"I suppose I have been a very bad boy," said he, with a kind of deprecating smile, as though he did not believe more than one half he said.
"It was all those bad boys you went with; if it hadn't been for them, you would have done very well. That Sandy Brimblecom hasn't done you any good."
"I hope I haven't done him any hurt, Berty. I won't be mean, when I get into trouble. I don't think Sandy is any worse than I am. I don't know but that he is a little better. I suppose he and I must part company now."
"It will be all for the best."
"Berty, I am off to-morrow. I have given you a great deal of trouble. I mean to do better. I am going to turn over a new leaf."
"O, I hope so, Richard!"
"I mean so, this time."
"I am so glad!"
"Don't you think father will let me stay at home, if I do well?"
"Perhaps he will."