Page:The spirit of the leader (IA spiritofleader00heyl).pdf/35

 Perry had written his cabalistic sign to show that he cared naught for public opinion in his home room, yet— During the first period his thoughts were far removed from algebra; luckily, he was not called upon. With algebra out of the way came a study period, and he went back to Room 13. The place was silent save for the occasional scratch of a pen or rustle of a page. It bore every evidence of having something to do and being busily engaged with doing it.

Perry got his long body settled into a seat. Mr. Banning gave a seemingly absent glance and went back to some work he was doing. There was work awaiting Perry too; but with his chin cupped in a thin, bony hand he stared at the desk. Boys came in and took places around him, but he did not lift his eyes. Why had he written that fool thing? Praska's question could mean only that by that silly act he had weakened whatever chance he had had.

"Perry!"

He raised his head dully.

"Perry King."

Mr. Banning was calling. He roused himself and went up to the teacher's desk. He saw Littlefield's eyes leave a book and frowningly watch his journey. At that his own eyes became sullen. He had no doubt what the subject of