Jo's Boys - Charter 4

Mrs Jo often thought that Dan had Indian blood in him, not only because of his love of a wild, wandering life, but his appearance; for as he grew up, this became more striking. At twenty-five he was very tall, with sinewy ¹ limbs, a keen, dark face, and the alert look of one whose senses were all alive; rough in manner, full of energy, quick with word and blow, eyes full of the old fire, always watchful ² as if used to keep guard, and a general air of vigour ³ and freshness very charming to those who knew the dangers and delights of his adventurous ⁴ life. He was looking his best as he sat talking with 'Mother Bhaer', one strong brown hand in hers, and a world of affection in his voice as he said:, ,'Forget old friends! How could I forget the only home I ever knew? Why, I was in such a hurry to come and tell my good luck that I didn't stop to fix up, you see; though I knew you'd think I looked more like a wild buffalo ⁶ than ever,' with a shake of his shaggy black head, a tug ⁷ at his beard, and a laugh that made the room ring., ,'I like it; I always had a fancy for banditti - and you look just like one. Mary, being a newcomer, was frightened at your looks and manners. Josie won't know you, but Ted ⁸ will recognize his Danny in spite of the big beard and flowing mane. They will all be here soon to welcome you; so before they come tell me more about yourself. Why, Dan, dear! it's nearly two years since you were here! Has it gone well with you?' asked Mrs Jo, who had been listening with maternal ⁹ interest to his account of life in California, and the unexpected success of a small investment he had made., , ,'But if you marry and settle somewhere, as I hope you will, you must have something to begin with, my son. So be prudent ¹⁰ and invest your money; don't give it away, for rainy days come to all of us, and dependence ¹¹ would be very hard for you to bear,' answered Mrs Jo with a sage ¹² air, though she liked to see that the money-making fever had not seized her lucky boy yet., ,Dan shook his head, and glanced about the room as if he already found it rather confined and longed for all out-of-doors again., ,His hard hands and sinewy sunburned limbs told of labor and endurance.他粗糙的双手，被太阳哂得发黑的健壮四肢,均表明他十分辛勤 ，非常耐劳。,The children played under the watchful eye of their father.孩子们在父亲的小心照看下玩耍 。