She went on with an effort. "We all profess to be Christians: shall we live together, even for the short space of two or three weeks, like heathen or mere worldings?"
A moment's silence, then Donald said with quiet gravity, "Surely not, Mary."
"We will not partake of the food God provides for our nourishment and enjoyment without asking his blessing upon it, or begin or end the day without prayer and praise, will we?" she asked.
"Oh no!" came softly from the lips of Amy and Violet, and was echoed by the other voices.
"Then which of you, my three cousins, Don, Edward, and Charlie, will take the lead in these acts of worship?"
A longer silence than before; then Vi turned a wistful, pleading look upon her brother.
There was no mistaking its meaning; and his mother's parting words were ringing in his ears.
"If no one else is willing," he said, "I will do it."
"Thank you, Edward," said Charlie, rising and grasping his hand; "but it would be too selfish to leave you to do it alone; so I will take my turn."
"I too," said Donald. "It should never be said of a soldier that he refused to stand by his colors."