But Emilie was firm. She tied on her bonnet, and determined to make one
more effort--it should be with Fred this time. She followed the track of
the lads, having first inquired of a farm-boy which road they had taken,
and as they had loitered, and she walked very fast, she soon overtook
them. They were seated on a bank by the road-side, when she got up to
them, and John was just displaying his treasures, squibs to make Miss
Edith jump, Catherine wheels, roman candles, sky-rockets, and blue
lights and crackers. The farmer's sons, Jerry and Tom, grinned
delightedly. Emilie stood for a few moments irresolute; the boys were
rude, and looked so daring--what should she say?

"Young gentlemen," she began; they all took off their hats in mock
deference. "A woman preaching, I declare." "Go on. Madam, hear! hear!
hear!" said the young Crosses. "Young gentlemen," continued Emilie, with
emphasis, "it is to _you_ I am speaking. I am determined that those
fire-works shall not be let off, if I can prevent it, on Mr. Crosse's
premises. If you will not give up your intention, I shall walk to L--,
and inform your father, and you know very well how displeased he will
be."

"Who says we are going to let them off on Mr. Crosse's premises?" said
Fred, fiercely. "You are very interfering Miss Schomberg, will you go
back to your our own business, and to little Edith."

"I will go to L----, master Fred," said Emilie, firmly, but kindly. "I
shall be sorry to get you into trouble, and I would rather not take the
walk, but I shall certainly do what I say if you persist."

The boys looked doubtfully at one another. Fred seemed a little disposed