"Don't they?" asked Mr. Huxter, not so much surprised as he might have been if he had not made Ben's acquaintance. "I suppose it is John's fault."
"Of course it is. He doesn't treat Ben or myself with proper respect, and of course Ben resents it."
"Of course."
"He doesn't seem to realize that Ben is older than himself, and therefore entitled to more privileges. He went so far one day as to strike Ben with a whip."
"What did Ben do?" asked Mr. Huxter, curiously.
"Oh, of course he struck John," said Mrs. Oakley, not thinking it necessary to mention that Ben's blow came first.
"Well," said Mr. Huxter, "it seems natural for boys to quarrel."
"I shan't allow my son to be struck by John Oakley," said Mrs. Oakley, quickly.
"What are you going to do about it?"
"That is what I am coming to. I think of sending John away somewhere, so that we may live in peace and quiet, and not be disturbed by his quarrelsome disposition."