"He looked grave. Then he turned his head away. Then he sort of looked at
me as if he'd been a--a corker himself in the old boy days. He gave me a
mild lecture on controlling my temper. I told him he'd better have me tied
up or put Mace somewhere so I couldn't find him, or I was afraid I'd break
loose again."

"That was pretty strong, wasn't it, Bob?"

"I spoke my mind, and he knew it. Then he carried me right off my feet, and
I'd die for that bully old man any time. He just placed that gentle old
hand of his on my head and looked at me with his kind old eyes and said:
'Upton, we're going to be proud of you some day. I feel sure of that. My
little ones remember how bravely you risked your life to save them the
other day, and pray for you every night. Don't disappoint us, my boy. Young
Jordan is a good fellow, and I am sure he wouldn't encourage you to violate
our school discipline. Just simply forget the fellows who stir you up.
After a good many years' experience, I may say to you that in the long run
the bad ones sift out and the good ones come to the top. Make us proud of
you, Upton, and become proud of yourself by controlling your temper and
acting the gentleman.'"

"That was fine, and it's true," said Frank heartily. "Yes, Bob, we've got
to forget those fellows. You are a true-blue champion, but you've shown
your colors, so let it go at that."

"What, and have any of those fellows call you a thief?"

"Some day I shall prove my innocence," declared Frank firmly.

"You don't have to prove it--with your friends," flared up Bob. And just