they studied their lessons.

"Have you got your books under your coat, Herbert?" asked Madeline.

"No, I haven't my books," he said.

"Well, what have you?" asked Madeline. "You have _something_, for I can
see a lump. What is it?"

Before Herbert could answer, if he had wanted to, the bell rang and the
two children, and some others who were straggling along, had to run so
they would not be late. Then, for a time, Madeline forgot what it was
her brother was bringing to school under his coat.

Just before recess, his teacher, looking down toward Herbert, sitting
near Dick and Arnold, called out:

"What have you there, Herbert? What are you showing to the other boys
under your desk?"

"It--it's a Monkey!" answered Madeline's brother.

"A _monkey_!" exclaimed the teacher.

"Yes. It's my birthday Monkey," went on the little boy.

"Oh! A birthday monkey!" the teacher said again. "I think I had better
call the janitor and have him take care of your monkey for you," and
she started toward the door.