"But society would fall to pieces," said Mrs. Bartholomew.
"I never heard of the strictest Christians refusing to do polite things in that way, when they can," added Mrs. Laval.
"But what do the words say?" David answered. "And then, I think, the Lord meant to forbid our making expensive entertainments for anybody, except those who can't give us the same again."
"Then we may ask our friends," said Judy, "only we mustn't give them anything to eat. And of course no wine to drink. I wonder if we might light the gas? It is expensive, when you burn enough of it. Such meanness!" exclaimed Judy with concentrated scorn.
"You would put an end to society," repeated Mrs. Laval.
"What would be the use of having a fine house and large rooms and beautiful things," asked her sister, "if nobody was to see them?"
David cast his eyes round the room where they were, and smiled a little.
"What do you mean?" asked his mother sharply.
"I was thinking, mamma," said David; "I couldn't help thinking."
"Go on, David," Mrs. Lloyd said.