Boys are like some metals, Miss Kitty, their temper is improved by hammering.' Kitty left the master, entirely in the dark as to the effect of her intercession; but evidently it was not of much advantage to Dick.

When the boy came from the school about half an hour later, he carried his chin high, his lips were compressed tightly, and he stared straight ahead.

Three faithful friends who had waited to know the worst joined him, but no words were spoken.

They followed at his heels, showing by their silence due respect for a profound emotion.

Dick did not make for home; he turned off to the right and led the way down into one of the large quarries on the flat, and there turned a flushed face and a pair of flashing eyes upon his mates.
'I'm going to have it out of Ham,' he said.