If he wishes to fast he can be gratified." Mrs.Howland said no more, but she took only a few mouthfuls of food while she sat at the table.

Her appetite was gone.

After dinner she went up to Andrew's room with a saucer of peaches and cream.

The moment she opened the door the lad sprung toward her, and while tears gushed from his eyes, he said-- "Indeed, indeed, mother, I was not to blame! Bill Wilkins was going to beat me--and you know, he's a large boy." "But you might have killed him, Andrew," replied the mother, with a gentle gravity that, in love, conveyed reproof.

"It is dangerous to throw stones." "I had to defend myself, mother.