him, and make a talking; especially one whose presence was a
restraint, so that he could not turn about and make cross answers at
his will.

'Well, Alfred, how are you to-day?' said the sweet gay voice, a
little subdued.

'Better, Ma'am, thank you,' said Alfred, who always called himself
better, whatever he felt; but his voice told the truth better than
his words.

'He's had a very bad night, Miss Jane,' said his sister; 'no sleep at
all since two o'clock, and he is so low to-day, that I don't know
what to do with him.'

Alfred hated nothing so much as to hear that he was low, for it meant
that he was cross.

'Poor Alfred!' said the young lady kindly. 'Was it pain that kept
you awake?'

'No, Ma'am--not so much--' said the boy.

Miss Jane saw he looked very sad, and hoped to cheer him by opening
her basket. 'I've brought you a new book, Alfred. It is "The
Cherry-stones." Have you finished the last?'

'No, Ma'am.'

'Did you like it?'