“Yes, sir; I am sure I do not worship images, nor lie, nor swear, nor steal.”

“And you think, then, that you have not broken one of God’s commandments to-day?”

“I do not think I have.”

“O, Rupert, take care!” said Alfred. “I have often said so; but when papa came to talk to me about them, I found that I broke them every day.”

“Let us begin then, Rupert,” said Alfred’s father, “and inquire what the first commandment is.”


CHAPTER XI
THE COMMANDMENTS.

Say not, Too soon

I urge their tottering steps. Should I forbear,

On every side deceitful strangers stand,