brilliantly lighted city and the puppet shows. For weeks beforehand
all looked forward to the great holiday, and could hardly wait for the
time to come when the city would be in holiday attire, and the
fireworks and puppet shows in progress. On this night supper was over,
the bell had rung, and the boys were in a double line ready to start on
their little excursion. At the head of the ranks stood young Peppo,
the leader, in a state of subdued excitement. He was anxious to see
the beautiful lights, and also hoped to find his little companion,
Willy, at the puppet show, where he knew he would be, if possible.
Just as the happy band was about to start, Father Somazzo called Peppo
back, for it occurred to him that perhaps the man, who had a few days
previous to this so impudently demanded possession of him, might try to
kidnap him.

"Peppo", he said, addressing Lihu by his Italian nickname, "Peppo, you
know that I mean well by you."

"Yes, Father," answered the boy impatiently, "but please don't keep me
now. We are going to the city and I am to be the leader of the ranks."

"Peppo, not very long ago you said that you were willing to make a
great sacrifice to God, because he saved you from death, and permitted
you to be baptized, and because you are soon to receive your first
communion."

"Yes, Father, I did, and I will willingly make a sacrifice, but let me
go now. Brother Onufrio has already opened the door."

"Peppo, would it not be a beautiful sacrifice for you to give up going
to-night?"