He caught her hand in his and she did not resist at once.
“Oh, Jo, I know one fellow, anyhow—”
“Look at Thaine now,” Jo interrupted him, as Thaine came near the open window. “Todd, do you know why he thinks so much of Leigh Shirley?”
“Of Leigh? Does he? I hope he does. He shows good 225 taste, anyhow. Everybody from Little Plum Creek clear to Northfork likes Leigh.”
Jo’s eyes flashed.
“She must be very popular.”
“Oh, not as they like you, Jo. You must know the difference between you two, a real beauty and a sweet little girlie.”
“She’s not so sweet. She tries to attract and doesn’t know how,” Jo declared, for jealousy belongs to the dominant.
Todd Stewart’s sense of justice was strong, even in his infatuation.
“Why, Jo, you mustn’t be jealous of Leigh. She’s the girl the boys can’t make like them. She’s the funniest, settest little creature. And yet, she is a cute child. But you are our pride, you know, and to me—well, let me take you home tonight, and I’ll tell you about my pride.”