"You mean I can't go to the Sunday school picnic." Shadrach cleared his throat.

He was not enjoying this episode, as a matter of fact his unhappiness was almost as keen as the child's.

But as a boy he had been reared in the old-fashioned way, and he felt that he had a duty to perform.
"I'm afraid that's what I mean," he said, gravely.

"Now set down and have your supper." Mary-'Gusta tried hard to be brave, but the disappointment was too great.

The tears streamed down her cheeks and she ran from the room.
Shadrach strode after her.
"Here!" he called.