I have spoken more than once to your father in this connection and pointed out his duty to him faithfully , but so far with no effect . I trust he may awaken to a realization of his responsibility before it is too late . In the meantime , it is your duty and privilege to endeavour to take your sainted mother 's place . You might exercise a great influence over your brothers and your little sister -- you might be a true mother to them . I fear that you do not think of these things as you should . My dear child , allow me to open your eyes in regard to them . '' Mr. Perry 's oily , complacent voice trickled on . He was in his element . Nothing suited him better than to lay down the law , patronize and exhort . He had no idea of stopping , and he did not stop . He stood before the fire , his feet planted firmly on the rug , and poured out a flood of pompous platitudes . Faith heard not a word . She was really not listening to him at all . But she was watching his long black coat-tails with impish delight growing in her brown eyes . Mr. Perry was standing VERY near the fire . His coat-tails began to scorch -- his coat-tails began to smoke . He still prosed on , wrapped up in his own eloquence . The coat-tails smoked worse . A tiny spark flew up from the burning wood and alighted in the middle of one . It clung and caught and spread into a smouldering flame .
XXXXX could restrain herself no longer and broke into a stifled giggle .
Faith child connection effect element feet idea mother oily rug