(Tears in violet’s eyes.)

Dora (scarlet).  It’s too bad—­it’s a shame:—­poor Violet!

L. My dear children, there’s no reason why one should be so red, and the other so pale, merely because you are made for a moment to feel the absurdity of a phrase which you have been taught to use, in common with half the religious world.  There is but one way in which man can ever help God—­that is, by letting God help him:  and there is no way in which His name is more guiltily taken in vain, than by calling the abandonment of our own work, the performance of His.

God is a kind Father.  He sets us all in the places where He wishes us to be employed; and that employment is truly “our Father’s business.”  He chooses work for every creature which will be delightful to them, if they do it simply and humbly.  He gives us always strength enough, and sense enough, for what He wants us to do; if we either tire ourselves or puzzle ourselves, it is ourselves, it is our own fault.  And we may always be sure, whatever we are doing, that we cannot be pleasing Him, if we are not happy ourselves.  Now, away with you, children; and be as happy as you can.  And when you cannot, at least don’t plume yourselves upon pouting.

LECTURE 7.

HOME VIRTUES

By the fireside, in the Drawing-room.  Evening.

Dora.  Now, the curtains are drawn, and the fire’s bright, and here’s your arm-chair—­and you’re to tell us all about what you promised.

L. All about what?

Dora.  All about virtue.

Kathleen.  Yes, and about the words that begin with V.

L. I heard you singing about a word that begins with V, in the playground, this morning, Miss Katie.

Kathleen.  Me singing!

May.  Oh tell us—­tell us.

L.  “Vilikens and his—­”

Kathleen (stopping his mouth).  Oh! please don’t.  Where were you?

Isabel.  I’m sure I wish I had known where he was!  We lost him among the rhododendrons, and I don’t know where he got to; oh, you naughty—­naughty—­(climbs on his knee).

Dora.  Now, Isabel, we really want to talk.

L. I don’t.

Dora.  Oh, but you must.  You promised, you know.

L. Yes, if all was well; but all’s ill.  I’m tired and cross; and I won’t.

Dora.  You’re not a bit tired, and you’re not crosser than two sticks; and we’ll make you talk, if you were crosser than six.  Come here, Egypt; and get on the other side of him.

(Egypt takes up a commanding position near the hearth-brush.)

Dora (reviewing her forces).  Now, Lily, come and sit on the rug in front.

(Lily does as she is bid.)

L. (seeing he has no chance against the odds).  Well, well; but I’m really tired.  Go and dance a little, first; and let me think.