accepting no lift from wagon or car, and registering faithfully at
the several stations provided, he has done all that is expected of
him. If by crossing a field he thinks he can cut off fifty feet or
more he is at liberty to make the attempt, although it may cost him
dear, through his meeting with some unexpected obstacle in his
progress, which would not have occurred had he stayed by the road.
Some fellows might believe they could do better than trying to cross
by way of that overgrown quarry road. Yes, you are keeping well
within the letter of the law in choosing your own way of going, Hugh.
Have no fears on that score, my boy."

Mr. Leonard liked Hugh Morgan exceedingly; though that was not to be
wondered at, because Hugh was one of those boys who would never stoop
to do a tricky thing, no matter what allurements it held out; he
always "played square," and even won the high regard of his rivals in
many cases. When the October sun had reached the horizon the multitude
of contestants and spectators commenced to string back to town, for it
would soon be getting near supper time; and no fellow likes to be late
at the table, especially when he feels as hungry as a bear, after
exercising so violently for hours.

Hugh was starting off alone, when Thad Stevens called out that he'd like
the other to "hold up a minute," until he could overtake him; because
it happened he had something to communicate which he thought Hugh ought
to know.




CHAPTER V