'Mother, granny,' he said, 'I've been an awful boy at school this
morning, and I'm in disgrace. I've been caned.'

His tone was tragic, then he added slowly, 'But I'm very sorry, and I'm
sorry I've been so naughty at home, and I'm going to start again, because
my Captain has forgiven me.'

And then Mrs. John did the wisest thing she could do. She asked no
questions, but got some warm water and took him off to wash his face and
hands. She saw the red marks across the little hand, but refrained from
making much of it; and then, after putting his curly head in order, she
drew it to her shoulder, and putting her arms round him, she said,--

'My sonny, mother is so glad her little son feels his naughtiness. She
has been praying much for him to-day. And now tell me all about it.'




CHAPTER VIII

In the Clover Field


'Please, Mrs. Platt, can I see Teddy?'

'I think he is out in the clover field. Don't you be romping round with
him now, for he's taken his Sunday book out, and is as quiet as can be.'