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 _à 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 our "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 know 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, 1886.

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 Karenina."

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.