He did not so much care for this, except for the credit it would give him.

But his father, who was ambitious for him, had promised him twenty-five dollars if he succeeded, and he had already appropriated this sum in imagination.

He had determined to invest it in a handsome boat which he had seen for sale in Boston on his last visit to that city.
"After careful consideration," continued the teacher, "I have decided that the prize should be adjudged to an essay entitled 'The Duties of Boys on the Present National Crisis,' written by Frank Frost." There was a general clapping of hands at this announcement.

Frank was a general favorite, and even his disappointed rivals felt a degree of satisfaction in feeling that he had obtained the prize.
There was one exception, however.

John Haynes turned pale, and then red, with anger and vexation.