or, The Silver Skates 79

the cat cry when its tail is pulled. I will forgive her, if she
will remember from this hour that the smallest dumb creatures
have feeling, and must not be abused.”

As Katy burst into a frightened cry, the saint graciously
remained silent until she was soothed.

«“ Master Broom,” he resumed, “I warn thee that boys who
are in the habit of putting snuff upon the foot-stove of the
school-mistress may one day be discovered, and receive a
flogging —”

[Master Broom colored, and stared in great astonishment. |

“But, thou art such an excellent scholar, I shall make thee
no further reproof.

“© Thou, Hendrick, didst distinguish thyself in the archery
match last spring, and hit the de/,! though the bird was swung
before it to unsteady thine eye. I give thee credit for excelling
in manly sport and exercise; though I must not unduly coun-
tenance thy boat-racing, since it leaves thee too little time for
thy proper studies. .

“Lucretia and Hilda shall have a blessed sleep to-night.
The consciousness of kindness to the poor, devotion in their
souls, and cheerful, hearty obedience to household rule, will
render them happy. :

“© With one and all I avow myself well content. Goodness,
industry, benevolence and thrift have prevailed in your midst.
Therefore, my blessing upon you; and may the New Year find
all treading the paths of obedience, wisdom and love! To-
morrow you shall find more substantial proofs that I have been
in your home. Farewell!”

With these words came a great shower of sugar-plums upon
a linen sheet spread out in front of the doors. A general

1 Bull’s-eye.