CHAPTER VIII.
A NEW PLAN Mark was in his room, where Frank found him trying on a new necktie.
Though decidedly plain, Mark fancied himself very good-looking, and spent no little time on personal adornment.

In particular, he had a weakness for new neckties, in which he indulged himself freely.
When the boys came to the academy, the principal proposed that they should room together; but both objected, and Mark had a room to himself--no one caring to room with him.
"Take a seat, Frank," said Mark, condescendingly.

"Is there anything I can do for you ?" "Yes," answered Frank.

"I hear your father has sold Ajax, or is intending to do so.

Will you tell me if it is true ?" "I believe it is," answered Mark, indifferently.
"And what right has he to sell my horse ?" demanded Frank, indignantly.
"You'd better ask him," said Mark, with provoking coolness.
"It is an outrage," said Frank, indignantly.
"As to that," said his stepbrother, "you can't expect father to be at the expense of feeding your horse." "With my money ?" "The money is legally his," replied Mark.
"Do you know to whom your father has sold Ajax ?" "To Col.