He was the idol of the school,--dashing, daring, reckless, and good-natured.
There was almost nothing that he would not attempt, and there were very few things that he could not do.

He never fought, however--from principle; and his strength and size often saved him from the necessity.
But he often prevented other boys from fighting, except when he thought there was good reason for it; then he stood by and saw fair play.

There was a strange mixture of philosophical gravity, too, in Martin.

As he grew older he became more enthusiastic and less boisterous.
Bob Croaker was still at the school, and was, from prudential motives, a fast friend of Martin.

But he bore him a secret grudge, for he could not forget the great fight.
One day Bob took Martin by the arm, and said, "I say, Rattler, come with me to Bilton, and have some fun among the shipping." "Well, I don't mind if I do," said Martin.