For the first time, his thoughts turned anxiously toward the city and the beginning of his studies.

McLean and the Duncans spoke of him as "the boy," but he was a man.

He must face life bravely and act a man's part.

The Angel was a mere child.

He must not allow her to torture him past endurance with her frank comradeship that meant to him high heaven, earth's richness, and all that lay between, and NOTHING to her.
There was an ominous growl of thunder, and amazed at himself, Freckles snatched up his wheel and raced toward the swamp.