Now, if you like frank and open dealing, and are willing to deal so with me, I should like to talk with you a little about it, but if you are not willing, I will dismiss the subject.

I do not wish to talk with you now about it unless you yourself desire it; but if we talk at all, we must both be open, and honest, and sincere.

Now, should you rather have me talk with you or not ?" "Yes, sir, I should rather have you talk with me now than in school." The teacher then described his conduct in a mild manner, using the style of simple narration, admitting no harsh epithets, no terms of reproach.
The boy was surprised, for he supposed that he had not been noticed.

He thought, perhaps, that he should have been punished if he had been observed.

The teacher said, in conclusion, "Now, James, I do not suppose you have done this from any designed irreverence toward God, or deliberate intention of giving me trouble and pain.