quite sociable and almost festive. Bet's heart was lighter than it had
been since her mother's death; she did not despair of doing well for
her brothers, and of bringing them up in such a way, and with such a
due regard for religion, that by-and-bye they should meet their mother
in the land where she now dwelt.

"Ef she's there--ef there is a future, she must have Nat and Thady
with her," concluded Bet, as she watched the two small lads polishing
off a hearty meal of bread and tea. "That's my part--to train 'em so
as they'll choose religion and go to mother by-and-bye."

When the meal was over she called the boys to her. "Kneel down now,
both of you, and say your prayers," she said. "Say 'Our Father 'chart
heaven' and 'Matthew, Mark, Luke, John.'"

"Mother didn't teach us 'Matthew, Mark, Luke and John,'" said the
captain.

"Well, love, say what she did teach; and be quick, for I must go out
to buy and sell my papers."

The captain and the general knelt down obediently, closed their eyes,
folded their hands, and went through the Lord's Prayer in high sing-song
chanting voices. Then the general was silent--he opened his eyes and
looked impatiently at his brother.

"That's all," he said.

"No, it ain't all," repeated Thady, "I'm a-try-ing to thing--don't
keep nudging me, Nat--