But I must not let you off--I must keep my word!" Tom cried, sobbed, and implored in vain.

"I can't help it," he said, "and now, don't howl! I had rather no one knew it.

It will soon be over.

I never thought to have this to do to one of us." Tom roared and struggled, till, releasing him, he said, "There, that will do.

Stop bellowing, I was obliged, and I can't have hurt you much, have I ?" he added more kindly, while Tom went on crying, and turning from him.