. + + TO MY FATHER, + + ON HIS EIGHTY-SIXTH BIRTHDAY. + + Dear Pilgrim, waiting patiently, + The long, long journey nearly done, + Beside the sacred stream that flows + Clear shining in the western sun; + Look backward on the varied road + Your steadfast feet have trod, + From youth to age, through weal and woe, + Climbing forever nearer God. + + Mountain and valley lie behind; + The slough is crossed, the wicket passed; + Doubt and despair, sorrow and sin, + Giant and fiend, conquered at last. + Neglect is changed to honor now; + The heavy cross may be laid down; + The white head wins and wears at length + The prophet's, not the martyr's, crown. + + Greatheart and Faithful gone before, + Brave Christiana, Mercy sweet, + Are Shining Ones who stand and wait + The weary wanderer to greet. + Patience and Love his handmaids are, + And till time brings release, + Christian may rest in that bright room + Whose windows open to the east. + + The staff set by, the sandals off, + Still pondering the precious scroll, + Serene and strong, he waits the call + That frees and wings a happy soul. + Then, beautiful as when it lured + The boy's aspiring eyes, + Before the pilgrim's longing sight + Shall the Celestial City rise. + + _November_ 29, 1885. + L. M. A. + + +Miss Alcott's appearance was striking and impressive rather than +beautiful. Her figure was tall and well-proportioned, indicating +strength and activity, and she walked with freedom and majesty. Her +head was large, and her rich brown hair was long and luxuriant, giving +a sense of fulness and richness of life to her massive features. While +thoroughly unconventional, and even free and easy in her manner, she +had a dignity of deportment which prevented undue liberties, and made +intruders stand in awe of her. Generous in the extreme in serving +others, she knew her own rights, and did not allow them to be trampled +on. She repelled "the spurns that patient merit of the unworthy +takes," and had much of the Burns spirit that sings "A man's a man for +a' that" in the presence of insolent grandeur. + +Miss Alcott always took her stand not for herself, but for her family, +her class, her sex. The humblest writer should not be imposed upon in +her person; every woman should be braver and stronger from her +attitude. She was careless of outward distinctions; but she enjoyed +the attentions which her fame brought her with simple pleasure, and +was delighted to meet bright, intelligent, distinguished people, who +added to her stores of observation and thought. She had the rare good +fortune, which an heir of millions might envy, of living all her life +in the society of the noblest men and women. The Emersons, the +Thoreaus, the Hawthornes, and Miss Elizabeth Peabody were the constant +companions of her childhood and youth. It was from them that her +standard of character was formed, and she could never enter any circle +higher than that in which she had breathed freely from a child. She +was quite capable of hero-worship, but her heroes were few. + +With all her imagination and romance, Miss Alcott was a tremendous +destroyer of illusions; she remorselessly tore them away from herself, +persisting in holding a lens before every fault and folly of her own, +and she did the same for those she loved best. Only what was +intrinsically noble and true could stand the searching test of her +intellectual scrutiny and keen perception of the incongruous and +ridiculous. + +This disposition was apparent in Louisa's relation to her father, whom +she did not always fully understand. Perhaps he had a perception of +this when he wrote-- + + "I press thee to my heart, as Duty's faithful child." + +She had little sympathy with his speculative fancy, and saw plainly +the impracticability of his schemes, and did not hesitate to touch +with light and kindly satire his little peculiarities; yet in her +deepest heart she gave him not only affection, but deep reverence. She +felt the nobility and grandeur of his mind and heart. In "Little +Women" the portrait of the father is less vivid and less literal than +that of any other member of the family, and is scarcely recognizable; +but it was impossible to make the student and idealist a part of the +family life as she painted it,--full of fun, frolic, and adventure. In +the second part she has taken pains to make up for this seeming +neglect, and pays homage to the quiet man at the end of the house, +whose influence was so potent and so sweet over all within it. + +Mrs. Alcott was a rich and noble nature, full of zeal and impulse, +daily struggling with a temper threatening to burst out into fire, +ready to fight like a lioness for her young, or to toil for them till +Nature broke down under the burden. She had a rich appreciation of +heroism and beauty in all noble living, a true love of literature, and +an overflowing sympathy with all suffering humanity, but was also +capable of righteous indignation and withering contempt. To this +mother, royal in her motherhood, Louisa was bound by the closest ties +of filial love and mutual understanding. She early believed herself to +be her mother's favorite child, knew she was close to her heart, her +every struggle watched, her every fault rebuked, every aspiration +encouraged, every effort after good recognized. I think Louisa felt no +pride in this preference. She knew that she was dear to her mother, +because her stormy, wayward heart was best understood by her; and +hence the mother, wiser for her child than for herself, watched her +unfolding life with anxious care. Throughout the childish journal this +relation is evident: the child's heart lies open to the mother, and +the mother can help her because she understands her, and holds sacred +every cry of her heart. + +Such a loving relation to a mother--so rich, so full, so enduring--was +the greatest possible blessing to her life. And richly did Louisa +repay the care. From her earliest years she was her mother's +confidante, friend, and comforter. Her dream of success was not of +fame and glory, but of the time when she could bring this weary +pilgrim into "that chamber whose name is Peace," and there bid her sit +with folded hands, listening to the loving voices of her children, and +drinking in the fulness of life without care or anxiety. + +And it all came true, like the conclusion of a fairy story; for good +fairies had been busy at work for many years preparing the way. Who +that saw that mother resting from her labors, proud in her children's +success, happy in her husband's contentment, and in the love that had +never faltered in the darkest days, can ever forget the peace of her +countenance, the loving joy of her heart? + +The relation of Miss Alcott to her older sister was of entire trust +and confidence. Anna inherited the serene, unexacting temper of her +father, with much of the loving warmth of her mother. She loved to +hide behind her gifted sister, and to keep the ingle-side warm for her +to retreat to when she was cold and weary. Anna's fine intellectual +powers were shown more in the appreciation of others than in the +expression of herself; her dramatic skill and her lively fancy, +combined with her affection for Louisa, made her always ready to +second all the plans for entertainment or benevolence. She appears in +her true light in the sweet, lovable Meg of "Little Women;" and if she +never had the fame and pecuniary success of her sister, she had the +less rare, but equally satisfying, happiness of wifehood and +motherhood. And thus she repaid to Louisa what she had so generously +done for the family, by giving her new objects of affection, and +connecting her with a younger generation. + +Louisa was always very fond of boys, and the difference of nature gave +her an insight into their trials and difficulties without giving her a +painful sense of her own hard struggles. In her nephews she found +objects for all her wise and tender care, which they repaid with +devoted affection. When boys became men, "they were less interesting +to her; she could not understand them." + +Elizabeth was unlike the other sisters. Retiring in disposition, she +would gladly have ever lived in the privacy of home, her only desire +being for the music that she loved. The father's ideality was in her a +tender religious feeling; the mother's passionate impulse, a +self-abnegating affection. She was in the family circle what she is in +the book,--a strain of sweet, sad music we long and love to hear, and +yet which almost breaks the heart with its forecasting of separation. +She was very dear to both the father and mother, and the picture of +the father watching all night by the marble remains of his child is +very touching. He might well say,-- + + "Ah, me! life is not life deprived of thee." + +Of the youngest of all,--bright, sparkling, capricious May,--quick in +temper, quick in repentance, affectionate and generous, but full of +her own plans, and quite inclined to have the world go on according +to her fancies,--I have spoken elsewhere. Less profound in her +intellectual and religious nature than either of her sisters, she was +like a nymph of Nature, full of friendly sportiveness, and disposed to +live out her own life, since it might be only a brief summer day. She +was Anna's special child, and Louisa was not always so patient with +her as the older sister; yet how well Louisa understood her generous +nature is shown by the beautiful sketch she has made of her in "Little +Women." She was called the lucky one of the family, and she reaped the +benefit of her generous sister's labors in her opportunities of +education. + +Miss Alcott's literary work is so closely interwoven with her personal +life that it needs little separate mention. Literature was undoubtedly +her true pursuit, and she loved and honored it. That she had her +ambitious longings for higher forms of art than the pleasant stories +for children is evident from her journals, and she twice attempted to +paint the life of mature men and women struggling with great +difficulties. In "Moods" and "A Modern Mephistopheles" we have proof +of her interest in difficult subjects. I have spoken of them in +connection with her life; but while they evince great power, and if +standing alone would have stamped her as an author of original +observation and keen thought, they can hardly be considered as +thoroughly successful, and certainly have not won the sanction of the +public like "Hospital Sketches" and "Little Women." Could she ever +have commanded quiet leisure, with a tolerable degree of health, she +might have wrought her fancies into a finer fabric, and achieved the +success she aimed at. + +Much as Miss Alcott loved literature, it was not an end in itself to +her, but a means. Her heart was so bound up in her family,--she felt +it so fully to be her sacred mission to provide for their wants,--that +she sacrificed to it all ambitious dreams, health, leisure,--everything +but her integrity of soul. But as "he that loseth his life shall find +it," she has undoubtedly achieved a really greater work than if she +had not had this constant stimulus to exertion. In her own line of +work she is unsurpassed. While she paints in broad, free strokes the +life of her own day, represented mostly by children and young people, +she has always a high moral purpose, which gives strength and +sweetness to the delineation; yet one never hears children complain of +her moralizing,--it is events that reveal the lesson she would +enforce. Her own deep nature shines through all the experiences of her +characters, and impresses upon the children's hearts a sense of +reality and truth. She charms them, wisely, to love the common virtues +of truth, unselfishness, kindness, industry, and honesty. Dr. Johnson +said children did not want to hear about themselves, but about giants +and fairies; but while Miss Alcott could weave fairy fancies for them, +they are quite as pleased with her real boys and girls in the plainest +of costumes. + +An especial merit of these books for young boys and girls is their +purity of feeling. The family affection which was so predominant in +the author's own life, always appears as the holiest and sweetest +phase of human nature. She does not refuse to paint the innocent love +and the happy marriage which it is natural for every young heart to be +interested in, but it is in tender, modest colors. She does not make +it the master and tyrant of the soul, nor does she ever connect it +with sensual imagery; but it appears as one of "God's holy +ordinances,"--natural and beautiful,--and is not separated from the +thought of work and duty and self-sacrifice for others. No mother +fears that her books will brush the bloom of modesty from the faces of +her young men or maidens. + +Even in the stories of her early period of work for money, which she +wisely renounced as trash, while there is much that is thoroughly +worthless as art, and little that has any value, Miss Alcott never +falls into grossness of thought or baseness of feeling. She is +sentimental, melodramatic, exaggerated, and unreal in her +descriptions, but the stories leave no taint of evil behind them. Two +of these stories, "The Baron's Gloves" and "A Whisper in the Dark," +have been included in her published works, with her permission. Her +friends are disposed to regret this, as they do not add to her +reputation; but at least they serve to show the quality of work which +she condemned so severely, and to satisfy the curiosity of readers in +regard to it. It would be easy to point out defects in her style, and +in some of her books there is evidence of the enforced drudgery of +production, instead of the spontaneous flow of thought. The most +serious defect is in her style of expression, which certainly passes +the fine line between colloquial ease and slang; it is her own +natural, peculiar style, which appears in her journals and letters. +That it is attractive to children is certain, but it offends the taste +of those who love purity and elegance of speech. It does not appear in +Louisa's more ambitious novels; here she sometimes falls into the +opposite extreme of labored and stilted expression. But much of these +books is written in a pure and beautiful style, showing that she could +have united ease with elegance if she had not so constantly worked at +high speed and with little revision. She was a great admirer of +Dickens's writings; and although she has never imitated him, she was +perhaps strengthened in her habit of using dashing, expressive +language by so fascinating a model. + +I have placed at the head of each chapter one of Miss Alcott's own +poems, usually written at the period of which the chapter treats, and +characteristic of her life at that time. Her first literary essay was +the "Little Robin." But although her fond mother saw the future of a +great poet in these simple verses, Louisa never claimed the title for +herself. Her thoughts ran often into rhyme, and she sent many birthday +and Christmas verses to her friends and especially to her father. They +are usually playful. She always wrote to express some feeling of the +hour, and I find no objective or descriptive poetry. But a few of her +sacred poems, for we may certainly call them so, are very tender and +beautiful, and deserve a permanent place among the poems of +feeling,--those few poems which a true heart writes for itself. +"Thoreau's Flute" was originally published in the "Atlantic Monthly." +It is the least personal of her poems. The lines to her father on his +eighty-sixth birthday, the verses dedicated to her mother, and "My +Prayer," the last poem that she wrote, breathe her deepest religious +feeling in sweet and fitting strains. They will speak to the hearts of +many in the hours of trial which are common to humanity. The long +playful poem called "The Lay of the Golden Goose" was sent home from +Europe as an answer to many questions from her admirers and demands +for new stories. It has never been published, and is an interesting +specimen of her playful rhyming. + +While to Miss Alcott cannot be accorded a high rank as a poet,--which, +indeed, she never claimed for herself,--it would be hard to deny a +place in our most select anthology to "Thoreau's Flute" or +"Transfiguration," the "Lines to my Father on his Eighty-sixth +Birthday" and "My Prayer." I have therefore thought it well to +preserve her best poems in connection with her life, where they +properly belong; for they are all truly autobiographical, revealing +the inner meaning of her life. + +The pecuniary success of Miss Alcott's books enabled her to carry out +her great purpose of providing for the comfort and happiness of her +family. After the publication of "Little Women," she not only received +a handsome sum for every new story, but there was a steady income from +the old ones. Her American publishers estimate that they "have sold of +her various works a million volumes, and that she realized from them +more than two hundred thousand dollars." While her own tastes were +very simple, her expenses were large, for she longed to gratify every +wish of those she loved, and she gave generously to every one in need. +She had a true sense of the value of money. Her early poverty did not +make her close in expending it, nor her later success lavish. She +never was enslaved by debt or corrupted by wealth. She always held +herself superior to her fortune, and made her means serve her highest +purposes. + +Of Miss Alcott's own reading she says:-- + + "Never a student, but a great reader. R. W. E. gave me Goethe's + works at fifteen, and they have been my delight ever since. My + library consists of Goethe, Emerson, Shakespeare, Carlyle, + Margaret Fuller, and George Sand. George Eliot I don't care for, + nor any of the modern poets but Whittier; the old ones--Herbert, + Crashaw, Keats, Coleridge, Dante, and a few others--I like." + +She gives this account of the beginning of her literary career:-- + + "This gem ['The Robin'] my proud mother preserved with care, + assuring me that if I kept on in this way I might be a second + Shakespeare in time. Fired with this modest ambition, I continued + to write poems upon dead butterflies, lost kittens, the baby's + eyes, and other simple subjects till the story-telling mania set + in; and after frightening my sisters out of their wits by awful + tales whispered in bed, I began to write down these histories of + giants, ogres, dauntless girls, and magic transformations till we + had a library of small paper-covered volumes illustrated by the + author. Later the poems grew gloomy and sentimental, and the + tales more fanciful and less tragic, lovely elves and spirits + taking the places of the former monsters." + +Of her method of work she says:-- + + "I never had a study. Any pen and paper do, and an old atlas on + my knee is all I want. Carry a dozen plots in my head, and think + them over when in the mood. Sometimes keep one for years, and + suddenly find it all ready to write. Often lie awake and plan + whole chapters word for word, then merely scribble them down as + if copying. + + "Used to sit fourteen hours a day at one time, eating little, and + unable to stir till a certain amount was done. + + "Very few stories written in Concord; no inspiration in that dull + place. Go to Boston, hire a quiet room and shut myself up in it." + +The following letter gives her advice to young writers:-- + + +_To Mr. J. P. True._ + + CONCORD, October 24. + + DEAR SIR,--I never copy or "polish," so I have no old manuscripts + to send you; and if I had it would be of little use, for one + person's method is no rule for another. Each must work in his own + way; and the only drill needed is to keep writing and profit by + criticism. Mind grammar, spelling, and punctuation, use short + words, and express as briefly as you can your meaning. Young + people use too many adjectives and try to "write fine." The + strongest, simplest words are best, and no _foreign_ ones if it + can be helped. + + Write, and print if you can; if not, still write, and improve as + you go on. Read the best books, and they will improve your style. + See and hear good speakers and wise people, and learn of them. + Work for twenty years, and then you may some day find that you + have a style and place of your own, and can command good pay for + the same things no one would take when you were unknown. + + I know little of poetry, as I never read modern attempts, but + advise any young person to keep to prose, as only once in a + century is there a true poet; and verses are so easy to do that + it is not much help to write them. I have so many letters like + your own that I can say no more, but wish you success, and give + you for a motto Michael Angelo's wise words: "Genius is infinite + patience." + + Your friend, + L. M. ALCOTT. + + P. S.--The lines you send are better than many I see; but boys of + nineteen cannot know much about hearts, and had better write of + things they understand. Sentiment is apt to become + sentimentality; and sense is always safer, as well as better + drill, for young fancies and feelings. + + Read Ralph Waldo Emerson, and see what good prose is, and some of + the best poetry we have. I much prefer him to Longfellow. + +"Years afterward," says Mr. True, "when I had achieved some slight +success, I once more wrote, thanking her for her advice; and the +following letter shows the kindliness of heart with which she extended +ready recognition and encouragement to lesser workers in her chosen +field:"-- + + CONCORD, Sept. 7, 1883. + + MY DEAR MR. TRUE,--Thanks for the pretty book, which I read at + once and with pleasure; for I still enjoy boys' pranks as much as + ever. + + I don't remember the advice I gave you, and should judge from + this your first story that you did not need much. Your boys are + real boys; and the girls can run,--which is a rare accomplishment + nowadays I find. They are not sentimental either; and that is a + good example to set both your brother writers and the lasses who + read the book. + + I heartily wish you success in your chosen work, and shall always + be glad to know how fast and how far you climb on the steep road + that leads to fame and fortune. + + Yours truly, + L. M. Alcott. + +Roberts Brothers, Miss Alcott's publishers for nearly twenty years, +have collected all her stories in a uniform edition of twenty-five +volumes. They are grouped into different series according to size and +character, from her novels to "Lulu's Library" for very small +children, and may be enumerated as follows:-- + + _Novels_ (four volumes).--Work, Moods, A Modern Mephistopheles, + Hospital Sketches. + + _Little Women Series_ (eight volumes).--Little Women, An + Old-Fashioned Girl, Little Men, Eight Cousins, Rose in Bloom, + Under the Lilacs, Jack and Jill, Jo's Boys. + + _Spinning-Wheel Stories Series_ (four volumes).--Silver Pitchers, + Proverb Stories, Spinning-Wheel Stories, A Garland for Girls. + + _Aunt Jo's Scrap-Bag_ (six volumes).--My Boys, Shawl-Straps, + Cupid and Chow-Chow, My Girls, Jimmy's Cruise in the Pinafore, An + Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving. + + _Lulu's Library_ (three volumes). + +Many of these stories were originally published in various +magazines,--the popular "St Nicholas," for which Miss Alcott wrote +some of her best things in her later years, the "Youth's Companion," +and others. Her works have been republished in England; and through +her English publishers, Messrs. Sampson Low and Company, of London, +she has reaped the benefit of copyright there, and they have been +translated into many languages. Her name is familiar and dear to the +children of Europe, and they still read her books with the same +eagerness as the children of her own land. + +This extract from a letter written by the translator of Miss Alcott's +books into Dutch will show how she is esteemed in Holland:-- + + "Miss Alcott was and is so much beloved here by her books, that + you could scarce find a girl that had not read one or more of + them. Last autumn I gave a translation of 'Lulu's Library' that + appeared in November, 1887; the year before, a collection of + tales and Christmas stories that appeared under the name of + 'Gandsbloempje' ('Dandelion'). Yesterday a young niece of mine + was here, and said, 'Oh, Aunt, how I enjoyed those stories! but + the former of "Meh Meh" I still preferred.' A friend wrote: 'My + children are confined to the sickroom, but find comfort in + Alcott's "Under the Lilacs."' Her fame here was chiefly caused by + her 'Little Women' and 'Little Women Wedded,' which in Dutch + were called 'Under Moedervleugels' ('Under Mother's Wings') and + 'Op Eigen Wieken' ('With Their Own Wings'). Her 'Work' was + translated as 'De Hand van den Ploey' ('The Hand on the + Plough')." + +How enduring the fame of Louisa M. Alcott will be, time only can show; +but if to endear oneself to two generations of children, and to mould +their minds by wise counsel in attractive form entitle an author to +the lasting gratitude of her country, that praise and reward belong to +LOUISA MAY ALCOTT. + + +TERMINUS. + + It is time to be old, + To take in sail: + The god of bounds, + Who sets to seas a shore, + Came to me in his fatal rounds, + And said, "No more! + No farther shoot + Thy broad ambitious branches, and thy root; + Fancy departs: no more invent, + Contract thy firmament + To compass of a tent. + There's not enough for this and that, + Make thy option which of two; + Economize the failing river, + Not the less revere the Giver; + Leave the many, and hold the few. + Timely wise, accept the terms; + Soften the fall with wary foot; + A little while + Still plan and smile. + And, fault of novel germs, + Mature the unfallen fruit." + + * * * * * + + As the bird trims her to the gale, + I trim myself to the storm of time; + I man the rudder, reef the sail, + Obey the voice at eve obeyed at prime: + Lowly faithful, banish fear, + Right onward drive unharmed; + The port, well worth the cruise, is near, + And every wave is charmed. + + EMERSON. + + + + +LOUISA M. ALCOTT'S WRITINGS. + + +_Miss Alcott is really a benefactor of households._--H. H. + +_Miss Alcott has a faculty of entering into the lives and feelings of +children that is conspicuously wanting in most writers who address +them; and to this cause, to the consciousness among her readers that +they are hearing about people like themselves, instead of abstract +qualities labelled with names, the popularity of her books is +due._--MRS. SARAH J. HALE. + +_Dear Aunt Jo! You are embalmed in the thoughts and loves of thousands +of little men and women._--EXCHANGE. + + =Little Women; or Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy.= + With illustrations. 16mo $1.50 + + =Hospital Sketches, and Camp and Fireside Stories.= + With illustrations. 16mo 1.50 + + =An Old-Fashioned Girl.= + With illustrations. 16mo 1.50 + + =Little Men:= Life at Plumfield with Jo's Boys. + With illustrations. 16mo 1.50 + + =Jo's Boys and How they Turned Out.= A sequel to "Little Men." + With portrait of "Aunt Jo." 16mo 1.50 + + =Eight Cousins=; or, The Aunt-Hill. + With illustrations. 16mo 1.50 + + =Rose in Bloom.= A sequel to "Eight Cousins." + 16mo 1.50 + + =Under the Lilacs.= + With illustrations. 16mo 1.50 + + =Jack and Jill.= A Village Story. + With illustrations. 16mo 1.50 + + =Work:= A Story of Experience. + With character illustrations by Sol Eytinge. 16mo 1.50 + + =Moods.= A Novel. + New edition, revised and enlarged. 16mo 1.50 + + =A Modern Mephistopheles, and A Whisper in the Dark.= + 16mo 1.50 + + =Silver Pitchers, and Independence.= A Centennial Love Story. + 16mo 1.25 + + =Proverb Stories.= + New edition, revised and enlarged. 16mo 1.25 + + =Spinning-Wheel Stories.= + With illustrations. 16mo 1.25 + + =A Garland for Girls, and Other Stories.= + With illustrations. 16mo 1.25 + + =My Boys, &c.= First volume of Aunt Jo's Scrap-Bag. + 16mo $1.00 + + =Shawl-Straps.= Second volume of Aunt Jo's Scrap-Bag. + 16mo 1.00 + + =Cupid and Chow-Chow, &c.= Third volume of Aunt Jo's Scrap-Bag. + 16mo 1.00 + + =My Girls, &c.= Fourth volume of Aunt Jo's Scrap-Bag. + 16mo 1.00 + + =Jimmy's Cruise in the Pinafore, &c.= + Fifth volume of Aunt Jo's Scrap-Bag. 16mo 1.00 + + =An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving, &c.= + Sixth volume of Aunt Jo's Scrap-Bag. 16mo 1.00 + + =Little Women.= Illustrated. Embellished + with nearly 200 characteristic + illustrations from original + designs drawn expressly for this + edition of this noted American + Classic. One small quarto, bound + in cloth, with emblematic designs 2.50 + + =Little Women Series.= Comprising + Little Women; Little Men; + Eight Cousins; Under the Lilacs; + An Old-Fashioned Girl; Jo's + Boys; Rose in Bloom; Jack and + Jill. 8 large 16mo volumes in a + handsome box 12.00 + + Miss Alcott's novels in uniform binding + in sets. Moods; Work; Hospital + Sketches; A Modern Mephistopheles, + and A Whisper in the + Dark. 4 volumes. 16mo 6.00 + + =Lulu's Library.= Vols. I., II., III. + A collection of New Stories. + 16mo 3.00 + +_These books are for sale at all bookstores, or will be mailed, +post-paid, on receipt of price, to any address._ + +LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY, + +BOSTON. + + + + +LOUISA M. ALCOTT, + +HER LIFE, LETTERS, AND JOURNALS + +EDITED BY EDNAH D. CHENEY. + +With PORTRAITS and View of the ALCOTT HOME in Concord. One vol. 16mo. +Uniform with "Little Women." Price, $1.50. + + +Mrs. Cheney has allowed this popular author to tell the story of her +early struggles, her successes, and prosperity and life work, in her +own inimitable style, gracefully weaving the daily record of this +sweet and useful life into a garland of _immortelles_, in a manner at +once pleasing and within the comprehension of the thousands of readers +and admirers of Miss Alcott's books. It might truly be called the +biography of "Little Women." + + A most fascinating as well as a deeply pathetic book. The + story,--the long, hard struggle for money to keep the household + in comfort, and the well-earned success coming, alas, too late to + save her health,--is delightfully told in her own words, from + letters and journals, so that we have the bright, the witty, and + the always charming personality of the children's author before + us from the first page to the last. We have to thank Mrs. Cheney + that she hid not from us the hard, grinding toil, nor spared us + the record of one discouragement in the life so interesting to + us; for in this narrative we have a valuable lesson for the young + writer of our day.--_The Epoch._ + + One who knew Miss Alcott well says: "Nobody can read of the + struggles of the Alcott family, and of the tender yet resolute + heroism with which Miss Alcott met and relieved them, without + being touched to tears by the pathos and reality of the picture. + Louisa Alcott was not a member of any church; but her belief in + God, her loyalty to conscience, her fidelity to duty, her rescue + of the Alcott family from its peculiar perils, place her among + the women saints of the century, and it will be hard to find any + one of her sex who has more faithfully responded to the duties of + the position in which God had placed her."--_Cincinnati + Commercial Gazette._ + + Louisa May Alcott is without a rival as a writer for the young. + The millions who have read her stories--and been made better by + the reading--will want this book that they may get near the inner + life, the fruitful source of their entertainment and profit. They + will see that purity, simplicity, love, earnestness, and patience + were so interwoven with her genius that her stories were the + natural outgrowth of her beautiful character. The book needs no + commendation from us. Every reader of her stories will be glad to + know that they may now become intimately acquainted with that + beautiful life which is here brought out of its long cherished + seclusion.--_Saturday Evening Herald._ + +LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY, + +BOSTON. + + + + + [Illustration: "Sing, Tessa, Sing!" cried Tommo, twanging away with + all his might.--PAGE 47.] + +AUNT JO'S SCRAP-BAG: Containing "My Boys," "Shawl-Straps," "Cupid and +Chow-Chow," "My Girls," "Jimmy's Cruise in the Pinafore," "An +Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving." 6 vols. Price of each, $1.00. + +LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY, + +BOSTON. + + + + +LOUISA M. ALCOTT'S STORY-BOOKS. + + + [Illustration: A CHRISTMAS DREAM.] + +LULU'S LIBRARY. + +A COLLECTION OF STORIES BY "AUNT JO" + +With Illustrations by JESSIE MCDERMOTT. + +3 vols. 16mo. Cloth. Price, $1.00 per volume. + +LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY, + +BOSTON. + + + + +NOVELS AND STORIES + +BY + +LOUISA M. ALCOTT. + + +WORK. A Story of Experience. With Illustrations by SOL EYTINGE. + + This story relates, in many of its most important features and + incidents, to actual experiences of its author; and in "Christie" + we find the views and ideas of Miss Alcott herself expressed in + such a way as to make them most interesting and valuable. + +MOODS. A Novel. + + Although this story was originally written at a time when its + author's powers and years were far from fully matured, it was in + its first form indicative of great power. It was revised and + partly rewritten after she had attained a full maturity, and + after actual experience with life had broadened and rounded out + her mental vision, so that it now stands as the first-born and + dearest to her heart of her novels. + +A MODERN MEPHISTOPHELES. A Story. + + This story was written for the "No Name Series," in which it + originally appeared, and consequently was intended to be + disguised + + It is a surprise that Miss Alcott could have written this volume; + not that it is inferior, but that it varies from her usual tone + and theme so much. Yet her plot is ingenious, and there is + dramatic design well worked out. As we read, knowing now who the + author is (the story was first published anonymously), we + recognize the grace of her style and the art of her workmanship. + Its tone and, above all, its lofty moral purpose are hers. Plots + differ, appearances are changed; but some of the deep traits of + the true nature of Miss Alcott are in the book. Being dead she + yet liveth.--_Public Opinion_. + +HOSPITAL SKETCHES, and Camp and Fireside Stories. With Illustrations. + + These stories and sketches were written at the time of the Civil + War, in which the author took part as a nurse in one of the + hospitals, and show some of the many minor side scenes that help + to make up that great conflict. + +Four volumes. 16mo. Cloth. $1.50 per volume. + +_Sold everywhere. Mailed, post-paid, on receipt of price by the +publishers,_ + +LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY, + +BOSTON. + + + + + [Illustration: "'I'm not hurt, all right in a minute,' he said, + sitting up, a little pale and dizzy, as the boys gathered round him, + full of admiration and alarm."--PAGE 2] + +LITTLE MEN; OR, LIFE AT PLUMFIELD WITH JO'S BOYS. Price, $1.50. + +LITTLE BROWN, AND COMPANY, + +BOSTON. + + + + + [Illustration: WALTON RICKETSON, SCULP.] + +JO'S BOYS, AND HOW THEY TURNED OUT. A sequel to "Little Men." With a +new portrait of "Aunt Jo." Price, $1.50. + +Little, Brown, and Company, + +BOSTON. + + + + +POPULAR STORY BOOKS. + + + SUSAN COOLIDGE has always possessed the affection of her young + readers, for it seems as if she had the happy instinct of + planning stories that each girl would like to act out in + reality.--_The Critic._ + + Not even Miss Alcott apprehends child nature with finer sympathy, + or pictures its nobler traits with more skill.--_Boston Daily + Advertiser._ + +=THE NEW YEAR'S BARGAIN.= A Christmas Story for Children. With +Illustrations by ADDIE LEDYARD. 16mo. $1.25. + +=WHAT KATY DID.= A Story. With Illustrations by ADDIE LEDYARD. 16mo. +$1.25. + +=WHAT KATY DID AT SCHOOL.= Being more about "What Katy Did." With +Illustrations. 16mo. $1.25. + +=MISCHIEF'S THANKSGIVING,= and other Stories. With Illustrations by +ADDIE LEDYARD. 16mo. $1.25. + +=NINE LITTLE GOSLINGS.= With Illustrations by J. A. MITCHELL. 16mo. +$1.25. + +=EYEBRIGHT.= A Story. With Illustrations. 16mo. $1.25. + +=CROSS PATCH.= With Illustrations. 16mo. $1.25. + +=A ROUND DOZEN.= With Illustrations. 16mo. $1.25. + +=A LITTLE COUNTRY GIRL.= With Illustrations. 16mo. $1.25. + +=WHAT KATY DID NEXT.= With Illustrations. 16mo. $1.25. + +=CLOVER.= A Sequel to the Katy Books. With Illustrations by JESSIE +MCDERMOTT. 16mo. $1.25. + +=JUST SIXTEEN.= With Illustrations. 16mo. $1.25. + +=IN THE HIGH VALLEY.= With Illustrations, 16mo. $1.25. + +=A GUERNSEY LILY=; or, How the Feud was Healed. A Story of the Channel +Islands. Profusely Illustrated. 16mo. $1.25. + +=THE BARBERRY BUSH,= and Seven Other Stories about Girls for Girls. With +Illustrations by JESSIE MCDERMOTT. 16mo. $1.25. + +=NOT QUITE EIGHTEEN.= A volume of Stories. With Illustrations by JESSIE +MCDERMOTT. 16mo. $1.25. + +_Sold by all booksellers. Mailed, post-paid, on receipt of price, by +the publishers._ + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Louisa May Alcott, by Louisa May Alcott + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LOUISA MAY ALCOTT *** + +***** This file should be named 38049.txt or 38049.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/8/0/4/38049/ + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Melissa McDaniel and the +Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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