Perhaps, as the first Socrates was said to have been the homeliest
of all the Athenians, it was fitting that the man who assumed his
name should also have the slightest possible claim to beauty.

"He may be a learned man," thought Hector, "but he is certainly
plain enough. It is well that he has something to compensate for his
looks."

"I hope you are glad to come here, my boy," said Socrates, affably.
"I sincerely trust that you will be contented at the institute."

"I hope so, too," said Hector, but he evidently spoke doubtfully.

"I should like a little conversation with you, Professor Smith,"
said Allan Roscoe. "I don't know that it is necessary to keep Hector
here during our interview."

Socrates took the hint.

He rang a hand bell, and a lank boy, of fifteen, appeared.

"Wilkius," said Mr. Smith, "this is a new scholar, Hector Roscoe.
Take him to the playground, and introduce him to Mr. Crabb."

"All right, sir. Come along."

This last was addressed to Hector, who went out with the new boy.

"I thought it best to speak with you briefly about Hector, Professor