The Jester of St. Timothy's by Arthur Stanwood Pier
page 54 of 158 (34%)
page 54 of 158 (34%)
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seemed to him that he was publicly disgraced; there was a peculiar
ignominy in sitting at the head of a table and being unable to perform the simplest duty of host. Worst of all, in the encounter with Westby he had lost ground. The meat was brought on again, sliced in a manner which could not conceal the unskillfulness of the original attack. âStone cold!â exclaimed Blake, the first boy to test it. Irvingâs temper flew up. âDonât be childish,â he said. âAnd donât make any more comments about this matter. Itâs of no importanceâand cold roast beef is just as good for you as hot.â âIf not a great deal better,â added Westby with an urbanity that set every one snickering. After dinner Irving was again on duty for two hours in the dormitory, until the time for afternoon chapel. During part of this period the boys were expected to be in their rooms, preparing the Bible lesson which had to be recited after chapel to the rector. Irving made the rounds and saw that each boy was in his proper quarters, then went to his own room. For an hour he enjoyed quiet. Then the bell rang announcing that the study period was at an end. Instantly there was a commotion in the corridorsâlegitimate enough; but soon it centred in the north wing and grew more and more clamorous, more and more mirthful. With a sigh Irving went forth to quell it. He determined that whatever happened he would not this time lose his temper; he would try to be persuasive and yet firm. |
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