From Little Women

In the following monologue Beth March, a very sick girl in her early-mid teens, tells her sister Jo
that knows she is dying, and has very little time left. Beth is scared, but does not want to show Jo
her fear. Beth has always been incredibly generous and thought of others before herself. Here she
tries to comfort Jo and ensure that her family will be able to stay strong after she has gone.
***This is a very challenging monologue. Do not play it “sad.” They key is to show Beth’s quiet
strength. Even when she is most afraid she puts the welfare of her family before her own. If tears
come that is fine, but do not try to make them happen.

Beth: You’ll tell the others won’t you Jo? I’ve heard that people who love us best are often
blindest to such things. If they don’t see it you can tell them for me. I don’t want any secrets and
it’s kinder to prepare them. Meg has John to comfort her, Laurie will comfort Amy, but you must
stand by Father and Mother. Won’t you, Jo? I don’t know how to express myself and shouldn’t
try to anyone but you, because I can’t speak out to anyone but you. Jo, dear. Don’t hope
anymore. It won’t do any good. I’m sure of it. We won’t be miserable, but enjoy being together
while we wait. We’ve had happy times together, haven’t we Jo? And I think the tide will go out
easily, if you help me.