better of it when you get cooled down."

All the stubborn resistance began to fade from the face of the wretched
lad. He realized that he had found his master. The mute misery and
helplessness in his eyes appealed more strongly to Frank's sympathies than
had his former unpleasant mood.

"See here, Bob," said Frank, sitting down beside his companion, "while
these articles are drying, better listen a bit to reason from a fellow who
wants to be your friend. Will you?"

Bob turned his face away, his laps puckering.

"Oh, leave me alone," he sobbed. "I've got no friends. I never had any. I
wish I could die and be out of everybody's way, that's what I wish."

"See here, Bob," said Frank, "that's downright wicked, if you mean it. I'd
like to know what's the matter with you? Can't you see any sunshine in
life?"

"Sunshine!" retorted Bob hotly. "Oh, yes, lots of it. Blazing, blistering
sunshine in the harvest fields, where those big, selfish louts my
stepfather told you about were loafing. Many a night I've crawled up to bed
so tired and sore I could hardly get there, to have those fellows torment
me or kick and cuff me because I wouldn't sneak down into the cellar and
steal cider or preserves for them. I tell you, my stepfather has treated me
wrong. I tell you, that heartless family of his had made my life so dark,
I'm just discouraged."

Bob Upton broke down and cried bitterly. Frank felt very sorry for him.