I wo n't . Who 's to propose Bob if we do n't ? I want to go awfully ; but I would n't disappoint Bob for a good deal , now he is willing to come . '' And Frank sprang off his post as if anxious to flee temptation , for it was very pleasant to go singing , up hill and down dale , in the spring moonlight , with -- well , the fellows of his set . `` Nor Ed , I forgot that . No , we ca n't go . We want to be Good Templars , and we must n't shirk , '' added Jack , following his brother . `` Better come . Ca n't put it off . Lots of fun , '' called Gus , disappointed at losing two of his favorite mates . But the boys did not turn back , and as they went steadily away they felt that they were doing their little part in the good work , and making their small sacrifices , like faithful members . They got their reward , however , for at home they found Mr. Chauncey , a good and great man , from England , who had known their grandfather , and was an honored friend of the family . The boys loved to hear him talk , and all tea-time listened with interest to the conversation , for Mr. Chauncey was a reformer as well as a famous clergyman , and it was like inspiring music to hear him tell about the world 's work , and the brave men and women who were carrying it on . Eager to show that they had , at least , begun , the boys told him about their Lodge , and were immensely pleased when their guest took from his pocket-book a worn paper , proving that he too was a Good Templar , and belonged to the same army as they did . Nor was that all , for when they reluctantly excused themselves , Mr. Chauncey gave each a hearty `` grip , '' and said , holding their hands in his , as he smiled at the young faces looking up at him with so much love and honor in them , -- `` Tell the brothers and sisters that if I can serve them in any way while here , to command me . I will give them a lecture at their Lodge or in public , whichever they like ; and I wish you God-speed , dear boys . '' Two prouder lads never walked the streets than Frank and Jack as they hurried away , nearly forgetting the poor little paper in their haste to tell the good news ; for it was seldom that such an offer was made the Lodge , and they felt the honor done them as bearers of it . As the secrets of the association can not be divulged to the uninitiated , we can only say that there was great rejoicing over the new member , for Bob was unanimously welcomed , and much gratitude both felt and expressed for Mr. Chauncey 's interest in this small division of the grand army ; for these good folk met with little sympathy from the great people of the town , and it was very cheering to have a well-known and much-beloved man say a word for them . All agreed that the lecture should be public , that others might share the pleasure with them , and perhaps be converted by a higher eloquence than any they possessed . So the services that night were unusually full of spirit and good cheer ; for all felt the influence of a friendly word , the beauty of a fine example .
The paper was much applauded , the songs were very hearty , and when XXXXX , whose turn it was to be chaplain , read the closing prayer , every one felt that they had much to give thanks for , since one more had joined them , and the work was slowly getting on with unexpected helpers sent to lend a hand .
Bob Ca Chauncey Frank Gus Jack Templar bearers night pocket-book