“Now, Ces, what’s the good of saying that,” Rose broke out, “when we know already that you did do it? Why, this morning you told me so yourself.”
“No one is going to punish you, Cecil, if you tell the truth. It’s little boys who tell lies that are punished. You shall have one more chance, the last one. Will you tell Dr. Lucian how sorry you are that you took his musical box?”
He gazed at her dumbly, with suddenly scared eyes.
“You are an obstinate and untruthful little boy, Cecil,” said Lady Aviolet in great agitation.
“He’s not,” Rose cried passionately. “For goodness’ sake, Ces, tell the truth. They shan’t do anything to you.”
“I didn’t take it,” said Cecil.
“A flat lie,” said Lady Aviolet, her face grey with consternation.
Rose stamped her foot. Her arm shot out round the child’s shoulders, gripping him tightly to her.
“Rose, don’t attempt to coax and spoil him. He has told two absolutely direct lies at least, and nothing can alter it.”
Little Cecil’s eyes dilated, and his mouth shut.