Not only the boys took a part in the cruel sport, but some of the girls helped with sticks, sunbonnets, and whatever they could lay their hands on.

Two or three times the little creature was struck.

At last, helpless, it stood panting while one of its tormentors dealt it a blow that killed it.
A cry of protest broke from Alice's lips, but her voice was lost in the roar of applause that followed the big boy's action, as he tossed the lifeless squirrel across the room into the face of another boy, who in turn pitched the animal at his neighbor.
"The poor little creature! How could they abuse it and take its life ?" cried Alice, turning to those nearest her.

The other girls shrank back abashed at her reproachful tones, which were noticed by Jim Stubbs, and that hero felt called upon to make a speech.
"Bah! boys, that girl is getting ready to cry over a dead squirrel.
What d'ye think of that ?" And a heartless chorus echoed his laughter.
"No, I'm too indignant to cry," replied Alice with spirit.

"I never knew boys could be so awfully wicked, yes, and girls too.