incurring the terrible risks of war!" exclaimed Mrs. Frost,
looking indignant.

"Very likely he did not believe it himself; but he was irritated
with me, and it is his habit to impute unworthy motives to those
with whom he differs. Aside from this, however, I shall feel some
delicacy in availing myself of a bounty which I was instrumental
in persuading the town to vote. Though I feel that I should be
perfectly justified in so doing, I confess that I am anxious not
to put myself in such a position as to hazard any loss of good
opinion on the part of my friends in town."

"Then don't take it," said Mrs. Frost promptly.

"That's what I say, too, father," chimed in Frank.

"Don't decide too hastily," said Mr. Frost. "Remember that in our
circumstances this amount of money would be very useful. Although
Frank will do as well as any boy of his age, I do not expect him
to make the farm as profitable as I should do, partly on account
of my experience being greater, and partly because I should be
able to accomplish more work than he. One hundred and fifty
dollars would procure many little comforts which otherwise you
may have to do without."

"I know that," said Mrs. Frost quickly. "But do you think I
should enjoy them, if there were reports circulated, however
unjustly, to your prejudice? Besides, I shall know that the
comforts at the camp must be fewer than you would enjoy at home.
We shall not wish to fare so much better than you."