THE FAITHFUL NURSE. a9

cellent cake she makes, and what fine fruit grows in
our old garden. Come, Philip,” he said, as Philip
Graham seemed turning away, as if he thought it too
childish to join the group, “I know that boys as big
as you like a good slice of cake as well as we; so come,
take a seat with us. This is a generous loaf, and quite
enough for all, and I have borrowed a plate and knife,
that I may serve it up handsomely.”

Such a pleasant, good-natured smile accompanied
Maurice’s words, that Philip could not resist them, and
he joined the party.

“No, I thank you, Maurice,” said Bob Newton, as
Maurice handed him a slice in his turn. “I was go
rude to your good nurse to-day, that I do really believe
it would choke me if I should attempt to eat it, The
truth is, Maurice, I never did anything I was more
ashamed of, and I am willing to own it.”

“Nor I either,” said Dick. “Bob and I both feel
alike about it, and wish to go with you to see your
good nurse, to apologize to her, and ask her pardon for
our rude, ungentlemanly conduct. We were much ex-
cited, and in a high frolic, when she appeared at the
gate, and you know her dress and appearance are
peculiar, and we were very thoughtless, and did wrong,
and must certainly apologize for our misconduct.”

“Well,” said Maurice, “I am glad you feel so about
it, boys. I knew if I told you all about her you would
respect her, and when you know her, you cannot fail