Jo saw a big red-headed youth approaching her corner, and fearing he meant to engage her, she slipped into a curtained recess, intending to peep and enjoy herself in peace. Unfortunately, another bashful person had chosen the same refuge; for, as the curtain fell behind her, she found herself face to face with the "Laurence boy". "Dear me, I didn't know anyone was here!" stammered Jo, preparing to back out as speedily as she had bounced in. But the boy laughed and said pleasantly, though he felt a little startled: : "Don't mind me; stay if you like." "Shan't I disturb you?" "Not a bit; I only came here because I don't know many people and I felt rather strange at first, you know." "So did I. Don't go away, please, unless you'd rather."
Louisa May Alcott, Little Women (page 28)
