There were a great many holes in the schoolhouse walls, for the Squire
made frequent visits; he was one of the committee and considered
himself very necessary for the well-being of the school. Indeed if he
had frankly spoken his mind, he would probably have admitted that in
his estimation the school could not be properly kept one day without
his assistance.

[Illustration: "WHAT!" SAID SQUIRE BEAN SUDDENLY.]

Patience stood with her back against the school fence, and watched
the others soberly. The girls wanted her to play "Little Sally Waters
sitting in the sun," but she said no, she didn't want to play.

Martha took hold of her arm and tried to pull her into the ring, but
she held back.

"What is the matter?" said Martha.

"Nothing," Patience said, but her face was full of trouble. There was
a little wrinkle between her reflective brown eyes, and she drew in
her under lip after a way she had when disturbed.

When the bell rang, the scholars filed in with the greatest order and
decorum. Even the most frisky boys did no more than roll their eyes
respectfully in the Squire's direction as they passed him, and they
tiptoed on their bare feet in the most cautious manner.

The Squire sat through the remaining exercises, until it was time to
close the school.