"Maybe not. It was a mean thing to do, but I couldn't help laughing when the minister stood up and the chair went with him, swinging around every time he moved, the legs hitting everybody."
"Yes, it was odd. I had to laugh, too."
The girls and several of their companions indulged in merriment at the recollection. The minister soon returned to the church parlors, wearing a different pair of trousers, and he seemed to have regained his good humor.
"Who was the boy who wanted me to remain seated all the evening, and perhaps longer?" he asked.
"It was Bob Henderson," volunteered several.
"Yes, Mr. Blackton," said Mrs. Henderson. "I am sorry to have to admit that it was my son who played that prank. But he is going to be punished for it. His father has sent him home and has followed after him."
"I hope he will not punish Bob too severely. It was a boyish prank, due more to thoughtlessness than to malice."
"I suppose it was, but Bob plays altogether too many such pranks. I think this will be the last."
"Well, tell Bob I forgive him, though my trousers are ruined."
"Mr. Henderson will arrange with you about that."