"No, I'm afraid it don't. I told you what would happen if you went into
that parlor, and you went just the same. I cal'late you know what to
expect, don't you?"

"Ye-yes, sir," in a low tone. "You mean I can't go to the Sunday school
picnic."

Shadrach cleared his throat. He was not enjoying this episode, as a
matter of fact his unhappiness was almost as keen as the child's. But as
a boy he had been reared in the old-fashioned way, and he felt that he
had a duty to perform.

"I'm afraid that's what I mean," he said, gravely. "Now set down and
have your supper."

Mary-'Gusta tried hard to be brave, but the disappointment was too
great. The tears streamed down her cheeks and she ran from the room.
Shadrach strode after her.

"Here!" he called. "Mary-'Gusta, where are you goin'? Come back and have
your supper."

But Mary-'Gusta did not come back. She was already on the stairs.

"I--I don't want any supper," she sobbed. "Please, oh, PLEASE don't make
me eat it."

The Captain hesitated, turned back, and jerked his own chair to the
table.