Oh! I know, because I've spun that yarn myself once." Supper was announced just then, and the boys trooped in to enjoy the bountiful spread that had been provided for them.

A buzz ran around the room, and all eyes were fastened on Hugh and Owen in eager curiosity.

Thad thought it up to him to explain what had happened, so that no one might rest under a misapprehension.

And when he briefly described how Hugh had so thoroughly whipped the hitherto invincible town bully, every one applauded.

It might be noticed also that pretty Peggy Noland looked at her company with unshed tears in her eyes; and she was unusually good to Owen the balance of the evening, so that he had a jolly time of it, taken in all..