15:33
`` But we know all about her now , sir , '' said Arthur with a laugh , in which he was joined by every one present . `` Evil communications corrupt good manners . '' -- 1 _ Cor . _ 15:33 . The one drawback upon Max 's perfect enjoyment of his new home was the lack of a companion of his own age and sex ; the only boys in the family connection , or among the near neighbors , were nearly grown to manhood or very little fellows . Therefore , when Ralph Conly came home for the Christmas holidays , and though four years older than himself , at once admitted him to a footing of intimacy , Max was both pleased and flattered . Ralph 's manner , to be sure , was more condescending than was altogether agreeable , but that seemed not inexcusable , considering his superiority in years and knowledge of the world .