They shall not imprison my poor boy!" "This is folly, Esther!" returned Mr.Howland, severely.

"He has got himself, by his bad conduct, into the hands of the law, and it will do him good to feel its iron grip.

I am clear for letting him at least go to prison, and remain there for a few days.

By that time he will be sick enough of his folly." "I would not advise this," suggested the officer.

"Depend upon it, if his present position is of no avail toward working change for the better--sending him to prison will harden, rather than reform him." "Andrew!" said Mrs.Howland, with a firmness and decision of tone that marked a high degree of resolution on her part--"if you do not go his bail, I will find some person who will." "Esther!" The offended husband fixed a look of stern rebuke upon his wife; but her large eyes looked steadily into his, and he saw in them, not rebellion, or anger--but a spirit that his own heart told him instinctively, it would be folly for him to oppose.