Elsie's New Relations : Complete

"By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned." -Matt. 12:37.As they drew near the house Max came to meet them."I've been to the post-office since the mail came in, papa," he said, "and there is no governmentletter for you yet.

I'm so glad! I hope they're going to let us keep you a good deal longer.""I'm not sorry to prolong my stay with wife and children," the captain responded, "but cannot hopeto be permitted to do so very much longer.""Grandpa Dinsmore has come back from taking Harold and Herbert to college," pursued Max, "andwe're all to take tea in there, Mamma Vi says; because grandpa wants us all about him this firstevening.""That is kind," said the captain, opening the gate and looking smilingly at Violet, who, with littleGrace, was waiting for him on the veranda.

He stopped there to speak with them, while Lulu hurriedon into the house and up to her own room, Max following."Where's my book, Lu?" he asked."O Max, I couldn't help it-but papa caught me reading it and took it away from me. And he toldme when you asked me for it I should send you to him."Max's face expressed both vexation and alarm. "I sha'n't do that," he said, "if I never get it. But washe very angry, Lu?""No; and you needn't be afraid to go to him, for he won't punish you; I asked him not to, and hesaid he wouldn't.

But he threw the book into the sea, and said neither you nor I should ever readsuch poisonous stuff with his knowledge or consent.""Then, where would be the use of my going to him for it?

I'll not say a word about it."He went out, closed the door and stood irresolutely in the hall, debating with himself whether to goup-stairs or down.

Up-stairs in his room was another dime novel which he had been reading thatafternoon; he had not quite finished it, and was eager to do so; he wanted very much to know howthe story ended, and had meant to read the few remaining pages now before the call to tea.

But hisfather's words, reported to him by Lulu, made it disobedience.