“I am merely wondering what original and expensive experiment they’ve been up to now,” replied the head of the household.
“None whatever,” said Mrs. Burton, with an energy almost startling. “I often wonder how men can be so blind. Look at their dear, pure little faces, dirty though they are; there’s no more consciousness of wrong there than there could be in an angel’s face.”
“Just so, my dear,” said Mr. Burton. “If they were oftener conscious of misdeeds they would be worse boys, but a great deal less troublesome. Come see uncle, boys—don’t you want a trot on my knees?”
Both children scrambled into their uncle’ arms, and Budge began to whisper very earnestly.
“Yes, I suppose so,” Mr. Burton answered.
“Goody, goody, goody!” exclaimed Budge, clapping his hands. “I’m going to give you a birthday present to-morrow, Aunt Alice.”
“So am I,” said Toddie.
“It’s something to eat,” said Budge.
“Mine, too,” said Toddie.
“Be careful, Budge,” said Mr. Burton. “You’ll let the secret out if you’re not careful.”