He sat down to the deserted table, and was helping himself to the cold remnants of the meal, when his mother entered the room.

Oscar noticed that she looked unusually sad and dejected.

After sitting in silence a few moments, she remarked: "You see how I look, this morning, Oscar.

I did not sleep half an hour last night, and now I am not fit to be up from my bed--and all on your account.

I am afraid your misconduct will be the death of me, yet.