noon before
Her innocent friendship with Laurie was spoiled by the silly speeches she had overheard . Her faith in her mother was a little shaken by the worldly plans attributed to her by Mrs. Moffat , who judged others by herself , and the sensible resolution to be contented with the simple wardrobe which suited a poor man 's daughter was weakened by the unnecessary pity of girls who thought a shabby dress one of the greatest calamities under heaven . Poor Meg had a restless night , and got up heavy-eyed , unhappy , half resentful toward her friends , and half ashamed of herself for not speaking out frankly and setting everything right . Everybody dawdled that morning , and it was noon before the girls found energy enough even to take up their worsted work . Something in the manner of her friends struck Meg at once . They treated her with more respect , she thought , took quite a tender interest in what she said , and looked at her with eyes that plainly betrayed curiosity . All this surprised and flattered her , though she did not understand it till Miss Belle looked up from her writing , and said , with a sentimental air ... `` Daisy , dear , I 've sent an invitation to your friend , Mr. Laurence , for Thursday .