In vain Mrs.Chester alluded to her 'charming novel', and the Misses Chester introduced parties, picnics, the opera, and the fashions.

Each and all were answered by a smile, a bow, and a demure "Yes" or "No" with the chill on.

In vain Amy telegraphed the word 'talk', tried to draw her out, and administered covert pokes with her foot.

Jo sat as if blandly unconscious of it all, with deportment like Maud's face, 'icily regular, splendidly null'.
"What a haughty, uninteresting creature that oldest Miss March is!" was the unfortunately audible remark of one of the ladies, as the door closed upon their guests.

Jo laughed noiselessly all through the hall, but Amy looked disgusted at the failure of her instructions, and very naturally laid the blame upon Jo.
"How could you mistake me so?
I merely meant you to be properly dignified and composed, and you made yourself a perfect stock and stone.