That can't be any harm."
Luella allowed herself to follow her brother's example. So they took the
first step in disobedience.
Next Luella said: "I wonder if we couldn't just unfasten the bag and
look at that letter again. It's our letter, you know."
"Of course, it is. Give me the bag. I'll open it."
Then, without more ado, Francis deliberately opened the bag. Thus the
second step in wrong-doing was taken.
They examined the letter closely and leisurely, not one minute, but many
minutes, passing while they were thus engaged. Then Luella said: "I'm
going to read the letter. It's all the same whether we read it here or
at home."
It proved to be a very kind letter from Aunt Maria, who had lately made
them a visit. She concluded by saying: "While I was with you I took
pleasure in noticing your constant obedience. As a sort of reward, I
enclose for you each a five-dollar gold piece. Please accept the gift
with my love."
"Where are the gold pieces?" asked Francis, taking the envelope from
Luella, "Oh! here's one in the corner of this thing. I'll take this; but
where's the other?"
Where was the other? It was easier to ask the question than to reply.
The two children folded and unfolded the letter. They turned the
envelope inside out. They searched through their clothing. They
inspected the grass and the path. If it had been possible, they would
have lifted the stone upon which they had been sitting; but that would
have been an herculean task.
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