`` Go ` way , me do n't love Parpar . '' and Demi retired to his mother 's skirts for protection . But even that refuge proved unavailing , for he was delivered over to the enemy , with a `` Be gentle with him , John , '' which struck the culprit with dismay , for when Mamma deserted him , then the judgment day was at hand . Bereft of his cake , defrauded of his frolic , and borne away by a strong hand to that detested bed , poor Demi could not restrain his wrath , but openly defied Papa , and kicked and screamed lustily all the way upstairs . The minute he was put into bed on one side , he rolled out on the other , and made for the door , only to be ignominiously caught up by the tail of his little toga and put back again , which lively performance was kept up till the young man 's strength gave out , when he devoted himself to roaring at the top of his voice . This vocal exercise usually conquered Meg , but John sat as unmoved as the post which is popularly believed to be deaf . No coaxing , no sugar , no lullaby , no story , even the light was put out and only the red glow of the fire enlivened the ` big dark ' which Demi regarded with curiosity rather than fear . This new order of things disgusted him , and he howled dismally for ` Marmar ' , as his angry passions subsided , and recollections of his tender bondwoman returned to the captive autocrat . The plaintive wail which succeeded the passionate roar went to Meg 's heart , and she ran up to say beseechingly ... `` Let me stay with him , he 'll be good now , John . '' `` No , my dear . I 've told him he must go to sleep , as you bid him , and he must , if I stay here all night . '' `` But he 'll cry himself sick , '' pleaded Meg , reproaching herself for deserting her boy . `` No , he wo n't , he 's so tired he will soon drop off and then the matter is settled , for he will understand that he has got to mind . Do n't interfere , I 'll manage him . '' `` He 's my child , and I ca n't have his spirit broken by harshness . '' `` He 's my child , and I wo n't have his temper spoiled by indulgence . Go down , my dear , and leave the boy to me . '' When John spoke in that masterful tone , Meg always obeyed , and never regretted her docility . `` Please let me kiss him once , John ? '' `` Certainly .
Demi , say good night to Mamma , and let her go and rest , for she is very tired with taking care of you all XXXXX . ''
Mamma Marmar Meg autocrat bondwoman day docility fire night toga