No town bully is dethroned without his hating the object of his humiliation.

Hugh had better be on his guard, for every one knew that Nick Lang would never rest until he had at least tried to even up the score.
Hugh calmly put on his garments again.

Thad and the others were voicing their admiration for his recent gallant deed, but somehow their praise seemed to grate on the boy's nerves.
"Please don't keep on saying those things, fellows," he begged them, presently.

"I know you mean it in kindness, but I'd rather try and forget this unpleasant business.

I had to break a promise tonight, and it hurts ten times worse than any of the few cracks Nick got in at me.
But then my mother always told me she would not for worlds have me stand by and see a bully injure one weaker than himself.