Even then his success will produce jealous enemies, who will seek his overthrow by some means, no matter how unfair.
Frank had not sought popularity; it had come unbidden.

Having found himself a leader, however, he had pride enough to hold the position just as long as he was capable of doing so fairly and honestly.

But he had already discovered that he would be assailed openly and secretly, and his foes would try to drag him down by any means, fair or foul.
Had Rains been a little more cordial, had he shaken hands with Frank as if he really held no grudge, Merriwell would have been more than glad to hail him as a good fellow and a friend.

But the touch of his fingers was enough to reveal the bitterness in his heart.

Having disliked and envied Merriwell before, Rains would now dislike and envy him still more.
As soon as he could do so without attracting too much attention, Rains left the excited throng of boys, and hurried away to one of the dressing-rooms.
Hugh Bascomb quickly followed, being the only one among Rains' late friends to note his departure.
Bascomb found Rains rubbing down.