"Is John going?" asked Hugh, looking crest-fallen and vexed.
"Yes; I don't know that I had intended it though, for I look upon Christmas-day as a blessed holiday, but I've other reasons."
"Then you think I can go with Tom?"
"As far as that is concerned," said John; "but I should hardly think Tom was a nice companion for you."
"Why not?" exclaimed Hugh, turning red.
"There are several things about him that are not satisfactory, and I should not like him for my friend."
"He is not 'my friend' exactly; but that's always the way with you, John, you despise other people."
"I'm sure I don't; but I've always told you. Hugh, that that boy's a humbug."
"How do you know he is?" Hugh answered angrily.
"He never looks you in the face for one thing."