"The boys at school all say bet, mother," answered Willie. "I don't see any hurt in it."
"But do they really bet?" asked his father.
"O, no, indeed, sir! It is only a habit they have of saying so."
"It is a low expression," said his mother. "I wish you wouldn't use it."
"Well, I won't, mother, when I can think of it. But I'll give you the word. It is Constantinople."
"It is a long word," said mamma. "But I will try it;" and the lady's eyes twinkled as she began, "C-o-n, Con; s-t-a-n, Constan!"
"Stop! please stop, mother!" shouted Willie, laughing heartily. "You know it; let me try father?"
"No, try me," said Nelly; "try me once!"
"Well, I will. Spell Con."
"C-o-n, Con," repeated Nelly slowly, looking steadily in her cousin's face.