"Why, yes, Tom, ain't you?"
"No, not yet; and if any one inquires where we are, just mention that we've been to Sunday-school and will be home soon."
Ralph's eyes opened wide in astonishment. "But you didn't go to Sunday-school," he replied, "because your teacher came and asked me where you were, and I told her I didn't know; I thought you were coming."
"Well, it isn't any of your business whether we went or not," growled John. "All you've got to do is to say we were there if you're asked."
"I can't tell a lie about it, can I?"
"Yes, you can, if you just make up your mind to do it."
"But I won't tell a lie about it," said Ralph, sturdily.
"No, I suppose you'd rather get your brothers in a scrape. You know what will happen if we're found out."
Ralph hesitated. He was an affectionate child and disliked to see anybody in trouble, especially his own brothers, but he had a very decided opinion that he was in the right, and therefore concluded to speak the truth at all hazards.
"I'm just as sorry as I can be," he returned, sadly, "and I'll beg papa to forgive you and say I know you won't ever do it again, but if they ask me I can't tell a lie about it."