M. Well, then, you also see that Thomas was right; but what said William?
H. He whispered to me, “Never mind him; you had a nice ride.”
M. Was that right?
H. No, I see it was wrong.
M. Well, my dear boy, as you understand what I mean, I will tell you something more. Do not forget what I am going to say, for it is in the Bible. “A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet,” (Prov. xxix. 5.); and “Every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts.” (Prov. xix. 6.) Now, tell me the truth: should you be so fond of William if he contradicted you, or would not do just as you wished him?
H. Perhaps not. Yesterday I was angry with him because he would not take a walk with me.
M. Has he ever told you that you are too fond of play, that you like to be idle, that you are greedy for every thing nice, and that you sometimes fly into a passion? I rather think that he never told you so.
H. But, mamma, am I so naughty?
M. What do you think? Remember, God sees and hears you.
H. Why, I am not always quite so good as I should be; but one cannot help being naughty sometimes.