(Suited to a boy and girl of twelve years.)
Ralph.
Good morning, Cousin Laura! I have a word to say to you.
Laura. Only a word! It is yet half an hour to school-time, and I can listen.
R. I saw you yesterday speaking to that fellow Sterling—Frank Sterling.
L. Of course I spoke to Frank. What then? Is he too good to be spoken to?
R. Far from it. You must give up his acquaintance.
L. Indeed, Cousin Ralph! I must give up his acquaintance? On what compulsion must I?
R. If you do not wish to be cut by all the boys of the academy, you must cut Frank.