The Truth Behind the Lie — The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

Tom comes home happy after his famous morning, but Aunt Polly is furious. She went to Mrs Harper to brag about Tom's amazing dream, and Joe Harper told her the truth: Tom was really there that night listening under the bed. Aunt Polly feels foolish and says she ought to skin Tom alive for making her look silly in front of the neighbours.

Tom's clever lie suddenly feels mean instead of funny. He admits he was wrong, then tells what really happened. He came home to ease her worry, left a bark note saying they were only off pirating, and kissed her while she slept because he loved her. He kept quiet because he did not want to spoil the funeral surprise. Aunt Polly listens with tears in her eyes and slowly begins to believe him.

Aunt Polly's anger melts. She kisses him and sends him to school. After he leaves she almost checks his jacket for proof, then decides she would rather believe his good heart. She finds the bark message in his pocket and cries with relief, saying she could forgive the boy a million sins. Tom walks to school feeling light again, ready at last to face Becky.