Such talents for amusing others evidently far out-weighed in Harold's
consideration such trifling points as fathers, mothers, and
respectability. Alfred laughed; but Ellen thought it no laughing
matter, and reproved Harold for being wicked enough to hear his
betters made game of.

'My betters!' said Harold--'an old skin-flint like Farmer Shepherd's
old woman?'

'Hush, Harold! I'll tell Mother of you, that I will!' cried Ellen.

'Do then,' said Harold, who knew his sister would do no such thing.
She had made the threat too often, and then not kept her word.

She contented herself with saying, 'Well, all I know is, that I'm
sure now he has run away out of prison, and is no better than a
thief; and if our place isn't broken into before to-morrow morning,
and Mother's silver sugar-tongs gone, it will be a mercy. I'm sure I
shan't sleep a wink all night.'

Both boys laughed, and Alfred asked why he had not done it last
night.

'How should I know?' said Ellen. 'Most likely he wanted to see the
way about the place, before he calls the rest of the gang.'

'Take care, Harold! it's a gang coming now,' said Alfred, laughing
again. 'All coming on purpose to steal the sugar-tongs!'

'No, I'll tell you what they are come to steal,' said Harold