Mrs. Perkins. Nevertheless, Mr. Cheeseborough learned more quickly
than any one else in the class.

Perkins. So Barlow said--because he wasn't eternally in his own way,
as he was in every one else's. (A ring is heard at the front door.)
Ah! I guess that's Bob and Jack.

Enter Jennie.

Jennie. Mr. Bradley, ma'am.

Perkins. Bradley? Wonder what the deuce he's come for? He'll guy
the life out of me. (Enter Bradley. He wears a dinner coat.) Ah,
Brad, old chap, how are you? Glad to see you.

Bradley. Good-evening, Mrs. Perkins. This your eldest? [With a nod
at Perkins.

Mrs. Perkins. My eldest?

Bradley. Yes--judged from his togs it was your boy. What! Can it
be? You! Thaddeus?

Perkins. That's who I am.

Bradley. When did you go into short trousers?

Perkins (with a feeble laugh, glancing at his clothes). Oh, these--
ha, ha! I'm taking up the bicycle. Even if it weren't for the