The lad had been handed over from governor to governor, from school to school, but they could do nothing with him.

Some of his masters he had defied, others he had scorned, one he had nearly slain.

His guardian had flogged him times without number, and threatened him still oftener.

His guardian's lady had tried to tame him with gentleness and coaxing.

He had been admonished by clergy, and arraigned before magistrates.