in cider.

"I think I will take the whole flock for a drive, it is so pleasant;
then you can rest, my dear, or you will be worn out this evening," added
Mr. Bhaer; and as soon as coats and hats could be put on, the great
omnibus was packed full, and away they went for a long gay drive,
leaving Mrs. Jo to rest and finish sundry small affairs in peace.

An early and light tea was followed by more brushing of hair and washing
of hands; then the flock waited impatiently for the company to come.
Only the family was expected; for these small revels were strictly
domestic, and such being the case, sorrow was not allowed to sadden the
present festival. All came; Mr. and Mrs. March, with Aunt Meg, so sweet
and lovely, in spite of her black dress and the little widow's cap that
encircled her tranquil face. Uncle Teddy and Aunt Amy, with the Princess
looking more fairy-like than ever, in a sky-blue gown, and a great
bouquet of hot-house flowers, which she divided among the boys, sticking
one in each button-hole, making them feel peculiarly elegant and
festive. One strange face appeared, and Uncle Teddy led the unknown
gentleman up to the Bhaers, saying,

"This is Mr. Hyde; he has been inquiring about Dan, and I ventured to
bring him to-night, that he might see how much the boy has improved."

The Bhaers received him cordially, for Dan's sake, pleased that the lad
had been remembered. But, after a few minutes' chat, they were glad to
know Mr. Hyde for his own sake, so genial, simple, and interesting was
he. It was pleasant to see the boy's face light up when he caught
sight of his friend; pleasanter still to see Mr. Hyde's surprise and
satisfaction in Dan's improved manners and appearance, and pleasantest
of all to watch the two sit talking in a corner, forgetting the
differences of age, culture, and position, in the one subject which
interested both, as man and boy compared notes, and told the story of
their summer life.

"The performance must begin soon, or the actors will go to sleep," said
Mrs. Jo, when the first greetings were over.

So every one went into the school-room, and took seats before a curtain
made of two bed-covers. The children had already vanished; but stifled
laughter, and funny little exclamations from behind the curtain,
betrayed their whereabouts. The entertainment began with a spirited
exhibition of gymnastics, led by Franz. The six elder lads, in blue
trousers and red shirts, made a fine display of m