spent all their money for drink.

After dinner the children did the dishes and ran out to play. When they
were alone, Father Slessor hung his head and said,

"Oh, my dear, what can I say? I am so ashamed. I did so want to bring my
wages home that we might have food for the children. And well--before I
knew it, my wages were spent."

"Robert," said Mrs. Slessor, "you have said again and again that 'tis your
friends who lead you astray. Would it not be well to move away to some
other town where you can find new friends who will not drink and who will
not tempt you to drink?"

"Aye, my dear, that no doubt would be the best. But where shall we go?"

"I have heard that there is plenty of work in Dundee, with the mills and
all. Let's sell our things here and move to Dundee."

"Aye, let us do that. 'Tis certain it won't be worse than here for you and
the children."

"Very well, then. I shall tell the children and we shall move before the
week is out."

When Mother Slessor went outside to call the children, she found Mary
seated on the steps with her stick dolls about her.

"Well, Mary dear, what are you doing?"