`` Ca n't do it , '' answered Frank , sadly . `` Lodge , '' groaned Jack , for both considered a drive in the cart , where they all sat in a merry bunch among the hay , one of the joys of life , and much regretted that a prior engagement would prevent their sharing in it . `` That 's a pity ! I forgot it was Tuesday , and ca n't put it off , as I 've asked all the rest . Give up your old Lodge and come along , '' said Gus , who had not joined yet . `` We might for once , perhaps , but I do n't like to '' -- began Jack , hesitating . '' 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. XXXXX 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 .
Bob Ca Chauncey Ed England Frank Jack Templar Templars pocket-book