 CHAPTER I. An Antagonist He stood in the centre of a little crowd of village boys. His golden head was bare in the blazing sun, but the crop of curls seemed thick enough to protect him from its rays, and he was far too engrossed in his occupation to heed any discomfort from the heat. A slim delicate little lad, with a finely cut face, and blue eyes that by turns would sparkle with animation, and then settled into a dreamy wistfulness, with a deep faraway look in them. They were dancing and flashing with excitement now, and his whole frame was quivering with enthusiasm. With head thrown back, and tongue, hand, and foot all in motion, he seemed to have his audience completely spellbound, and they listened with open eyes and mouths to his oration. With one hand he was fingering a large brass button, which figured conspicuously in the centre of his small waistcoat, and this button was the subject of his theme. My father, he rushed forward. Come on men, we'll save the old colours, and they shouted Hurrah! as they made after him. There were guns going, and shells flying, and swords flashing and harking away, and the enemy poured on with fiery red faces and gnashing teeth. My father drew his sword, and no one could stand against him, no one. He cut and he slashed, and heads and arms and legs rolled off as quick as lightning, one after the other. He got up to the colours, and with a shout he plunged his sword right through the enemy's body that had stolen them. The enemy fell stone dead. My father seized the colours and looked round. He was alone. The other soldiers had been beaten back, but was he in a funk? No, he gave a loud Hurrah! picked up his sword, and fought his way back, the enemy hard after him. It was a race for life, and he ran backwards the whole way. He wasn't going to turn his back to the enemy. He pressed on, shouting Hurrah! till he got to his own side again, and then he reached his colonel. Captain dead, sir, I've got the colours. He saluted as he said it, and then dropped dead himself at the colonel's feet, the blood gushing out of his heart, and over his clothes, and over this button. The little orator paused as he sank his voice to a tragic whisper. Then raising it again, he added triumphantly, and thirty bullets and six swords had gone through my father's body. That was something like a soldier. Oh, I say! murmured a small sceptic from the crowd. It was twenty bullets last time. Make it fifty, Teddy! And that's the story of my button, pursued the boy, ignoring with scorn this last remark. And did your father have only one button to his coat? The voice was a strange one, and the boys turned round to meet the curious gaze of a steady little damsel, who had, unnoticed, joined the group. She was not dressed as an ordinary village child, but in a little rough surged sailor suit, with a large hat to match, set well back on a quantity of loose, dark hair. A rosy cheeked, square-set little figure she was, and her brown eyes, fringed with long black lashes, looked straight at Teddy with something of defiance and scorn in their glats. Though at first a little taken aback, Teddy rose to the occasion. One button, he said with emphasis, the coat was sent to mother with only one button left on, and if you—here he turned upon his questioner with a little fierceness—if you had been through such a bloody battle, and killed so many men, you would have burst and lost all your buttons, and not had one left, like father. There was a round of applause at this, but the small maiden remained undaunted. Is that a true story, you told, she demanded, with severity in her tone? Of course it's true, was the indignant shout of all. Then I tell you, boy, I don't believe a word of it, and with set determined lips she turned on her heel and walked away, having sown seeds of anger and resentment in more than one boyish breast. Who is she, asked Teddy, as, tired and exhausted by his recital, he threw himself on the grass to rest. One of the bigger boys answered him, I see to come yesterday at a cab from the town to Old Sol at the turnpike. She and a mother, I reckon. They had two carpet bags and a box and a pole parrot and a cage. I counted them myself, for I was having a ride behind, and the woman, she called Sol, father, so the little one must be his granddaughter. Perhaps they've come from Marrake, suggested a small urchin, capering round at his hands and feet. Pol's Olly's comes over the sea, you know? She didn't believe me, mummer Teddy, chewing a wisp of grass meditatively. Gows is never no good, never. If she'd been a boy, you would've fought her. But I shouldn't care for not like her, Ted. Teddy turned his face upwards to the speaker. No, I couldn't have fought her, Sam. If she'd been a boy, I've promised my mother I won't fight again till she gives me leave. You see, I fought four boys in one week last time, and she says she won't have it. I don't see if it is right for soldiers to fight. Why doesn't right for boys? I don't think there's any fellas left for you to fight with, so you're pretty safe. Besides, it was only Tom Larkin who set them on to try and get your button from you, and he's gone on to another part of the country now. I think perhaps went on Teddy slowly, as he turned over on his back and looked up at the clear blue sky above him, that I wasn't quite true about the bullets. I think it was six bullets and three sword-cuts. I forget when I tell it how many it was. But she said she didn't believe a word. Five o'clock struck the old church-clock close by. Teddy was upon his feet in an instant, and with a wild whoop and shout he was scutting across the green, his curls flying in the wind, and his little feet hardly seeming to touch the ground. There was no one in the village so quick-footed as Teddy, and for daring feats and downright pluck he held the foremost place. Perhaps this accounted for his popularity. Perhaps it was his marvellous aptitude for telling stories, many of them wild productions from his fertile brain, but certain it was that he was the pet and the darling of the village, and none as yet had resisted his sway. Over the green, upper shady lane, across two fields, and then, breathless and panting, Teddy paused before an old-fashioned farmhouse. He passed his hands lightly through his curls, pulled himself up with a jerk, and then quietly and sedately opened a latched door and entered the long, low-roofed kitchen. There was something very restful in the scene. A square substantial table covered with a white cloth in the centre a large bowl of roses and honeysuckle. Homemade bread and golden butter, a glass dish of honey in his comb, a plate of fresh watercress, and a current loaf completed the simple fare. Presiding at the tea-tree was a stern, forbidding-looking woman of sixty or more. Opposite her was seated her son, the master of the farm, a heavy-faced, sleepy-looking man, and at his side facing the door sat Teddy's mother, a sweet, gentle-faced young woman she was, with the same deep blue eyes as her little son. She bore no resemblance to the elder woman, and looked, as she indeed was, superior to her surroundings. Two years ago she had come with her child to make her home amongst her husband's people, and though at first her mother-in-law, Mrs. Platt, was inclined to look upon her contemptuously as a poor, delicate, useless creature, time proved to her that for steady, quiet work, no one could eclipse her daughter-in-law. Young Mrs. John, as she was called, was now her right hand, and the dairy work of the farm was made over entirely to her. Late again, you young scamp, was the stern greeting of his grandmother as Teddy appeared on the scene. The boy looked at her with a twinkle in his eye, put his little hand to his forehead, and gave her a military salute. Sorry was all he said as he slipped into the chair that was waiting for him. What have you been doing, sonny? asked the young mother, whose eyes had brightened at the side of him. Telling father's story, replied Teddy with alacrity, a shadow came over his mother's face. Her lips took a distressed curve, but she said nothing, only occupied herself with the tenon to the child's wants. Your father was never late for his meals, the grandmother put in him with asperity. Never, granny? Not when he was a boy? I shall be always in time when I am a soldier. Better begin now, then. Bad habits, like weeds, grow a pace. Teddy had no answer for this. His mouth was full of bread and butter, and he did not speak till the meal was over. Then, whilst he was being taken away by the women, he turned to his uncle, who, pulling out a pipe from his pocket, sat down by the open door to smoke. Uncle Jake! A grunt was the only response, but that was sufficient. The two perfectly understood each other, and a minute after Teddy was perched on his knee. I'm wondering if I can't get an enemy, the boy proceeded, folding his small arms and looking up at his uncle steadily. All good people had enemies in the Bible, and I haven't one. I should like to have a good, right-down enemy. To fight? asked his uncle. To carry on with, you know. He would lay traps for me, and I would for him, like David and Saul. We should have a fine time of it, and then perhaps, if he did something dreadfully wrong, mother would give me leave to fight him, just once in a way. Don't you think that would be nice? Fighting ain't the only grand thing in this world. Peace is grander, was the slow response to this appeal. That's what mother says. She made me learn this morning. Blessed are the peacemakers. But you must have an enemy to make peace with, and I haven't got one. There was silence. The uncle puffed away at his pipe. He was a good man, and had more brains than his appearance warranted. But Teddy's speeches were often a sore puzzle to him. The boy continued in a slow, thoughtful tone. I saw someone today that I feel might be an enemy. But she's a girl. Men don't fight with women. I'd rather tackle a man than a woman any day. They be a powerful enemy sometimes, lad, and what have this young maid done to you? She said, and Teddy's eyes grew bright, whilst the blood rushed into his cheeks. She said she didn't believe a word of Father's story, not a word of it, and she laughed and walked away. That was coming at strong, and who was she to talk so? She's a stranger. Sam said she's come to live with old soul at the turnpike. That must be Grace's child, said Old Mrs. Platt, coming up and joining in the conversation. I heard she was coming to stay with her father this summer, and glad I am of it, too. The old man is very lonely. I suppose her husband is at sea again. What is her husband? inquired Teddy's mother, as with work in hand she came out and took a seat in the old-fashioned porch. A sailor! Grace was always a roving nature herself. She never would settle down quiet and take her husband from these parts. She was made to our squires, lady, then, and went to foreign parts with her, but folks say she's steadied down now wonderful. They've been living at Portsmouth, she and her little girl. On a narrow footbridge running over a stream, neither could pass the other, but neither intended going back, and the sturdy maiden in her sail-address, with her small hands placed on a hips, appeared quite a match for Teddy, who, with his golden head well up, looked like a war-horse senting the battlefield. It was thus they met again, both employing their Saturday afternoon in roaming along the edge of a stream, they had suddenly come face to face with one another. You're to let me come over first, she asserted very emphatically, because I'm a girl. Boys never go back. A soldier's son never. I'm not going to turn my back from the enemy. I would disgrace my button if I did. That old button! The tone was that of Utmos scorn. Teddy's cheeks grew rosy red at once, but he said nothing. I got to this bridge before you did, she continued. I began to cross it first, and you, who are you? No one knows anything about you. I have been crossing this bridge for years. More reason you shouldn't cross it now. My name is Nancy Wright. That's who I am. A princess could not have revealed her name more royally. She added after a pause, and I mean to come over first, so go back. Never! I never go back. Then I shall push you over in the water. Come on and try, then. Then there was silence. Both the little people eyed each other defiantly, yet a little doubtfully, as if measuring one another's strength, and their faces grew eager at the coming contest. Boys always ought to give way to girls. Always, Nancy said, using her strongest plea, you're not a proper boy at all. You're not a proper girl. You're wearing a boy's hat and a boy's jacket. I'm a sailor's daughter, and everybody can see I am. You say you're a soldier's son. Why don't you dress like one? Teddy felt he was getting the worst of it. He fingered his button proudly. I'm wearing something that has been in a thick of a bloody battle. That's more than you can do. Sailors don't know much of fighting. They know just as much as soldiers, and as to your old button, I believe you just picked up your brass thing from the gutter. If you went a girl, I'd fight you, sputtered Teddy, now with rising wrath. Poo! I expect I could lick you. I don't believe you have half as big a muscle as I have on my arm. A girl have muscle. It's just a bit of fat. The tone of scorn proved too much for Nancy's self-control. With a passionate exclamation, she made a quick rush across the plank. There was a struggle, and the result was what might have been expected. A great splash. A scream from Nancy, and both little figures were immersed in the stream. Happily the water was not very deep, and after a few minutes scrambling they were on dry ground, considerably sobered by their immersion. Teddy began to laugh a little shame-facedly, but Nancy was very near tears. I'll tell my mother you nearly drowned me dead! If you're a sailor's daughter, you're odden to be afraid of the water. Sailors and fish are always in the sea. They're never in it, never! Well, they're on it, as close as they can be to it. Why, you're nearly crying, but you're only a girl, and a sailor's girl can't be very brave, not like a soldier's girl would be. Sailors are much braver than soldiers, said Nancy, quickly swallowing down her tears, and when they do fight, they're in much more danger than the soldiers. Father said, how would soldiers like the earth to swallow them up, just when they'd been fighting hard and got the victory? That's what the sea does to the poor sailors. Their ship begins to sink, and they send up three cheers for the queen and country, and then stand on deck with folded arms, and go down, down, down to the bottom of the sea, and never make a cry. Nancy forgot her wet clothes and her eloquence, and Teddy stared wonderingly at her. Well, he said, as of considering the matter, they may be sometimes brave, but they don't fight like the soldiers, and they have no banners and red coats and band, and they don't know how to march. A sailor walks anyhow. I saw one once, and thought he was tipsy, but he wasn't. A sailor walks like a goose, he waddles. You're the horridest, rudest boy I've ever seen! And with the utmost dignity, Nancy walked away, Teddy calling after her. You made a pretty good charge for a girl, but you couldn't get past me. And then with one of his loud whoops, he raced home, and hardly drew a breath till he reached the farmhouse door. His grandmother confronted him at once. You young rascal, what have you been doing? You're never a day out of mischief. If I was your mother, I'd give you a good whipping. But she spoils you. And you do too, Granny. Teddy's laughing blue eyes as he raised him to the grim face before him conquered, as they generally did. There, go to your mother. She's in the dairy. I wash my hands of you. But Teddy crept up to his little room to change his wet clothes before he met his mother, and then was very silent about his adventure, merely saying, by way of explanation, that he had fallen into the brook. But at tea, a short time after, he suddenly said, If you put a sailor and a soldier together, which would you choose, Uncle Jake? Eh, Milady? Well, they're both good in their way. I couldn't say, I'm sure. Mother, wouldn't you say the soldier was the bravest? Perhaps I might, Sunny, but a sailor can be quite as brave. Teddy's face fell. I never thought a sailor could fight at all, he said in a disappointed tone. I thought they just took care of our ships, and now and then fired a big gun off. Who's been bringing up the sailors to you? asked his grandmother. That little girl I told you of, Nancy, her name is. Where have you seen her? Down by the brook. We fell into the water together, because we both wanted to cross at once. But, my boy, that was naughty for you not to give place to her. And Mrs. John spoke reprovingly. I know it was, mother, but I wasn't going to turn back. That would be running away from the enemy. You see, we met in the middle, and she's not at all a nice girl, and she's so proud and stuck up about the sailors. As proud as you are the redcoats, I guess, old Mrs. Platt said. Do sailors and soldiers like each other? questioned Teddy, ignoring the thrust. I am sure I don't know, his mother answered smiling. I have never seen them together, that I remember, but I should think they did. They both fight for their queen in country. Well, I'm a soldier's son, and I don't like a sailor's daughter. I know that. I think she's a kind of enemy. Oh hush, sonny, you must have no enemies. It is wrong to talk so. That's what he was saying to me the other day, put in his uncle slowly. He says he wants one. Yes, I do, and Teddy gave a fervent nod as he spoke. And, mother, I believe most good people have enemies, so it must be right to have one. They never make one as you're trying to do. Teddy looked puzzled. Well, he said presently, I expect it's because she's a stranger. She doesn't belong to our village. I don't like strangers. She's no more a stranger than you were when you first came here, his mother said, and the fact of her being a stranger ought to make you kind to her. I'm thinking of calling on her mother, old Mrs. Platt said, looking at her little grandson with her keen gray eyes. Shall I take you with me to see the little girl? I've seen enough of her granny. Please, I think I'd rather not. The subject was dropped, but Teddy's thoughts were busy. He ran down to the village green after tea, and there met one or two of his special chums, to whom he confided the events of the afternoon. They highly applauded the scene at the bridge, but Teddy shook his curly head a little doubtfully. Men ought always to give way to women, I've heard mother say, but I couldn't turn back, you see. It would have disgraced my button. Tell you what, cried Harry Brown, commonly known as Carrots for his fiery red hair, you could have done what the goats did in the primer at school. You ought to have laid flat down and let her walk across you. She would have hurt dreadful, Teddy observed thoughtfully. Besides, she's so proud, I don't think I would have liked to do that. No, put in some waters. You did fine. I say, let's come up to the turnpike and see if she's about there. I'll give her a word, if she begins to source me. Teddy agreed to this, and the trio trotted off along a flat, dusty road. Teddy beguiling the way by some of his wonderful stories, till they came inside with a low-thatched cottage, covered with roses that guarded the turnpike. They saw the young damsel, for she was swinging on the gate, her dark hair flying in the wind, and her eyes and cheeks bright with exercise. She looked at the boys, then laughed. Poor little button-boy, she said. You have to be taken care of by two bigger ones. We've come to see you, said Sam valiantly, because we ain't going to stand any cheek from you, so you would better look out. Nancy stopped swinging, and resting her flat little elbows on the topmost bar, asked sorsally, did the button-boy tell you to come and help him fight me? Are you all three going to try? We don't fight girls, said Teddy. You pushed them into the water? I didn't. I told mother about it. She thought you were a very rude boy not to wait till I crossed over. There was silence, then carrot started forward. Look here, you'll have to learn your manners, and we won't have a strange girl like you stick yourself up so. We've come to tell you to look out for yourself if you don't stop it. Nancy laughed again, and swung herself violently backwards and forwards. Yo ho, my lads, yo ho, she's saying. I'm on my ship, and I don't care for boys a bit. They're all as stupid as they can be. Yo ho, we go. Yo ho, lads, heave ho. Her elevated position certainly seemed to give her an advantage. We'll soon shake you off there, shouted Sam, his wrath rising at a common difference to the Lords of Creation. Come on and try. I'm up the rigging, and a storm is beginning. Hooray! Come on! Sam and Carrots made a furious onslaught, and the gate was roughly handled. But the more it shook and swung, the more derisive was Nancy's laughter, as she clutched a firm hold with her small hands, and swayed to and fro, calling out excitedly, Fell the main sail, stand by, lads, steady, starboard hard. Port your helm, rocks to leeward, reef the top sail, breakers ahead, yo ho! Teddy looked on, awed by these nautical terms, which seemed to slip so easily from her lips. To him they seemed wonderfully clever, but he was not one to stand aside log in a scene of excitement, and with one of his wild war whoops, he rushed forward. On, boys, charge! Hooray! The gate rocked violently, and Nancy began to feel her position was a perilous one. All the little people were screaming at the top of their voices, when suddenly, in the midst of the din, appeared old Sol. What now? Who are these trying to break one of her majesty's gates down? Be off, you young ruffians! Teddy, plat! You're at the bottom of all this mischief brewing in the parish. I'll get my big stick out and give you a thrashing before I've done with you. Old Sol's words were fierce, but the boys knew he had the softest heart in the village, and they stood their ground. It's all the button boy, said Nancy eagerly, as she descended from her perch, and laid her little hand confidantly on the old man's arm. He brought the boys up to fight me, but I was up the mast, and they couldn't shake me off. We told you we wouldn't fight a girl, protested Teddy indignantly. You don't speak the truth. Well, what did you bring the boys for? demanded the small maiden severely. We came, put in Sam boldly, to tell you that if you were so cheeky you would soon get into trouble. We ain't going to stand sauce from you. What has the little lass been doing, you young scoundrels? They're only boys, grandfather. Let us come into mother and leave them. They're the rudest boys I've ever seen, and the button boy is the worst, and his button isn't worth a farthing. There was a yell from all three boys at this. That's it! cried Kerrots excitedly. It's the button she's so cheeky about. We ain't going to have Teddy's button laughed at. We won't stand it, Sol. We won't. It's so she don't know nothing, or she wouldn't talk so. She's just a baby. That's what she is. Why, she doesn't believe father's story is true, Sol. You know it is, don't you? She isn't as old as the button itself. Ha! Ha! She wasn't born when it was in battle, much she knows about it. Sol had difficulty in quieting the indignant voices. Looky here, you boys. Go home and leave my little lass to me. She knows nothing about the button. I'll tell her the story, and then she won't laugh at it any more. I remember seeing your father, youngster. He was a brave man he was. But he would never have made war against little maids like this. Shame on you. Get you home. Get you gone. I say, or I'll bring my stick out. She's been told the story. She listened, and she laughed. She ought to say she's sorry. Teddy stood with his legs wide apart, and his hands in his pockets. His tone was severe. I'll never, never, never say I'm sorry. I'm glad of what I said, and I don't believe a word of it. And with this parting shot, Nancy ran into the cottage, and the boys returned to the village more slowly than they came. Mother, said Teddy that night, as his mother bent down for a good-night kiss. I haven't been good to-day, and I don't feel good now. I feel, when I think it over, so angry inside. What is it about, sonny? Father's button. The tone was drowsy, and seeing his eyelids droop heavily, Mrs. John said no more. Only breathed a prayer that her little son might fight as bravely for Christ's honour, as he did for that of his father's button. Chapter 3 A Recruiting Sergeant It was Sunday morning. Along a sweet-centred lane were shady limes overhead, and honeysuckle and wild roses growing in profusion on the hedges at each side walked Teddy's mother, holding her little son tightly by the hand. The bells of the village church were ringing out for the service, and groups of two and three were passing in at the old Lidge Gate. Mrs. John was talking in a sweet, clear voice to her boy, and he, letting his restless blue eyes rove to and fro, noting every bird on the hedges and every flower in the path, kept bringing them back to his mother's face with the dreamy upward gaze. I will try, mother. I really will. I will keep my hands tight in my pockets, and my feet close together. I will pretend I'm going to be shot by a file of soldiers, and then I really think that will help me not to fidget. I promise you I'll be good to-day. And having received this protestation from him, Mrs. John passed into church with a relieved mind. Teddy's restless little body was a sore trial to anyone who sat next to him in church, and many were the lectures that had been bestowed on him by Sunday school teacher and pastor, besides the gentle admonitions of his mother. As Teddy quietly putched himself on the seat beside his mother, he murmured to himself, Twenty soldiers in front of me. Twenty rifles pointing. I shall stand like a rock. I'll set my teeth, and I shan't even blink my eyes. Now I see the officer coming. He's going to say, Present! I'm not moving a muscle. Five minutes more, they'll give me. His active brain here received a check. There on the opposite side facing him was Nancy, seated between mother and old soul. She was still in her sailor suit, and with her dark, mischievous brown eyes fixed steadily on him, Teddy could not remain unmoved beneath her gaze for long. His little hands were working nervously in his coat pockets. Why did she stare at him so? Well, he could stare back, and then blue eyes and brown confronted each other for some moments, with unblinking defiance in their gaze. At last Teddy's patience gave way, and twisting up his little features into a most grotesque grimace, he mounted a hassuk to give her the full benefit of it. Instantly out came a little red tongue at him, and at this staring piece of audacity he gasped out loud, I hate you! Then, as all eyes and the surrounding pews were turned upon him, and his mother's shocked gaze met his, Teddy crimson to the roots of his hair, and taking up a large prayer-book he used it as a shield from a small antagonist during the remainder of the service. As the congregation were leaving the church later on, the rector made his way to young Mrs. Platt, who was lingering talking to a neighbour. He was a grey-haired, gentle-faced man, with a slow, dreamy manner in speaking. Mrs. John, what has happened to make your little boy so forget himself this morning? Indeed, sir, I cannot say. I really thought he was going to be good to-day. I think he would better come to tea with me this afternoon, and we will have a little talk together. Teddy looked up with awe in his blue eyes. He well knew that this was the rector's usual practice when any delinquent was brought before his notice, but had never yet fallen to his lot to receive the invitation. Mr. Upton had his own way of doing things, so people said, and he had greater faith in reasoning with any culprits than scolding them, whether they were grown men or women or children. Teddy's restless ways in church had been a trial to him for a long time, and he felt that this morning's action must receive a check. Thank you, sir, responded Mrs. John. He shall come to you after the school is over this afternoon, and Teddy, completely sobered, walked home beside his mother without uttering a word. At half-past four, he stood on the rectory doorsteps, looking into the cool, broad hall in front of him, which led out for glass door, at the opposite end, into a brilliant flower garden. Spotless, white, drugging covered the floor and stairs, and everything indoors denoted a careful housekeeper. Mr. Upton was a widower, and was to a great extent ruled by two or three old and faithful servants. As the boy stood there, the rector appeared, and led him into his study. We shall have half an hour before tea to have a little conversation, my boy. Sit down, and tell me what you have been learning at Sunday School this afternoon. Teacher was telling us about the children of Israel and Egypt. I'm afraid I don't remember very much what he said, for I was busy thinking about coming to see you. Mr. Upton smiled, and drew the child on to talk. Then, after he was thoroughly at ease, he put a large Bible in front of him. I want you to read me a verse in the First Epistle of St. John, and the Third Chapter. It is the Fifteenth Verse. Can you find it? Yes, sir, and with an eager importance, Teddy turned over the leaves. Whosoever hated his brother is a murderer, he read solemnly. That will do. Now think it over for five minutes in silence, and then tell me what your thoughts are about it. The boy hung his head in shame. He folded his arms and sat in movable till the five minutes were over. Then he said timidly, I wouldn't hate a brother. I'd like to have one. Do you think it means the same when it's a girl? Precisely the same. A brother means any person in the world, man, woman, or child. Then I ought to be hung. There was much self-pity in Teddy's tone. Mr. Upton did not smile. He was gazing abstractedly out of the window and said slowly, The root of murder is anger, the same motive that prompts a passionate statement, prompts a passionate and perhaps fatal blow. There was silence. Then in a more cheerful tone, the rector turned to the little culprit. And now tell me the whole story, and who it was that you spoke to in church. Teddy was perfectly ready with his defense, and he poured into his listener's ears such a voluble story that the rector was quite bewildered when it came to an end. Its father's button I care about, added the boy, fingering his beloved object proudly, and she didn't believe me a bit, and she put out her tongue as long as ever she could. Tell me the story of the button. I have heard, but I've forgotten the details. Teddy's eyes sparkled, and his little head was raised a rector gain. Slipping off his chair, he stood in front of the rector, and told the oft-repeated tale with dramatic force and effect. Mr. Upton listened with interest, but before he could offer any comment on it, T was announced, and taking the child by the hand, he marched him into the dining room. Hot tea-cakes, strawberry jam, and plum cake kept our little friend fully occupied for some time. He wondered if all the naughty boys interviewed by the rector had been treated to the same fare, and he began to think an invitation to send a tea at the rectory highly desirable. And now, said Mr. Upton, towards the end of the meal, I want some more talk with you. Your father was a brave soldier. He died in saving the colours. You want to grow up like him, do you not? Yes, sir, indeed I do. There is a little verse in God's word that describes our Lord's banner, his colours. Will you say it after me? His banner over me was love. Teddy repeated the verse slowly and with interest. It is a wonderful banner, pursued Mr. Upton thoughtfully. The enemy confronted with it on every side. In the thick of the fight we can but hoist our colours. Love! God's love to man, when man is fighting from his infancy against his maker. What host would not march to meet the foe with such a banner dyed red, with the lifeblood of their captain, the Son of God, the saviour of the world? Teddy drew a long breath, and when the rector paused he cried enthusiastically, please go on, sir. I like to hear it. Will God let me hold up the banner for him? If you have enlisted in his service, are you one of his soldiers? I don't know. God always wants each of us to present ourselves to him if we want to enlist in his army. Have you done that? There must come a time in our lives when we yield ourselves wholly and unreservedly to the one who was our rightful owner. Why, my boy, do you believe that Jesus died upon the cross to save you? Did he bear your sins for you there? Yes, said Teddy, fixing his blue eyes earnestly on the rector. I really believe he did, for mother has often explained it to me. Then how dare you stand aloof from his army? How is it that you have never enlisted? Are you marching along in the enemy's ranks? Teddy's small hands were clenched and his eyes lit up with a great resolve. I'll enlist at once, sir. I'll be one of God's soldiers now. How are you going to do it? I don't know. Tell me, please. There was silence. Mr. Upton met the child's earnest upward gaze with awe as he realized how much hung on his words. He had a firm belief in children being able to lead a consistent Christian life. He knew the master would accept a child's heart and guide and keep the frail and helpless steps on the way heavenward. And with a swift prayer for guidance, he spoke, you must tell God about it yourself and don't be in a hurry. Kneel down quietly by yourself somewhere, and first of all ask that the Holy Spirit may guide you, that your sins may be blotted out and your name written in the Book of Life for the sake of Jesus who died for you. Then tell God you want him to enlist you, and give yourself right up to him for now and for all eternity. Mr. Upton spoke slowly and infantically. He knew he often preached above the heads of his little heroes, and he strove to speak in simple language now. Teddy remained very silent. Then he said, And if I enlist, shall I have to be God's soldier for ever and ever till I'm an old man of a hundred with white hair and no teeth? Would you rather be one of the Devil's soldiers? No. You are quite right to think it over. I would rather you did not decide too hastily. Go home and think it out, and come and tell me when you have decided. The boy's white brow was crumpled with anxious creases. I should like to be one of God's soldiers, but who shall I have to fight? Any real enemies or only make believe? I will tell you about your enemies after you have enlisted. I can show you one, very real one, that is your worst enemy. Can you? A real live one? A real live one. Teddy smiled contentedly. Now, added Mr. Upton, I am going to send you home. If you enlist, the first person you will have to hold up your banner to is that little girl whom you said you hated. Before you go, I want to pray for you. Kneel down with me. The evening sunshine streamed into the open window, and a lighting on the white hair of the minister and the boy's fair curls, as they knelt together, bathed them in a golden glory, with closed eyes and folded hands Teddy listened to Mr. Upton's prayer. Loving Father, another lamb I bring to thee, guide him in his decision, and if he enters thy fold, use him and bless him through all eternity. Grant that he may fight a good fight, and be crowned with glory hereafter. For Jesus Christ's sake, amen. An hour later, and Teddy was seated by his mother's side in the old porch. His grandmother and uncle had gone to evening church, and Mrs. John was left with her boy alone. He had been telling her the substance of his conversation with the rector, and now curled up on the low wooden seat, his small legs crossed underneath him, he was gazing dreamily out into the sweet-scented garden. The bees were droning, and the gnats humming amongst the tall hollyhocks, and crimson and white roses close by. The birds were already twittering their last good-nights to one another, and a soft, peaceful spell seemed to be falling on all around. I feel, he said presently, as he gazed up into the still blue sky, as if God is waiting for me, mother. Mrs. John did not answer. He added quickly, When did you enlist, mother, long, long ago? Yes, darling, just before I married your father. And when did father enlist, when he was a little boy like me? Not till he was a grown man, sonny. He often used to say he wished he had given his heart to God when he was younger. I suppose God will take little soldiers. Do you think I shall be the youngest he has? No, my darling. He has many brave little soldiers, younger than you. Another long silence, then a deep drawn sigh from Teddy. I feel I have very big thoughts tonight, mother, and I get so crowded thinking. Will you read to me before I go to bed? Mrs. John pressed her lips on the curly head so near her. My boy, I am so glad for you to have these thoughts. Mother has often prayed that you may be one of Christ's little soldiers and servants. Now what shall I read? Read me about the three men and the burning fiery furnace. And the young mother took her Bible in hand, and drawing her boy close to her, till his little head rested against her shoulder, read him the story he wished. Later on, as she tucked him up in bed, and was giving him a kiss, he clasped his arms round her neck and whispered, I think I'm going to do it quite by myself tomorrow. The village children were swarming out of school the next afternoon. The heat and confinement of the crowded schoolroom had not lessened the superabundance of energy and high spirits amongst them, and the boys soon congregated on the green, bent on a game of cricket. Where's Teddy? Teddy Platt! Young Ted, where's he got to? fetch Teddy! This was the general cry, but Teddy was nowhere to be seen. Has he been kept in? queried one. Likely enough, he's up in the clouds today. Oh, ain't he just why I offered him half such a huge apple? My, it was a beauty, and his eyes sort of wandered away from it, as if it had been a piece of mud. Thanks, says he. I'll have a bite tomorrow, not today. And teacher was down on him sharp, too, put in another eager voice. He answered all the arithmetic wrong, and he said forty soldiers made a rude, and teacher says, is your head good for nothing but soldiers? And Ted, he got as red as fire, and says, it's full of them today, sir, and teacher said, go down to the bottom of the class so you can empty it of them then, and tell me when you've done it. And when Ted comes next to me, I says, is your button lost, old chap? That you're in such a stew? And he says, no, the button is all right, but I'm thinking how to enlist. He'll go for a drummer boy as soon as he's big enough, and I'll go with him, cried carrots. Oh, come on, shouted one of the impatient ones, if Ted's not here, let us begin without him. And Teddy's delinquencies at school was soon forgotten in the excitement of the game. He had not been kept in, but had slipped away the minute school was over, and was soon dodging in and out of the thick, overhanging trees along the edge of his favourite stream. His little feet sped swiftly along, and as he ran he talked in a whisper to himself, which was his way when anything special was weighing on his mind. I'll go right into the wood and get under a thick tree. I won't let a squirrel see me nor even a rabbit. I must be quite quiet, and it must be like church, and I shan't come away till I've done it. Into the wood he went, but he was hard to satisfy, roaming here and there, peeping round corners, and thrusting his curly head in amongst the bushes. It was fully half an hour before he chose his spot. It was a secluded little nook under an old oak tree, where the moss grew thick and green, and bushes of all sorts and sizes formed a natural bower round the gnarled shrunk. In front of this tree Teddy stood, and then, half shyly, half reverently, he took off his cap and laid it on the ground. Looking up through the veil of green leaves above him to the sunny blue sky beyond, he stood with clasped hands and parted lips for a moment or two in perfect silence. The soft wind played gently with his curls, and rustled among the leafy boughs overhead, and in the distance the bird's sweet voices were the only sounds that met his ears. As the boy's eyes came back to earth, they seemed to have reflected in them something of the bright sunshine above, and then down on his knees he dropped, placing his little clasped hands against the old shrunk in front of him, and bending his golden head till it rested likewise against the tree. Teddy prayed aloud, slowly, and with frequent pauses. Oh God, here I am. Have you been waiting for me? I've come to enlist, and please, I forgot all Mr. Upton told me to say. But will you forgive me my sins, and write my name down in your book in heaven? Edward James Platt is my name. I've come to be your soldier for ever and ever. Will you please keep me always? I never want to go back from being your soldier. Make me fight a grand fight, and help me to hold your colours up well. And please, God, will you tell Father I've enlisted this afternoon? Mr. Upton said you would take me. I thank you for letting Jesus die for me, and I'm very sorry I haven't belonged to his army before, but I didn't quite understand that he wanted me. Help me to be a good boy, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. A child's prayer. But it was prayed with a child's strong faith, and as Teddy rose to his feet, he had the assurance that God had accepted him. That scene in the wood, when he dedicated himself to the service of the King of Kings, would be stamped on his memory as long as he lived. And now that the deed was done, a great load seemed to be lifted off his mind. He came into the midst of the boys on the green a short time afterwards with a radiant face, and took his share in fielding, bowling, and batting with such a vigor and will that he proved himself the hero of the hour. Later in the evening he wandered into the dairy where his mother was busy, and asked her if he could go and see the rector. What for, sonny? He asked me to come. Is it too late, do you think? I should like to go to-night. Mrs. John looked down upon the eager little face lifted to hers. Run away, then, but don't stay long. And so it was that for the second time that week, Teddy was a visitor at the rector. Please, sir, I've done it, he exclaimed breathlessly, as soon as he was ushered into the presence of the rector. Eh, what have you been doing? And Mr. Upton roused himself from a reverie into which he had fallen as he sat at his study-window and watched his favourite beehives. Then, noting the disappointed look on the child's face, and recognising who it was, he added briskly, ah, it's Teddy Platt, is it? And so you've done it, have you? Thank God! Yes, I remember all about it. You're a fresh recruit. Teddy's eyes glistened. I enlisted this afternoon, sir. For life, did you? No short-server system with God. Mr. Upton had at one time been chaplained to troops abroad, and it was his knowledge of military matters that so attracted the boy. Yes, for life, sir! May God keep you true to himself, my boy, in life and in death. There was a pause. Then Teddy said eagerly, Please, sir, you said you would show me one of the enemies I have got to fight. Ah, did I, one of the many. Which one, I wonder? A real live one, you said. Yes, I remember. Come this way. He led the child into his drawing-room in front of a large mirror reaching down to the ground, and told him to find his enemy there. Why, it's only myself, Teddy said in a disappointed tone, though there was wonder in his eyes. That's it, yourself. Small Teddy Platte is your worst enemy, and the older you live, the more you will discover what a very formidable and mighty enemy he is. Please, sir, I don't understand. Sit down here by me, and let me try to explain it to you. If you are going to try to serve the Lord Jesus Christ, you will find that you will have two Teddies to deal with, a good one and a bad one. The bad one is your enemy. Now, you told me you were angry with that little girl. Are you angry still? I've forgotten all about her. I, I don't love her. The bad Teddy in you doesn't like her, but the good Teddy will. Now, you must fight against the bad Teddy, and overcome him. Jesus will help you. You can't fight without him. I think I know, said Teddy thoughtfully. Last week, some fellow said, Come and get some apples from the Park Orchard. I wanted to, dreadful. That was my bad self, but I thought it would be stealing, and I didn't go. That was my good self, wasn't it? Quite right. Keep close to your captain. Our officer always leads, and remember, forward, no quarter to the enemy. Then, gazing abstractly out into the garden, Mr. Upton added, as of to himself, but I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin, which is in my members. Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin. The next day, when at dinner, for it was generally at mealtimes Teddy chose to make his observations, he looked round the table, appealing me. What's the very ugliest name that could be given a boy? Sex alive, ejaculated his grandmother, and who may you be wanting to christen? It isn't for a baby, a boy about as old as me. What do you think's an ugly name? I don't think any name is very ugly, his mother said. If you like a person, their name always seems to fit. I knew two boys named Tobiah and Eli. I didn't like the names at first, though they are Bible ones, but when I got to know and like the boys I liked the names. I want a much more hideous name, asserted Teddy. Some name that would describe a very wicked person. I hope you are not going to call anyone by it, observed his grandmother suspiciously. Teddy lifted his blue eyes up to her solemnly. I expect I'll find one for myself, he said, and nothing more could be got out of him. After dinner, a half holiday having been given the school children, Teddy stole out to the woods. When out of sight he began a brisk conversation with himself, as was his want, and it may give us an insight into his busy brain if we listen. Blacky might do, or goggles, or grubby, or nigger, or toad. I want to have some name, else I shan't be able to talk to him so well. I wish mother had helped me, it's very difficult. I can't seem to think of a name quite ugly enough. I expect perhaps Mr Upton could tell me. I'll wait and ask him. I hope I shan't have to wait long, for I want it all settled, so that I can begin to fight properly with him. Now I've got to find Nancy. Mr Upton said I was to be friends with her, and I've got to hold up my banner of love over her. I hope she'll like it. She's a horrid— Ah-ha! That's my enemy just going to speak. A horrid girl you were going to say, were you? Now you just get out. Nancy is a very nice girl. At least, she soon will be. I'll try and think her nice, I will. I've got to fight you, enemy, if you say such things. Why, I do, Claire. There she is climbing that tree. Teddy's conversation came to an end, and he stared with open mouth and eyes at the nimble way Nancy was climbing up an old beech tree. He gave a shrill whistle, which made the little girl look round. Not a bit disconcerted was she. Ah-ha! It's the stupid little button boy. You can't catch me. It was a challenge. Instantly Teddy stripped off his jacket and darted to the tree. She had got a good start, and even he caught his breath in wonder at her wrapper descent, and the fearless way in which she seemed to plant her small feet on the most fragile-looking branches. Up they went, panting with the exercise. But at length she could go no further, and seating herself on a comfortable bow, she looked mischievously down at him. You couldn't catch me. You don't know how to climb. My father talked me. I can go up the rigging as far as any sailor-boy, and this is my ship. But I'll let you sit down by me if you behave yourself. Teddy swung himself across a bow opposite her, and was silent for a moment. Each child was trying to recover breath, and Teddy was considering how to make peace. He did it in his own quaint fashion. I think we're pretty close to heaven, he remarked presently, lifting his soft blue eyes to the clear sky above. I wonder if that's the reason birds in their nests agree. The angels can't like to hear quarrelling so close to them. I'm not going to quarrel, and you didn't say that word right. What word? Quowering. And Nancy's tone was emphatic, though a doubt stole into her mind as to whether her pronunciation was correct. But Teddy was too intent upon pulling something out of his pocket to notice her correction. He slowly unrolled a large, white pocket handkerchief, tied it carefully to a twig which he broke off from an unjoining branch, and then held it up in front of her. I did it myself this morning, he said with pride. I asked Uncle Jake for one of his best handkerchiefs. He gave it to me last night, and I did it with a pen and ink before breakfast. Can you read it? Nancy looked at the straggling, uneven black letters that occupied the whole width across. Love? She said curiously. What does that mean? It's my banner of love that I'm going to carry for my captain. It means I've got to love even you. Nancy's red lips pouted. I don't want you to love me, she said. I've got to do it. How are you going to do it? I'm—I'm not quite sure. I'm never going to be angry with you, and it's very hard. Here a deep drawn sigh broke from him. It's very hard, but I've got to tell you I'm sorry I wouldn't let you cross the bridge first, and I'm sorry I said I hated you in church. Nancy's bright dark eyes peered inquisitively into the dreamy blue ones opposite her. Are you really sorry? she said. I think I am. At least part of me is. My enemy isn't. But I am. This was beyond Nancy's comprehension. And you'll never get angry or set those horrid boys at me any more? No, I never will. Here a big, rosy-cheeked apple was produced hastily after the other pocket, and presented as a peace offering. It was taken in silence, then as Nancy's white little teeth met in it, she said, with one of her beaming smiles, and have I got to love you? I think you would better, because it will make it easier. Well, I will then, if you'll do one thing. What is it? Give me that old button of yours. Teddy fairly gasped this audacity. Give you father's button, he cried. Never, never, never. I'd rather be shot dead, or drowned dead, or hung dead, or chopped into little tiny bits, or never give it up. It's going to be on my coats and waistcoats till I'm a hundred, and then it will be buried in my grave with me. Suppose I lost my button. Do you know what I would do? Nancy gazed at the young orator with a little awe. No, she said. What? I would drop down and die. My heart would burst and break, and if I couldn't die very quick, I wouldn't eat or drink nothing. But I'd go sadly to my grave and lay my head down, and the next morning you would find me stiff and cold, with my glassy eyes staring up at the sky, like an old dog I read about. Teddy's tone was so intensely tragic that Nancy was silent. At last, she said, I'll never love you proper till you give it to me. Will you like me a little instead? I might do that, she replied reluctantly, and you won't never say you don't believe father's story? I aren't going to promise. Then, as the very last bite was taken at the apple, she said, I'll hear some more of your stories first. I want to hear one now. Sally White told me at school you know all about fairies. Teddy nodded impressively, then said slowly, I make believe I do, but I don't make believe father's story. Tell me a story now. Teddy clasped his hands round a bow, and with knitted brows considered. Then he looked up, and the light sparkled in his eyes. Shall I tell you about when I went into an oak tree and found a little door leading down some steps that took me to the goblin's cave? This sounded enchanting, and Nancy eagerly prepared herself to listen. Such a story was then poured out that it held her spellbound. Goblins, elves, and fairies, underground glories, thrilling adventures and escapes. Was it any wonder that was such a gift for storytelling Teddy was the king of the village? It came to an end at last, and Nancy drew a long breath of relief and content when she heard the concluding sentence. And I quickly opened the little door, and there I was outside the oak, and safe in the wood again. Button boy, I do like you, she asserted, with a quick little nod of her head. Will you tell me another story soon? Perhaps I will, said Teddy, feeling a little elated that he was gaining supremacy over her. But I'm going home now. I only came out to have a think, and to make friends with you. What made you come and make it up? the little maiden asked, as after a scramble down they stood at the foot of the tree. You said something about your captain, who is he? Jesus Christ, Teddy replied reverently, and his banner is love, so I have to love everybody, whether I like them or not. Why? Because he wants me to, and I'm one of his soldiers now. Has Jesus any sailors? The question was put suddenly, and the answer was given with a slight air of superiority. No, only soldiers he has. Then I don't want to belong to him. I believe he has sailors just as well as soldiers, only you're not telling true. Her tone was getting wrathful, but Teddy shook his head solemnly. I'm sure there's nothing about Jesus' sailors in the Bible. But I'll ask Mother, and then I'll tell you. I must go home now. Goodbye. We're going to be friends? Yes, we're going to be friends, she repeated, and then away they scampered in different directions, Nancy calling out like a true little woman, but I shan't really love you till you give me your button. I want you to give me a name for my enemy, please, sir. Mr Upton looked amused. Have you had any battles with him yet? I think I had one yesterday. May I tell you? Granny was very angry with me because I had made Uncle Jake's best handkerchief into a banner of love. I didn't really think it was naughty. I wrote love in ink right across it, and I took such pains for I wanted to show it to Nancy. And when I got home Granny was so angry that she took me by the collar and she locked me into the back kitchen. And Mother was out and I cried. I was so miserable. Granny said I would come to the workhouse. She called me the wickedest mischievousest boy she'd ever seen, and said she would like to give me a good whipping. And at last I got tired of being miserable, and I looked about, and I saw the window was partly open, so I climbed up, and then I thought I would jump out and run away across the fields till Mother came home, and I was very happy then, and I jumped right out, and then I remembered, but I didn't want to go back again. And then the fight began, suggested the rector as the boy paused. Teddy nodded. I asked God to drive my enemy away, but I was an awful long time thinking it out. Is thinking fighting? Very often it is. I did fight hard then, and I climbed in again. Was that being a soldier? Yes, my boy. And Granny let me out soon after, and I kissed her and said I was sorry, but I told her how nearly I had run away, and asked her to see that the window was locked next time so that I shouldn't have to fight so hard. You will have plenty of fighting. Don't shirk the hottest part of the field. That isn't being brave. Will you give me a horrid, ugly name, please, sir? I thought your enemy's name was Teddy. No, that's mine. I must have a name for him. A different one, you know. How do you like Ego or Ipes? What funny names! I think I like Ipes best. I'll call him Ipes, shall I? But Mr Upton's thoughts were far away by this time, and presently he said, as of to himself, the last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. It is a fight with certain victory ahead, then why do we fail? Shall I fail? questioned a soft voice by his side. Without me you can do nothing. That's our captain's word. If you fight without him, you are done for. I think I shall sometimes let Ipes have his way. Will that be deserting to the enemy? It will be sure in certain defeat. But thin, of course, my captain won't let me be beaten if I stick close to him. And so they talked, a strange couple, but the younger of them had a faith which the elder might envy, and a grasp of the unseen that the ripe as saint could not surpass. Not long after this Teddy and his school fellows were having a delightful afternoon in the woods. It was Saturday afternoon, and they were playing their favorite war game, Teddy, of course, being prime instigator of the whole affair. A few of the more adventurous girls had joined them, Nancy amongst them. Her respect for Teddy was gradually increasing, though nothing seemed to quench her self-assertion and independence of thought and action. At length Teddy announced his intention of going off on an expedition as a scout, and on Nancy's insisting that she should come to, the two children started, made their way out of the wood and down the banks of the stream which soon joined the river. What have we to do? asked Nancy. It's great fun. You see, every one we meet is an enemy, and we have to get past them without them seeing us. We must crawl through the long grass, or we must climb up a tree, or get through the bushes, all kinds of adventures we have. And if we don't meet any body? That's why I came down this way. There are always a lot of people fishing in the river. Now look out, don't you talk loud and step softly. Just think that the first person who sees us will shoot us dead. But they won't! You must make believe they will! Teddy's tone was stern, and Nancy was too occupied in holding a hat on her head as they crept through some no bushes to advance any more skeptical opinions, and then suddenly, a short time after, they came upon a fisherman. It was only a burly farmer who was evidently making a day of it, for he sat under the shade of a tree with the remnants of a substantial lunch around him. His fishing rod was in his hand, but the line was out of the water, and he, with head thrown back and mouth wide open, was fast asleep. Hush, Teddy said, in an excited whisper, if he wakes all is up with us. Now let's get past him on tiptoe. This was accomplished safely, but having passed him, Teddy stood still, and the spirit of mischief seized hold of him. Turning to Nancy, he said, with sparkling eyes. What fun to take him prisoner and tie him up to the tree with his own fishing line! He's an enemy. I really think it's our duty to do it. You stay here and watch me. Definitely and quickly, Teddy set to work. But when he had once passed the line round the farmer's body in the tree, he had no difficulty in finishing the work he had begun. Dancing like an elf with the line in his hand, he spun round and round the tree till the line was wound round to its very last extremity, and the farmer looked like some big blue bottle fly entangled in the fine meshes of a spider's web. Still he slept on, and with the delighted chuckle, Teddy sped back to his little companion. Her eyes were dancing with mirth, and she clapped her hands at the successful exploit. He'll wake up and won't be able to get away. What fun! How he should like to see him! Come on, quick! He's farmer-green, and he's an awful angry man. He gave Sam such a thrashing for tying an old saucepan to one of his pig's tails. He won't know who has done it, and I did tie the knots awful tight. Away they ran, but they had not proceeded far before Teddy came to a standstill, and all the sassy sparkle died out of his eyes. What's the matter? asked Nancy. Have you got a pain? I'm afraid I'm going to have a fight with ips. The words were uttered almost in a whisper, and Nancy looked on with wonder. It isn't right, he said, after a long pause. I do want, at least ips wants, to leave him there awfully, but mother would say it was very naughty, and I think... I think my captain doesn't like it. I shall have to go back and undo him. Oh, you mustn't, cried Nancy! You'll wake him up, and then you'll catch it! Let him undo himself! Teddy shook his head, and then stole softly back to the tree. Nancy following him at a respectful distance. It seemed a harder business to untie the knots than to tie them, but at length it was done, and the unwinding process began. Alas! Farmer Green's nap was over, and with a hasty start he was roused to the full use of his faculties. When he discovered his condition he swore a round oath, and turned upon Teddy in great wrath, as he vainly tried to extricate himself. Please, sir, said Teddy, nothing daunted. If you keep still, I shall undo you very soon, and I won't break your line if I can help it. You young scoundrel! How dare you show your face after such an audacious piece of impudence! You're the plague of the parish, and a good thrashing is what you'll get! Show us my name's Jonathan Green! Teddy's face was hot and red, and the spectacle of him trying to unwind the line from the struggling and exasperated farmer was so irresistibly comic to Nancy that she burst out laughing. Jonathan Green was soon on his feet again, and seizing hold of Teddy by the collar, shook him like a terrier would shake a rat. Then, without leaving go of him, he pulled out a piece of cord from his coat pocket. Now I'll teach you a lesson, youngster, that you won't forget! It's lucky I've got this bit of rope! And in another few minutes he had bound the boy securely to the tree, tying his hands together with his handkerchief. Then, as Nancy stepped forward, indignant at the severe treatment, he turned upon her. There are two of you, are there? Well, you shall share the same fate till I think fit to release you. I'll teach you to stop playing such impish tricks on decent folk. You're the wickedest man that's living, I'm sure, cried Nancy wrathfully, while he was undoing you when you woke up, which was very kind of him. I wish he'd left you tied up, I do! But Farmer Green, with a grim smile of satisfaction, soon settled her in the same fashion as he had done the boy, and then picking up his fishing basket strode away, calling out, You'll buy there my time, ye young limbs of mischief, it's only serving like ye serve. Button-boy, did he hurt you? asked Nancy anxiously, for all this time Teddy had not said a word. He turned his head and looked at her. I feel shook and up-dreadful. He's so awful strong, but I'm not very hurt. Only I'm sorry, and I've been telling my captain about it, and asking him to forgive me. Shall we stay here all the evening and all the night? Oh no, he'll come and let us go soon. It isn't fair on you, for you didn't do anything. I laughed at him, and I wanted you to leave him tied up. But I don't care, it doesn't hurt. You haven't told me ever what I asked you about Jesus' sailors. Tell me now, because I want to belong to your captain, and I'm not going to be a soldier. I did ask mother, and she said sailors were soldiers. They were sea soldiers. You'll have to be a soldier, I expect. Sailors fight, I know they do. Grandfather read me about Nelson the other evening, and showed me a picture of sailors cutting the enemy's arms off, as they tried to scramble on board ship. I shan't never change to soldiers. Sailors are much nicer, and if sailors fight, I can be a sailor for Jesus. Their conversation was interrupted by voice and steps approaching, and in another moment two ladies and a gentleman appeared, evidently going home after a fishing excursion. The path led past the tree, and they stopped in astonishment at the sight of the two children. Teddy was the first to speak. He recognised the newcomers to be the squire, Colonel Graham and his wife, with the visitors staying with him. Please, sir, will you undo us, he asked, appealingly. The Colonel laughed heartily. Ah, young fellow! You're caught, are you? Lady Helen, this is one of the young hopefuls in our village. I have been told the ringleader and every bit of mischief set going. You wouldn't think it to look at him, would you? What an angel's face said that lady admiringly! And who is the little girl? She looks a regular little gypsy. Neither of the children appreciated these remarks, but the Colonel, good-naturedly, put down his fishing-basket and cut the piece of rope that bound them. Now, then, youngster, he said, Speak up, and tell us who bound you in this fashion, and what you have been doing to merit such punishment. Having got his hands free, Teddy stood up bravely and told the story briefly and clearly to the great amusement of his heroes. And he would have never been caught if he hadn't gone back to undo him, put in Nancy, so he oddened to have been punished at all. What made you go back, my boy? asked Mrs. Graham gently. The colour rose in Teddy's cheeks, but he never hesitated to speak the truth. I went back when I remembered it was wrong to have done it, he said simply. But you were not such a paragon of goodness generally, said the Colonel. Wasn't it you and some others who scared our dairymaid into fits one night last winter by playing pranks after dark outside the dairy-window? Yes, sir, said Teddy humbly. And why didn't you run away when the old man woke? asked Lady Helen. I never run away from anybody, said Teddy, his head more erect than ever. I'm a soldier's son. Capital, my boy, and so your father is a soldier. What regiment? He's dead, sir. May I tell you father's story? Oh, ah! I remember now, though I'm not sure that I recollect the details, said the Colonel musingly. Your father was John Platt, who enlisted in one of the line-regiments, the twenty-fourth, wasn't it? Tell us the story, by all means. Teddy obeyed delightedly, not seeing in the interest of his tale how keenly he was being watched by the ladies. He told it as he always did, with enthusiastic effect, and when he offered to show the ladies his button, they were charmed with him. The Colonel patted him on his head as he left, saying, Keep your father's spirit in you, my lad, and you'll live to do something great yet. I should like to have him as a page-boy, said Lady Helen, as they walked away. What a sensitive, refined little face it is! Too good to be spoiled by house-servas, said Colonel Graham. His mother is a superior young woman, with a very good education, and the Plats are highly respected about here. The children run back to the play-fellows considerably sobered by their experience, and Teddy very soon made his way home, and told his mother all that had befallen him. It's dreadful difficult to remember in time, mother, and I'm not a very good soldier, am I? Do you think I ought to love Old Farmer Green? If you won't tell any one, I've been having a talk with Ipes. He's my enemy. Mr. Upton told me about, and he— he hates Farmer Green. But I tell him the banner is love, and we must try to love him. And how can I show him I love him, mother? I think you must wait a little, sonny. Don't do anything just yet, but try and not have angry thoughts about him. You know it was very naughty of you to act so. I am not a bit surprised that he lost his temper over it. I'll never tie up anybody again, mother. Never! CHAPTER VI. THE RED COATES MOTHER! Grandmother! Some soldiers are coming here! Teddy tore into the house one morning after school with this announcement, and his face was radiant with delight. His mother was laying the cloth for dinner, and Old Mrs. Platt was busy dishing up some potatoes. Who told you, asked the latter? I saw one, a real-life soldier, a corporal with two gold stripes on his red coat, and such white gloves, and I went up to him and talked to him. Certainly modesty is lacking with you, observed Mrs. Platt dryly. Shiness is, said Mrs. John rather quickly, but he doesn't show forwardness as a rule. Sam and Carrots and lots of the boys were with me, mother. He told us that he and one or two more had come on to get billets—that's the word— billets for the regiments that was marching through on their way to Wales, and we shall see them come marching through the village in a few days. He said most of them were going to put up in the town, but twenty were coming to the hare and towns, and they're going to sleep there. He's such a nice man, mother. He's only going to sleep here to-night, and then he's going on to-morrow to get some more billets ready in the next town he comes to. Couldn't he come to tea this afternoon? Do let me ask him, Granny. Mrs. Platt laughed not ill-humidly. You would have us take in any scoundrel, provided he wore a red coat, wouldn't you? Soldiers are never scoundrels, asserted Teddy with hot indignation. Do you know all the soldiers in the British army, then? said his grandmother. I dare say he wouldn't care to come to tea with strangers, Sonny, put in Mrs. John gently. I'm sure he would, for he doesn't like the hare and hounds. He said he was a teetotaller. Come, that sounds good, Mrs. Platt remarked. Well, you can ask him in for your father's sake. Not much dinner could Teddy eat that day, and his lessons at school had never seemed so irksome to him. But they were over at last, and he tore off in search of his new friend, finding him at length sitting under an old yew-tree just outside the church-yard. Granny says, will you come to tea with us? he asked breathlessly, as he came up to him. The corporal looked up. He was a fine-looking young man with a frank, bright face, and he was reading a well-worn Bible, which he put carefully in his pocket before he rose to his feet. That's very kind of your Granny, he said, and I'll come with pleasure. I'm out of it at the hare and hounds. Teddy's quick eyes had spied the Bible. Do you like the Bible? he asked gravely. It's my order-book, the corporal said with a smile, and my best friend in the world. What's an order-book? It gives you your daily commands, just what you are to do and where you're to go. My captain writes my orders down in his word for me. He's my captain too, said Teddy with glistening eyes. You mean Jesus, don't you? I've enlisted in his army, and I'm one of his soldiers. Shake hands, little brother, then. We're comrades, after all. Are all soldiers in Jesus Christ's army? asked Teddy as they walked away together. The corporal shook his head, sadly. Hardly any of them in my regiment, he said. We're nearly seven hundred strong, and only six men besides myself, as far as I can tell, belong to the Lord. A year ago I was an awful Black Guard myself. I drank dreadfully, and couldn't give the drink up. But that's all a thing of the past. Since I have belonged to the Lord, he keeps me from it, and many other bad habits. I'll own I fairly dreaded coming to this bit of duty. The sight and smell of the beer is very strong to a man that has been such a slave to it, and I must be quartered in public house as the whole way along. You'll have to fight like Mr. Upton told me to, won't you? said Teddy. But if our captain is with us, Mr. Upton says we shan't be beaten. No, said the corporal, a light coming into his eyes. We shall be more than conquerors. Then, after a pause, he said, it's very considerate of your granny to ask me to tea. I was just wishing that something could be done in this village for the men coming after me, like we had last year when we marched to the country for the man of yours. They gave us a free tea at several of the places we went through, and it kept so many of them from drinking. There's a man coming along here who I'm terrible anxious about. He's been an awful drunkard, and is quite an old soldier. But last New Year's Day, he's signed the pledge, and he's kept it ever since. He's just on the point of being converted, I hope. We have yarns by the hour together. But if he's billeted in the hair and hounds, or any other public house for that matter, I don't know what he'll do. There's nothing for them when they come in tired but to sit in the bar or tap room and drink. They can't get away from it. Teddy's brow was knitted with deep thought. I didn't know soldiers drank too much, he said. I never thought they did anything wrong. The corporal smiled. It isn't many that is of your opinion, he said. Most folks put us down as a bad lot. That evening remained in his memory for long after. The sweet-sensitive garden and the long, low kitchen, with the happy family party gathered round the table. The clumsy efforts of the reticent farmer to make his guest feel at home. The short, pithy remarks made by Mrs. Platt and the gentle, soft-voiced young mother with the golden-haired boy continually asking quaint questions about a soldier's life. All this came back to him with a keen sense of pleasure and after years. He was only a young fellow, after all, and was touched and gratified by the kindness shown to him, for it made him think of his own mother in her village home, and when he took leave he could hardly express his thanks. Teddy had been allowed to sit at beyond his usual bedtime, and as he put his little hand into the big brown one of the young soldier, he said, Do you mind telling me your name, corporal? Walter Saxby was the ready response. And what's the name of the poor old soldier who signed the pledge on New Year's Day? Tim Stokes. He's called Bouncer by most of us. I shall remember, said Teddy, then turning to his mother and grandmother after Corporal Saxby had disappeared, he said solemnly, I may bring Bouncer to tea, may I, if I find him? Corporal told me he hadn't properly enlisted as Jesus' soldier, but he wants to. Do you think Mr Upton could get him to enlist while he's here? Or could you, Granny? Perhaps he'd do it for you. I don't know what the boy will come to, said Mrs Platt later on, when Teddy was safe in bed. Seems to me he has more than making him a minister and him than a soldier. I don't hold with children being too religious. It's forced and unnatural. He ain't too good to live, put in Jake slowly. No youngster can beat him in play. I often wonder, Mrs John said thoughtfully, whether he'll be a soldier after all. He is almost too sensitive to lead the hard, rough life so many do. I doubt if he could stand it. He's not wanting in pluck and manliness, Mrs Platt observed, for she always had a good word to say for her little grandson when he was not present. I found him this morning careering round the field on that fresh young foal without any saddle or bridle. I gave him a sharp scolding, for it was kicking up its hind legs like mad, but he only looked up in my face and laughed. It's my charger, Granny, he says, and he smells the battlefield. That's why he's so excited. I'm sorry these soldiers are going to fill the place. He thinks and talks quite enough of the mass it is. We shan't have a moment's peace now till they're gone. Teddy was up very early the next morning to see his friend go off. He had another long conversation with him before wishing him good-bye, and then, with thoughtful face, he went to school, revolving many plans in his active little brain and making innumerable mistakes in his lessons and consequence. At twelve o'clock, when free at last, he made his way to the rectory and asked for Mr Upton, who greeted him very kindly. Any more troubles to tell me? No, sir, but I want to tell you about the soldiers who are coming. I have heard about them. It will be a grand time for you, won't it? Please, sir, could you have a tea party for them?" Mr Upton pushed up his glasses and looked very bewildered. A tea party, did you say? Yes. The corporal said a clergyman gave one hundred tea in a school room last year, and spoke to them after. The corporal said it would keep them from drinking in the public houses. He came to tea with us last night, but Granny won't have a lot of them, so I told him I'd tell you about it. It's rather an undertaking, said Mr Upton musingly, but we might do something for them. When are they to be here? In two or three days, the corporal said, I think I might manage it. I will go and see Colonel Graham and find out if he will help. I knew you would be able to do it, said Teddy, beaming all over, and perhaps, sir, you could tell some of them how to enlist, like you did me. The corporal said I ought to try to be a recruiting sergeant for my captain, but they wouldn't listen to me, I am sure. I'm going to try to enlist Nancy. I haven't tried half hard enough, but she says she'll only be a sailor for Jesus, not a soldier. Can she be that, sir? Mr Upton smiled. Yes, I think she can. Sailors have to keep watch, and learn their drill, and take orders, and fight under their captain just like soldiers. And then Teddy went home and electrified his mother by telling her, with an air of great importance, Mr Upton and I are going to give the soldiers a tea-party when they come. The days passed, Mr Upton was as good as his word, a large tea was provided in the village school room, Colonel and Mrs Graham taking a hearty interest in it, and when the soldiers came in one hot, dusty afternoon, everything was ready for them. Teddy and others of the village children crowded round the hair and hands when they arrived, and Nancy was foremost of the crowd. I don't think much of soldiers, she said, her nose tilted up in disdain. They're very dirty men, and covered with dust, and they've no band nor flags lying nor nothing. If Teddy was disappointed in the look of his heroes, he did not say so. But Sam remarked, I expect they've left the band and the flags in the town. These are only the lot that they can't put up there. Later in the afternoon, Teddy made his way to the old elm outside the hair and hounds, where several of the men were resting on the wooden benches, some with pots of beer, and round whom some of the admiring villagers had made a little circle. He pushed his way in with his accustomed fearlessness. Please, is Mr Tim's stokes here? The soldiers laughed and bandied a few jokes and the comrade alluded to. What do you want with him, youngster? I want to speak to him. I guess you'll find him under one of the tables in the taproom. Old bouncer's pretty dry after a march like we've had today. There was a roar of laughter at this, but Teddy did not understand the joke. I mustn't go inside the hair and hounds, he said. I promised Mother I never would. Were you fetch him out for me? And turning to a good-natured-looking young fellow, Teddy put his hand coaxingly on his arm. The soldier looked into the boy's fair face with a laugh and then a sigh, and rising to his feet said, All right, little chap, I'll fetch him out to you. He was gone some time, and Teddy improved his opportunity by making friends with those around him. It was not long before he had acquainted them with the fact of his being a soldier's son, and from that he drifted into telling the story of Father's Button. There was vociferous applause when he had finished. Here, youngster, said one of the older men, holding out his pewter pot to him, Take a drink like a man, you deserve it. No thank yous, the boy said, I never drink beer. Then, as an oldest-looking soldier with the heavy mustache already tinged with gray, came up to him, Teddy turned to him in delight. Are you bouncer? That's what I'm called. The man's face was an unhappy one, and he seemed to be the butt of his comrades, for they poured such a volley of good-natured ridicule on his appearance that Teddy looked from one to the other in complete mystification. Will you come and see my home? the child asked awfully. Corporal Saxby told me he thought you would like to come. The man's face lighted up. Aye, that I will. If it ain't for off, my legs are that stiff and sore. I don't want much walking. It isn't very far. Then, as they moved off together, Teddy slipped his little hand, confidingly into the big one near him, and continued, Do you know there's going to be a splendid tea for you all in our schoolroom tonight? Have you heard? Aye, the person was round an hour ago giving out tickets. There's little to be done in a place like this, and we're too tired to trample to the town, so I expect there'll be a tidy few. The corporal came to tea at our house the other night. He's a friend of yours, isn't he? The best friend I've got was the hearty answer. Aye, lad, there's few of his sort in the army, for one that tries to help us on a bit, there's ten that tries to drag us down. I suppose, said Teddy dreamily, that, after all, the Queen's army isn't so nice to be in as the army I belong to. Does your captain help you when you're in trouble? He helps us to pack drill, or see, be, or sells, replied Tim Stokes with grim humour. This needed to be explained to Teddy, who went on after it was made clear to him. Ah, my captain always helps me. Mr Upton says when I do wicked things and get beaten by the enemy, I must call out to my captain, and he will come at once and help me. I reckon I've heard tale of your captain, then, for that fellow Zaxby is always dinning it into me, but I can't come to religion know-how. I can't make head a tale of it. I tell you, youngster, I've been having an awful time lately, and I can't keep to it. I'm certain sure the drink will do for me again. I can't keep away from it much longer, and this march will see the end of my teetotal ways, I'm thinking. And won't my captain help you? I'm not a hand at prayers and psalm singing. I wish you talked to Mr Upton. He made me a list a short time ago, and I've been ever so much happier since I did. They were walking across the field leading to the farm, and as they came to the style, the soldier lent heavily on it. Turning his face full on the child, he said determinately, I'm not a going to talk to any Mr Upton or no one about it. I'd at least hear you as a parson. You mind me of a little brother of mine that died ten years ago. Tim, he said, just before he went. Tim, will you meet me in heaven? He was the only one I ever loved, and I've lived a dog's life since. His eyes were moist with feeling, and for a minute, Teddy looked at him silently and pitying wonder. Then he said, Look here, bouncer. This is what Mr Upton said to me. He told me Jesus had died for me, and how dead I keep from being his soldier when he loved me so. You know that, don't you? I, so Saxby tells me, but I don't make no difference. No more it didn't to me, continued the boy eagerly, until I went to God and enlisted. I did it quite by myself in the wood. You do it too, bouncer. You give yourself to God as his soldier, and he'll take you and keep you. I've been too bad. It keeps me waitful at night, the very thinking of it. But won't God forgive you if you ask him to? Saxby says so, but I don't know. The fact is, a soldier can't be a Christian in the army. I don't believe you want to be one of God's soldiers, said Teddy in a disappointed tone. You keep making excuses. There was silence. Then Tim Stokes heaved a heavy sigh. I won't come no further, youngster. I ain't in a mind today to see company, but I'll be at the tea tonight. Oh, bouncer, do come! And Teddy's eyes filled with tears. You promised you would. I do want you to see mother and granny. But Tim wheeled round and strode off with something like a sob in his throat. Teddy had little idea of the mighty conflict in his breast. The child's words had awakened many memories, and Tim was at that stage now, when the powers of good and of evil were contending for his soul. He don't believe I want it, for I keep making excuses as much as the poor men. I do. But I haven't got over the longing to be different. I'd cut off my right hand, I do believe, if I could be as Saxby is. I can't bring myself up to the point. That's it. Meanwhile poor little Teddy crept indoors with a sad face to announce to his mother the failure of his mission. He was nearly here, mother, just the other side of the hedge outside, and yet he turned back. End of Chapter 6. Recording by Kylie Goodfellow Chapter 7 of Teddy's Button by Amy LeFever. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Kylie Goodfellow. Chapter 7. Uplifted and Cast Down It was a bright, cheery gathering a few hours later. Mr. Upton had thrown his whole heart into the scheme, and had been round with his tickets to a few outlying inns, where more of the men were billeted, so that there were altogether over forty redcoats assembled. Mrs. John and two other neighbours were in charge of the tea and coffee, and Teddy and Nancy, with one or two other children, as a special favour, were allowed to help to wait on the guests. The tables were decorated with flowers. Meat pies, cold beef and ham sandwiches disappeared in a marvellous manner, and the cakes and bread and butter with watercress were equally appreciated. Towards the end of the meal several ladies came forward in saying, and one or two part songs were also given by some of the guests saying at the hall. Now, said Colonel Graham in his brisk hearty tones, before we have a few words to Mr. Upton, I should like to tell you how glad I am to see the redcoats about me once more. I know your regimen well. For my own, the Tenth Hussars, lay with it in Courtrester ten years ago. I am sure you have all enjoyed your tea, but perhaps you do not know who was the instigator of the whole thing. We must thank Mr. Upton for his untiring zeal and energy in making arrangements. We must thank the ladies for trying to make the evening pleasant by their songs, but we must thank a little man here, I am given to understand, for the proposal in the first instance. And to Teddy's intense surprise the Colonel swung him up on the impromptu platform to receive a deafening round of applause. He made a pretty picture as the light fell on his golden curls and sparkling blue eyes. His cheeks were flushed with excitement, but he bore himself bravely, and he held his head erect as he faced the crowded room. He will speak to you better than I can, the Colonel added with a smile, for I am a poor speaker myself. I am the old soldier here to-night, and my fighting days are past. His are all in the future, and he looks forward to wear the redcoat with the rest of you. I hope he'll bear his brave a part in the service as his father did before him. Now, my boy, have you anything to say? It will turn his head, murmured Mrs. John to herself, but her mother's heart swelled with pride as his clear voice rang out. It wasn't I who thought about the tea. It was Corporal Saxby. Cheers! I haven't anything to say. Unless you'd like me to tell you father's story, I've told it once today, but you weren't all there. May I, sir? Certainly, was the Colonel's amused reply. Teddy had never had such an audience before in his life, but he was quite equal to the occasion. Fingering his button he began in his usual impetuous fashion. The very eagerness for his father's deed to be honoured prevented him from any feelings of self-consciousness, and he carried his audience by storm. The ladies were delighted and touched by it, and Mrs. John quietly wiped some tears from her eyes. And then Mr. Upton got up. His dreamy manner in speaking was absent now, and he spoke straightly and forcibly to those in the Queen's service of the battle to be waged with sin. Touching on their special difficulties and temptations, he told them how absolutely impossible it was for them to be. In their own strength, a match for the devil with all the powers of evil at his back, and how the same saviour who died for them would keep them, and lead them on to a certain victory, if they would button list in his service. Nothing could exceed the attention with which he was listened to, and the evening ended by their rising to their feet, and singing, God save the Queen! Then a sergeant rose to propose a vote of thanks, cheers were given, and all departed, greatly pleased with their evening. Teddy slipped up to Tim Stokes on going out. Shall I see you again? he asked. I shall be busy tomorrow. We march out at eight in the morning. Oh! I shall come and see you off! Tim lingered, then laying his hand heavily on the boy's fair curls, he said, God bless you, little chap. I've done it! Teddy's eyes lit up at once. Have you? Really and truly? He nodded. My heart's full. I can't speak of it. But I was away near the woods there by myself before the tea, and it's all right with me. I only wonder I didn't do it before. I wouldn't yield that's the fact. Don't forget to pray for me, youngster. And he dashed out after his comrades, as if ashamed to show his emotion. Teddy called his mother to him when in bed that night. Mother, I will be a soldier. I'm certain sure I will. But I'm very glad I can be one of God's soldiers without waiting to grow up. And I think I shall be a recruiting sergeant for God now. I'm sure he wants lots more soldiers, doesn't he? Indeed he does, my boy. Now go to sleep. You have had a very exciting day. But the best of all is, said Teddy sleepily, that Bouncer has enlisted. There was quite a crowd of villagers and children the next morning round the hair and towns. The soldiers were drawn up outside, waiting for the approach of their regiment from the town, to fall in and march on with them. Teddy and Nancy were, of course, there. The little girl, in spite of her alleged disdain of soldiers, was delighted to be in their vicinity. Teddy could not get near his friend Bouncer, but he received a friendly nod from him in the distance, and as for Bouncer's face, it was like sunshine itself, a marked contrast to the day before. As the band was head approaching, cheers were given to the men now leaving, and a tall corporal, who had much enjoyed his tea the night before, stooped to ask of Nancy, who was standing close to him, what's the name of that culley-headed youngster who got us the tea? Nancy looked up at him mischievously. The button-boy! That's what I call him, and I shan't never call him anything else. Then the corporal's voice rang out clear and loud. Three cheers for the little button-boy! Which was taken up enthusiastically by the soldiers, and Teddy hardly knew whether he was on his head or heels from excitement and delight. But he had to pay a penalty for his prominent position. From that day the title of the button-boy stuck to him, and it became his nickname in the village by all who knew him. On came the regiment with the colours flying and the band playing in the most orthodox style, and Teddy was bitterly disappointed when the warning bell of school prevented him from marching along the road with them. The schoolmaster was very lenient with the boys that morning, or else they would have been in dire disgrace, for lessons were imperfectly learned and said, and never had he found it so difficult to keep their attention. But if Teddy was inattentive and careless at school, he was doubly troublesome at home, and for the next few days his mother's fears were realised. The excitement of all that had taken place seemed to have quite turned his head for the time. He jumped on Kate Brown's back, the hired girl, when she was carrying two pills of milk to the dairy, and the contents of both pills were spilt and wasted. He shut up a fighting Bentham cock and the stablecat into a barn and left them fighting furiously. He locked one of the farm labourers in a hayloft and pulled away the ladder, so that he was not released for hours, and he proved such an imp of mischief in the house that even his mother meditated handing him over to his uncle to be whipped. At last it came to a climax in school. He brought a lot of young frogs in a handkerchief, put some of them in the master's desk, and amused himself at intervals by slipping the others down the backs of the boys seated in front of him. His corner was the most unruly one in the room, and whilst waiting for another class to come down he began one of the stories in a whisper to a most interested audience. I went to see a goblin once that I heard of. He lived in a tub on the seashore, and he lived by gobbling up schoolmasters and governesses. He used to cut their hair off, scrape them well like a horseradish, and then begin at their toes and gobble them up till he got to the heads—the heads he boiled in a saucepan for soup—the boys and girls used to bring their masters when they didn't. Edward Platt! Never had the master's voice sounded so stern. The frogs were discovered, and his wrath was not appeased by seeing the cluster of heads round Teddy, and catching a few words of the delicious story going on. Teddy started to his feet. Who put these frogs here? I did, sir. The answer was boldly given. Come here! And amidst the sudden hush that fell on all the boys, Teddy walked up to the master's desk with hot cheeks and bent head. Edward Platt, for the last three days you have been incorrigible. I have kept you in and given you extra tasks, but neither has had any effect. Now I shall have to do what I have never yet done to you. Hold out your hand. Teddy's head was raised instantly, and holding himself erect he bore unflinchingly the three or four sharp strokes with the cane that the master thought fit to give him. Now, said the master, you can go home. I will dispense with your attendance for the rest of this morning. Teddy walked out without a word. He felt the disgrace keenly, but it was the means of bringing him to himself, and rushing away to a secluded corner in a field he flung himself down on the ground and sobbed as if his heart would break. Half an hour after, his uncle, happening to pass through that field, came across him. Why, Ted, what be the matter? he inquired as he lifted him to his feet. Teddy's tear-stained face and quivering lips touched him so that he sat down on a log of wood near and drew him between his knees. Are you feeling bad? Are you hurt? was the next question, and then Teddy looked up and in a solemn voice asked, what does the queen do when her soldiers are beaten instead of getting a victory? I… I'm sure I don't know. I can't remember the time when he was beaten. I reckon she's sorry for them. Doesn't she turn them out of her army? Why, no. What does God do when his soldiers leave our fighting and knock under to their enemy? I reckon he's sorry too. Dimly, Jake Platt began to see the drift of the child's questions. Teddy shook his curly head mournfully. I'm sure he'll have to turn soldiers out of his army if they give up fighting, and let the banner drag in the dust and just let the enemy do what they like with them. Why, I've done worse than that. Here he clenched his little fist and raised his voice excitedly. I've gone with the enemy. I've joined Ipes, and that's being a deserter, and now I shall never, never be able to get back again. His uncle looked sorely puzzled. Why ain't you in school? What have you been doing? Teddy told him all in a despairing tone, adding, I can't meet mother. I've been caned, and, and I've disgraced my button. Hear his tears burst out afresh. Look here, set his uncle slowly. I won't say but what you've been a bad boy. Your mother herself has been in sore trouble about you this last day or two. But if we get a fall in the mud, it ain't much good stopping there. The only thing is to pick ourselves up again, then get ourselves cleaned, and then start again, and walk more carefully. Can't you do that? I'm a deserter, sobbed the boy. My captain won't have me back. I've disgraced him. I've disgraced my banner. I've disgraced my button. Your captain will pick you up, I'm thinking. If you ask him, he'll clean you up first right, and set you on your legs again. Will he? And hope once more began to dawn on the dim blue eyes. Of course he will. I ain't good at verses and such like, but I do remember this one. Though your sins be a scarlet, they shall be white as snow. Won't that one fit you? Teddy did not answer. He stood looking up wistfully into the blue sky as if unconscious of his uncle's presence, and then he sighed. I think I'd rather be alone, Uncle Jake. Jake left him without a word, and went home to prepare Mrs. John for what had happened. She was much distressed, but, like a sensible woman, took the right view of the case. He wanted to be pulled up sharp. My poor boy! Is he much hurt? The caning was such a minor point of Teddy's grief that Jake confessed to knowing nothing about it. Mrs. Platt was inclined to be indignant with the schoolmaster. Such a tiny little chap as he is, so full of feeling and nerves, he hadn't ought to have done it. Yet only that morning she herself had almost given him a sound whipping for one of his mad pranks. Shortly after Teddy crept in, and shutting the door behind him, put his back against it. Mother? Granny, he said? I've been an awful boy at school this morning, and I'm a disgrace. I've been caned. His tome was tragic, then he added slowly. But I'm very sorry, and I'm sorry I've been so naughty at home, and I'm going to start again, because my captain has forgiven me. And then Mrs. John did the wisest thing she could do. She asked no questions, but got some warm water, and took him off to wash his face and hands. She saw the red marks across the little hand, but refrained from making much of it. And then, after putting his curly head in order, she drew it to his shoulder, and putting her arms round him, she said, my sonny! Mother is so glad her little son feels his naughtiness. She's been praying much for him to-day. And now tell me all about it. 8. In the Cloverfield Please, Mrs. Platt, can I see Teddy? I think he's out in the Cloverfield. Don't you be romping round with him now, for he's taken a Sunday book out, and is as quiet as can be. It was Nancy who was standing at the farmhouse door one lovely Sunday evening. Old Mrs. Platt was the only one at home, and she motioned with the hand where her little grandson would be found. Nancy discovered him a few minutes later, lying full length in the sweet-centred Clover and open book before him. When he raised his face to hers, it wore his most angelic look. Hello! What have you come here for? he asked. To talk to you. And, without more ado, Nancy squatted down beside him. What are you doing? she went on. And what's your Sunday book? It's the pilgrim's progress. I love it. Don't you? I haven't been reading it, though, for a long time. I've been having a beautiful make-up. Tell me! and Nancy's tone was eager. Teddy looked away to the purple hills in the distance, and beyond and above them to the soft evening sky, with its delicate, fleecy clouds flitting by, and taking every imaginable form and shape as they did so. The dreamy, faraway look came into his eyes as he said slowly. It's a Sunday, make-believe. Quite one to myself, and I've never told it to anyone. I can only tell it to myself out of doors, when it's still and quiet, and then I feel sometimes it's quite real. Do tell me, pleaded Nancy coaxingly. Well, it's kitchen to heaven, after I've got there, you know. Nancy's eyes grew big with awe. Shall I tell you how I begin it? She nodded, and Teddy, turning over on his side, brought forth another book, a New Testament. Turning to an open page, he began to read with great emphasis. And he'd carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me that great city, the Holy Jerusalem, descending out of God from heaven. That's the Bible, said Nancy. Yes, now listen. I'm lying here in this field. It's very, very still. I hear a little rustle behind. I don't look round, and the flash comes a beautiful white angel. Now he's standing in front of me. What's he like? He's dressed in white shiny stuff, and he has very white feathery wings. His face is smiling. He has eyes like mothers, and hair like sally whites. Flaxen, mother says it is, put in Nancy. Yes, he stands quite still. Hush. Hear him. Teddy, I've come to fetch you to heaven. And then I stand up. I listen hard, but I don't say anything. He says, You haven't been altogether a good soldier, but the captain says he wants you. Come along. Then I get up and sit myself between his wings, and put my arms round his neck, and he begins to go up. I see Mother, and Granny, and Uncle Jake, and I wave my hand to them. And Mother throws a kiss at me and calls out, Give my love to Father! And away we go, over our fields and across the high road, and over Farmer Greensfields, and then we fly right to the top of that mountain over there. Do let me come too, said Nancy. I want to be on the angels' back with you. Perhaps you can follow behind on another angel. I want mine all to myself. We get up to the top of the mountain. Then I stand down on the ground. And me too, put in Nancy. You mustn't keep stopping me. I can't feel it if you do. I stand there, and I think at first I can't see nothing but a lot of little soft clouds, one above the other, just like those over there. But the angel says, put your foot on one of them, and then on the next one. They're the steps to heaven. Oh! gasped Nancy, following it with keen reality, you'll tumble. I don't. It's like putting your foot in cotton wool. I go up, and have to go quite by myself. But the angel comes behind me to see I don't fall. And then he says, look up. Don't you see the gates? And then I look. And I see them, shining gold gates, very big, and covered with jewels like Mrs. Graham was on her fingers. And I go up and up, and then I'm there. Is that all? Why, that's just the beginning. I'm only outside. The gates are shut, but when they see me coming, two more angels come and swing them wide open, and I'm feeling rather frightened, but I walk in. There's a long wide street made like the gates, and I walk very carefully, for fear of slipping down. Then I see a lot of angels coming along with trumpets, and then they go first and begin to play like the soldier's band. I march on to a very, very, very big door, and there on the steps leading up stands my captain. Teddy paused. I can't tell you what he's like, but I feel what he's like myself. Such a loving, kind face. And he puts his hand on my head and says, well done, Teddy. And then I take hold of his hand, and I think I cry. Matter of fact, Nancy sees with surprise that Teddy's eyes are filling with tears at the thought. He went on softly. I think he takes me up in his arms then, because I'm very tired. And he carries me into the most beautiful garden you ever saw in your life. And he takes me to father, who is waiting there. Tell me what the garden's like. Teddy does not speak. He is full of the meeting with his father, and Nancy waits a little impatiently. The garden is lovely, he said at last, drawing in a breath of delight at the thought. It's always sunny and warm. The grass is very soft and green, and there's every flower in the world all bunched up together. The seeds are made of roses, and if you want to go to sleep, the pillows are made up of violets. There's a beautiful river and trees full of apples and oranges, and plums and pears. The banks are red, they're made of strawberries. Oh! gasped Nancy. How lovely! There are summer houses and little white boats to row in the river, and gold harps hanging up on the trees. And then I think, I hope, there are lots of dogs running about, and then you can ride all day on lions and tigers and bears, and they won't bite you but lick your hands. Go on! What else? Then we stand up and sing hymns when my captain comes by, and we play on the harps and blow the trumpet as much as ever we like. I think my captain sometimes comes and sits down and talks to us and tells us stories. There was silence, then Nancy said, Is that all? That's enough for you, said Teddy, a little condescendingly. I think and make believe a lot more. I want to go to heaven, Nancy said thoughtfully. Then Teddy came back to earth. Have you enlisted yet? he asked. I'm not going to be a soldier, said Nancy quickly. Well, you'll never get to heaven if you don't fight for our captain now. He won't let you inside the gates unless you belong to him. Girls can fight just as much as boys. Of course they can. I can fight as well as you, button boy. Why don't you fight your enemy then? But enemy. My enemy is called Ipes. He's a dreadful trouble to me. You've got yours, the thing inside you that makes you want to do naughty things. You've got to fight it and do the good things instead. I've had two fights with Ipes today. Have you? Do tell. You mustn't tell anyone, then. It was in church this morning. There was an old woman in front of me, and she'd untied her bonnet, and the ribbons fell over in our pew. She went fast asleep in the sermon, and nodded her head back till it almost tumbled off her head. And Ipes thought if I would put out to my hand just give a tiny, weeny pull at the ribbon, it would come right off. Nancy clapped her hands. Why didn't you? What fun! I wanted to let Ipes have his way dreadful, but I remembered I must fight him, and I did. I asked my captain to help me, and then I put both my hands in my pockets, and screwed up my eyes tight. But I was glad when she woke up and tied her bonnet on again. That was much better than I could have been. What's the other fight you had? Uncle Jake brought some fresh honey from the hives, and he put it on a plate in the window in the kitchen. He said when he went out of the room, don't touch that, Teddy, as I was waiting for Mother to come to church with me, and I went up and looked at it. Ipes said to me, just put one finger in it, and I had to fight him very hard over that. But I ran away out of the room. And do you always fight him hard? No, I often forget till it's too late. Mother said I must ask my captain to make me remember. I do ask him a lot to help me. I don't think I like that sort of fighting. Nancy, I wish you'd give yourself to Goddess's soldier. Teddy turned round earnestly as he spoke. I think, said Nancy slowly, I like to be naughty best. Then she added, with quick change of tone, my father is coming home soon, and he'll come to see us here. Then you'll see what a grand sailor he is. He is much grander than your father was. My father was an officer, said Teddy proudly. So's my father. He is a first-class petty officer. And Nancy brought out the words slowly and with much emphasis. My father was a non-commissioned officer, said Teddy, determining not to be beaten. He was a full sergeant. My father gives orders to all the sailors, and they have to do what he tells them. So did my father, and he led the soldiers through a battle. My father will fight in twenty battles before he dies, and yours only fought in one. My father is in heaven and that's the grandest place to be in. Coming to this climax was too much for Nancy, and the thoughts of that place of which they had been having so much talk subdued their rising ire. Teddy said reproachfully, after a minute's silence, Ipes was nearly getting angry with you. You're such a dreadful girl for making me quarrel with you. You won't let me say my father is as good as yours, protested Nancy. He isn't better. Yes, don't get angry, Nancy. Let's just say they're the same. And with this admission Nancy was for the time pacified. Before they parted she looked at her little companion with solemn eyes. I won't promise, but I'll think about belonging to the captain. I should like to go to heaven. It was one day soon after this that Teddy was straying over the fields in his happy, careless fashion, fond as he was of gains with the village boys. Often there were times when he liked his own society best, and he wandered on talking to himself and gathering grass and wildflowers as he went. His quick eyes soon noted some sheep making their way through a gap in the hedge, and from thence they were going through an open gate into the high road. Those are Farmer Green's sheep, quote he to himself. I'm glad of it, horrid old man he is. No, Ipes. Be quiet. That isn't the way to think of him. I'll go and drive them back again. And he trodded off with this intention. But it is much more difficult to get sheep into their rightful place than out of it, and this Teddy found to his cost. His face was hot and red, his voice hoarse was shouting, and then to his consternation Farmer Green appeared on the scene. You young vagabond he shouted, springing towards him, a thick stick in his hand, leave my sheep alone! How dare you come on my premises! You're always after some fresh trick or other. Teddy stood still till he came up to him, then looked up frankly at him. Indeed, sir, I was trying to drive them back through the hole again. Look, that's where they broke through. A lightly story. Much more probable you made the hole yourself. Teddy's blood rushed into his face. I never tell a lie, he cried, and you're a— He stopped and hung his head in shame at the word that almost slipped from him. Jonathan Green looked curiously at him. Now may I ask what the end of that speech was going to be, he said grimly. Teddy looked up. Ipes was going to say you was a liar yourself, but I stopped him in time. I shall believe you have a bee in your bonnet, some folks say, said the Farmer. Pray, if the sheep came out of their proper field, what business was that of yours? I wanted to be good to you. I'm sorry I tied you up that day, dreadful sorry, and I've got to love you, so I thought it would be a good plan to send your sheep back again. You've got to love me, repeated the Farmer, opening his eyes in mock surprise, and when did I ask you for any of your love, young fellow? I don't suppose you want me to, observed Teddy cheerfully, as he saw that the stick, instead of being brandished over his head, was now safely resting on the ground, but I've got to do it, you see, because my Ben I'm holding for my Captain is love, and I must love everybody. The Farmer did not answer, Teddy continued earnestly. Do you think you could manage to forgive me, and let us shake hands? It would make it easier for me to love you, if you could. There was such honesty of purpose in the blue eyes raised to his, such wistful curves to the sensitive little lips, that Jonathan Green, for the first time, felt the thrall of the child's power. Come into the house with me, he said, and I'll see what the Mrs. has to say to you. Teddy followed him without the slightest misgiving, and he was led into the farmhouse kitchen, where Mrs. Green sat netting over the fire, and one of her daughters was laying the cloth for tea. Mary Ann, here's the scamp of the village, come to see you, keep him here till I come back. I'm after some stray sheep, and shutting the door with a bang, the farmer disappeared. Teddy shook hands with the old lady and the young one, and then seated himself in the big chair opposite Mrs. Green. What have you been doing? the latter inquired. How is it your mother can't keep you out of mischief? I haven't been in mischief, really I haven't. And poor Teddy felt the truth of the saying, give a dog a bad name and hang him. He tried to tell a story, and then when that did not seem to be understood, he deftly changed the subject. What does farmer Green like best in the world? he asked. This astonishing question struck Mrs. Green dumb, but her daughter Natty laughed. Coast pre-putting, she said. Now then, what's the next question? But Teddy was silent, and not another word did he say till the farmer came in again. This youngster's on the task of reforming himself, Mary Ann, said Jonathan, sitting down in the chair that Teddy immediately vacated upon his entrance. Do you believe it? I have no faith in boys, said Mrs. Green, with a shake of her head. They're all alike, and are always taking you unawares. You hear what the Mrs. says, you won't get no help from that quarter, but I'll give you a chance. Would you like to stop the tea with us? Teddy smiled. Thank you, sir, but my mother will expect me home to tea. May I go now, and do you forgive me for what I did the other day? Farmer Green stretched out a hard, horny hand, and took the boy's small one. Here's my hand on it, he said with his grim smile. I may be a fool for believing you, but if you're sorry for the past, I won't be the one to rake it up. Teddy's upward look was so full of innocence that he received a clap on the shoulder. Run along, you've made your peace with me. And, speeding away, Teddy whispered to himself, I shall ask mother to make it, and I shall pick the gooseberries myself, and then he'll know I love him. Farmer Green was much bewildered a few days after at receiving a parcel which was left at his house by some boys on their way back from school. He was still more puzzled when, upon opening it, it proved to be a gooseberry pudding in a basin, with a piece of paper attached to it, and these words in very shaky writing. I send you my love, Teddy. But his daughter was able to enlighten him, and they had a hardy laugh over Teddy's mode of confirming the treaty of friendship.