They were quite surprised, to say the least, to hear her speak more enthusiastically of Belton than any of the rest had done.
If Miss Nermal was to be their rival they were ready to abandon the field at once, for the charms of her face, form, and mind were irresistible when in repose; and what would they be if she became interested in winning the heart of a young man?
When school was dismissed that afternoon Belton saw a group of teachers walking homeward and Miss Nermal was in the group.

Belton joined them and somehow contrived to get by Miss Nermal's side.

How much she aided him by unobserved shifting of positions is not known.
All of the rest of the group lived nearer the school than did Miss Nermal and so, when they had all dropped off at respective gates, Miss Nermal yet had some distance to go.

When Belton saw this, he was a happy fellow.

He felt that the parents of the teachers had shown such excellent judgment in choosing places to reside.