Careless Kate

A Story for Little Folks

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Pages: 30

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About this book

A damaged peony and a spilled pail of milk turn ordinary errands into tests of character for Kate Lamb. After trampling her mother's prized flower, Kate promises greater care and sets off with milk for a sick widow's children. An encounter with Fanny Flynn provokes her anger, and a chase ends with the milk on the ground. At home, Kate lets her parents believe that she completed the errand.

Oliver Optic tells this children's story through household conversations and a narrator who comments directly on conduct. Kate's parents praise the version of events she gives them, while her own conscience makes their approval painful. The contrast between public credit and private knowledge gives the lesson its force. Readers interested in older writing for children will find a plainly spoken account of responsibility, quick temper and the way one careless action can lead to further dishonesty.