The theatre was some distance away.

Just as they reached it, a clock was heard to strike.
"Bless me!" exclaimed Andrew.
"Three--four--five--six--seven--eight--nine--TEN!" And, as he uttered the last word, he started back the way he had come, running at full speed.

It was ten o'clock--the hour he was required to be at home, under penalty of having the door closed against him.

How troubled he felt! How strongly his heart beat! He had not intended to disregard his father's command in this instance.

In fact, during the day, he had reflected more than usual, and many good resolutions had formed themselves in his mind.
"I wish I could be better," he said to himself involuntarily, a great many times.