Page:Anthony John (IA anthonyjohn00jero).pdf/80

 seeing he was still groggy, propped him up against a tree.

"Never mind saying you're sorry," he suggested. "Leave me and my mother alone for the future, that's all I want." He held out his hand.

Young Mowbray had returned.

"Shake hands with him," he advised Penlove. "You were in the wrong. Show your pluck by acknowledging it."

Penlove shook hands. "Sorry," he said. "We have been beastly to you. Take my tip and don't stand any more of it."

The story of the fight got about. Penlove had to account for his changed appearance, and did so frankly. Genuine respect was the leading sentiment he now entertained towards Anthony.

It was shared by almost the entire third class, the only criticism directed against Anthony being for his selection of time and place. The fight ought to have been arranged for a Friday afternoon behind the pavilion, when all things might have been ordered according to ancient custom. That error could and must be rectified. Penlove's account of Anthony's prowess might have been exaggerated to excuse his own defeat. Norcop, a hefty youngster and the pride of the lower fourth, might have given a different account. Anthony, on his way home