Page:Dave Porter at Oak Hall.djvu/223

Rh grow too obnoxious, in which case you had better report to me."

"Then you really and truly want me to stay?"

"Yes, if you like the school."

"I do, very much,—and I'll promise to study harder than ever, now that I know how matters stand," added Dave.

"You made quite a record at the football game with Rockville, I believe. I should imagine some of the boys would like you for that," and the master of Oak Hall smiled.

"They do, but some others are down on me—those who didn't get on the team."

"Well, you must expect that. It is the way of the world. The higher you get in life the more jealous people will pick you out, and do what they can to pull you down. The really successful man, or boy, rises above such meanness."

"I understand, and I shall try to act on your advice."

"Then that is settled, and you had better be going to supper. The bell rang several minutes ago. Say I excused you."

"Thank you, I will," answered Dave, and bowed himself out of the office. With a heart as light as air, he hurried down the long corridor and into the dining hall. All his dark troubles seemed to be things of the past.

When he entered the dining hall several gazed