George began, 'Mother, I want a piece of mince-pie.' The answer was, 'It is nearly bed-time; and mince-pie will hurt you.

You shall have a piece of cake, if you will sit down and be still.' The boy ate his cake; and liking the system of being hired to sit still, he soon began again, 'Mother, I want a piece of mince-pie.' The old answer was repeated.

The child stood his ground, 'Mother, I want a piece of mince-pie--I _want_ a piece--I _want_ a piece,' was repeated incessantly.

'Will you leave off teasing, If I give you a piece ?' 'Yes, I will--certain true,' A small piece was given, and soon devoured.

With his mouth half full, he began again, 'I want another piece--I want another piece.' 'No, George; I shall not give you another mouthful.