They did not dare lift their eyes to the table, to see what dainty Sunday-dish had been prepared, but slipped into their seats and felt almost choked even by the soup; for something seemed to lie like a lump in their throats, and prevent them from swallowing.

They did not look up once during the whole of dinner-time, and although their father spoke to them several times, they could not find voice to answer.
"What have you two been about this time ?" he said at last; for he knew very well that this depression was not the result of yesterday's performance; their contrition never lasted over night; that was not the way with the twins.

There was no answer.

They sat as if nailed to their seats, and stared into their plates.

Their mother shook her head thoughtfully.