The Cadets of Temperance Episode

Tom joins the Cadets of Temperance for the uniform but soon finds the pledge against smoking and swearing unbearable.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Joining the Cadets

The Lure of the Regalia The Promise Tom is attracted by the showy red sash of the Cadets of Temperance and joins, promising to abstain from smoking, chewing, and profanity. Immediately, he is tormented by the desire to do those very things. The Waiting Game Tom hopes for a public funeral for Judge Frazer, which would allow him to parade in his regalia. But the judge recovers, and Tom resigns in disgust. That night, the judge dies, and Tom regrets his impatience. The Lesson Tom learns that the prohibition of a thing makes it more desirable. He also discovers that the freedom to do something removes its charm. This insight into human nature echoes his earlier discovery about work and play.

During summer vacation