Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right. Proverbs xx, 11.
"Understand that it is sinful to torment any living thing."
The boy slunk away, realizing for the first time that it was wrong to torture anything so small as a butterfly.
The disposition to torture seems to be inherent with many boys and if allowed to grow on them will in time predominate over all good impulses, and prompt them to commit the most terrible crimes.
For the land is full of bloody crimes, and the city is full of violence. Ezekiel vii, 23.
If they were taught to cultivate will power to subdue these evil impulses what a blessing would be derived! How prone to wickedness is all human nature, and how much we need to pray for help to overcome it!
Watch and pray. Matthew xxvi, 41.
CHAPTER IX.
The Witch noticed a girl in the regulation uniform of white cap and apron marshalling several children. How oft seen in the want column: "A nurse girl who will wear the cap." Why was this headgear exacted as a badge of servitude? Why ape the Old World customs?
Say unto the king and to the queen, Humble yourselves, sit down; for your principalities shall come down, even the crown of your glory. Jeremiah xiii, 18.