"Billiards! Oh yes by all means!" said the Murchisons.
Tom's conscience was startled at length. He knew so well the opinion of his mother on reverencing the Lord's-day, and her image rose so visibly before him, that he resolved, if possible, net to break at once her commands and those of his Maker.
"I don't feel inclined to play," said he, as Ned turned to ask his assent.
"Not inclined!" cried Ned impatiently. "No nonsensical scruples, I hope?"
"I played so much yesterday," replied Tom, evading the question.
"That's no reason why you should not play to-day."
"But I think I—I should prefer a walk over your beautiful grounds," stammered the boy.
"You shall have the walk presently; play first, business afterwards, as my tutor used to observe."
"Here's Willy all ready for a game."
"No," said Willy briefly.