THE LAME BOY. 47

praise for the spirit of heaviness, for Jesus Christ’s
sake.”

The boys sat a few minutes longer conversing with
the good nurse, and as they walked homeward, Maurice _
saw that a calmer and more chastened spirit expressed
itself in the sad and dejected face of his companion ;
and his heart rejoiced, for he hoped the poor lad would
now find the comforter he so much needed.

It was a public day at the school. There was a class
arranged for recitation, and many visitors were present.
Frank Henley was at the head of the class, Maurice
second, and Philip Graham third. A question was
given to Maurice, who hesitated. He was quickly
prompted by Frank; but instead of availing himself of
his assistance, he replied, “I do not recollect the answer
to that question.” The question was passed to Philip,
who replied correctly, and took Maurice’s place.

Frank Henley seemed quite puzzled at this, and as
several boys stood together on the play-ground after
school, he said, “ Maurice, did you not hear me prompt
you this morning? You must have heard, for I spoke
right into your ear.” |

“Yes,” answered Maurice, “I heard you, Frank, and
am much obliged to you for wishing to assist me.”

“Then if you heard me, why did you not answer the
question?” asked Frank.

“ Because,” replied Maurice, “it was my memory,
and not yours, that ought to have been ready. It