114 | BRAGGADOCIO.

In a few moments George came, with his
head hanging down, and looking very much
like a whipped hound. Mr. Cramer was walk-
ing the piazza with his hands behind him, and
a step quickened by excitement.

Mr. Cramer.—How dare you tell me you
can’t come when I send for you—scamp !

George.—I was studying my lesson.

Mr. Cramer.—W hat a guilty look you have.
Don’t you feel ashamed of yourself? You
knew what I wanted you for.

George.—I suppose somebody has been tell-
ing lies about me to you. |

Mr. Cramer.—No such thing. You insulted
a poor boy yesterday, and his pretty little sis-
ter. That honorable little girl was here this:
morning.

George (interrupting).—There! I knew she
had been telling lies about me.

Mr. Cramer.—Hold your tongue! She never
said a word about you, good or bad. I wish
you had one quarter of the honorable feeling
she has. Shame on you, to threaten and insult
children in the way you did yesterday. You
roust find an opportunity to beg their pardon.