'How's Franz?' asked Mrs Jo.
　　'He's going to be married! There's news for you. The first of theflock, Aunty, so say good-bye to him. Her name is Ludmilla HeldegardBlumenthal; good family, well-off, pretty, and of course an angel.
　　The dear old boy wants Uncle's consent, and then he will The north face denali Gore Tex Jacket men’s discount settle downto be a happy and an honest burgher. Long life to him!'
　　'I'm glad to hear it. I do so like to settle The North Face Realization 3 in 1 Jacket Womens outlet my boys with The North Face Womens Greenland Jackets outlet a good wifeand a nice little home. Now, if all is right, I shall feel as ifFranz was off my mind,' said Mrs Jo, folding her hands contentedly;for she often felt like a distracted hen with a large brood of mixedchickens and ducks upon her hands.
　　'So do I,' sighed Tom, with a sly glance at Nan. 'That's what The north face denali Gore The North Face Realization 3 in 1 Jacket Men’s discount Tex Jacket men’s discount afellow needs to keep him steady; and it's the duty of nice girls tomarry as soon as possible, isn't North Face Women’s Denali Jacket Brown discount it, Demi?'
　　'If there are enough nice fellows The North Face Gore Tex Jacket Purple – Women’s discount to go round. The female populationexceeds the male, you know, especially in New England; which accountsfor the high state of culture we are in, perhaps,' answered John, whowas leaning over his mother's chair, telling his day's experiences ina whisper.
　　'It is a merciful provision, my dears; for it takes three or fourwomen to get each man into, through, and out of the world. You arecostly creatures, boys; and it is well that mothers, sisters, wives,and daughters love their duty and do it so well, or you would perishoff the face of the earth,' said Mrs Jo solemnly, as she took up abasket filled with dilapidated hose; for the good Professor was stillhard on his socks, and his sons resembled him in that respect.
　　'Such being the case, there is plenty for the "superfluous women" todo, in taking care of these helpless men and their families. I seethat more clearly every day, and am very glad and grateful that myprofession will make me a useful, happy, and independent spinster.'
　　Nan's emphasis on the last word caused Tom to groan, and the rest tolaugh.
　　'I take great pride and solid satisfaction in you, Nan, and hope tosee you very successful; for we do need just such helpful women inthe world. I sometimes feel as if I've missed my vocation and oughtto have remained single; but my duty seemed to point this way, and Idon't regret it,' said Mrs Jo, folding a large and very ragged bluesock to her bosom.