Five Cent Wide Awake Library (vol. 2) (1896 02 14)
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Once he suggested the propriety of selecting the sea as the proper profession for him. * Our mercantile marine,” he yentured to say, “‘ of- fers splendid opportunities to spirited but wayward A severe frown from Mr. Lightheart silenced him. “No,” said the clergyman; “the lawlessness and profanity of those who go down'to the sea in ships is proverbial. Noson of mine shall be asailor. I intend Richard for the ministry. He shall be a clergyman like myself. Those escapades of his will wear off as he has more sense; and the wildness of youth will be fol- lowed by the refined wisdom of manhood.” Mr. Smiles hoped it might, but he did not say any- thing. PO a morning, in summer, Mr. Léghtheart said to the tor: “You have not taken the boys out lately, Mr. Smiles, to explain to them the beauties of nature; do so to-day. Iempower you to give them a halt holiday. Go to the cook; see what cold provisions she can supply. Pack a basket, and picnic in the open air under the shade of some spreading beech-tree, as Virgil has it. Botanize, sir; explain to their young minds the nature and pro- perties of trees and plants.” Mr. Smiles gladly agreed to the proposition, and the boys, no less pleased, set about making their prepara- tions. Nevertheless, there was an inward tremor about the heart of the tutor, for, as Dick had let him alone for a week or two, he thought it was about time for him to Play him some trick or other. After walking some distance, they selected a shady spot where they decided to dine. There was a hedge and an oak tree, beneath whose aged boughs they spread their cloth. Some cold lamb and a jar ot cider, a salad, cream cheese and bread were an excellent repast. “Observe this tree,” said Mr. Smiles, pointing up- wards. “Itis one of the noblest specimens of torest grandeur. Forcenturies it may have braved the storm, and_ grown min the sunshine. Our ships were made of oak, which is a wood of all the most durable. Let me apply history. King Charles Il, once hid in an oak, and thus his pursuers.” “Thank you, sir. Will you carve?” exclaimed Dick, who did not care much about this lecture on oak trees. “Iwill, gladly; and you, Richard, say grace. But stay ; where am I to sit?” - *“ Here, sir,’’ answered Dick, indicating a particular spot. — Mr. Smiles, his face overflowing with satisfaction and good nature, accepted the position. He was hungry. The prospects before him were inviting, Dick said grace, and Mr. Smiles began to carve, Suddenly the knife fell from his hand, and he uttered a sharp cry of pain. “Dear me! how unpleasant. A wasp!” he exclaimed. “ Did it sting you sir?” asked Dick, keeping some dis- tance off. “It did; and I declare here is another—and another ; the is alive with them ; and—I ani sitting upon a ie, or—dreadful thought !—are these wasps eath me?’ Scarcely had Mr, Smiles spoken;than he essayed to rise, but be had hardly struggled a foot above the ground when he was constr. to sink down again. His coat-tails were firmly fastened, by means of two split pieces of wood, to the ground. A perfect swarm of wasps now surrounded him, and began to him in various places. Help! help!” he cried, wildly, plunging about, and the air with his hands. He had sat down upon 8 wasps’ nest, and the savage little insects were resenting his intrusion upon their domain. When he partially arose, he liberated some of them, and they assisted in the attack. By a desperate effort he got free, and, rushing to a small trout stream which flowed at the bottom of the field, he plunged; his burning face and hands into the water. “ How odd that he should have sat on a wasps’ nest,” said Dick to his brothers. “I believe you knew all about it, and I'll tell of you when we get home,” replied Harold. “Sneak away,” retorted Dick; “and if you do, I'll give youa thrashing the next time I catch you out ~ Harold held his “ Let us move these th: LT object to wasps in con- nection with cold lamb and salad, and if Smiles has lost his appetite, there will be all the more for us to eat,’’ i oo ene ed ; g8 were q Yy removed to another t and spread under the shelter of a haystack which hed boon near the stream. considerab a ledge close to the under the bo’ of a Ama bine 7 ome He had been stung in six or pees HE different places. Dick took him some dinner and mug of cider anythin, to om. Sr 8, weap hal sig Bim inside his lip, whick Were sane be Oe ee thi “Tam sorry for . asps are nas' to meddle with. Shouldn’t do it again if I mora youset Fad ia Dick. “Go ; leave mé,” replied the tutor, who spok oul to the injury to his lip. . difficulty, o we meamed and foined his brothers, w refuse. } e % idand Arthur} Thus half an hour bausted the DICK LIGHTHEART. tended with unpleasant consequences. | “I wonder if Smiles would give us a little more bot- | any 2?” remarked Dick | “J think he’s gone tosleep,’? said Harold. “Do let was.” “What could he expect when he went and eat down on their nest? I don’t blame the wasps a bit. I say, if Smiles was suddenly startled which way would he jump ?” “Jump?” echoed Harold. “6 Yea.”? “ Why into the river, of course. It’s just before him. Why do you ask?” “Oh, nothing; never mind,” replied Dick, who dis- appeared behind the sycamore tree. self in helping his brothers to wash the plates in the stream and pack up. All at once Arthur exclaimed : “Look at that smoke. Is the rick on fire?” { “ Perhaps,” answered Dick, coolly. “I have heard of such a thing as spontaneous combustion in hot weather.” “ That's no reason why Mr. Smiles should be spontan- eously combusted, or whatevex you call it,” replied Harold. “He'll find it out presently,” said Dick, who was evidently enjoying what he considered the fun. Harold ran towards the rick, which was already smoking and burning in an alarming manner. s a. sir! look out. The rick’s on fire! Hi, hi!” he ed, Mr. Smiles had sought a passing relief from the stings of the wasps in sleep, but the noise made by Harold effectually aroused him. Looking behind him, he saw fire and smoke; before him was the shining stream. His determination was taken in a moment. _ With a terrified cry, he leaped into the water and sank like a stone. When he came to the surface, being a good swimmer, he struck out and reached the shore without difficulty, landing, dripping with water, and presenting a pitiable spectacle. Meanwhile, Dick, who had only set fire to some loose hay which he found lying about, proceeded to beat out the flames with a pole, and by dint of dragging the burning mass, by many a poke and shove, away from the rick, he soon extinguished it. 7 The most amiable of men would have lost his temper under these repeated annoyances. Mr. Smiles was not naturally irritable, but he rushed upon Dick, and pulled his ear. \ “ That's one pull for the wasps, and another for the fire,” he sxclaimed, at each tug. “I'll your father you bad boy, and have you sent to sea.” “Shall you go too ?” asked Dick, wriggling himself away, and standing out of reach. “No; you will be entirely amongst strangers.” “ Oh, I don’t caré so long as you are not one of the party,”’ answered Dick, adding, “ Good-bye.”* “ Where are you going to?” cried Mr. Smiles. “T’ye had my dinuer, and I'm going home. Besides, Tshould not like to be seen with you in your present state. “ You young rascal !” shouted Mr. Smiles. “Who is carry the heavy basket and the cider bottle ?”” “You must doit between you. Idid myshare in coming, and would not have ‘ked it back if you'd been civil, and not pulled my ears. you want to make them as longas your own.” y Mr. Smiles was speechless with indignation. Leaving the tutor and his brothers together to get home with the remains of the © as well as they could, Dick walked slowly along the bank of the stream, wishing that he had a line with him to tempt the speckled trout hesaw leaping after the flies, and splash- ing in the sparkling water. fie had not gone more than half a mile, before he came uppn an elaerly gentleman, fast asleep under a tree. His line was tm the water, his rod rested upon a forked stick stuck in the ground. He had evidently fallen asleep while fishing. “The governor, by Jove!” exclaimed Dick, recog- nizing his father, who frequently stole an hour or two from his parochial duties to go and fish in the stream. A can to put fish in, which cuntained two small perch, was near the rod. “Ti have a lark with the governor now,” said Dick, as he seized it. Pulling up the line, he tied the can firmly to the hook, casting it into the stream again, when it in- stantly sank. He then threw a stone at his father’s gouty toes, which woke the old gentleman up. Rubb' bis eyes, he looked around him. “Been to sleep,” he murmured. “Heat of the sun, Isuppose. What woke me? St pain in my right foot. > Isuppose. Hullo! float under. Got a bite—big fish, I shouldimagine. Very careless to go to sleep—very.” : Getting on his feet, he seized his rod and began to haul in the line, which he aid difficulty, owing to the weight at the end of it. © me; heavy fish,” he said. ‘Wonder what itis. Something must have bolted the bait. It pulls like a twenty-pound Gently ; musn't the line. I'll play him abit. Gently, gently.” ce ora Bal aoe Bg Sig down the aereg ttom just as if afish was running away Then the old gentleman hauled in again, and again he played nis fish, thinking he was acting with passed, and he fancied he had ex of his large capture, ¢ ‘ They knew that a refusal on their part might be at- | | him alone Dick. It must be so bad to be stung as he | | exclaim | fully selected his sermon, which was printed and bound In a few moments he was back agai, busying him- | With s effort he pulled the can on the bank, and looked eagerly at it. A groan burst from him, by a naughty exclamation. But he checked that, “Some one has played me a trick while I slept !" he ed. “1 wish | knew who it was.” Dick, who had watched this with much amusement, could restrain his mirth no longer, and burstinto a loud roar of laughter. But he made off without being seen, although his father felt sure he recognized his voice, and put down his disappointment as usual to Master Dick. These pranks were usually followed by a long lec- ture, for which the culprit cared very little. The next day being Sunday, Mr. Lightheart had care- in a little book, The text was taken from the Old Testament, and had reference to the sons of Anak, the argument being that if there were men in those days who were bodily gigan- tic, in the present age we outdid them in our mental attainments. Seeing the sermon on his father’s library table, Dick looked at it, and tearing out the front page, substituted for ita e of the history of Jack the Giant Killer. The trick was not discovered, and the unsuspectin; parson got into the pulpit, gave out the text with grea’ sole: ty, and proceeded : “In the early days of the history of this island, there were many great and grim giants, who caused much to the people, and it was a great consolation to all when a deliverer arose in Cornwall who, from his prowess, was known as Jack the Giant KMler.” “Eh——what! What is this!” stammered the un- happy clergyman. ‘I fear,my friends, I have made & mistake.” 1 Here he turned over a few leaves of the sermon. All was hopeless confusion. “ Yes,” he continued ; “there will be no sermon this ee “and he proceeded to dismiss the congrega- It soon got known that Master Dick had been at his tricks again, and many agood laugh was indulged in by the at the rector’s expense. Mr. or ce eart, however, was not to be pacified. © He had been made to look supremely ridiculous in the pulpit. Y On Monday morning he said to his wife : ” I am going to walk over to Thorpe Hamlet, my Deacon, of the school. It’s only a two walk, and Dick could go there whey snorsing.” Yet, z “That I disapproved of schools. gt: ap such a boy Mr. Se ee ae aus ee ducking, and his face not fit to be seen through wasp stings, and I the laug -stock of the whole parish. The boys call me Jack the Giant Killerin the streets. It’s a name that will stick to me all my life. I know they'll call me the Giant Killeror Old Jack, or something of that sort tothe day of my death.” “Very well, dear. Goand see what you can do, I think I'd let him go a voyage; that might tame him,” il don’t like the ees, Gail desperate! “I don’t 6 sea. ors are wick: CO Swat tag ort cies mal So Mr. Lig! over to T! see Mr, Deacon. bt mile CHAPTER II, FURTHER VEXATIONS. Drow had wished to pay off an old score he against Miss n, his sister’s governess, wane one occasion, had detected him in the midst of one of his misdeeds, and straightway informed t him. He disliked her, too, for the severe way in which she punished his favorite sister, Emily, keeping her in time after time, and making her learn more ; in a month than she would ever have use for ina time. Getting hold of Emily, he said : \ “I want you to imitate Miss Bodmin’s handwriting, and write a letter to Mr. Smiles, asking him to meet her under the cedar tree on the lawn at dusk this evening. Say she has worked hard, and saved upsome money, and Smiles might do worse than listen to the voice of affection. If you write this, Emmy, I'll imi- tate Smiles’s hand, entreat her to bg ey pointment, and when they're together, I tad hi mamma. It will be such fun, and they dook such fools.” Capital!’ exclaimed Emily. “Perhspa she'll have to leave.” “How I should be to get rid of old Bodmin,'’ eld Dei “1th waite the note. Wou go and write yours, and come to me in half an hour.” “Mr. Smiles received a letter, which took him = mu but he resolved to keep the siderably by at for, and see how much * Miss Bodmin, on her was ravished with : at being asked to meet. Guiles, who declared hee he could no longer remain silent. If he did not give utterance to the promptings of love, his o cones figures stole at on thi At ° out on the lawn, disap. peared in the w of the cedar tree. nm which was nearly Pllowed © . +-Wgy
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2 - ire * ee serio sb - : a as my bootlaces before he went,” observed Mr. ie orf. nes 7 cy rae . ~The retired to his study fn a passion, and gave way fo mont uocbristan ike elective Me Miss Bodmin,” exclaimed Mr. Smiles, ““ how can I thank you for this proof of your esteem?” “Ts it ible,” she murmured, softly, “that wezcan have lived so long in the same house without suspect- ing that we were dear to each other?” “ Ah, I have worked, but I have not saved,” said the practical Smiles. “Nor L My slender stipend has gone to support an aged mother,” answered Bodmin. z Whtia be money !” cried the astonished and mer- tutor. . “Not a farthing; but I can work.” “This is a misrepresentation; but no matter, I am warned in time,” coutinued Mr. Smiles. “ What is lucre to hearts that love? Oh, that letter @f yours! I shall wear it ever next to my heart.” \ Mrs. Lightheart rushed forward. “I can bear no morse of this,” she cried. simpletons !"’ adding : “Miss Bo . 1 am ashamed of you ; at your age re ought to know better. And as for you, Mr. Smiles, can only say that this clandestine love-making is not in any way creditable to you.” “She wrote to me, ma’am,” said Smiles, “Tt’s false! He wrote to me,” said Miss Bodmin. “‘T have her letter.” “T have his.” “You need not quarrel overthe matter, Goto the house, if you please. I willspeak to you, Miss Bodmin, in your own room,” said Mrs. Lightheart. This ordered, they went away, and it was not forsome a that it was, discovered how they had. been oaxed. When all was explained, they had a hearty laugh, and Dick, as usual, came in for the abuse ofall parties. “That evening the governess retired to rest early, to indulge in a good silent cry, as the best means of giving yent to her vexation. “The two fire. ‘Uttering a series of surieks, she fell forward insensi- ble. —~ Her fall caused the apparition to tumble over, : It was a long pole enveloped ina sheet, with a hol- low turnip for a head, in which burnt a piece of candle. ‘The latter fell against the valence of the bed, which quickly took fire. : Fortunately her cries alarmed those below. The Rev. timus Lightheart, followed by Mr. rushed the room just in time to prevent a 5 mbm ager The water- and a blanket were brought into use, before it could do much mis- * ‘ " goodness we arrived upon the spot,” said Mr, ea. _ ‘It's that dreadful boy again. He'll do something desperate some of these fine days,’’ said Mrs, Lightheart, who busied herself in attending to the inanimate gov- erness. “He shall go away,” said Mr. Lightheart ; “and this night I will see what virtue there isin a sound “No,” cried his wife ; “ we have always been opposed to corporal punishment. Try moral saasion.’” “T have tried it,” answered the parson, in a rage, “and what good has it done ?”" = over it, dear. You should never correct a child w in a passion.” Mr. Lightheart said nothing, but went into the room in which the boy slept. Dick had just crept into bed, after enjoying the fruit of his 1 joke, and pretended to be fast asleep. Ae! ae his father, shaking him by the arm, “ temblek but fil ant h m th t not move, whereupo: 8 wn the clothes, and holding the boy a castigation which lustily as a bull. ieotior was in the room, and her buaband’s hand. do it,” she exclaimed, “This vio- hurt,” answered Mrs, Lightheart, the week,” ot, “a tS him is good ie, indulgence.” of the accand Bodmin, vindictive + One does not now go aboutin fear and trem- a t TE: SO OS SEED “Tam inclined to believe that school is a good place for some boys, but not for all,” said the parson. a. that moment the door opened. and in marched “ Hullo !” cried his father. x “You here, Richard ?"’ said his mother. i. “Bless my heart !’’ exclaimed Mr. Smiles and Miss Bodmin, in chorus. “Good-evening. Glad the supper hasn't been cleared away, beeause I’m hungry,” said Dick, sitting down and preparing to help himself to some cold beef. His sisters looked frightened, and his brothers grinnec, Dick bad told them ha didn’t. mean to stop long at the Deacon’s. “Tt you have run away from your school, sir, you have made a mistake,”’ exclaimed Mr. Lightheart ; “I will take you back again, and have you publicly pun- ished, and made an example of.” “I didn't run away,” answered Dick. “What then, sir? Why are you here?” “Because they wouldn't have me any longer,’’ re- plied Dick, with his mouth full of bread and beef. “You have been expelled, then ?” “T believe that’s w they call it,” said Dick, coolly. “What did you do?” demanded his father. “ Nothing much.” “Tell me.” “ Oh, I daresay you wil Dear all about it in the morn- - i, ) ing,” Dick replied. “I wish to know.” “i'm too tired to talk to-night; besides, no Man is bound to criminate himself.” Neither threats or persuasions could induce Dick to tell his family anything that night. p So he was allowed to have supper, and join in family prayers, after which he went to bed as usual with his brothers. Loud laughter was heard in the dormitory for some time afterwards, and it was supposed that Dick was en- tertaining Harold and Arthur with an account of his adventures. The Reverend Septimus Lightheart, however, did not feel at all inclined to laugh. He lay awake the best part of the night, wondering what his son’s future would be, and having a presenti- ment that he would give him a great deal of trouble be- tore he was much older. CHAPTER III. A SHORT STAY, In his strong advocacy of home rule and home disci- pline, Mr. Lightheart had forgotten that boys are too much with grown-up persons. They become little men almost before they are boys, and this makes them self-opinionated, conceited and willful. He began to see that he had made a mistake, and | wished he knew how to remedy it. It was not long before he heard from Mr. Deacon’s own lips why Dick’s stay had been so short at Thorpe Hamlet School. : From the first moméut of his arrival Dick had exer- cised his ingmwity 50 discover in what way he could his dislike to the new control under which he was placed. The master’s desk was placed at a height of about four feet above the level of the school-room floor, and irene be ae . like a throne. ile playing about in the room, Dick found a loose mee and pul it up, saw that the ground beneath floor was nearly three feet deep, it having been ex- cavated so far to prevent damp. He knew that . Deacon ascended his desk every morning at ten o’clock, and, standing upin a particular | t place, read prayers. ° At once he mansakie, the idea of loosening the su ports of the platform on which the master x such a way that he should easly sink, and fall into the hole which he knew to be underneath. Accordingly, he got up in the night, went to the school-room with a lighted candle, a hamnfer, and a saw, and in an hour or two had cut away the boards, and arranged them in such & manner that he felt con- — of the success of his scheme. ® did not t anything. ‘ He ascended to his as usual, smiling blandly upon his papils. . e usher advanced, and handed him an open Bible, according to custom. Mr. Deacon took up his usual position in front of his desk. Suddenly he to disappear. He ee ncaa and smaller. With frantic efforts he clutched at his desk; but its surface was treacherous and slippery, and it afford- ed 4 ey eee rt. “ Hel * he a as pan ie, where aro you going?” asked the usher,in a tone of mild remonstrance, Presently Mr. Deacon vanished from the scene alto- her. ‘ oerhe usher ascended the steps, and peeped cautiously into the hole. hia prinstpal ted yen Saevines’ we sea! eoohees weet oe to eave thet when the , Fecovering his presence of mind, said : “Sit where you sre, Don’t dare, one. of you, to move. Then he leaned over the hole and said: ‘Below there sir. ; Z é an ail inquired Mr, Deacon, in foc ciMyiit> Whst can I have the pleasure of, doing acaspeensoma ens . ‘ ara at posely cut, or they would never have given way. Tam portly, Mr. Jinks, and I fell heavily. Te: with their points upwards and firmly imbed hard earth, are not nice things to fall on, Mr. Jinks."? “ Decidedly not, sir,’ answered the usher. “Can you get a ladder?’’ inquired the hollow voice, like onerisen from the dead and speaking from the tomb. : “ A pair of steps can be easily procured.” “Procure them, then, if you please. I am anxions to be liberated from this thraldom.” Mr. Jinks went after a pair of steps, and in s short time Mr. Deacon was enabled to emerge from the dreary vault into which he had been precipitated ia such an extraordinary and unexpected manner. He was very dusty and hot, and looked flurried when he again made his appearance upon what remained sound of the dais. A fiauice sufficed to show that a hole had been re- cently and designedly cut in the on iy Occasionally he put one hand behind , as if he was conscious of a painful sensation. ‘ “ Boys,” he exclaimed, “ one of you has been guilty of the commission of a diabolical outrage upon my per- son. I, your preceptor, am the victim of an infamous feecen one It isa mercy, a providental merey. that I did not break my limbs or dislocate my neck. i have had a uarrow escape, but that is no reason why I should feel inclined to be merciful to the culprit. Now I appeal to this individual to ors himself a order to save the remainder of you boys from _ con un- ishment, for—mark me well—if I don’t find ont the offender, I will severely punish every boy in the school. Do you understand me ?’’ The schoolmaster paused and looked around him. The boys whispered one to another, and seemed much puzzled, “ A boy who is wicked enongh to invent such a pit- fall as that into which I have unhappily fallen is, I am convinced, too much of a coward to own his misdeed ” Mr. Deacon continued. At this Dick Lightheart rose up in his place. Every eye was fixed on him. “ I never was afraid to own my share in anything,” he exclaimed, ‘and I fully admit that I did what you are complaining of.” at pe ns gr yo !” exclaimed Mr. Deacon. “T, sir.’ . “ Alone?” “ Quite/alone.” “You have no accomplice ?” “ None whatever,” Dick. “ This takes me by 8 . Ife expel yon as an example to th s nothing hastily. Mr. Jinks, you will be to conduct the business of the school morning without me. Tam too much shaken to do an myself. I must retire tomy study, and consult a phy- sician. Before nightfall I will deliver my decision with regard to this misguided-and vicious boy.” max ith this speech he withdrew, and was to his own reflections. 2s Mr. Deacon did not make his ap: again until the evening, when Dick was told it in the morning he would be ignominiously expelled with all the dis- grace attendant upon the solemn ceremony of expul- sion. But Dick did not see why he should wait for that; and finding the door unlocked, quietly walked out, and appeared at the rec’ , as we have For some days his r preached to him, mother talked to and entreated him, while Mr. Smiles and Miss Bodmin told him stories of crimi- nals who all had been bad boys. The end ofit was that Mr, Lightheart went to Brigh- on There he had an interview with Professor Simcox, of Harrow House, Kemp Town. : The gentleman had established a school on princi- Pia belgeod a conpord punishment mongot vi corp: . pun ent otber things, and did not put faith in expulsion. 7 ‘| will make something of this scapegrace of y Mr. Lightheart,”’ he e ed; “and I shall be glad of the opportunity of testing my principles and method upon an unruly subject; but you must leave and runs away, you must send All which Mr. Lightheart promised todo. Qa kis setoee tothe rectory, the to his ‘* My dear, get Dick's box ready. I flatter myseli I hans Sent aechoe whieh ee for him, thongn S ve sacrifice which have hi orto trained hia. A! th ¥ “When does he go?” asked Mrs. Lightheart, ackn: edging to herself that it was im home. ‘When nuke at night, Mrs. was as . into the room, and Kiesed him tenderly, upon his face, 2 : . “ , 1 will pray that meet with as much kindness among stranger as you bave fa Our : r) The announcement being made to Dick, he and did not seem in the least alarmed at tha peepee
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DICK LIGHTHEART. ems ay a the art of telling a boy’s the bumps on his head, perhaps he may be called.a professor of phrenology. Once his usher, Mr. Snarley, hit a boy on the head with a ruler. ; Mr. Simcox passed by and said, ‘Come here, boy. It Seems to me that you havea new bump of unusual developement,” and retired disgusted when he found § was the result of the ruler and not of nature. My. oes was - yo man ; short, stout and fussy, appearing always anger of apoplexy. He had a great idea of his own importance, and was qtoud of his position of schoolmaster. In early life he married. his cook,an amiable but vulgas woman, who did not appreciate the letter H at #4 full value. Her knowledge, however, of what ought to be done in the kitchen was of great use to the boys, who had to thank her for many a savory dish, and through her care and management they had plenty of good substantial food. Mr. Simcox employed a master to come in and teach Latin and Greek twice a week. He confined his efforts to preserving discipline and teaching English, while Mr. Snarley, the usher, atten- ded to mathematics and managed the school generally; ar. study and recreation. A tall, thin, spiteful-looking man was Mr. Snarley. The boys dreaded as much as they hated him, for & more persistent tyrant never lived. When Dick arrived, he found thirty boys inmates of the school at Kemp Town. They all seemed cowed and crushed, wanting life and energy, which was one of the admirable results of Mr. Simcox’s discipline. : “I shall havo to wake them up a little,” Dick thought. was only 2 few boys bigger than himself, and 4s he was naturally quick and had been well taught at home, he was put in the second class, the head ot which was named Messiter. After reading a lesson, the boys in each class were asked questions bearing upon it, and those who answered correctly were passed up over those who failed to do so. On, the second day of his stay at the school, Dick took the third place, only haying Messiter and Fowler above him, Mr. Simcox had been into his private room in the evening of the second day, and said, “Sit down, Light- heart. Since your father left you here yesterday, I have heard a good es ood of you. Thatisright. You or retrieve your character during the time you are th’ me.’’ Y “I did not Know that I had lost it, sir,” said Dick. “Ah, well. We will not go into bygones. What you did before you came here does not concern me, ——— 1 know more about you than you think I do, possibly. Remember that I am not to be trifled with, Go on as you have commenced, and you will return home at Christmas laden with prizes, bearing with you the commendation of your pastors and masters, as well as the esteem of your companions. Take this piece of cake and go and have your supper.” Dick thanked him and returned to the school-room, where the boys were preparing their lessons for the ee Well” “Well,” said Messiter, “‘ what did he say ?”” “Buttered me awfully,” answered Dick, with his Mouth full of cake. Mr. Snarley, who was reading a novel borrowed from a circulating library, and had just become much inter- ested in the details ofa double suicide, looked up. “No talking there,” he exclaimed. “Say it was Smiff,”” whispered Messiter. Smik was the nickname of a half silly boy, whose veal name was Smith. tain dee gee impediment in his speech he called Smiff, and if a scapegoat was wanted for any- ipine- the boys always declared that Smiff had done In ee a to the school what the cat is to a use. , Sir, it was Smiff,” exclaimed Dick. - Mr. Snarl t down his book, and com’ to Dick, said, with a decy frown: x Splie: “ Why do you tell me such a falsehood!” Dick grew red in the face, and did not know what to Mr. 8: hisquestion. == + “Tonly aiait fun, sir,” Dick said. “Then that will teach you not to ind in such doubtful fan !? exclaimed Mr. Snarley, \ him s son theear, whichhone o the form on he had been sitting on to the floor. Smale i pee he parting » ‘but when he re- lently on the shins, 7 <a sg geht The to that cowardly ean o oie ne aden 4 . : ever been struck in eee Why,” pada a a Ar hae a seg such a 3 P sald Mr. Snarley, while the tears eyes, “ he has kicked me in a sore on the beach the other oe Hold him tight, you boys in the for me!" toa amongst the boysat Harrow came into ut Tal pay first fora, the discipline six in the first form got up directly, and held him down on the ground in spite of ee elas lost ea tte bu going do anaes rie nee renee a yellow color. mR Tyme Professor Simcox approved of its use, and the boys knew what was coming the moment they saw Mr. Snar- ley go to his desk. In a very short while Dick was helplessly clothed in this thing, which rendered him perfectly powerless, as he could not use his hands. “You'll lick me again, will you?” asked the usher, boxing first one ear and then the other. Dick was no sooner made by the blows to sway on one side than he was knocked up again on the other. “I think you're a great cow: ” he gasped. “Silence, sir, and beg my pardon!” exclaimed Mr, Snarley. Much against his will, Dick was obliged to do so, when he was seated on a chair in the corner with his face to the wall, remaining there till supper time, when he was turned around to see the other boys eat, though allowed none himself. He was glad when he got into his bed-room, for this sort of thing was so different to anything he had been accustomed to that he felt low and wretched. Mr. Simcox was obliged to make up beds in the dif- ferent rooms as best he could, and all the large rooms being occupied, he had put Dick in a double-bedded room on the ground floor with Messiter. They were by themselves, and after Mr. Snarley had — candles put out, they did not fear any inter- ruption. To occupy the same bed-room together is always enough to make two boys friends. It was very nearly the only chance of unrestrained conversation they had. a I don’t like this place,” said Dick, when they were one. io wg you say,” observed Messiter. “ y ” “ Because Snarley has a way of listening.” “ At the keyhole 1” . “Yes, You don’t know who is a spy and who isnt ere.” 4 “What must one do, then? Mayn’t we talk?” “It is safer to do so in whispers.” “T’ll tell you what. I should rum away if I wasn’t aoe of being sent back,” continued Dick, in @ lower one. “You'll get used to it in time. I thought as you dofonce, but I’ve got sly,” replied Messiter. “The way in which we're treated would make anyone M sly. One can’t even get out.”’ “Yes, you can.” - Hi w ” “I found out the dodge,” said Messiter. “Write home and ask permission to learn gymnastics, and to use the swimming-bath at Brill’s.” “Do you?” “Yes; twice a week I go to Mohammed's at — Square, and three times a week Brill’s.” “ Do all the fellows do it?’ “No. Only about a dozen, and as Snarley can’t leave the school, we go together. If we are at our time, itis all right. e do have aspreesometimes; we can go into the shops and buy what we like. It’s— mnasium © bathe at what shall I say ?—a gleam of sunshine in a coalhole.” | pal “T'll write to-morrow. Thank you for the hint.” “Tt’s no use reine cockey here,”’ Messiter went on. “ The professor prides himself upon our obedience. Be sly, and you'll get on.” overhear the observation. -‘* I shall go with you. Boys ought not to be left to themselves.”? . Much to Dick’s annoyance, Mr. Snarley went with them to Brill's and stood on tne side while the boys were bathing. Dick played about in the water for some time, and’ sud y began to splash and kick. . He covered Mr, Snarley with water, and making 3 —— at his legs, succeeded in pulling him into the th. . The unfortunate usher fell in head first, and was nearly half a minute before he came up, spluttering” and half suffocated. His hat floated.gayly on the surface until a boy car- ried it under and tore it to pieces. ee vite “You young rascal !”’ cried Mr. Snarley, whose voice was drowned in the roar of laughter that came from all sides of the bath. ~a m He presented a most ludicrous appearance as hestood | dripping like a waterfall, and shaking his fist at Dick, “| don’t know what came over me, sir. I thought I was drowning,” said Dick. “I'll drown you, you vagabond!” exclaimed: the usher. “I'm the son of a gentleman.” answered Dick, “and” I'll write home to my father if you call me names.” “Very well, my young gentleman, it will be my turn next.’’ “ Hadn’t you better go home, sir! You might catch cold,” said Dick. Mr. Snarley shook with rage. Aw “I'm well now, sir, don’t stop on my ac- count. It was only a 2 ga: fit, or something of that sort. Have a cab, sir?” . All this time Dick kept at a respectable distance from the usher, who would certainly have beaten him had he been able to reach him. : Presently he left the swimming-bath to go home and change his clothes. The boys crowded around Dick and applauded him for what he had done, ‘ : “Tcouldn’t help it. He looked so tempting,” said Dick. “ He'll never forgive you for it, or for chaffing him,” exclaimed Fowler. **I vote we all have fits like Lightheart ; and he won’t be so fond of coming with us wherever we go,” said essiter. “T'll haye him again before long,” remarked Dick, nietly. . As they walked home they egen a shop where birds and other live stock were sol x “ Hold hard,” said Dick, to Messiter. “I’m going to Peers tate the chop at about minute, e wen @ shop and was gone ; a nalfnen he Tooined ‘Messiter, his bat saa ou! 8 et. ; “ What have you got?” asked Messiter. , “Wait a bit and you'll see. It’s eee Snar- ley,” answered Dick, with a twinkle Mm his eyes. There was an rane pebinsen re dinner, and Dick took his ace med 5 Mr. Snarley ve ine ‘his clothes, and looked yery 2. : i Dick cracked a nut. : “ Will you have some?” he exclaimed, addressing his nearest classmate. ; . Snarley heard the crack, and advanced at the “Yes. That's all very well; but Ihave always been | double. taught to be straight-forward and open,” replied Dick. ‘Won't do. It’sa mistake. Pretend to be good and quiet.” A “T'll make that beast Snarley sorry for what he did to-night before long,” said Dick, rather vindic: tively. Mr. Snarley pretended to be fond of Dick after this affair, and let him off with little punishments occa- | hands sionally; but Dick was not easily deceived. Messiter w! red to him : big look out for squalls, now Snarley’s shamming kind.” ag up,” answered Dick, with a significant smile. “You needn’t teach your grandmother to suck eggs. He won't get a rise out of me.” The usher tried his hardest to be kind. Taking Dick out for a walk with him, he led him into a pastry cook's, and pointing to the counter, which was ri sie with all sorts of delicious jam and pastry pre- parations, said; “ Have what you like, Lightheart.” “Thank you, sir,” lied Dick. In a tew minutes, he eaten about ten twopenny raspberry and cream tartlets. “*You see I am not such a bad fellow, Lightheart,” continued the usher. “It is only my position that appear harsh.” 4 ,”” answered Dick, with mouth full. “Boys must be keptin order. It wonld not do to let them return to their parents like young savages, would it?” “ No, sir.” Dick now began his fifth cheese-cake. “But come, , let us return home.” “There’s two and six to pay,,sir,” healed te the part of J the part of Judas I shopkeeper. Mr. Snarley paid ft, not without @ groan, murmur- | a “ Who's eating in school ?” said he. Fite dea andprened ~ It's you, Lightheart. You're eating nuts,” contin- ued the usber, with the air of a man who says to him- self, “ Now I’ve got him.” “No, sir; I’m not,” replied Dick. “ — * It was only one nut, sir, and that’s not nuts,” Dick exclaimed, 5 ; distended with something. Em it this t. shall report you to Mr. 7 se say “ What for?” i] ~ ‘ dare you say so, when I see shells in your “ You'll see what for. Empty your pocket.” —" “Td rather not, sir.”” “ ie to titter, t those who were should be noticed. 12 wake them up, as he said he. “Do ag I tell you,” exclaimed Mr. Snarley. “You may, sir, if you like.” Mt You've done, sis tp hogs oad tkep analy. A 3 ; could not deny t himself that he : ! jaim: . it did not bite, sir,” said e wr roDg. a ep was the ‘ x like to put’a pet se ay tan Eo was i
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ve “Very well; we shall see, What animal is it?’ he “O “Only a ferrit, sir.’* “A ferrit !” * There are rats in my be-droom. the door near the keyhole the other was here seized I raw gi outside Coughing that some one had to slap him on the back to Wrevent him from ch e “Go out into the yard and put the creature in some Qlace of safety,” exclaimed Mr. Snarley. Dick dapertat, and the usher, binding some plaster sround his injured finger, went on with the morning’s work. In the e Mr. Snarley often enjoyed the luxury of a cigar with the professor. During these hours of idleness they compared notes, and talked over the business of the school. “Iwish,” the usher said, “that we could do some- ates check the mischievous propensities of that mew boy, Lightheart.”” “‘ What has he done?” asked the professor. Mr, Snarley told him, concluding “ He tried to drown me at Brill’s, and I have a strong suspicion that he bought that ferret to bite me.” “* For neither of which things can I justly punish “TI don’t say you can, sir; but it is hard forme to have to put up with it.” “So it is. You'll catch him tripping before long, and I will cane him within an inch of his life. I had his character from his father,” said Mr. Simcox. “Some boys don’t care for caning,” remarked Mr. be aon aoey Gaston’. they don’t; but in my opinion the effecta of a caning are more lasting than those of the birch. A goes couing must make iteelf Sit toe days afterwards, and if it does not affect him, we will him in our black hole on bread and water for twenty- four hours. We've tamed a few unruly spirits by that means, s “Yes, sir, we have, and that will be the thing fur this Lightheart.” All at once a shower of sparks came into the room + nl the keyhole, amidst a great fizzing and smoke. “Good heayen! what's that?’ cried Mr. Simcox. “Some one’s stuck a lighted squib in the keyhole,” @nswered Mr. Snarley, darting out. At the end of the passage he heard a In a moment he was len’ seuffling. ding his valuable aid to Mrs. Siecox, who had hold of a boy in his night-shirt, “ Who is it, ma’am ?” cried Mr. Snarley. “I don't know. The young Turk knocked thecandle out of my hand, but I collared ‘old of him, thinking he was up to some mischief.” * Quite —_— ma’am. Itislucky you were coming this Ly 8 ve him = ner usher grip of the lad tigh and - wniee to the. Rent. wr —_ “Don't scuff him too ’ard,”* said Mrs. Simcox. “ Never fear, nis’am.”* He took him to the study, followed b¥ Mrs. Simcox. “Have you got him?" asked the professor. “That's right; let’s have a look at him. Who is rr Mr. Snarley flung the boy's face around full to the t. “ Lightheart,” exclaimed Mr. Simcox. It was Dick, who was caught at Jast. CHAPTER V. CAUGHT AT LAST. * So, sir, it is you, is it?" exclaimed Mr. Simcorx, 're- Dick with a stern look, not unmixed with with pleasure, He would rather that Dick should bave been captured it? Hif ld been should ‘ave said that Light- *adin't gotit in ‘im.” “ Not got it in him !” rep the professor, indig- nantly. “Why, he’s the imp of mischief It's his character. We had it with him from his own father. ~-* gnbaes ones, and was sent here be tam: , “I’m sure I don’t like to see a boy beat,” replied Mrs. Simeox. “But hif that’s ‘is 4 and such his ‘is wicked nature, why, I must be one ofthe first to say, ‘im all ‘e deserves. Fancy B gw fireworks ih thekeyhole! Himp’s just word for ‘im. I'd himp ‘im.” note LF” enbawen thé Serene tn en oram 1?” exc pr » who did not like his wite’s interference. “Hoh !" cried Mrs. Simcox, who was rier ae | mt Rag to “ave my nose snapped hoff in way, 'd better go.” ‘Go, madam, at your pleasure,” atiswered the pro- Mrs. Simcox sank into s chair and put her feet firmly the floor, as if she meant to intimate that she had taken root, nothing but brute force should move the professor he tn peel an with such a violent fit of : ; DICK - LIGHTHEARTP. nly asquib! Do you know that people have had eyes put out with squibs?” “Indeed, sir !’’ said Dick, as if he was highly inter- ested in this important fact. “My wife, with the rashness of her sex, has urged me to punish you, and you deserve punishment.” “ Yes, sir,’ replied Dick, trembling in his shirt. \ “Tam glad to see you penitent. Where there is shame there may be reformation. You may have heard thatI am severe, but I know how to temper justice with mercy. It depends upon yourself entirely whether you become acquainted withthe means i have at my for conquering bad boys. At present you shall | disposal | notsay that I have erred on the side of severity. This | is your first fault.” “ Not exactly, sir,” said Mr. Snarley, who saw she of- fender slipping from his grasp aght as much,” remarked Mr. Snarley, whose | ow “Do not interrupt me, if you please, Mr. Snarley. I believe I am master here.” The professor looked around with the air of a king. No one contradicted him, “Very well,” he continued. “I say it is the first fault ofthis ef which has come directly under my notice, and I shall Jet him off with a warning.” 2 groan ofintense disappointment broke from the usher. “Did you speak ?’’ asked the professor. * No, sir,” answered Mr. Snarley. “Very good. Lightheart, you will return to your dormitory, and thank your lucky stars that you escaped a deserved caning; another time you will not spoke with the peculiar intonation of the sons of Israel When then came up to him, Dick said : | “say, our tutor wants some jam tarts: He's taken | rather bad, and you’re to go to him with sixpenn’orth. | Leave your tin here.” “Yes, mayoung shentleman,’ answered Levey Rum- covey ; “ yes, ma goot poy, but who ish to mind it?” “I will. You know me,” answered Dick. “Vell, I don’t like to Keep a shentleman a-waitin’ and I don’t see vat harm you can do, ma poy, as I lock up my little tin of cakesh. So I vill goto your usher, and take sixpenn’orth wid me.” Accordingly wormesngne took out some tarts and locked up his tin case, which he placed on the ground. Dick pointed out a part of the field in which he knew Mr. Snarley was lying down, and the Jew set off at arun. “I think I have gota key that will open that lock,” said Dick. “Have you?” exclaimed Messiter, delighted. “Now then for a lark.” Dick took out a small bunch of keys which he hap- pened to have in his pocket, and tried the lock. oo one or two attempts the key turned in the 1 ‘*Hurrah !”” he said. ‘Does it fit?” asked Messiter. “ Beautifully.” The door came open. «“ “I say you area fellow,” cried Messiter, lost in ad- find me so merciful, Let this bea warning to you. No | mira’ more pranks in this house, or you'll it.” He released his hold of Dick’s ear, and that young gen ran away seogersioting himself upon the “ close shave ” he had had. Messiter had been waiting for his return in the greatest anxiety. “Did they nail you ?” he asked, “Yes. But'the governor was in good humor,‘and I got off, as it was my first fault.” “That's spiffing,” said Messiter. “I thought y~ were in for a good leathering, and I expec ever, moment to hear your sweet voice baits 9 out, ‘Oh! please don't, sir. No more,sir. I won’t do it again, >. it me off this time, sir. Oh, sir—oh, don’t, please, mtr” “Thank you,” said Dick,dryly. ‘‘ You seem to know all about it.” | “T've had a taste of it in my time,” answered Messi- ter, ‘and I find that the more you holler, the more they lamn into you.” “I should sing out as if they were mur me,” - Dick, “ and I think they would leave off to get rid of my noise.”” ** You'll have a chance of trying the experiment be- fore long, if ag keep on as you have begun,” replied Messiter, with a " “All right, we shall see by-and-by. I'm off to sleep,”’ Dick said, turning over on his pillow. In five minutes the boys were asleep, such is the elasticity of youthful nature. CHAPTER VI. OUT IN THE FIELDS. Tue quarter glided on, and for a wander Dick Light- heart kept out of mischief. Perhaps his busy brain was plotting something new, but at any rate he showed no sign of it. “See the effect of my discipline,” said Mr. Simcox, “Lam positive that, whea a boy is not hardened, more may be done by kindness and persuasion than by flog- . Snarley shook his head, as if he did not quite agree with the professor. The boys usea to play in the meadow at the back of the house, in Kemp Town, which was tolerably large, and occupied by three or four schools, who all paid a small sum for a each using a corner. : In the autumn hockey, or football, were the games 2 vogue, The Harrow House boys ec long stout sticks, with curved handles. A i did not often join the boys in their sports. There was nothing congenial between him and them. While they played he usually read a book or indulgea in a pipe in some quiet corner. One day the Harrow House boys went as usual to the field to play at hockey. - Mr. Snarley condescended to play with them for a short time, but Dick contrived to hit him oa the shins with his stick and send him away limping, begging his pardon loudly, and protesting that it was the purest accident in the world, when the time he done it on purpose. “ Getting tired of the game?” Dick said to Messiter, who was his invariable companion. “Let's stroll I've had enough of this.” ter. “I’ve got a bob,” answered Dick. another part of the field where They walked towards the Reverend Mr. Ginx’s boys, arival school in the Beighborhood, were playing. Lyris gry a Jew, who carried about with him a tin case with a door toit, and three shelves inside, on wkich rested some tpastry. ,. And this he sold to different schoolboys whom he found or stood on Parade and took his chance of He was tall and thin, and sallow < eo layed hockey sometimes | to |and at others football, preferring pe ly for which tion, “Tuck in and look sharp,” said Dick, himself setting the example. Levey Rumcovey happened to have done a good bus iness that day, and there were not more than a couple of dozen tartlets in his case. ; These, as a matter of course, quickly disappeared be- fore the united exertions of the boys. “ Now fill it up with stones,” said Dick. Messiter took the hint, and shortly the shelves were lined with stones picked up from the field. Presently the Jew came back, looking very irate. “The shentleman did not vant any tarts. You shall not play me any more tricks, ma poys!’’ he said. Just at this moment Ginx's boys left off Playing and crowded round the pieman, some to buy pastry, and others to drink the ginger beer which he carried in a basket. Plenty of tarts bgp haw Rumcovey answered an intending customer. erything of the very besht.’’ He unlocked his case, and drew out first one tin and then another. j “Why s‘help me never!” he cried in dismay, “Vat is tish? My tarts have turned into stonesh ft” “It’s Simcox’s ee oR exclaimed the Wiate of Ginx’s ; “I saw two of them here just now. ere are they? Pound’ into them. Give it them, the brutes, We'll teach them to steal your tarts, Levey.” Dick and Messiter were standing by, enjoying the effects of the joke. It was too late to run, and, puttinga good face on the matter, Dick went up to the pieman, and said : “1 did take your tarts. What are they worth? Iam willing to pay for them.” “Ah!” replied Rumcovey, “I always shaid that Mr, Shimcox’s boys were the shoal of honor. Give me five shillingsh, sir, and we'll cry a go. They're worth more, but I'll take that.” It was nearly all the money Dick had with him, but he freely gave it to the Jew, considering that he really owed him. “ Are you satisfied?’ he asked, Levey Rumcovey expressed himself highly so. Then Dick turned around to Jackson, the captain of Ginx’s, and said : : “TL think you spoke to me just now.” “Well, what then?” answered the captain of Ginx’s. “You said something about stealing.” “So it wae stealing.” ** Do you feel inclined to A id Certainly not,” answered Jackson, in a decided me. “Oh! you don’t? Take that then.” As he spoke, Dick hit him straight from the shoulder. Jackson sprang back,and the blow grazed his fore- head. In an jnstant they were at it hammer and rg Jackson having the advantage in being older and but Dick was heavier, and muscular frame made him look as if he could last. Messiter was mutch alarmed. He did not see the first blow struck, and his impres- py eee that Dick was being ill-treated by the whole inx’s. prising Simcox's boys of what was taking place, he Tearted off for that p’ knowing his single arm would be of little use ag or more op- ponents, ; Simcox’s hated Ginx’s. There was a feud of long standing between them, it was reported that the last time they encountered one another in battle array, Simcox’s got the worst of it, so that many of the Simcoxians burned for revenge, which the Ginxites were not at all slow to allow them a * ’ « Thinking that he would best serve his friend by ap- and
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_ said O'Shaughnessy, an Irish boy at Ginx’s boys justice, they had made a ring, and looked on to see fair y- Just as Fowler and the others arrived, Jackson had fallen for the third time, and Dick was standing over his prostrate foe, with a bleeding nose, and an eye begin- Paw and blacken. « had enough of it ?” exclaimed Dick. “ If he can’t come to time, I’m game to fight the lot of you, one down and the other come on.” “ Now, then,” suddenly cried Fowler, in the rear. “ Go in and win, lads, Give it to the cowardly brutes hot and strong.” “ Wire in, wire in,” said Messiter, dealing one of Ginx’s a blow on the back of the head with his hookey stick, which sent him sprawling. Directly all was confusion. ‘The Ginxites defended themselves as well as they could, and a small Donnybrook Fair commenced. “ There darlint. Just taste this powers, and we'll see which is thickest, your h yard of good blackthorn.”’ The fight ban nd furiously for some time, but the Ginxites, taken by surprise, were no match for their opponents, who in about five minutes drove them in an ignominious rout from the field, carrying with them some broken heads, and leaving their ally wounded on the ground, “Hurrah |? exclaimed Fowler, “ we've licked them. That will teach them to ill-treat one of our fellows Mr. Snarley had arrived on the scene of action, and was much scandalized by what had taken place. He was met by Ginx’s usher, a Mr. Cooper, who said: “ What is the meaning of this disgraceful scene, sir?’”’ “Just what I was about to ask you,sir,”” answered “Do you see how my boys have been treated ?”’ “I have seen nothing.” “But I have.” “Why didn’t you stop it, then?” said Snarley, with a sneer, “Because I couldn’t, unaided. We were set upon by 8 gang of ruffians.”’ “Ruffians in your teeth, sir. Zcan fight, sir; come on,” said Mr. Snarley, growing valiant, doubling his pic be beep bs 4 plein e - — fight, sir,” answered the rival usher, with ora boys, leaving ley the master of the field. Mever had Snarley behaved in a manner more calcu- ttn: Sg ypu he saer ta of the boys under his control. They declared that Ife was a brick, and that he pos- sessed qualities of which they had hitherto begn ignor- an t. All were loud in his praise as they returned to the school, the play hour vag, Fr over. No notice was taken of ‘s black eye, which was tly overlooked. He was the hero of this adventure, which all the Simcoxians very much in their own estimation, and also in that of their antagonists, who in future gave them # wide berth. CHAPTER VII. THE BRANDY‘BALL MAN. Evzry who has been at school in Brighton knows the brandy. man. That eccentric-looking personage, with a velvet eap and a long tassel, carrying, stung over his shoulders by astrap, a tray containing sweets of a round shape, supposed to be mysteriously concocted of sugar and Who can forget his wonderful corkscrew ringlets, and the peculiar intonation of voice with which he moe: “Come, buy my fine brandy-balls; Toyoun; ee peesg TE oy urly sold, these fine brandy-balls, oN tetgaters! They are so nice— So nice— And buy my brandy-balls.”” One evening Dick had been indulgin, in this enticing gery tray iad said tek pony . “ty wonder if we co’ Snarley ; out to buy some Senate: mrs eye cate the more reason boys were in lessons for the next why it should be done.” the school-room, getting up their over a book at the upper “T must have some of , or else I , nove guape spams. shan’t sleep,’ DICK LIGHTHEART Dick got up, and managed to leave the room without attracting attention. Then he stood in the passage with a beating heart, waiting for his companion. Presently Messiter joined him. “Quick,” said Dick, under his breath. At this moment Mr. Snarley looked up. “ Who is that just gone eut of the room?” he asked. “ Messiter, sir,” said some one. * And Lightheart, sir,”’ said another boy. bes ws remarked Mr, Snarley, scenting the mischief afar off. He arose from his seat, put down his book,and went out of the room, As he reached the passage he heard the street door slam. « Hullo!” he muttered, “can those boys "have gone out?” Taking down his hat, which hung on a peg, he went into the street. “* My boys,” said Mr. . “Here, I say, what is the meaning of this?’ he exclaimed, in a louder tone. | Dick heard him, “Run,” he whispered to Messiter. “Snarley’s twigged us. Cutalong.” , “ Where to?” inquired Messiter. Dick tan along th closely followed by Mes- ran along the y siter, and Mr, Suarley sondded along after them in full | chase. After going some distance, they came to a flight of steps leading to the beach. “This way,” said Dick, hurriedly, “It is dark on the beach, and we shall fog him there.” They darted down the steps at the imminent risk of their necks, but the usher was after them; and as his 1 were the longest, he was rapidly on them. e stars were out and it was a fine night, but there was no moon. heart, and you, It was difficult to run on the shifting shingle, and Messiter, slipping down, sprained hisankle slightly. “ Ican’t run any more,” he said, “Why can’t you ?” asked Dick. “T’ve hurt my foot.” “I won’t becaught. Blow that beast, Snarley. We should have been in again, and at our desks all right by this time, if it had net been for him,’’ Dick with determination. “ Here’s a boat. Suppose we get into it?” Messiter suggested. “ Jump in,” answered Dick. Messiter did so, The beach here was of a shelving nature, and taking advantage of this formation, Dick, exerting all his strength, pushed the boat down. Tt fell at once into deep water and floated. Giving it one more push, Dick sprang in and sank _— in the bottom, where Messiter was already re- c iz. \ Mr. Snarley looked here and there, and was consider- ably puzzled. “ They were close to me a minute ago,” he muttered. “‘ Where on earth can they have got to?” It never occurred to him that they were in the boat. “ Perhaps they are hiding behind the bathing ma- chines,” he muttered again. Acting upon this idea, he went to a row of machines drawn upon the beach, and ransacked their interiors, looking inside, outside, and under the wheels, consuming more than a quarter of an hour in this agreeable pastime, without, of course, making any dis- covery. ss Thet ‘ve given me the double and gone home, I should think, hoping to get in before me,"” he said. Giving up the seareh as a bad job, he returned home in the worst of tempers. “Pl have their jackets dusted for them,” he went on, savagely. Mir. Bimoox was apprised of what had taken place, and a strict search was made throughout the house for the two runaways. It was supposed that they would return when they | fancied all were asleep, and attempt to get in’at some | window at the back of the house. eter eral emg eae ne 4 mites While preparations were being made recep- tion, and the punishment to be given them was talked about, the boys were langhing at their escape. For nearly six minutes they lay immovable at the bottom of the boat, They thought that Mr. Snarley might see them if they showed a head. “ Have a brandy-ball ?"’ said Dick. “ Have you got some? I hadn't time to take mine, Some. I old Brandy-balls for them,” answered Dick gave him one. “He's gone by this time,” said Messiter ; “at least I should think so. Take a squint around.” Dick did so. , out, and it hed drawn the boat withit, * y E i | , ery. “‘ Have a brandy-ball,” said Dick, coolly. , “Ain’t you a funk?’ “No.” pn ayelh Dick replied, with a laugh. “T never am,” a “You are the coolest fish I ever geet ed or a ae eee See ee Oh ae ee ee el “A 2 Dick looked carefully all over the boat, but to his to be seen. “Seld again,” be said. The owner of the boat had withdrawn the oars when he beached her. “ Here’s a go!” exclaimed Messiter. “ Whatis to be come of us ?”” » “We shall have an opportunity of enjoying a life on the ocean wave, as the song says.’ “ Oh, do be serious.” “Shall [ you ‘ I’m afloat* ?” asked Dick. “Oh, no. How can you think of singing when we are in such a mess ?”’ “You won't have asong? Try s brandy-ball then,” a the imperturbable Dick. ; cP ——— would not allow his ponte to see it. * a may drowned, I tellyou! Oh, I wish I hadn’t come! Jiewerens to be at school x a as % “And get wolloped by Simcox? Thank you? Not for me |—not much !—next week! I'd rather be where lam, ever so much !” answered Dick, “Bonde ble tate htged, Ieuan cay way bag 's ing "6 an of out of the world.” 4 was silent. beautiful stars, and the sky, and the lights of the to a the . It's . if aac Ft och ang vanes “If the beastly boat goes on rolling this, I shall ee Soo ball. replied Dick “ a ras) . * Tene por ect taliel Oh, I do feel so bad.” “If you won't, Iwill. These brandy-balls are not to be sneezed at. But a little brandy without the balls is the thing for a sea voyage.” As he spoke he ate a brandy-ball, crunching it be- tween his teeth instead of sucking it leisurely, which was a that he was not at-his ease. In spite of his levity he knew that the boat was dritt- out to sea. d this, at ten o’clock, on a not particularly bright night, was anything but a cheering prospect. DRIVEN OUT TO SEA, AsrirF breeze was blowing from the shore, and, without the aid of oars, it was clearly impossible for the to regain the land. Sods whee oceck saeco. f : He had not np parte: ely rabid song ayn bed never staat eg s self-reliance that a\- ways stood Dick in good stead ying at the bottom of the boat, he did nothing but “Come, I say,” exclaimed Dick, cheerfully, “don't biub. What's the use of blubbing > 7 «+T can’t help it,” sobbed Measiter. emagpne ren cry all night—will that bring us back in “No, no!” “Shut up then, Ifit wasn’t dark, I should call it a good spree. “ We've nothing to eat.” * we —* one a left,” replied Dick. “You always gh at these things. I wish I were like you,” answered Messiter. % “Pull yourself together. Perhaps we shall be picked up by séme passing ship.” x “And taken to Australia,” “ Not likely.” “Or cut to pieces by a steamer.” * “*That’s more probable,” answered Dick. “But we must take watch and watch, as the sailors yee “+ gaan I shall look for an Re nr few minutes’ search showed him what he was loo! for, and withont much difficulty he attached the ru to the stern of the boat. “ Can you steer?” asked Messiter. “Rather. We had alittle on a lake near the governor’s house, and I used to go out in her, One winter she got swamped, and leaked so ever after- wards that we were obliged to turn ber up. It’s very easy. cal “Oh! what shall we do?’ said Messiter, inclined to — cee ee 2
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A “4 "©: urrah !” he exelaimed; “here's the sail!” “What's the good of it?” asked Messiter, ) “Tt will e us to run over to France.” “To France! Oh, Lord! what nonsense !"" groaned | iter. “ What rot you talk.” “Can't we tack, or something! I don’t know what they call it, but there is a way of going against the wind; I have seen sailor fellows do it. Let us tack, Dick, and get back again.” : “No, thank you; | am not such anincompoop as you. I mean to have a spree now, and go to France for a day or two.” “ But we have po money.”’ “ Nevermind; we'll get some. Youve no go in you. | I should like to see you turned upon the world to get 1 your own living. y, you'd be just nowhere—not in the hunt,” answered Dick, in a tone of Teall it foolhardiness.” “I don’t. The channel is not so very broad here, and we shall be able to make Dieppe with this wind, before noon to-morrow. I wish we had some grub.” ” He dived into the locker again as he spoke, and was lost to sight for a short time. When he emerged he exclaimed: “ This is fizzing.’’ “What ?” asked Messiter. “There is grub in this locker.” “What kave you found?” disgust. “Some sandwiches, halfa bologna sansage, and a small pigeon pie, as well as something which smells very much like ale, if I’m not much mistaken, in astone bb “ How do you account for that getting there?” “I should imagine that some fellows had made ar- sangements with the owner of this boat to ing in the morning, and they had put away their break- fast over night.”” “Very kind dh ee! I'm — said ie pris tiall regainin spirits at the prospect ofa - + Won, t they bes ?’ said Dick with a grin. * * er.” whet ll you have? Here are all the delicacies of the season. Pigeon pie. It ought to be pigeon by the claws sticking up through the crust. I hope they haven't put too much steak in it.” 2 - “TT try « bit.” Dick raked out a knife, and cut his friend a huge bunch of m pie. “with your head in the locker,and you won't feel the ate his with a keen relish. “ It’s better than old Simcox’s Dutch cheese,” he said. “Tgshould think it was by s long chalk or old Mother Simeox's bread and scrape.” Dick raised the beer bottle to his mouth, and toak a hearty draught. ‘ “ Have a ewig?’ he asked, extending it to Messiter. | i ” yeplied the latter, adding, “I say, this isn’t half so bad, is it?" “Bad? Icall it xasing good. fun, Peg away. When you've done hava ge in, I’) put the sail up, and you'll | see how we'll cut - How is the pie?” : “ The pigeon’s good, but the crust israther chunky.” | “Never mind: any portinastorm. Hold on tight to the tiller, and keep her well to larboard.” “ What's that?” : “ Larboard’s left, and starboard’s right.” Dick knew something sbout sailing, and soon got the sail up; then he took the tiller from Messiter, and said; 4 You have a sleep somewhere. Pitch on the boards wind so much.” Messiter followed his instructions, and was soon asleep. ‘The night was chilly, though clear and bright. ta dee little aitheulty im steering, and the little craft rode over the waves splendidly. Dick been on the sea before, and was what is called hen good sailor; that is, he did not suffer | from ckness, but the motion of the boat soon had | an effect on his friend. ; « hope.” | “I'm so ill. I think I shall be sick,” replied Messiter. “Go ahead, then. Feed the fishes. I dare say they | won't object,” Dick said, with a laugh. I think I shall die,” he said. “It’s | You can stand anything. the know so mnch about that,” Dick replied. sleepy; but if I don't | we psize, and it will be a Here are you, my first mate, knocked ed hat s¢ starting and of it?" po Ae and felt a little better, out fish- | w | with her, as we did,” made no reply for some seconds. | their DICK LIGHTHEART. Her lights were distinctly visible, and he could hear the officers on board giving their orders. reper in the heaving, hissing water in the wake of the ig ship. He took a pin out of his shirt collar aud ran it into the calf of his leg- “That will wake me up,” he said. Soon day broke, and he watched the sun rise with undisguised interest. It was a magnificent sight. ~| landlord and ask him to lend me a nap or two. “* Anarrow shave, that. What | call a squeak for it,”’ | telegram will go down in the bill.” ‘ observed Dick to himself, as he found his little boat | ’ ‘*Not much,” answered Dick. “I shall send to the The “What's a nap?” ~ “ “Napoleon. Their sovereign, you know. It’s twenty- fivefrancs. They call them naps over here.” " “ Will he do it?” : “ Of course he will.” After breakfast Dick spoke to the waiter, and said : “T want this me e sent by telegraph to niy father. Give it to the landlord, and tell him to lend me a couple of napoleons,’ We came away ina hurry and forgot our “The cruise is worth all the trouble, if only to see | purses.” that,” he remarked. Then he had his breakfast, some sausage and a draught of beer, Dick had written out the telegram, which ran thus; “ Hotel de Lille et d’Albion, Dieppe, France. From In the daylight there was little danger of beimg run | Dick Lightheart tothe Rev. Septimus Lightheart. The down, as he could see the numerous ships which stud- | Rectory, Ingarstone, near Hayward’s Heath, Sussex. ded the expanse of the channel, ploughing their way to | Dear father—We have arrived here ina boat. Will you distant Jands. Messiter felt a little better after his night's rest, and volunteered to take the helm. : “No, thank you ; my life’s precious, and I don’t feel inclined to trust it to you,"” answered Dick. “But I'll be careful,” said Messiter. “$o you say: By Jove! what an object you look.” “ What's the matter with me?’ “You look washed out, that’s all.” “JT don’t feel very lively, but my sleep’s done me good. Ihaven’t got that beastly feeling of seasickness now. Aren’t you tired.” “Alittle. I’m not made of cast-iron, but I shall hold out till we land, and then I shall knock up.” « | don’t mind when I’m between thesheets in agood hotel, with the prospect of a jolly dinner when I wake Pp. “Hotel ! Ishould say the workhouse—that’s what I’m looking forward to when we get into some port,” said Messiter. “There are no workhouses in France,” answered Dick. “So youneedn’t fret about that. I shall say that I am a private gentleman’s son, come over for a trip, We ean enjoy ourselves till the bill comes in, and then V'll tell the landlord to telegraph to my father for the coin.” “Can you speak French ?”’ “ Well enough to be understood, I'll bet. If you’re a good boy, you shall have some frogs for dinner. I'll order them for you.’’ “ Frogs?” said Messiter, with a shudder. “Yes ; they're the natural food of the country.” “Now you're laughing at me.” “Am? Wait till we get there,” replied Dick. Towards three o'clock in the afternoon they sighted the French coast, and Dick followed in the wake of some smacks, which he imagined were going into har- bor with their cargoes. “ Nor was he mistaken. : ’ About six he sailed into smooth water, and brought up his boat at the side of the quay. Several French sailors and a custom-house official or two came up to him. “ It’s a pretty-looking town,” observed Messiter. “What place is this?’ asked Dick,in French, not taking any notice of Messiter. “ Dieppe, monsieur,” was the reply. “Thank you. Which is the best hotel?” “Hotel de Lille et d’Albion, monsieur,” some one a to say. “It is close by. Shall I take your uy hed - “[bave none. We only ran over for « day or two. Show us the way to the Lille et d’Albion, and I shall . obliged to you ; and, I say, who'll mind onr yacht ?” “ Monsieur’s yacht?” answered the custom-house officer ; “ Pierre will see to that.” ae Gk Pierre ?”” . Pesan officer pointed to a hairy-looking Frenchman, who had a most vile smell about him of stale fish. Pierre bowed and jabbered away in French, not one w= — pd could (Ho rapioageg \ bt right, old cock ; so as you won't run away Dick said, in English. They were now conducted to the hotel, where English was spoken by the head waiter, who had himself been in England at the time of the first Exhibition. boys asked for apartments, and a few oysters anda cup of tea, after which expressed ir determination of going to bed early, as they were fati; with their voyage. » «]’m a3 tired as a dog, and shan't want rocking,”’ said ick. “I'm sure I ought to be very thankful to you for the way in which you have looked ont,” remarked Mes- siter. “There are no ann chong “a — a) “ Fin- ish those and then let’s go to sleep. Scareely hed thelr heads touched the pillow than they were fast asleep and snoring. CHAPTER IX. A STAY AT DIEPPE. Is the morning the boys awoke like ta refreshed, and descended to the private room ile had engaged for breakfast, which was provided in a liberal manner, ds paar 2 with cold meat, besides fish, “ Fire away,” said Dick, sitting down before the tea- urn. It will be charged for all same, whether we eat much or little.” Re eae asked Messiter, who was always “Oh, the or or some one will come over and fetch us. T Shall tele ph presently,” oe ee no money.’ ; “No more . : aw can you telegraph without tin? Will they i } ‘Messiter, 1a kindly come’and fetch us, and bring some money to pay our hotel bill? By ‘ we,’ I mean my friend Messiter and myself. Will explain all when we meet. Do not be anxious about us. We are well and jolly. Perhaps you had best call on Mr Simcox. You know I always tumble on my feet.” The waiter bowed and went away; returning in about - ten minutes with two pieces of gold on asilver salver, which Dick took up. “That’s plummy,” he exclaimed when they were alone again. “1 was pum out. Only had sixpence ene’ “ne Aly knife, an old button and a bit of slate pencil.” ‘ Fe “But you had some brandy-balls,” said Messiter, smiling for the first time since they left Brighton. “Yes, I had forgotten. Have one?’ * Don't mind if I do.” - ~— Dick handed his friend the paper containing the brandy-bails, the effort to get w! Jhad caused them to run so much risk. / “You see, we couldn’t have got on without money,” Dick continued. “ I haye a weakness for a clean shirt, and I am rather limp in the matter of a collar, to say nothing of buying a tqoth-brush, enjoying a bathe in the sea, and having a drive in a fly.” “You're a genius, Dick,’’ exclaimed Messiter, lost in admiration. “You'll get on in the world. Ienvy you, but I say "—— “What?” “Shan’t we get it when we return home?” ~ “Hot, I should say ; but we shall have the comfort of knowing that we've had our spree,and that’s some- ,” Dick answered. “T’ve had a welting before noy ; but I don"t mind, if you don’t,” Messiter said, with a mournful look. “And J haven't, which perhaps makes me think less ofit than I otherwise should; but it's silly to one’s pleasure by thinking of before — Bot&er —* let's g° op : alee ey put on caps and made a rth a we such ods pair of gloves, shirts, collars, tooth-brushes, ete., and going back to the hotel, made themselves tidy, Dick observing that he felt decent, like a Christian. They then sallied forth again, and had ices, tarts and cherry brandy, which was a combination of luxuries that made Messiter quite brave. i “I think [should punch Snarley’s head if Isaw him walking on the Parade,” he said. 2 ps you'll have the chance,” Dick answered. “Snarley may come over with, or instead of the gover~ nor.’” . Messiter’s countenance fell. “Do you think so?” he asked. “Tt would not surprise me.” “ After all, Snarley’s too big to punch,” Messtter an- swered. “ I might ran behind and kick him.” It was a cliarming morning, and the little ue French watering-place was crowded with tors, W. disported themselves all over the town. t The boys had a bathe, and declared that it was the pleasantest bathing they ever had ; but e now and then they grew grave, for the thoughts of going back to Harrow House, and Mr. Simcox's rage would intrude upon them, like the death’s head at the banquet, ongh neither of them liked to confess it one to the other. “How about dinner, Dick?” said Messiter, who was — gro hungry. ; “T told the waiter we should dine at the table-d"hote at six—that’s the public dinner, you know, at which everybody dines, so if you feel pec me must make up with something out of doors. What do you say tos blow of oysters?” ~~ “Oysters and stout ?”” said Messiter. 5 “Yes. ee * shop. i! oy: ~ as y they went into a x shop, nad some hss fat native oysters at three francs the ozen. S After which they hired a fly, and drove about for a couple of hours. - To give themselves an appetite for dinner, they took we sbonld f ‘< deadats the mulk » said Dick, “I sho 2 to as ves,” “and I think I know how to do it.” ; “ How ?” asked Messiter. ; “You ears it ge Tih ‘ - “ Don" anything dangerous. houldn’t like be locked up.” k - 7 4 “Nor I,” ans Dick. a keep ou {it altogether, it 30 a an ‘ou can out o ou x “Ob. no, I won't do that. Ican't leave you tm the tI I" tsuch a 4 wardly as comes to, Don’t think that of me. ; La % | BE ear go Yorn 6 ump, Bob, aad I Zour education ian’s complete yet" a. “It soon will be, if Lam mach with you,” ae 4 ~ yr y Me. , °2e me (A i» sters.” PY
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“soerteend bbe oye oe brightly DICK LIGHTHEART. Dick did not reveal his plan to his companion, thongh he several times begged him to do so. He made some mysterious purchases at a chemist’s, and when at the hotel be mixed several powders to- Lema putting all into alarge paper bag when he had ished his preparations. “You're not going to blow the, town up, are you b sd said Mr. Messiter. “No, you donkey; not likely,” answered Dick. “But I heard you ask for some saltpeter.” “Possibly.” Ry charcoal an‘ brimstone, and all things like Me “What then? Wait patiently, and you'll see what you will see,"’ Dick rejoined, with an air of the closest recy. At dinner their appearance created a little sensation, asit had been rumored that they had crossed the chan- nelin the night in asmall boat all by themselves. But they were English boys, and the English do such funny things in the opinion of all foreigners, that the curiosity was not very great. Nevertheless they were asked several questions, which Dick answered with the air of a man of thirty. He said they often took cruises in their yacht. He meant to go to Americasome day in her—all the way from Brighton to New York, across the Atlantic. he ladies fell in love with him, and their admira- tion was so great, that many of them kissed him, and called him a pretty, fair-haired, brave English boy. “Ah!” said Dick, in his best French, to a lady of title, who was petting and making a great fuss with him ; “ah, Madame la Marquise, your brave country- men can do what they like on the land if they are not betrayed, while we Engiish take to the sea naturally, and make ourselves masters of it.” This compliment pleased the French bsg and they drank his health, pte he drank theirs. “Let's get out of this,” he whispered to his friend. “I shall ge€ screwed, or have a stomache-ache, or something, if I goon drinking their beastly wine like “All right, I’m ready,’’ replied Messiter. They arose and bowed tothe company, and taking up their caps in the hall, strolled arm in arm along the Parade towards the pier. ‘As the seadon of the year was approaching autumn, the evenings began to draw in, and the pier was de- serted about eight o'clock. Though the — retired, Dick lingered, though Messiter did not know why. Sing ph the time,” said Dick, as the shades of night began to fall “Time for what ?” asked Messiter. “To surprise the frog-eaters.’’ Ae put his bag down on the woodwork of the pier as and opened ita oe en he placed a long strip of brown paper partly insiile, and let the remainder os out. “What is that?’ inquired Messiter, who was very curious about the Proc “A slow match,” answer Dick. ‘It will burn ten minutes, and [ reckon we can get to the end of\the pier comfortably before that time if we run.” “Bat ’"— “Don t jaw,” exclaimed Dick. “I’m busy, and you tae me out.’” Messiter was silent, while his oo placed the in aco cuous tion, struck a match, and set t to the slow match. . “Now then, run !” he cried. They started off as fast as their legs would carry them, ad, being last on the pier, did not encounter any one. “Gently now,” said Dick. tries at the end to see us.” There being a regiment quartered in the town, a sen- —— on duty at the wh, near the custom-house. iter was making to recover his breath, “Don’t puff and blow like a grampus,”’ exclaimed “IT can’t get my wind,” answered Messiter, “Go without it, then.” without exciting the at- They walked on the qua tention of b foe restr an ttoi-bou the people walking a down from ouse to the Elablisse- “I don’t want the sen- ck exclaimed, ‘‘and 'y, and I say "—— ee eaten the pier, shining back of the t-house—that i the little poccmmabettenttae " d Messiter; ood soars 79 T kno " Phat that to = ite yous w you" - It must be that eo peeny the bag.” row!” exclaimed between his teeth," unlems you want me to scrag youl Do you weiss, $9 nos me up by pve French neo. be ot « t ap, I tell !" Dick interrupted, bis arm til he hurt him. = sroagea ha beh mn "erode ee tt a ah ore poet es beaten at the guard-house, and Calas cra at the drum. CHAPTER X, MRE. SNARLEY'S ARRIVAL, WHEN Mr. Snarley found his voice, he had had time : to reason with himself, and he then saw the necessity i for curbing his anger, which, in the placein which he was, would only make him ridiculous. Already some of the people pag be in the hg en and the waiters, had lingered in the hall to listen to what was going oa, though as the cceiperention was carried on in English, they were not much the wiser. “ Wait till I get them home again,” was Mr. Snari¢y's mental exclamation. “*What I want to say, sir,” exclaimed Dick, “is that while we are here, you must not let people think that you are the master and we the pupils.” “Why not?” asked the usher, smiling in spite ot himself. “ Because we haye a character tokeep up. We have’ said that we were going to send to my father to come ‘ and fetch us, and that we were in the habit of going out in our little yacht, only we got blown a li far, and made for the coast of France.”’ “Very well. You have a private room,T a iy Let me be your guest. We can talk better in p - answered Mr. Snarley. ; Dick led the way, followed Bee usher and Messi- + ter, and the gathering crowd : The waiter brought up some tea endl a couple of cold fowls, which made an excellent su, Mr. Snarley did not eran to bully em as at first, but talked to them more as if he had been a parent t than a tutor, “Of course you will be punished when you return to Harrow House,” he eer» “but that is Mr. Simcox’s affair, not mine.” “What will he do with us, do you think sir?” asked Messiter. “T cannot tell. He will — decide upon epi | degrees of guilt, and see who was most to blame. you deserve punishment Ido not deny, for you must admit that it was a most foolhardy thing to cross the channel in such a cookleshell of a boat as I hear you to their hotel. “ Po : We could not help it,’ replied Dick. ‘We only Messi ehalt have some supper and turn in,” exclaimed | vont out to get some brandy-balls, and to avoid “ So shall I; but I shall go into the smoking-room | taken back by you, we got into the boat and pushe They whole of the houses on the quay were lit up by the glare of the fire. When excited by any s occurrence, the French people can excel any other in gesticulating, talking and | making a noise. It was generally supposed that the pier was on fire at its extreme point. : The firemen came outina body, and advanced with | the citizens to the fire, buckets in hand. The military kept the crowd back with their bayo- ) nets crossed. “Oh, do let.us go and see it,” said Messiter. “There’s nothing to see. It will goout directly,” answered Dick. ** What is it, then ?’”” “Red fire, that’s all. We made some at home last November on Guy Fawkes’ Day, and as I recollected the recipe, I thought it would be a good dodge to get up a sensation over here amongst these benighted frog-eaters.”’ “Is that all?’ said Messiter, much comforted. “ Won't it do any harm?” “ Not at all—only make them. all mad and wild when they find out they have been hoaxed.” As Dick spoke, the fire went out all at once, and the change from the lurid glare to blank darkness was quite as striking as the outbreak of the flame had been, The firemen had rushed up to’ tho pier to extinguish the conflagration, and when they got there, all the found was the remains of some chemical com poun which, ina brief space, had burnt itself out without doing any more harm than slightly scorching the woodwork. Their annoyance was extreme. When the fact became known, the people Jaughed and declared that it was a good joke, but that the tra- tors of it ought to be punished, and the authorities of the town offered a reward of five pounds (125 francs) for the discovery of the offenders. The people of Dieppe were in a staie of commotion for about half an hour, and during the remainder of the evening nothing else was about. It was half-past nine when the boys started to return | with the men for a'short time to hear what they say.” | able to ee =o we should float a little way, and be “ bb apn yg ao by should they?” ** Why did you not?” a } wered Dick. y* ans-| «Because there were no oars. The wind and rte “I don’t see any reason. But it was awfully daring Le us, 80 we set the sail, and stood over ; ant | « How did you manage to steer ?” rt z It was well done, and we didn’t get bowled out, | which is all I care about.” “Well enough,” answered Dick. “You have ition , uld get to gag “btent Go 1h ron ON" : Gero ae ne he Oe belag cut in \ he “No, because you haven't had the practicethatI have, | by a steamer. In fact, sir, we French leave. It ; and you don’t love a joke as Ido. Iam so fond of jok-| was more my fault that Messiter’s. Itold him w ing that I don’t care what risk I run, and as long as I| to do.” can remember, I liked playing tricks upon people.” “Then you take all the blame on pean said Mr. “Here's the ‘Lille et'—what do you call it?’ said | Snarle: Messiter. z It is no usé for both of us to bein «* Albion,’” supplied Dick. They entered the hotel, and the cae exclaimed : “Gentlemen to see you, sir.’ ou to Mr. Simcox. now what do yeu think i ot pmo cried Dick. of _ poing to bed, as we om haye to be upearly to. sink steamboat ea area a The boys made no oijection, as they were ied with is my Come by the steamer an hour ago, sir, from New- aven,’ coy thonght he detected a grin upon the waiter’s ce “ What sort of a gentleman is he ?”* he inquired. “ Tall—thin—not very old, sir—wears a white tie.” “Oh, by jove! it’s a case,” muttered Messiter, “I'll swear that's Suarley.” * My governor wears a bgp tie, too,” said Dick. They hesitated a momen’ Beno Dick told Mr. ag GS, his obligation to the land- lord, and the the usher promised to see the debt of the two napoleons paid. were “e — and ot at th a ee 8 at — oO" seeing their luggage put on i lu we mean the little cons tony hil ich the owner was very anxious the cheapest ‘way of By come 0 56 deshoned te hes, and th « What shall Tsay, sir?’ Caclaimed the waiter Wyatt the stoner. was. gusting up tom and the Pe ae pdnck AP pr a i usher was purchasing the tickets at the bureau, aman — we. nes gine A = up with _— : te Ly tub babs sc doe showed to “He brought your with him, sir. I sup- that eeglistonen gy, Sap ‘foams =< re buy pose he ae at once to Newhaven, caught the boat, | tha anything ae ca a pore or and came over.” “Oh, very well. Ishall be very glad to see him presently, but I have a purchase or two to make, so we must goout again for a short time. Tell him to make himself com gr and let him have anything | ¥8™ he likes to eat and drink “Very well, sir.” Dick & took Messiter’s arm and moved towards the door. “ Not so fast, young gentlemen!” exclaimed a voice, alas! but too well known, it was Mr. Snarley. Messiter was in such a fright that he sank into one | Aye. 2 What ia st?” Pogedeal Rite ; i lectric eel,” - stg thes on Sa Deke, “Whatdol — — rt . ’** stop w bit, though, what yak ‘The man explained that if you put your handin the | water, you fecdived a atight Jhook, aed val comme In contact e | the stimy thing, you nites 1 79s MARAE “Oh, that's it is it? “How much 7" eal Dick. with a “ten humbags sxclaimed Dick. “Pil give you ; a of the hall chairs, the pict f d Ye , and the eel is yours.” i How do,eir? sal — met pees Ban amy "aay atx, mansion wa 0 the bos ‘and it on “How do, sir? mule you mean, sir, by such | board, tub and all. | Here's the Vargent.” said Disk saprices a caststhrtccreeieette- "| artes eee to mola Se ve uw Ayn if “Not for the first tine,” muttered Dick. «ans 9 tee SE unoes ps net “What are you mumbling about! Don’t incense eee on can you with such’a [a !, Tell me to make m myself and give | thing as an electric eel ?” 5, aoe I like to and drink, while you get Dick bent down and whispered: y bes *t be morethospitable, don’t; Messiter his meaning in @ moment, like the Lille et @' Albion,’ ria batiplceavauas 1 delig , else. I shall stay here. * Gas epg.” he replied. “Ob, my! won't he Dick put his bande in bis pockets, se he spoke, with jum, ; aay @etermined air, and stared the usher bug ; jump overboard for what Icare. Ihate the _ face. p Efe may ES Dick, with the te low ot he meant % , oa cute be ®
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! ‘th DICK LIGHTHEART. . the bar, began to cross the channel in the direction of Newhaven. Dick sat on deck, near the boat in which they had crossed over, which was called the “ Lively Polly.” He was silent, and meditatively sucked the last but one of his brandy-balls. Mr. Snarley approached him. “ Well, Lightheart, what are you thinking of ? Pleas- ant thoughts, eh ?—a penny for them,” exclaimed the usher, malevolently, as he fancied that Dick was down on his luck, and melancholy at the prospect of the thrashing in store for him om his arrival. sir, and you shall have them,” an- Mr. Snarley gave him a penny, saying: ‘ Pi you are; but den't speak with your mouth a.”” “ 3t’s only a brandy-ball, sir. Have one? I’ve got ue left.” ie ess me, no! I wouldn’t put such trash in- © my stomach,” answered the usher. . “Ifyou won’t, I will, though you might have said you,” Dick exclaimed, as he put the last of the Sweets into his mouth. “ Now for your thoughts.” “T was thinking of the “ Lively Polly,” sir.” “ Good ous me! Is it possible that you have formed some acquaintance of that name during your short stay in Dieppe? What a precocious boy!” Dick laughed. “It’s not a woman or a girl, sir. It’s the boat here, and a neater and tauter craft never ploughed the bo- som ot the deep,” he said. “You're becoming poetical,’ observed Mr. Snarley, | with an air of disappointment. “What have you got in that tub?” “ That's something livelier than Polly,sir,”’ replied | “ Beg pardon, sir. Now or never. Hold him tight. Poor Nap |” . Mr. Snarley dived into the tub, and dexterously seized the eel with both hands, bringing it into the air, and holding it very tightly in spite of its wriggling, which was excessive. Suddenly he stopped short on his way to the side of | the boat, and becoming rigid, uttered such piercing oe the passengers and some of the crew came up to The eel had slipped from his p, and was slidin, about on the a or . $ “Oh—oh! my poor arm, my poor body !” groaned Snarley. | “What's the matter?’ asked the captain, who had descended from the bridge. “ He’s caught the sea serpent,” said Dick. At this there was a general laugh. : Mr. Snarley bestowed a look upon him which seemed o Bay: “I'll ‘sea serpent’ you, my young gentleman, when I get a chance.” “What is it?’ asked one gentleman, who was a doc- tor. | “ It's the devil!’’ answered Snarley, who had received | &@ succession of strong electrical shocks from the crea- ture, and was in great pain and trembling all over. Never having heard of an electric eel, he could not understand it. ae it overboard,” said the captain to one of the ors. The man touched it, but recoiled instantly, with ag- gravated pins and needles up his arm. “ Blow me if I touch the beggaragain !'’ said the man, rubbing his arm. “ Here’s a lark,”’ said Messiter, who had joined Dick. Dick. “It’s going to be my pet. I mean to keep it in | the sehool-room near my - “But what is it?” “A tame eel, sir.” *A what?—a tame eel! hing,” said Mr. Suariey. “We live and learn, sir; men as well as schoolboys,” said Dick, demurely. ** And you propose to keep such a thing as that?” “Certainly sir.” “ Tt is unfortunate for you that you did not ask my ion before you made such a silly purchase, and threw your money away on such rubbish.” “Won't you let me keep it, sir?” asked Dick, with an air of assumed regret. “ By no means.” I never heard of such a uiet at the bottom of the tub. : In an instant @itay strange tingling all = his arm, and withdrew it, feeling al uncomfort- ; of it?” inquired the usher. “No, sir. It's quite tame, and won't bite because | it’s had its teeth drawn. Do let me keep it. Poor old | Nap! It’s christened Nap, after the emperor, and was | intended for the Prince lm ” Messiter was hiding face, as he was bursting with laughter, and did tot want to be detected in the | act. “1 shall throw the nasty “ Aren’t yon afraid y thing overboard. You ahan’t take it to school, that’s flat,” said Snarley. ” He turned to lift the tub, but it was too heavy. : “Very well, sir,” exclaimed Dick, with a of ‘on. “I deserve that you should be a little with me, for I have been very bad and disobe- dient, but I'll try and be better in future, and earn ood opinion. Take the eel and throw him over- ar wad him tightly by the neck, or he'll slip through your fingers. = Come” said Suarley, soothed; “you are not so aa I though‘ rou.” “It's only the devilment I've got in me, sir.” “ Where there is shame, there may be reformation. “J did not‘know, sir. I a your pardon. You may have the eel, sir. off?’ Dick replied in the same penitent voice. | doctor. “ I don’t know how Will you ask Mr. Simcox to let me | “ The thing seemed to sting me,” said Snarley tothe feel. I’m all overa tingle. I've got sharp shooting pains all over me. I believemy system's poisoned.” “ Nonsense,” replied the doctor, “ it will wear off. Have some brandy and water. It’s an electric eel— that’s whatitis. You'll feel the effects for some time, but you will sustain no lasting injury.” “Oh! oh! oh!” was all Snarley could say, as the pains continued to dart through him. “You're galyanized,” exclaimed the doctor. “Am 1?” said Snarley, aa if the fact was a matter of t indifference to him. “ You are indeed. I shall send areport of your case to the Lancet, which is our principal medical paper. Will you take the eel up again? I should like to be able to report your 7 after the second shock.” “Not if I know it,’ d Snarley, savagely. “In the interests of scierfce,” urged the doctor. “ Bother science! Do you want to kill me outright?” Let me persuade you, my dear sir.” “Tl be hangedeif I do. Oh, oh! as if I hadn't enough 1 to spare.” ‘Then Snarley’s gaze fell upon Dick, who was enjoy- ing the scene with sparkling eyes. “All right, my boy,’ exclaimed Sn: centrated hatred. “That's another ch. not forget you.” “Thank you, sir. But wouldn't it be better if you did not set us the example of talking slang? What isa chalk ?” said Dick. Mr. Snarley shook his fist at Dick, and allowed him- self to be led below by the doctor, who, during the re- mainder of the journey, plied him with brandy and water, which he made the steward put down to Snar- ley’s account, and bothered him with a variety of ques- tions as to his sensations at the time of contact with the eel and afterwards, until Snarley was scarcely aware whether he stood on his bead or his heels, and began to entertain a firm opinion that he had had an encounter with the great sea serpent,in the middle of the vast Jey, with con- to you. I'll — and had come off victorious after slaying his | proper sary At last he fell off to sleep, as tipsy as he could be, and the doctor, closing his note-book, left him. Meanwhile the eel had been swept overboard with a broom, and his tub thrown after him, the latter act » witeont my permission, and I chose to throw his tub after eo “But it’s a good tub, and worth something. It'll come in handy,” said the captain. ; “Never mind; it’s mytub. I paid for it, and I shall “T hope he won't go on like that any longer. I shall have a fit if he does,” muttered Messiter. heard him in the distance, with sup- Dick a laughter, and taking out of his pene threw it at him, and hit bim in by way of warning. «Teen so far as that, Lightheart,” said Mr. Snar- Jey. “But I will try and beg you off some part of your pt ‘~ Will you have the eel now?” is harmless?” answered the half-eucked brandy- | b That's right, sir: take hands to him, one for the head, and another for the tail. Won't he be over, the sea again? His native element, I Guarley bent over the tub, and looked at the eel, monster, being | which was not s very a oe oe et just thick enough to grasp eas as eet orno BO J Wwere all ou deck. enjoying the passage, “Erato aa _sOblige tighter Dot addressing mein that way,” usher. throw it after my eel. He may want it,” replied Di aa the tub went, and Dick sat down once more near the “‘ Lively Polly” as if nothing had happened, with Messiter by his side. | “I say,” et ene “Well,” answe ick. “Snariey will have it ready for us after this.”’ “We were in for it before. Whatever Snarley may say won't have any influence over old Simcox. I ex- pect, though, I shall catch it, and you'll get off.” — “I don't iw.” - “ButIdo. Ishall say it was all my doings, and get youoff. What's the use of both of us being licked, eh ?” plied Dick. = No,” said Messiter. “But it’s very kind of you, Dick, and very generous to think of me in such a way. Most fellows would like to have a on in mis- fortune.” “Tl make it all square and smooth for you, never fear.” Messiter took Dick’s hand, and wrung it a never saw & he said. pick smiled, and retwrned the pressure of bis friend’s “ Hold your row. Listen to Snarley,”’ answered Dick. } my eel overboard,” he said, | ap; He had a large heart, and was not a sneak, if he waa the scamp of the family. CHAPTER XI. THE BLACK HOLE. Tse arrival of Dick and Messiter at Harrow House caused no little sensation. It had leaked out that the boys had gone to France, and it was known that Mr. Snarley had been sent over to fetch them back, because Mr. Simcox had told one of aa house-maids so, and she had told one of the bead ys. But the particulars of the strange voyage were not known, and much speculation was rife. Dick and Messiter were sent into the school-room about tea-time, and surrounded as soon as they entered, each having his circle, and they told their story exactly as it had occurred. - The boys admired them immensely, and they were uaturally the heroes of the hour. In ashort time Mr, Simcoxy entered, and took his place at his desk. There was a dead silence. Unlocking his desk, the professor took from it along, lithe, glistening cane. With this he struck the desk three times. Those who knew him well saw from his face thet he was annoyed, if not seriously angry. The tea had not been announced, and it was presumed that it had been postponed. Mr. Snarley leaned against the door, looking very limp and L ve aw the po Es “Young gentlemen of Harrow House School,” began Mr. Simcox, after the third rap of the cane. | Everyone looked at the professor. F | “An event of rare occurrence has taken place in our midst,” he went on. “Two boys have dared to set an | example of the most flagrant disobedience. They shall standforth. Lightheart and Messiter, stand up on that bench in front of me. The culprits thus designated got up on the bench, and stood with their hands behind them and their eyes cast down. E “Your offense,”’ continued Mr. Simcox, “is one which it is impossible to overlook, nor have I any inclination to do so, because I can see no extenuating circumstances in your case.”’ “lam willing to bear all the blame, sir,” said Dick, “* Messiter ac under my advice throughout. In fact, he couldn't help himself, and it would not be fair to de anything to him.” “Very well, that simplifies matters,” said Mr. Sim- cox; “I do not wish to confound the innocent with the uilty. Go to your seat, Messiter, t your stars for your good fortune, and let this bea lesson to youas long as you live.” essiter sprang down and was gone in an instant, though he eaeae pityingly at Dick when he got to his lace. | “At most schools,"’ Mr. Simcox went on, “you would ; be expelled, Lightheart ; but I adopt a erent sys- | tem.”" }_ “I pronounce no boy irreclaimable, however wicked he may seem to be. Far from it, | give him another | and another chance. “The black sheep may become white—nil dum ; and now, instead of sen you home to your father’s house, peso sei no doubt would t you extremely, I am going to cane you severely." Here he flourished the cane, and brought it down with a sounding thwack on the desk. “ And, having done that, you will be put im the black hole for four-and-twenty hours, on a diet of bread and water, when your aching back, and the solitude which will surround you may, let us trust, Sing peupas sense of the duty you owe to those who are set in authority over you. You hear your sentence. Now what is it for? want to hear ror cat Dick remained pregame 7 a “Iwill speak for you, though I have no doubt we shall make you find your voice presently.” The professor laughed, and looked around him for plause. “First of all,” said the professor, “you go ‘ou to turn out an honest, steady man, and a member of society, Venner, do your duty.” Venner was the biggest boy in the school, thongh wt rdeed, he was nearly at the Botton of the saconl, was nearly e for = naaetialbais in his bodily, not his mental stren; Wheagvee a boy was caned, it was Venner’s duty “horse him; that is, to take him on his back. holding his wrists around his own neck, keep him ina favorable position for the head master’s blows.. ping out from his pay caporess Venner , and told him to put his arms round Dick did, seeing resistance would § Ste to w play. 8 went the cane th the gir, descending on — asamiers back with a thud. ‘ At first these were the only sounds increased to positive
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DICK LIGHTHEART. he screamed with pain, and kicked rio- “T know I shall die. Oh, this is horrible,’ and again Atl legs; | the cell resounded with his shrieks. dently, receiving the blows on the calves of his "3 a Each time he epoke he put his mouth to the hole, and ‘but ne was unable to liberate himself, and it was not until the cane broke off at the top, by coming in con- The echoes of his voice sounded like the mocking voices of demons, and his hair grew stiff, as he thought tact with the boy’s boots, that the professor desisted | the place haunted. from his efforts. Venner let him slide down on to the floor, where he | rolled about for more than a minute, writhing in un- controllable pain. “ That is the first lesson,” said Mr. Simcox. “ You see, my young friend, am not to be trifled with. I shall be prepared to repeat the lesson if you give me cause. There is nothing like a yr caning to bring a boy to his senses. It hurts, and the pain lasts. You are bruised all over, and you will feel your hurts for some time. Now, Mr. Snarley, your aid, if you please, to convey him to the black hole. Incarcere duro, liter- | For nearly two hours his agitation lasted, and no one’but himself knew what he suffered during that time. When the papic was over; he sat down on the floor to think calmly over his situation. “What a fool I was to think I should be suffocated, and that there were ghosts,” hesaid. “Of course it is not their interest to kill me. Simcox only wants to break my spirit, and if I give way again, as I did at first, he’ll do it. I shall be all right ifI keep quiet. How thirsty I am, though.” He was consumed by a burning thirst, and made a) search around the cellar for some water without find- ally, tn a hard prison, he will remain until to-morrow | ing any, though Mr. Snarley was on his way with at this hour.” Snuarley had been enjoying the sceme, for it was a — to bis mean and narrow mind to see Dick suf- . because he had played him so many tricks. Though still very shaky from the effects of his sea voyage and the brandy and water, he advanced with alacrity, and, raising the boy up, half pushed him, half dragged him from the room. Dick’s face was flushed, and his cheeks stained with Sobs broke from him at intervals, and it was evident that he had gone through a severe castigation, which ‘was no joke. Messiter pitied him sincerely. They took him down stairs, past the kitchen, into @ long passage, at the end of which was the coal Alight which Mr. Simcox had taken from the cook enabled them to see adoor with a key in it. Throwing this back, a dark and gloomy vault of nar- ow dimensions was disc a It had the appearence of being a disused wine cellar. In one corner was a small mattress, looking rather ee ee damp. Mr. y gave him a spiteful push and he fell upon this rough sort of bed. “Lock him up!” exclaimed Mr. Simcox. The usher pulled to the door, and turned the key. Dick was alone in the dark. The professor and his satelite went up stairs to- ther. orl think we shall cure him, sir,"’ said Mr. Snarley. “ It shall be kill or cure,” answered the professor. “JT never allow myselfto be beaten by my boys.” “ Quite right, too, sir.” hayag you given him his bread and water, Mr. Snar- ‘J “No, sir ; I forgot it.” “ Please do so before you go to bed. He must not be starved. The mind does not suffer so accutely as when the body is attacked by the pangs of hunger and “Tl not forget, sir,” Mr. Snarle lied. After this, tea was served in iy ee and trooped in to enjoy their “sky blue and them that they all spoke in asubdued tone.” “Didn’t the governor lay it on?” one would re- “ mark. Rather. would ey. - aven’t licked him yet,” Messiter observed to enner, after tea. “What did he hofler for, then? That looked as if he gave in,” answered Venner. “So. would you sing out,” said Messiter, “if you were lammed into at that rate. Wait till Lightheart re- covers, and he'll be worse then ever. I know him bet- ter than you do.” “He'll catch it again then.” “T don’t think he will; he'll bolt first. But it’s no use talking to you,” replied Messiter ; “you like to horse fellows. You're like the sworn tormentor of the old Tower of London.” As he Wessiter dived under the table to avoid = ears pulled, coming up on the other side, and at a safe distance from Venner’s burly form. He was t, however, about Dick, who was only shocked stunned for the moment. It would take a good deal more than that to beat the I never saw him so savage,” another _ devil out of him, as will be seen shortly. CHAPTER XII. ALONE IN THE DARK. é Pennars few sensations are so eas that of " So disagreeabl Though ine of solitude as found as pos- poe f mh hy kind of nolees, and fret the mind by imagining that exist only in the imag- We have that Dick was brave, but was only a , and when he found anaes a Pee x the dark, and remembered that he had to put up with “gach confinement for and twenty hours, a feeling to out at the top of his voice, unearthly shricks ; but uo one comld hear bine te position of the cellar, eat hs ant the: se- Mihen he fancied : introduced & then placed his ear there to receive the answer, “The punishment will be dreadfal—I do not hesi- tate to say dreadful, if you leave me here,” answered the usher. “T’ll chance that. Did you find the rat, sir?” “ Dick, listen to reason. You will be found out, and then you will besorry. I will undertake that you sha}\ bé pardoned, and sleep in your bed to-night.” - “Tfully intend to, sir. But about that rat?” “You young rascal, I'll rat you!” cried Mr. Snaries. “ Let me out, or lg a eae why.” “Don’t get excited, sir. "s no use running your head poet se a brick wagl. Shall I put sosonthing’ through the ventilator ?” asked Dick. Without waiting for an answer he pushed a chicken bone through the hole. “Oh, my eye,’’ cried Mr. Snarley; “he’s poked my a pitcher full at that very moment, and a not very ap- petizing hunch of dry bread. There was aclick, as of a key in the lock. “Some one coming,” said Dick. wae guesed it was Mr. Snarley, and an ides struck m. ; Standing up near the door, he awaited the appearance of the usher, Mr. Snarley threw open the door, and allowed the light to enter. t dazzled Dick, who put his hand over his eyes. “ Here’s some bread and water for you,” said Snarley, brutally. “It’s all you'll have.” He looked at him with a sort of pleasurable satis- faction, and seemed to enjoy the position in which he was. “Why don’t you lie down ?” he asked. “ Because there’s a young rat in the straw, sir. It’s got a nest there, and bit me,” answered Dick. “Young rat? Nonsense! But if there is, it is only what a wicked boy like you must expect. You may think yourself lucky there are no snakes, as there are in some prisons.” “It’s bad enough to be in the dark, sir, without being bitten by rats, and if I were to write home, and tell my father that you shutme up to be eaten and frightened by rats, he wouldn’t likeit. I only ask you to drive it out for me, sir,” said Dick eye out.” “Good-night, sir,” said Dick, “I hope that rat won't disturb your rest, Very nice straw, clean and dry. Very wholesome bread and water. Good-night, sir; sea you again to-morrow.” Regardless of the usher’s cries and exclamations, he had another drink of milk, and overhauled a plate that contained some cold veal, to which h paid his respects, “TI haven’t done so badly,” he said; “and now to have a look at Messiter. The old boy will stare when he sees me.”” : Taking off his boots, he proceeded cautiously up | stairs, pausing as he went past Mr. Simcox’s study. = The professor had a light burning, and was correct- ing some English exercises for the fourth class. “Tl wake him up presently,” was Dick’s muttered en as he went by. j hing open the door of his room, he heard Messi- ter snoring. He had previously put out the candle, and the room was in darkness. iS} Messiter’s arm, he whispered: “Time to get up.” “Ts it?’ answered Messiter, rubbing his eyes. “Is that you, Dick? I thought’’—— “What?” asked Dick, waiting for him to collect his thoughts. “Why, they hyked you off to the black hole, didn’t they ?”” " “Oh, please do! Ishan’t care so much then,” he added in an imploring tone. Moved by this piteous appeal, and thinking the re- quest, after all, a reasonable one, Mr. Snarley said: ‘*T will see what I can do.” “Oh, thank you, sir!’ cried Dick, gleefully. “Hold the candle, and stand away from the door, a kick the straw, and start the animal on his vels.’? Dick did as he was told, and waited till the usher be- gan to kick the straw about. Then he made a sudden dive through the door, which oe egg shut and locked, the key being on the out- ie. In his hand he held the candlestick. Snarley was in the dark, shut uy with his bread and water. “Let him hunt rats,” said Dick, smiling. The kitchen clock struck eleven. * At that hour-the servants had all gone to bed, and he h knew that the house was still. The usher had put off his visit to him until the last Dick had acted upon a sudden im in caging the usher, and had not considered what he should do after- wi ards. Now he stood still and thought. He faneied he could hear Mr. Snarley’s voice throngh the "thick oaken door, but he could not distinguish what he said. ; “Whata lark!’ thought Dick; “everybody to-mor- row will besaying ‘ Where’s Snarley *?” It was rather cold in the passage, and Dick, being hungry and thirsty, determined, before he didanything else, to satisfy his appetite. He opened the door next to the black hole, and was delighted to find himself in a spacious larder. In a bowl stood some delicious milk, which he was able to drink by stooping down, and he took a good draught. On a shelf was halfa cold chicken, left from the pro- fessor’s supper; on another plate was some cut ham and cooked sausages. “These will do finely,” said Dick, helping himself to each of the dainties, using his fingers for want of aknife and fork. “ Old Simcox will go short to-morrow, and cookey ** Yes, and I’ve got out again.” “Did you really, though ?” “I think my being here is the best proof of that,” replied Dick. rr Is it really you, though ?”’ asked Messiter, grasping arm. “If it isn’t, it’s my ghost.’’ * Oh, don’t talk of ghosts; the very idea makes me iver. “ Ghosts don’t generally talk. I tell you it is me; all as right as ninepence.”’ “ How did you get out ?” inquired Messiter. “Snafley came with bread and water, and while he Was handing Aer an, icnaginsiy x0t-L bad Sonat SES him, 1 poapee. out and locked the door.” . bie — y inside?’ asked Messiter, grinning with « er. He might as well Ag get out of New- gate as out of where I have left a “You are a fellow !” cried and sausages, and veal. I hayen’t had sucha regular buster since I’ve been here. Somebody will have to suffer through it.” “It’s the govenor’s grub, I suppose ?”” “Tt was, you mean ; it’s gone now. ButI don’t care — whose it was. I’ve polished it off, and I’m all the bet- set Wu ier? eer ngucd “ Wasn't it a ere ?”” Messiter in wi a shudder. . x “ Awful isn't the word for it. You know I am not easilly funked, but I thought I should have hada fit for the first hour. It'll do Snarley good.” And Dick laughed heartily at the idea of the usher being shut up in the blaek hole. “Tam sojolly glad that Snarley’sin for it. He did | joke to the boys about your being shut up. He said | he’d cure you of running off as you had done; and he west me all the evening, throwing off all sorts of nasty ae “ Perhaps he'll let me alone for the future, and think T'm a match for him.” ° “What a fuss there'll be une Des missing to . will think the cats have been in the larder, but she good warm Simcox comes : wees Coen a Pact re cat. ae be nad boo ope getige oon ee ns B08 beg Ny ole me. 2; ve have eat all his rand drink al Snar — La upset, I shall turn in with you, if you have no t moment a Pp startled . “ Objection !” Messiter. ‘‘ It’s not likely? F He jumped up, and nearly dropped his plate. You're welcome to half my bed. Come in.” It was followed by another, and then he sawthat it; “Not yet.” came from a hole in the wall. “Why not?” ’ A A: an ass I am,” he muttered; “I might have; “I want to give the a turn. He’s oy =i ian Af. baa an Fo study, emcking tin hist ire end bis ; che” * couldn't rest in my bed iT Ald make him ie.” Putting his th to a slit he the wall,he| “Howare = ‘ . *Baariey epr orn “That's jun by Ae agl got he om gue gen yg og mm a mask in press that you used fifth of han’ sh Gapteie?s tng) OE rd hak ; away "s a a * Of ould chichom aie, of a nine thin alicaof ham, ox what cot I ittome. Get ee { it out. I'll put that on, and my nigh over my s may Cite, goed beg: DES. wae ee 708 ’ “2 done?” exclaimed Mr. “Iam at ~I say, what a shame to make a fellow get out of his warm bed,” said Messiter. you as I served 4a “E
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_. what will,”’ said Mesaiter. ; : ” e DICK LIGHTHEART. ~ ‘The mask was a very hideous one, representing the devil with two horns, a wide mouth and a prodigious mose. Its color was black and red. “Tf this don’t give the professor fits, I don’t know | “We live in hope,” answered Dick, coolly. He quickly put on his night-shirt and the mask, | which prevented his being recognized, and altogether | he presented a very ghostly appearance. : “ Wish you luck, Dick,” said Messiter. **Dont you worry yourself,” answered Dick. ’“IfI am collared, Ishan't comein here to get you imtoarow. Ishall bolt to the lower regions. I don’t want to let Snarley out, and if they see who | am, they’d the trick directly, and the bird would get out of e,cage.” ‘ee ton fancy him,” said Messiter, “biting his nails | and pulling at his stumpy whiskers ; I know his ways | 80 well. snubby nose will turn up more than ever. You know how he says, ‘You boys! you boys, there! Jess noise, if you please.’ Oh! it’s grand to think that he’s csopel up in the black hole. I shall love you forever, Dick, for that.” “Shut up now, and keep your ecsasy for another time,” answered Dick, “I've got workin hand, and | I'm offto doi. I wish 1] had not eaten somuch of that | chicken and stuff, though ; I'm gorged, and feel too | lazy for practical joking ‘” “Haye a try ; you're sure to pullit off: you always | do,’, said Measiter. * “Tl go in a good an,” answered Dick, shaking his | ha’ te ~ fect - friend’s outstretched band ; “and it won't be my fault | if I come to grief.” | CHAPTER XIII. ’ MR. SIMCOX IS PUZZLED. . Dick wished Messiter good-night, in case he was not | le to come back as he intended, and went along the : passage to Mr. Simcox’s study. The master was still at work, and Dick watched him through the half-open door for awhile. “ Three more to do,” he said, as he put down an exer- cise; “and then I shall be able to retire to my well- | earned rest. The fourth-form boys are improving; so is this brandy and water. Each glass | take seems bet- ter than the other. Ha,ha! If Snarley only knew there was brandy and water going on, he would not we gone to bed so soon. Snarley’s got a nose for any- good. I fancy he enjoyed his trip after those boys ppe. The rascals! pS ENE R tal Ae aks care what you say,” said Dick, in a sepulchral voice in the passage. | He darted under the hall table as soon as he had | and was out of sight. | # Dear me, what-was that? It’s very odd,” exclaimed | Mr. Simeox. He got up and looked with the a outside the door, but, seeing nothing, returned to his seat at the study | “I could have sworn I heard somebody,” exclaimed “Perhaps it’s the wind; these houses are very badly built, and we are get into winter. Yes, I/ t that Lightheart isa bad boy. He is the sort of Ind that breake his mother’s heart and brings his father’s | gray hairs with sorrow to the grave. I'm glad he isn’t | wy son. % Bo am I,” exclaimed a voice outside. . “Bless me!" cried Mr. Simcox. “‘There must be some one outside, or else it is the echo of my voice. I must cure myself of the habit of speaking aloud when 'm alone.” The sooner the better,” said Dick. Some one spoke; I'm sure I 4 "ite gol up & second time, and made an exploration of and Dick no sooner saw his back turned, as he went down the passage with the candle in his hand, than he slip- ped into the study and sat in the professor's arm- "Mr. Shnecox returned, considerably puzzled. “No one there,” he said, still indulging in his fayor- m Dick, who looked most ghostly in his hideous and white shirt. : “Oh, Lord! oh, Lord!” gasped the professor, as he “Get rid of Snarley,” continued Dick. “Iwill! I will’ answered the schoolmaster, half He did not like to go and wander about the house by | prawn, you fancy you’reeating ten shrimps, and they're | imself. His wife had gone to bed, so he drank more brandy, and at last fell asleep’on the hearthrug, where he re- mained till morning. It was five o’clock when he awoke, and he crawled, shivering with cold, up stairs, and crept into his wife's bed without waking her. This was the most clever and judicious thing he had done for some time. For had Mrs. Simcox known all about his excess, and his nap on the hearthrug, the probability is he would not hear the last of it for some time to come. \ When Dick heard the house quiet, he stole up and gotinto Measiter’s bed, making him laugh heartily at what had taken place. In the morning, he woke as soon as the school-bell rang with its dismal clatter, and dressing himself, went to the lower part of the house. He had some difficulty in getting past the kitchen, but the cook was engaged in lighting the fire, and he gained the larder without being observed. There were some old butter-tubs piled up in acorner, and he found a nest behind then. His position was irksome enough, and, after being there for some time. he thought he would rather ex- change places with Mr. Snarley. “At least,” he said to himself, “Snarley has got — straw tolie upon. This won’t do; I must hook t.°? The voice of the milkman was heard at the area, and he knew it was eight o'clock. “T'll get out of this,” he said. Getting up, and emerging from his shelter, he helped himself to some cold veal, and seeing the hole commu- nicating with the cellar, couldn’t resist the temptation of speaking once more to the usher. “TI say, sir!” he exclaimed. “ What is it?’ answered Mr. Snarley. “Thank good- ness seme one has come! My bones ache, and I am half beside myself.” “You will be wholly so, before long,” answered Dick. “ Isit you, Lightheart ?” exclaimed Mr.Snarley. ‘ Be a good boy, and let me out.” “ But, L say, sir!” said Dick, with a chuckle. «* What ?” asked Snarley. “Have you caught that rat?” “Rat !” cried Mr. Snarley, losing his temper, and adding: “No, I don’t mean to be cross; but it is really enough to try a man’s temper to be shut up here like this. Let me out, Dick, there’s a good boy.” “Next week,” answered Dick. “There you are, and there you'll stop, as far as I'm concerned. I'm going into the town now to enjoy myself. I've got @ friend who's staying at the ‘ Bedford,’ and we'll drink your health, and success to your rat-catching. Good-bye, sir! Don't be too hard on the rats.” He heard Mr. Snarley grate his teeth with rage, and slipped out of the larder, up the area steps, and gained. the street, up whieh he walked, towards. the Old Steyne. When he said he had a friend staying at the Bedford Hotel, he did not erate, for he had received a letter from his sister a announced two items of news. The first was, that Lieutenant of Her Majesty's Navy. was about to visit Brighton, and would be found, for some time to come, at the “ Bedford,” The second was, that Agnes—his youngest sister— was coming to school at Brighton, and would be living at Kemp Town, near Mr. Simcox’s. Lieutenant Smart was a young man with a tolerably pe aeons and some interest at the Admiralty, but could not always get a ship. The vessel in which he had sailed had been paid off, und he was enjoying a cruise on shore. The lientenant had paid several visits to the rectory, and, with the sharpness of a boy of his age, Dick fancied that he ww Nor was he mistaken. “Tf he's y on Emily,” thought Dick, “he'll be glad eno t to be civil to me.” So he went boldly to the Bedford Hotel, and asked wire tnt look to Tuck, “TI musta’t look (own on ”" aaid he to him- self. “These naval men ort thence airs,and he'll look upon me as a milksop if I show the white feather.” True te his early training, Mr. was an early riser and was at breakfast as Dick was ushered into his im. en Ob! how do you do?” he exclaimed. “Sit down, Master Dick, I meart to call upon you to-day.” -yoioe, unlike his own. “You are cruel to your boys, © *Me, htheart,’ or ‘ Dick,’ plain ‘ Dick,’ answered and yengeance will overtake you. nt, our hero <r ‘or, when you have occasion to write to me, and” ‘Richard Lightheart, mire,’ I can’t stand the ‘mas- “Thank you for putting me right,” said the lienten- ant; “and to what fortunate circumstances am I in- debdted for the honor of this visit, Dick?’ “T've hada bit of a kick-up at our school, and thought it would be better for th if I left the author- ities to themselves for a little while.” “ Indeed |” “It's nothing much: you need not interest yourself about it,’ added Dick. “How did you know I was here?’ asked Harry Smart. “Give me some breakfast, and I'll talk with you. tality, or Emily shall never to 3; “you Wha was paying attention to his sister |, | not half the bother to pecl. I'll start with the prawns decidely, and you can order me a fried sole and some cocoa.” The lieutenant did so, and contrived to get Dick into | conversation ef degrees. He learned how he had been over to Dieppe with Messiter, and how Mr. Snarley had come for bim, and subsequently incarcerated him in the black hole. He heard liow he had frightened the worthy pedage- gue with his ghost trick, and how he had shut up usher in the cellar. “You ought to go to sea, my boy,” said the lieuten- ant; “you're just cut out for a seafaring life. You’d get some of the liveliness knocked ont of you with the rope’s end, I’m thinking.” |. “Don’t you make any mistake,” answered Dick ;“ I’m too wide awake to go to sea, either in the merchant service or Her Majesty's, though I believe the former is better than the latter.’”” “Thank you for the compliment,” said Smart. “J didn’t mean anything personal,"’ remarked Dick, “though I believe you are a favorable specimen of the officers of the Royal Navy. Why don’t yon wear your uniform and let everybody know you’re R. N.? You would get such a lot of credit in Brighton.” “You impudent young whelp !” exclaimed the lieuten- ant; “I'll take you back to your school and stand by while they flog you, if you are not more civil.” “Just like you fellows,” answered Dick, putting his legs on achair. “I always said the navy brutali men.” ‘Tf you came here to abuse me and take possessicn of my rooms, I'll vacate them in your favor.” | “Please yourself, my dear boy,” replied Dick. “I'm | very jolly if you won't bully me. Shy the 7imer over here, wil you. I want to look at the Police Intelli- gence,”” “You're a cool fish,” said Lieutenant Smart, who could not help smiling: “but 1 was just the same at your age.” “Was you ?” said Dick. “Then you must have beex a highly interesting pup. But look here, old boy, I don’t want to have arow with you. Make me jolly. I don’t understand co and sodas and brandies yet, but I like a drive. © governor trots you about when you come to Ingarstone. Return the civility, or I crab you with ly.” “J'll do anything you like,”” answered the lienten- ant. “if you'll only condescend to tell me what you mean todo. You can't expect me to keep you away from schoo! altogether.” “Certainly not. Under exceptional circumstances I have taken a day’s holiday. ‘Alt I want you to do is te entertain me to-day. Take me about, give me a good dinner andga glass of wine, and try and make me forget my troubles.” “ And then?” “Well, then, you must and say, that as a frien : , £° to Harrow House School of the family, you protest against my being shut up in a dark, stifling cellar, and you think that I have been sufficiently punished by being caned,’”” « = pee master does not see it?” continued the Hen- ort time back,in which she | tenan “Threaten him with asummons at the Town Hall and exposure for ill-treating me; the law will let you do that. And—Harry—oh! you can get me out of the scrape if you like. ‘There are lots of ways. Old | Simcox is an old woman, andaman can twist him around his finger.’”’ “Very well,” rejoined Mr. Smart, “Il do what I can for you. You will find a Robinson Crusoe on the sideboard. Read that, and give me the paper. It is too early to go on the beach. I’ve got a caye there.” A cave !" said Dick. “Yes; Trent it. A sort ofa cavern in the sea wall, with a door. My friends and I smoke and have beer there. It’s awfully jolly.” The lieutenant rather liked Dick, who found, by con- versing with him, that he was in t and agree- though he was somewhat off ven they strolled towards ghe beach, and Dick wondered how Mr. Snarley was, and what Mr. Simeox thought of the situation. Mr. Simcox was puzzled. But we must reserve his speculations, and what pened at the Harrow House, fer the next chapter, — CHAPTER XIy. IN THL CAVE. cave Lieutenant Smart bad spoken about to Dick, and which he was taking him to visit, onan pith he aid ee the tg 2 the “ bad ren y the month, kept in it chairs, a table, a box of cigars, aid ene nenen ee and spirits, for the friends whom he asked to come in and an hour or two with him. It was a curious fancy own, when he could have where. 4 naval Ss eed cking tastes jof the thorough! sailor to have 6 cave all to Rimtoel?, Where could do as he iked, smd neither landlord nor landlady could inter. & comfortable room any- of having a vault of Bis ro. and it suited the rol- |
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——— “A gloomy-looking den, too,” answered Dick ; “had | relation, presumably an orphan, How Mrs, Simcox} on the “gerund-grinders,” as he called the professor you not better light the gas?” He said this jestingly, and was surprised to see Smart strike a fusee, and actually light four burners ot a } er, which gave an excellent light. } Fractions !” exclaimed the lieutenant. “ At a vast out- lay I had the gas on "t you be in too much ofa hurry, young Vulgar | about him, and you willoblige me by sending him in savage when I get back.” | the unpaid bill at this moment in my pocket. This is | the professor, becoming grave, and he told his visiter | pose we go somewhere. not the Temple of Vesta, and the fire cannot always be . kept burning, though if we knew you were coming, we would have had the Saturn illuminated in your honor.” “Don't chaff, Harry. boy,” said Dick. “Ie's my nature. ‘What's bred in the bone will come laid on, which reminds me that I have } DICK LIGHTHEART, will cherish the poor friendless creature!” “You run on so fast, Mr. Greek and Latin,” said the | lieutenant, ‘‘that I can’t get an oar in edgeways. I've) come here to see Dick Lightheart. His father is anxious | here,” “JT must tell you about that boy, sir!” exclaimed | the whole story of his running away, and that | he was in the back hole. “But,” he added, “as the time is nearly up, we muy as well let him out. I will I'm not in humor forit, old | let him off the remainder of his sentence, and say that my clemency is due to your intercessiofi.” “Ts that how you treat the poor little orphans your outin the flesh.’ I once chaffed a nigger in Otahiti} wife is so fond of?’ asked Smart; but the. professor to such an extent ‘that he immediately went and| pretended not to hear him, and they t down stairs drowned himself, and his melancholy example was fol-| together, the lieutenant insisting upon attending at lowed by his whole family; but as niggers are plentiful | Dick’s restoration to liberty. in those parts, they were not missed, andthe king of the country gave me a testimonial.” “What a crammer !” Dick observed, laughing. “Té’s a fact,” answered the lieutenant, om, SEN ; “and now,” he added, “ what will your youthful mind “I do believe that Mr. Snarley has the key,” exclaim- ed Mr. Simcox, as they stood outside the heavy, omin- | Ous-looking door. “Send for a locksmith,” suggested Smart. “What’s this?’ asked the professor, as his foot kick- delight in, in the way of drink? Some beer? I thought | ed against something hard. so. Lookin the box on the lett. No, not that one, stupid, that’s champagne! Here’s an intelligent ani- mal from the schoolastic world, who don’t know a ee. sw Till have to go back again,”’ Dick said, 3 “ And be put in that black hole; but that won’t do. I must get you out ot that; still, it’s a good thing to | stick to your ship, even ifthe skipper is a rank bad un; I must get to the windward.of him somehow. I’ye got an idea in my mind.” “What is it?” “Tl go to-night, about tea-timé, and say I have been sent to inquire for you by your father; then they will say youare in the cellar, and | will insist upon being po bs down toit at once. SoIshall see Snarley come out, and pretend to be very indignant at you being minus. It will be arare lark. I know I shall laugh till re sides ache; Snarley’s appearance is sure to give | me “I'll sleep here to-night with your permission,” said “Have a room at the hotel.” you, they might find me out; I have “Very well. But I want to get this Snarley down here,” answered Smart, his eyes twinkling with antici- fun. “That would be splendid. How can we do it though ?” “ Leave it to me. I’ve gota dodge,’ said the lien- tenant. Dick did not ask any questions. After a little more conversation, and another bottle of beer, they strolled about the Parade and on the West Pier. After this they went into the hotel to dinner, which ‘was provided in sumptuous style, and Dick enjoyed imm: y- ensel ° “This is better than hot and fat,’ hesaid, with his mouth half full of turkey and sausage. _“ What's that ?”” asked his friend. “Why, we generally have mutton st Simcox’s, and he asks us, ‘Hot and fat for you, hot and fat?’ mean will we have hot meat or cold, and have it cut lean for we are not allowed to waste anything; we eat all on our plates.” “ You may do what you like here. So pitch in and take a cargo for a long voyage.” dinner over, the lieutenant looked at his watch. «Just time fora weed,’’ he said, “and then I must be off. I wouldn't miss seeing Snarley come out of it gong See and traveled in acab to Harrow Some, Eomup Somes and knocked at the door of Mr. Simcox’s establishment for young gentlem: The principal ved him stifling Lis 5 an leasant na- jare most man. Can you pip of the town of any : «Can't say I ”’ answered Smart. “ But it seems ¢o me that 11 ye htt jot coainteed tha bean tae some upon.” : ‘ * You have not, although if ’ my “Ah! true; forgive me, sir. Itis a brother, I pre- game.” te ¢ . _ #Mo ; it isn’t.” “Ora cousin? "i - =~ — but I ke fen A Ah! Iperceive—a dear, yot distant | It was the key, which Dick had drepped in the [pass- age. “T hope the hardened boy will show some signs of penitence,” observed the master, as he put the key in the lock. x Behind him stood a servant with a light, which en- abled them both to see the figure of Mr. Snarley em- erge slowly from a dark corner as the door fell back. “Why, what is this?” said the professor, rubbing his eyes, “‘Mr.Snarley! CanI believe the evidence of my senses?” ‘The usher made signs to the effect that he was too exhausted to speak, and wantéd semething to eat anda drink. Putting his arm in that of the usher, the professor supported him in this way to the kitchen, where he hada chair given him, and was supplied with a jug of al , 8. “ How did you get in there, my dear sir?’’ asked the professor. “It was the cunning of that artful boy,” answered the usher, speaking slowly ; “ when I went to give him his bread and water last night, he said there was a rat in the straw. I went to kill it; he popped out and made me a prisoner.” “Whatimpudence!” . “How did you like it ?” asked the lieutenant. “Horrible !’’ answered Snarley. “Tf it was so to you, how much more so mustit betoa mere boy ?” continued Smart. “You have a good les- son, and it serves you right, and if Mr, Simcox does not promise me that place shall never be used again for the same purpose, I wili expose him in the news- “Well, on consideration, I will give this punishment. Mr. Snarley reports badly of the system, and it shall be discontinued.” “Now, where is the boy ?” P “Ah! where indeed?’ answered Simcox. “Gone again ?” asked Snarley. “ We have seen nothing of him; he must have run away a second time.” «Jt will be best for you to find him,” said the Heu- tenant, ‘“‘as his friends are very anxious about him; he will be found somewhere in a short’ not write to his father until to-morrow evening, when I will come up and see you — Good- night. I hope hee liked your quarters, Mr. Snarley. By the bok f if | should by any chance run up against Dick, shall I tell him you caught that rat?” “No, sir, I did not catch it; but I believe I can smell arat now,” replied Mr. Snarley, with dignity. “What do yeu mean ?” time, and I j* ‘It’s my impression you know where the boy is, and have come up here to gloat over me and my suffer- ings.” “T gloat over you?” cried the lieutenant. “In the first place I don’t know how to gloat; if I did, I shouldn’t over 1 contemptibie gerund-grinder and boy slave driver. Don’t say e word to me, sir, or I shall be | tempted to spoilthe beanty of your figure-head, and knock you into the middle of next week.” “The law will protect me from your violence,’’ re- plied Snarley, emboldened by the beer he had imbibed. “I have punched a man’s h and been fined forty shillings for doing it, at Portsmouth, once when I had come ashore from a cruise; but I considered it a cheap luxury at the price.” “Sir, I must request you to leave my kitchen and my house. This riotous benavior is unseemly,” ob- served Mr. Simcox. “Oh! And you want to have a goin at me too?” said the Hentenant. “Well, I'll be off; but I mus have a parting shot at that old mummy in the chair.” Seeing a bag of flour on the dresser, he took it up and threw it at Mr. Suarley. It struek him on the head; the paper broke, and the flour fell in a whole cascade all over him. “This is an outrage, sir!” said Mr. Simcox, seizing the lieutenant by thearm. me, old Fireworks !” cried the fiery uke sea PI sa touch There was a tub of dough standing we by the waist, he = and his assistant. When Dick heard the story, said he should have liked to be ; “But,” he added, “it will make him all the more “] shall stay here some time, and you can always come tome. I'll protect you, my lad, and now sup- Go to the theater and see the horsemanship? That’s about your line of country, isn’t it? Do boys like a circus?” “Stunning |’ said Dick. ‘ Will you treat me to the circus ?”” : “Like a shot—pick up your —- and come on.” They left the hotel together, and walked along the Parade, and turning up a side street, came to the building in which the horsemanship was going on. The place was not crowded, so they got two good seats in the stalls. There was some riding and baredback feats. Then came the Bounding Brothers ef the Caucasus, and Mr. Merriman, and a sprite, who popped out of atrap in the floor in the most marvelous manner. Atter that the appearance of the star of the evening Was announced, : This was Miss Agatha Mountserrat, who was pro- nounced by all the crowned heads of Europe as the ee and peerless horsewoman in the world. : } At least this is what the bills said about her. She came on riding a splendid black horse, and looked a very pretty, well-made, fair-haired girl of seventeen, or thereabouts, sitting gracefully in the saddle, smiling at the jokes of the clown, while she waited for the band to begin. ‘The horse held itself in readiness, and she stood up on its back, bowing to the audience. There was a crack of the whip, and the horse started suddenly. Dick said to his friend : “ What's that?” He pointed to the stage. There was an indication that the trap up which the clown had come had not been properly fastenec. The lid hung down alittle, and it was clear thatif any great pressure was put upon it, it would go down ; For instance, if the horse trod on it, he would and perhaps break his fair rider‘s neck. ~ “ What is it?’ asked Smart, looking at the girl with admiration, and not paying much heed to his com- panion. “The trapis down. I don’t know much about stage business, though I was always very fond of theaters; yet Ican see that it is dangerous. Miss What’s-her- name will come to grief.” 5 The music struck up and drowned his voice. Fora moment he . = The horse and its rider, increasing their speed, ap- proached the perilous spot. CHAPTER XV. MR. SNARLEY a I8 SOLD AGAIN. Berxe a boy of courage and ready resources, Dick did notstay toconsult his friend any further. Delay was dangerous. ; In a few moments the horse would be at the spot, and Oe eeid ant tenrtns raswateads tty girl He not e such a pre ri carried away on a stesiches,7 teatant, m™m aee bleeding—maimed for life, perhaps, so he de! to act at once. ae, s up in his seat, he put one foot on the railing which divided the orchestra from the stalls, and sprang right over the heads of the musicians into the circus. “Hallo, Dick! Here,I say, what are you up to?” cried the lieutenant. } He thought he was mad. Dick paid no attention to him, but, standing in front of the horse, waved his hand and shouted: “Back { back! for your life!” Miss Mountserrat saw something in Dick earnest manner which made her feel sure all was not t. She reigned in her steed with some difficulty, and _ brought him to a halt just in frontof the trap, Atthe — = moment the clown seized Dick by the arm, and q “What is the meaning of this, young gentleman?” The musicians stopped, and the audience stood up to ¥ used to trapwork, his prea gerse, be to the - hold wt! nee se, Toma as a y I h peek ite mist Reagan a re 7 ‘ ; ‘= is Chae don theater ere mat te “ Yes. ‘her professional name, you knc 7 Pee See ea ee fae fad ei G he was delighted, and there. meee 2% 7 bY
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m ; _ , “for your presence of mind.” 4 “Don’t say any more now,” said Dick. “Iam proud to make your acquaintance. Ishall come and see you “Do, sir; ask for Hopkins at the stage-door, and he'll give orders that you are to be shown behind at once. “Perhaps you can do something for me some day. There is no telling,” said Dick; “I may run away from | school and want to go into your business.” The clown shook his head. “ Better keep out of it, sir. It’s little pay and hard | work,” said he. The bell rang, and father and danghter had to go on again—the former to make the audience laugh, the lat- ter to appear in a new trick act. They took leave of Dick, and begged him to return | again, and one of the officials led him around to the | front, where he joined his friend. But before he parted with the pretty Polly, he had begged one kiss, which she laughingly let him take. i “So you goin for saving people’s lives?’ remarked the lieutenant. “You are developing, young Frac- tions, your character is showing itself. I’m proud of | you, and I'll have an account of this in the Brighton to-morrow.” “ She's very pretty,” said Dick, a ¥. “Tn love, eh! Well, there’s no knowing what folly a| schoolboy may be guilty of.” “ Were you never in love?” “I’m never out of it,” laughed the lieutenant. began when I was a naval cadet, and wanted to run away with a publican’s dadghter; but he found me out and gave me a good hiding with an oak plant. thought my heart was broken, but it wasn’t.” . When the mance was over, they went to the cave, and curled himself up in a rug. ; { “Are you fond of your bed ?"" asked Smart. | *] don’t know,” answered Dick. “I'm never awake long enough to know. When I get into bed, I fall | asleep, and in the morning | have to turn out when the | eetbe Tisutenan ¢ wished him night, and ) e lieu good- . and went to) the Bedford. Dick dreamt of pretty Polly, and thought that Snar- ley paid her some attention, whereupon he knocked on ote but he slept well nev and was at ‘the 1 for breakfast at eight. The lieutenant thought all day long how he could some trick on Snarley. “T’ve got it,” he said, at last, | “What?” asked Dick. : “Never mind,” was the answer. “Youstop here, my yo and intelligent friend, and you shall see what you see.” Dick sat down in the cave, and the lieutenant went away. In an hour’s time he returned with Mr. Snarley, whom, to Dick’s intense dismay, he introduced to the cave. “1 have bean to Harrow House,” he said, “and told them there that I met you this and Mr. Snar- ley has come with me to take you Dick groaned; ap wink from Smart gave him to understan there was something going on which he did not comprehend. “Misguided boy!” said Mr. Snarley, with a pious snuffie. “This gentleman has shown he is your friend b> coming to us and giving you up; prepare to accompany me to Harrow House.” “Not yet,” said Smart; you must have asocial glass first, Mr. Snarley. We have to make up our little quar- rel of yesterday. “It is otten, sir,” replied the usher; “ you cov- ered me with flour, but you have ee pee me another teat, I am satisfied; but this k sheep “’—— “Tsay, Mr. Snariey, don’t you call me names. If you throw bricks, so can I!"’ “The ways of the will drink the or] water. into it a little red powder he had obtained who was a friend of his, and who had duce drunkenness in ten minutes. the mixture, and with a sigh of am d out the glass for more. * “Gin, old Spanien, und ‘bare’s your i * ‘s your >. bh,” said the lieutenant. “ sat down, and this time sipped his rum not often that I indulge, but we have scrip- saying that it isa poor heart that Wine was given to glad the heart of man is repenting,” said Snariey. it with the governor for you, Dick,” “You are te receivo a pardon and on the that you , geod boy in future, the past is to be for- z him that it would, if mixed with a spirit, pro- | him in the least. DICK LIGHTHEART. The table was pushed on one side and the violin pro-; duced. Mr. Snarley began to dance and indulged in such with laughter. This made th@rum get into his head, and presently | he sank down on the floor insensible. “He's tight,” said Dick. “Tight asa fly; and so would you be if you had taken what he has. I’ve drugged him,” answered the lieutenant. “What are you going to do with him?” “You don’t suppose I brought him here for nothing, | do you? Unfasten that bundle. It contains a cem- plete clown’s dress, which I bought this morning at a costumer’s. I mean to dress him in it, and send him home, like an ass as he is. I’ve got something that will révive him, though it won’t make him sober.” pt What a lark,” laughed Dick, unfastening the bun- é. The lieutenant prepared some paint to ornament the usher’s cheeks with, and arranged a wig which he had obtained expressly for him. Meanwhile the unfortunate Mr. Snarley was wholly unconscious of what was going on. \ - CHAPTER XVI. ‘ STRICT DISCIPLINE, WHEN Mr. Snarley’was rendered quite incapable of protecting himself, or knowing what was going on, the lieutenant proceeded to dress in the gay theatrical dress he had procured for the occasion. The clown’s wig fitted him ek nr greg They powdered his face, put a few streaks of paint on it, and then he was ready to go home. 5 “I think he’ll do,” said the lieutenant, looking ad- | miringly at his work. “Just another dab on the nose,” suggested Dick. The dab was applied, and the unfortunate usher pro- | nounced perfect. ; “ Go and bring two flys,’ commenced the lieutenant, | “and I will apply the restorative. I only want him to | be fuddled ; if he is quite stupid, there will be no fun.” Dick went out of the cave, and his friend gave Mr, | Snarley a draught which brought him to himself. He did not know what had been done to him; hut he had a vague idea that he ought to go home. “So you shall ; lean on my arm,” said the lieutenant. “ And the boy ?”* said Mr. Snarley. “ Will come with us? Leave it allteme. Am I not “You are,” replied Snarley, pressing his hand. “I knowit ; Ifeelit. And this night is one of the proudest passages in my life. Lead on, air, I will follow you.” They met Dick at the entrance to the cave, and he supported Mr. Snarley at the other side. In this way they proceeded to the clif, where the flys were waiting. Mr. Snarley was handed into one, amd though the light was imperfect, the filymen could not help laugh- ing. ’ & Is there anything ridiculous about me ?”’ asked Mr. Snarley. ‘ “ Nothing, I hope,”’ replied Dick. “ Why thenare those men indulging in vulgar laugh- ter?” “It is their way,” said the lieutenant, as they helped him into a fly. ‘‘ We will follow you, sir. You must go first, and prepare Mr. Simcox for our arrival.” Mr. Snarley’s head was in such a confused state that he scarcely Knew what he was doing. His chief idea was thst he wanted to go home and get to bed. So the flys started, and quickly came to Harrow House. That in which the lieutenapt and Dick were, stopped short of the school, but Mr. Snarley was driven boldly and Mr. Snarley entered, where the latter and his wife were. ‘They had just finished supper, and their surprise at beholding the apparition that burst upon them may be easily imagined. “ Who are you, sir? How dare you intrude upon me at this hour?’ said the professor, who did not know “Yes, how dare you ?’ echoed Mrs. Simcox, with equal indignation. “What, not know its own Snarley—its favorite usher?” said that gentleman, in maudlin tone. “Are you Mr. Snarley, and in this guise? Why, your gait is unsteady ; your breath smells most alarmingly of rum. Itis the yoice of Snarley, but it has the ap- pearance of a clown.’ “Giy’sh some wine,” said the usher, seizing the de- canter of sherry and hel himself. “Mr. you thai not,” said the professor, from him ; “you et yourself, sir!” la Ia!” said Mr. x What ts Sa hen eae sxtracrlinary con- have in the army.’ | your friend ?’’ duct ?” said Mr. Simcox, . “Pal, lal, la. It's a way we “ Mr. Snarie; “It's a way wo have ia the navy. Fal, lal, la. Jolly “Polly Hopkins’ wouldn’t look half so well in the; “In my youth I could dance a sailor’s hornpipe.} “Sir, to you.” ta " Push aside the table, and I will oblige you with an at-| “This behavior is most reprehensible.’’ “Oh! I see.” tempt to do so once more. Can you whistle the “It is all right, sir. It’s only a way we have in good At that that moment Polly came in, having finished | tune?” / company. Fal, lal,la. ‘ What jolly dogs are we.’” performance, and the hall rang with plaudits. Go- | “I've got a fiddle in the cupbeard, andIcan piay it | Mr. Snarley began to gracefully pirouette in front of up to Dick, she took his hand and it grate-| on that.” - | the window, and eventually did a breakdown in the - “Good again,” answered Mr. Snarley, smiling most approved burlesque style. “E can never thank you sufficiently, sir,” she said, ; blandly. | Mrs. Simcox had a keen sense of the ridiculous; she | langhed till the tears ran down her cheeks. Notso her husband. } He was furious, and pursued Mr. Snarley round the | serious contortions that the spectators were choked | room, trying to catch him ; but the usher dived under of the roo: | his arms, and reappeared in another lal Ia, fal throwing out his huge arm, with a“ Pal la, what jolly dogs are we!” | Dick and the lieutenant had mounted the railings | outside, and were able topeer into the room, through | the corner of the window, which was not quite hidden by the blind, and they enjoyed the spectacle im- | mensely. : At length Mr. Snarley missed his footing, lost his’ | balance, and fell back on the table, which was one of | two leaves. | As he fellin the center the screws give way, the two halves tilted, and all the supper things fell with a crash upon the unhappy man, who lay in the midst of cold | meat, pickles, bread, and a fine dry dinner sherry at thirty-six the dozen. “Mr. Snarley, get up, sir. Are you hurt? How do you feel now ?” said the professor shaking him. |. **I feel happy, sir,” answered Mr. Snarley, smiling blandly. “I feel as if some one had died and left me a boarding-school, replete with pupils, furniture, and all the stock-in-trade of a successful seminary. It has | always been my dream. Let me sink calmly to my rest. Adieu! In the language of the poets, sir, I solemnly, adieu, sir! adoo, Samivel! The time come, but no matter.” His eyes closed, and he began to snore leudly. Ringing the bell for the servants, who were as much surprised as anyone else at the usher’s condition, it — with the utmost difficulty that they got him to pd, . When the scene was over, Dick and the lieutenant. returned to their hotel, and laughed heartily over the adventure. “And now, Dick, what is your little game?” asked Lieutenant Smart. . “I shall go home to-morrow.” “ Home ?”* “Yes,” said Dick, ‘and see if I can't make some ee with the governor to go sumewhere pr, —— you know what he'll do?” “No.” “Of course I cannot speak with certainty,” con- tinued the lieutenant. “But from my knowledge of your father’s character, I will bet a pound to a pinch of snuff that he sends you back again.” “If he does I sup I must go,” said Dick, “ though I am determined I won’t stop long at Simeox’s. I hate the place. A public school is place for me.”’ “And Mr. Lightheart dislikes them very much. I have heard him say so. However, take your chance.” cay teen to bed, and Diek, in pursuance of his plan, borrowed some money from his friend to pay his tare to Hayward’s Heath. He thanked him very much for his kindness, which he declared he should never forget. They shook hands at the station and parted, for some time to come, as the lieutenant went to Portsmouth in a few days, and they were wide as the poles asunder. Dick could not p — @ little nervous as he walked over to Ingarstone, and neared the rectory. Looking into the study window he saw his father engaged in writing; and thinking it best to take the bull by the horns at once, he walked in. “ Oh, it’s you sir,” said his father, lying down his m. “ Where have you been ?” “ Been, father ?” replied Dick. “Yes, pee sir! I pete eye letter from Mr. Simeox, detailing your conduc’ saying that you had absented yourself from his control.” “T have been staying at the ‘Bedford’ with Lieu- tenant Smart.” Y “A nice companion, upon my word. Well, what are you here for?” « Because I don’t like Simcox’s.” “ As arule boys generally dislike their schools,” said the Rev. Septimus Lightheart. ‘‘ But I'll tell you one thing, you will have to like it; expect no ment from me. I am a believer in strict especially for wayward boys like you. I shal] have your idleness punished, and I will take you back my- | self, at once.” “Let me have some dinner vy erage Dick. “Well, I have no objections to Go and see your mother and sisters ; at three o’clock we will start.” Dick, looking rather crestfallen, left the study, dis- nope panier so coldly received by his father, bu sense told him that he deserved the reception he had met with. Mrs. Lightheart was ted to see him, as were his sisters, and when he told some of his adventures they could not help laughing heartily. “Your sister Emily is going to school,” said his mother. ~ Indeed, Where?” aan “At Brighton. Miss Bodmin, our governess, taken a school, whieh, oddly enough, is at the back of be ‘s house; your playgrounds will join one another.’ “And we can talk over the wall, Dick,” said Emily. -_ “What fun,” ae fellows nav. Gj , ? f ad Mr. Simcox. “Miss & good creature,” answered “Bother te ta serthe navy,” said Mr. ey, | Lightheart, “and 1 hope she will succeed in her pew © gravely. “ Navy is our great safeguard.” : venture. Emily is to be fo the “Mr, Snarley !” perhaps, Agnes will go afterwards. I 1 uot trust * > ¢ a + Joh adn? * “eee ol BS
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. the dear girl with anyone else, but Miss Bodmin has my confidence.” “| don’t mind going back so much now,” Dick said : toEmily. “ You and I will see what we can do to assist | the old girl.” Emily smiled and told him not to be a bad boy. Mr. Lightheart was as good as his word. ; At three o’clock he started for Brighton with Dick, | whom he lectured all the way, and said that he hoped | that his master would make an example of him as he deserved. , CHAPTER XV1L. ** D0 UNTO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD BE DONE UNTO.” Tue Rev. Septimus Lightheart was received with open arms as it were by Mr. Simcox, whose eye bright- ened still more when he saw Dick. “ Come in, sir; you are very welcome. I opined that your son had sought the refuge of your home, and that you would bring him back again,” he exclaimed. “Can I talk to you ?” asked the parson. “Certainly, my dear sir; let us hold a little friendly converse. Come in.” “Dick,” said his fatuer. “Yes,” replied Dick, a little sulkily. “Stand in the hall till you are called.” Diek sat down, and his father went with Mr. Simcox fnto his private room, where there was a good fire, and the two gontlemen sat down and began to talk. Dick's ears tingled, and he felt that he was the sub- ject of their conversation. Presently Mrs. Simcox came into the hall, and started at seeing Dick. “ What! have you come back again ?—and where have you been ?” she asked. “Upatree, ma’am,’’ said Dick. > “ What on earth does that mean ?” inquired the good lady. aver mind, I've got down again ; and my father is in the library with Mr. Simcox.” “Your father! Is he here.” “Yes, ma’am, and he says I’m to be better treated in future. I told him about having mutton for dinner four times a week, and the black hole, and all that, and he says if ’'m not better treated, he shall take me away.” “ , ae me; you are treated as the other boys are,” said Mrs. Simcox. “ Yes, ma’am, but they’re strong and I'm not. I've been delicate from my birth,” replied Dick. “Haye you really? Why did you not tell me so be- fore? Did you dine before youcame?” “Just had asnack,ma’am. I could eat something, but nothing coarse; I’m so delicate. If you had a pheasant, now”—— “Just the very thing,’’ answered Mrs. Simcox.- “I dined in the middle of the day, but Mr. Simcox, you know, Dick, always dines late. There’s a pheasant for him, and a very fine one, too. You can partake of it, but leave some for him, or else he will have to put up with the cold mutton! Poor boy, I did not know you were delicate.” “Dreadfully, ma’am,”’ answered Dick, putting his in his cheek when she wasn’t looking. “But I'll ‘and eat a wing of the pheasant. Is there apy bread sauce ?”" “Oh!yes. I made it myself.” Mrs. Simcox led Dick into the kitchen, and put be- fore him the bird which had been prepared for the professor. She told him not tocut it about much, and to enjoy himself while she went to the top of the house. Dick set to work with a will, and began to demolish pheasant in a manner that would have struck terror | F into the heart of Simcox. | c The bird happened to be a very nice one, and done to | turn. | “In for a lamb, in for a sheep,”’ said Dick to himself, | “Tl polish the beggar off, and the professor will have | to put up with cold mutton, as his wife touchingly ob- : While he was engaged in this pleasant manner, his | father and the schoolmas' tet were engaged in earnest | conversation. | “I don’t think he is a bad-hearted boy,” observed the : us Lightheart, after he had listened to Mr. | 's catalogue of evils ; “I admit that he has done propery ayasty oh Boca done, and I confess, also, that had he not been a very bad and mischievous boy Rev. Sim: DICK LIGHTHEART. Mr. Lightheart soon afterwards took his leave, and | not take their eyes off him, he looked 50 funny, and” Mr. Simcox called his wife. “Well, my dear, so the runaway has come back ; and | refrain from laughing. now for dinner. What have you?’ a fine pheasant ; I only took off the wing,” said his wife. “A pheasant, very good,” said Mr. his hands, ** send it up, Iam hungry. Presently Mrs. Simcox returned in dismay. ,Simcox, rubbing | | when he made a faee, they had the greatest difficulty to cs Mr. Snarley heard stifled laughter. ‘ “ Who's that?” hecried, ‘‘ Messiter, were yom laugh- oo © No, sir,” said Measiter. Dick put his tonguein his cheek, and Messiterroared; ~ a box on the ears rewarded him for his trouble, and Mr. “ What's the matter, my dear? Nothing wrong with | Snarley advised all the boys to be careful. | the pheasant, I hope?’ remarked her spouse. But no sooner had he silenced one than another be- “ Indeed there is. I found Dick Lightheart shivering | gan, and his arm ached with hitting them. in the passage, and he told me he was very delicate, and his father had said he was to bave somethin, : ’ He could not catch Dick in the act, for he looked- nice | studiously at the book whenever the usher turned to eat, so I told him to takea bit of your bird, and”—— | around or came near him. : “What?” “ He has eaten it all up.” “The wretch!” said the professor, angrily. “He shall suffer for this! eat my dinner! delicate, in- deed! He shall live on bread and water for a week.” Tea-time was a relief,and the boys could indulge | their merriment, which they did freely. “Oh !’ said Messiter, ‘I wish you wouldn’t make me laugh so. Snarley has half killed me.” “Somebody must suffer for it,’’ answered Dick. “1% “Tam very sorry,” said Mts. Simcox, “ but I did it | can’t berigged out like this for nothing.” for the best, and did not know he was such a glutton as It was some time before the boys got used to him, an@ to go and gorge the lot. He must have done it ont of | Dick reflected that whenever he met hip friends of the spite.”” It was no use to grumble, and the professor had to put up with the cold mutton, much to his disgust. During the unsavory meal, he reflected how he should deal with Dick. Mr. Snarley came in to say that Dick had made his appearance in the school-room, and was talking to the boys with as much impudence and assurance as ever. “It was as much as I could do to keep my hands off him, sir,’’ he said. “You were quite right to restrain yourself, Mr. Snar- ley,”” answered the professor. **But what's to be done with him?’ “ Caning has no effect. We have put him in the black hole, and that did not result successtully. . What have you done with the clowa’s dress?” “I have it in my press, sir.” “Very good. Suppose we sentence him to live on bread and water for a week and’to wear that dress. Will net that be punishing him on the principle of ‘Do unto others as you would be done unto?” “A bright idea, sir,” answered Mr. Snarley. “I think we shall hit him if we make him ridiculous, and hurt his pride.” “Tt shall bedone. Go and bring the dress, and fol- low me to the school-room,”’ said Mr. Simcox. The principal had looked forward to a good dinner, and was dr y irate at being cheated out of it. He was angry, also, at the pranks Dick had played on the school, which was as quiet and orderly and well- conducted an establishment of its kind as could be found in the town. The boys were kept in such a state of subjection that they had lost all spirit, as we have said, and it was only owing to Dick’s indomitable temperament that they began to pluck up a little courage. When Mr. Simcox entered, Dick was making all the boys roar with laughter at his account of Mr. Snarley’s return dressed as a clown, of which occurrence they had been studiously kept in ignorance. “ Lightheart, stand forward,” exclaimed Mr. Simcox, in his most awful and commanding tone. “ Yes, sir,”’ replied Dick, coming to the front. “You have been guilty of the grossest breaches of dis- cipline, and no o! ary amount of correction seems to do you any good. Therefore I am about to punish you in an ex inary way.” “My father says he won’t have me hit, sir,”” replied Dick, inven’ a falsehood, for his father had said nothing whatever about it. 7 “No matter what your father said,” answered the professor ; “ for in my school youare under my disci- pline, andif I should choose to cane you, I should cer- tainly do so. But I have resolved to adopt another ourse. *Do unto others as you would be done unto’ isa golden motto, is it not?” - Yes, sir.” “Very well then ; out of your own mouth will I con- demn you. You ate my dinner. For eme week you shall have the usual breakfast, tea and supper, but at dinner-time, while the savory steam of roast or boiled is rising gratefully to the nostrils of the other boys, you shall have nothing but bread and water to eat.” * Please, sir,” said Dick. “Listen,” thundered Mr. Simcox; “ you dressed Mr. Snarley in the attire of a clown ; for one week in school, and during vacation, you shall wear the selfsame Pr Dick sank back in his seat. circus again he would have acquired quite a comic turn, and might make himself useful in the show. Three days afterwards he was in the playground, and he heard laughter on the other side of the wall. “ Miss Bodmin and her girls have come,”’ he thought. Messiter, as usual, was with him, and he tald him to go and get the steps. “The steps? What for ?’’ asked Messiter. “ There is a girl’s school over the wall, and I want te go andsee them.”’ “ All right,” said Messiter. } e And he went for the steps, which were kept in an out- ouse. Dick mounted them, and, springing lightly over the a dropped gently down in the midst of about twenty girls. They were astonished beyond measure at his strange appearance. Taking off his cap, which had made him seem still more grotesque, he bowed politely. z “ Here we areagain |’ he said, : CHAPTER XVIII. THE NEW GOVERNESS. Dick was not Jong before he discovered his sister, who was holding a skipping-rope for the other girls. “ Emily, dear, don’t you know me?” he said. “Don’t ‘dear’ me,”’she replied, “I will call Miss Bodmen. How dare you come into our playground ?” Dick laughed. ““ Well,” he said, “ my dieguise must be com it you don’t recognize me. I’m your brother Dick, just come over the wall from Simcox’s to have alook at you. You asked me to, you know.” a other girls lett off playing and looked curiously im. “Tsaw him jump dowmz from the wall,” said one, named Fletcher. ; “Perhaps it is Dick, “ Did you ?” exclaimed Emily. after all. He is full of his tricks.” PF na disewn me, Emily. Look at my mole,” said “Your what ?” echoed the girls in chorus. “My mole. Emily knows I’ve got a mole on the left side of my nose, just under the eye.”* : « Oh, do look, Miss Lighthesry, tcher “ Oh, do % htheart,” said Miss Fle: a ter e caned ; was pre = enever 3 a a. ou remember the fable of the hare and the . | to submit to. * duneuns him, pte thin dea” ee oe ae Fhe tortoise won the race, though the hare was the| He hadthought of another night inthe black hole,| “Really.” ; : swifter of the two. This lad has set me at defiance, and | and that be did not care much about. “ He's so with me that I’ve got to wear ij for he is so mischievous and full of tricks, that I am never ** Perhaps. you will be cured in time of your mis-| a week. It's called the phil costume, Par i safe. Fancy his bringing home my usher in a state of | chievous propensities. If you are not, it will not be to have a medal, and jots of books as prizes; I cantell saree hustiten, auadl Qusenad ilkdh @ Gleaee my fault,’ continued Mr, Si you I'ma big swell.” ; ee oe oe That was not altogether his fault. Iknowhis cou-| Mr. y now made his withtheclown’s; “What afonny thing! You don’t know how odd it* — tty oma bre Reg i lage ge gd gr Ee fae ae a : ever, e 3, who 0" atthe; “ my > you m as I have —_ have brought the boy back, and leave him in your | comic ce he presented. and attend to all your duties,and then you'll reapthe __ bane y well, Mr. Lightheart. “I will 40 my best with Eagles and Dick rok Lightheart, pear ath Merce buenos nT alonpeteoigh were clever, Dick, en ‘ _ “Very our work ; on orm) “ ou , ” said him, for yoursake. You area tleman whom I re- in the center of the schosl-coam. Itwill be your place | ily. : : : ‘ spect, and whom [ have to for the referénee in | for one week.” ‘ don't know half what I can do yet. "They've my prospests. Casey -aF ereer feemcegerer ne gel Mr. Simcox retired to digest his cold mutton, by the | been to send away the master ™ , thank you. By theway, my girls’ govern. | aid of a segar; and the boys went on with their lessons | because he can’t teach me any more,” said Dick. __ ess, Miss Bodmin, is about to become a neighbor of | till tea-time. “Indeed! Miss Bodmin was : yours.” ; Dick waited till Mr. Snarley’s back was turned, and | that she must engage a "So T heard,” said the professor. 5 then put his hands in bi denge poskels, Just ap. he SEM, because she has so much to » Avery worthy lady.” seen the clown do it in tomime, and he made a es “Thope she way get on, t! h Brighton is so over- | grimace at the some time. : = she? Come here, stocked with schools that great interest is required.” All the boys were looking at him; in fact they could You won't say anything?” ~ ¥ « ‘
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we He whispered in his sister’s car. _ “Will you really?’ cried Emily. - “Won't I?” answered Dick; “ you see if I don’t; but DICK LIGHTHEART. {see? Noone would be any the wiser. If Mr. Simcox saw me come in you could say I was your sister.” “So I could; but a nice sister you'd be,’’ said Sarah, x eet get chatting and spoil the fun. It will be | with a laugh. ‘ss Nad d 7 _ himself free. ). coat; drat him fetehed her. I shall be so wretched. Do, please run.” “all right.” Dick was off in an instant, and making a face at, and then kissing his hand to the girls, who were delighted at his impudence. Afriendly tree enabled him to gain the top of the wall, and he slipped over into his own playground. He moved his arms up and down like a bird flapping and said: “* Cock-a-doodle-doo.” * Well,” asked Messiter, ‘‘ how did you get on?” “Isaw my sister, and I’m goimg aiter a situation,” answered Dick. “ What's that ?” “ Mathematical mistress at the ladies’ school.” “ Nonsense !” “Iam, though The next time I can get out I shall buy some things at a second-hand shop, and dress up like a governess, with mittens, and all that sort of t , and havea wig, you know, so that I shall make up stunningly.”’ * Does Miss Bodmin want one?’ “So Emily says. The hours are from twelve to one ‘three timesa week, and I shan't be missed out of the —— when I get rid of this clown’s tomfoolery. Simcox had it on.” “I know how you could get rid of it,” said Messiter. “Do ees? Eternal gratitude, and all that sort of ‘ou will tell me,” said Dick. wthecistern at the bottom of the play- “Well, it’s just over the dust heap. Let you and I es paters bali, and send the ball into the cistern. ‘ou go after it and fall in. It isn’t deep enough to @rown you. Then get out and slip into the dust heap. That will rnin the clewn’s clothes, and they will have or you some brandy and water, put you to bed, ive you your own Mr. Simcox won't mind have worn things some time, and the mm for you i rather stale.” “So it is; atrsp. I’ve gots ball somewhere in one of these * said In a short time they were playing at bat and ball, and the balljwas skillfally directed by Messiter into the cis- tern, w had no lid.; “That's a clever thing you've done,” said Dick. “ What's that?’ asked Mr. Snarley, who happened to be about the playground. + , he’s sent my new prize ball into the cistern, “Till getit. It can’t have had time to sink yet,” Dick continued. “Take care,” said the usher ; “ the water is cold and . “**He bravely iter. - “Silence; I don’t want any of your impertinence. - Hallo! what’s that? He's gone; he’s in the cistern. ‘Biess my soul !”” Mr. Snarley ran to render what assistance he could, for Dick had vanished in the depths of the cistern. quickly reappeared, however, but without the Stumbling as he resched the dust-heap, he rolled over and over, and reached the ground covered with * Are you hurt?” asked the usher. “Save me! save me!” cried Dick. as he rushed into Mr. Snarley’s arms and clung around his neck, hug- - im until he was half suffocated and as dirty as * Drat the boy I" exclaimed Mr. Snarley, as he shook oy 1 Ia my new Melton cloth black { Tsay.” “ Oh, sir, 'm very sorry,” Dick said, penitently. “I "t mean to do a tting into the cistern gave “ Now Sarah, mind what you’re about, orI shall take “Here's Miss | a kiss,” said Dick. “ now, confess. You do paint alittle bit, or you would never have that color, As for me, | powder and paint too.” “Do you!’ thought Dick. “I'll remember that.” “ You dear little thing. I know we shall be friends. It was so kind of Mr, Lightheart to send you “Take two if you like,” she answered, tossing her | to me,” cried Miss head im pudently. Bodmin. She wanted to kiss him again, but Dick backed out af Sarah was not a bad-looking girl, and Dick took her | it, pretending to cough. at her word; he did kiss her. Cook got jealous, and “If it was that Miss Stoner who was with Emily be had to kiss her too before she was satisfied; and | yesterday, I shouldn’t mind,” he muttered; ‘but I after the kissing had been satisfactorily accomplished | can’t stand this old frump.” they were both in good temper, and it was agreed that Miss Bodmin led the way into the school-room, Dick should the very next day put his plan in execu-| where the girls were assembled. tion. With the assistance of the servants Dick had little |; difficulty in dressing himself. She called out half a dozen names, and said : “The young ladies whose names I have called will stay and be examined as to their proficiency in math- He went out at the kitchen door and walked demure- | ematics by Miss Sharp, whom I now introduce for the ly to Miss Bodmin’s, which was only around the cor-| first time. The others may go and play.” nerin the next atreet. The girls got up and went away, only those whose He walked a little stiffly, but that was in his favor. | names were mentioned staying. He was shown into Miss Bodmin’s parlor, and the good lady did not keep him long waiting. The wig he wore was dark, and though she might re- member his features, he did not think she would find him out.” “Good-morning, madam,” he said, making his voice assoft and low as possible. ‘‘I hear you are in want ofalady to teach mathematics.” “TI am,” said Miss Bodmin. please.” “ Miss Sharp.” “ Ah, thank you. From whom did you get your in- formation ?”" “ From the Rev. Septimus Lightheart, the Rector of Ingarstone, in whose family you lived so many years,” he replied. “Indeed. Itisa strong recommendation to me. I have the utmost regard for Mr. Lightheart, and one of “Your name, if you his dear daughters is under my charge at present. hope to have Agnes, the younger one, soon. Have you known the ily long ?”” “ Well, ma‘am, to tell you the truth, Iam a distant relation of Mrs. Lightheart, but I don’t want that to go any further,” said Dick. “This is interesting,’ cried Miss Bodmin. “Didyou bring me a letter from Mr. Lightheart by way of intro- duction ?” **No.” “It is usual in such cases.”’ “Tam aware of that; but Mr. Lightheart said I had only to mention his name.” “ Have you any testimonials?’ “Thad several,” Dick said, “ but I have come from Yorkshire, and was robbed of my~—my reticule in the Le What part of Yorkshire? I too come from that county. “ Beverley, near Leeds.” “ Bless me! my native towu,” said Miss Boimin, rapturously. ‘‘ We must have a little conversation.” had spoken at random, and felt rather uncom- fortable. However, he smoothed down his dress and —< a pair of spectacles with which he provided f. The situation was becoming embarrassing. CHAPTER XIX. MATHEMATICS EXTRAORDINARY. “ Any you sho hted?” inquired Miss Bodmin, “Very, ma’am. I have worked hard,” replied Dick. “You are young to have defective sight. May I in- “ Dear me, you do not look it; but study will affect the eyes. Youremind me about the tace of some one Thaveseen. Ob, Mr. Lightheart’s eldest son. There is a strong similarity about your features and his own, “ Sharp, madam.” pudence with you ory “ — ie “oi once % and then I ala pDe their faces.” . : Dick “ ' “What salary do you expect?” “I have other engagements in Brighton, and I will leave that entirely to your discretion, ma‘am,” replied “Take me for one week on trial, and then we ~ There was a sly twinkle in Emily Lightheart’s eye, and Miss Stoner also seemed amused. , The other girls appeared to take little interest in the advent of the new governess, though’ they looked spitefully at her, and made critical remarks about her. “Young ladies,” said Miss Bodmin, “I will leave you with Miss Sharp, who has come with a high—I may say very high recommendation from an old esteemed friend of mine. If I hear of any breach of discipline, rest assured it shall be severely punished.” With this announcement, Miss Bodmin left the room, and shut the door behind her. The girls began to talk amongst themselves, Dick was at first embarrassed, and did not know what to do, but soon recovered his courage and resolved to assert his authority. “Silence !” he exclaimed. All the six girls looked at him. “ Young ladies,” he said, “I have come here to teach the young ides how to shoot. Iam not now speaking of archery, but ef the mind. I hope you all have mathematical minds, because if you have not, it will be a serious obstacle to our intercourse. Now, Miss ee oblige me by telling me what is a straight “Oh, Dick!” exclaimed Emily. “How dare you, miss ?” exclaimed Dick, sternly ; my name is Miss Sharp.” “But we all know that it isn’t,” observed Miss — ; ‘we are aware that you are Emily Lightheart’s ther.” “Who let the cat ont of the bag?” asked Dick, lay- ing down a book he had taken up, and resuming his natural ar « , { “Oh, y ! thou false deceiver!” exclaimed Dick. “What shallIdotoyou? Shall I kiss you all round?” Murmurs of dissent arose. Girls don’t like to be kissed all round. They like to have to themselves whatever kissing they indulge in. Let's have agame at hunt the slipper; the old por. poise won't be in again for balf an hoar,” said Dick. “Capital I’ exclaimed Miss Storer ; “I don’t mind, if all other girls are agreeable.” “Who's got a slipper?’ Dick went on, No one answered. 1 “You have, Emily,”’ he said, “‘and it’sdown at the heel for a sovereign—they always used to be.” “Oh, Dick!” said Emily, ine tone of mild remon- trance. “ Pull it off. She did so, and they all sat in a ring. Dick was the hunter, and soon the grew fast ana nus. . The girls passed the slipper from one to the other, and were too quick for him. At last he got hold of it, and Emily bad to bunt, while he sat down between Miss Fletcher and Miss Stoner. “How nice!’ he said; “I haven't felt jolly for I pmecd know how long. Toss up which have a kiss, Dent go on so,” said Miss Davis, laughing. “Oh, you are rude,” said Miss Stoner. “ve got the slipper, Emmy,” said Dick, and tossed it to the other side. aba Suddenly the door opened, and the which was thrown as a boy throws a ball, struck Bodmin’ in the face. “Oh! myeye,” she said, putting her han@ to her face; “oh! my eye, my eye? «it’s a case of bolt,” thonght Dick to himself. “I'm stumped this time. Just like my luck.” The door was the only means of exit, and Miss It eae tock quickly the was see how and sat on sions, looking at ca other Just wi nou k was the only one whe was at all disconcerted. “ Miss "said Miss Bodmin, in her most stern voice, “ what's the meaning of iy i ° “ Girls be girls, ma'am,” said 4 a Shey suggested eee at hunt the and xe y = a un A re aan to a¢quiesce. “ It Bot occur assure you.” t Ls and Pmt | eye?” said Miss Bodzin, feeling the injured ° e G * | hope the is not severe, ma‘am.” = ynoks ta tai slipper? ae - © Min caren nie. ze and she determined to say that she did. a7 an “ Yes, ma'am,” she tee ? es * and get into ”
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DICK LIGHTHEART. a be passed over lightly,” said Miss Bodmin, addressing | to keep hup your school, and thisis hall the reward I _““ You vagabond!” cried Mr. Simcox, laying hold °, - Miss Sharp. “Oblige me by coming to my private | get.” room; I had no idea that my girls were so unruly. This behavior in school hours demands some explana- tion.” “Certainly, ma’am,” said Dick. He winked at the There happened, unfortunately for him, to be a dis- greeable one amongst his class. + is was Miss Fletcher, who had called Miss Bodmin | | | : ? “ That’s just what he says. You're too much of 3 serub for him. He does not like a drudge,” Dick re- marked. Mrs. Simeox seized the professor by the left whisker, and adminievered a hearty box on the ear. “Did you say so? Oh, you villain! I'll have your life, I will !’’ she screamed. “As heaven’s my witness, I never said anything of This when he had jumped over the wall in his clown's | the kind!” cried the professor. “ She’s made a mis- dress. She advanced to Miss Bodmin and said: “(Can I say a word to you, Miss Bodmin ?” “ Well, what ?” said Miss Bodmin, impatiently, “ Miss Sharp is not Miss Sharp.” Miss Bodmin stared. “TTl never kiss you again,’’ whispered Dick, who was close by. “ What do you meat?” asked Miss Bodmin. “She is Emily Lightheart’s brother. At this declaration, Miss Bodmin turned red, green and blue. She gasped for breath. “Itcannot be him! Have I lived to be deceived in thisway?”’ she said. / Dick winked at the girls, and made a stiff curtsey. “I did not come here to be insulted, Miss Bodmin. My name is Sharp, as I have the honor of telling you, and my profession is t of a teacher of mathematics. 1 wish you av good-morning, and inform you that our agreement is at an end.” : Miss Bodmin did not know what to do; at one } take. She’s come to the wrong house.” “No, I haven't, Tom, but I'll say so it it will save you from getting into trouble,” Dick exclaimed. “Good-bye, old man; we shall meet avain some day, | and then for sweet kisses. Oh, the dear little man, he does kiss so nicely.” This was more than Mrs. Simcox could bear. Letting her husband go, she rushed at the supposed young woman, who had begun to beat aretreat, and caught her on the pavement. “No, you don’t,”’ she exclaimed. “Hi’aven’t done with you yet. I'll teach you to creep into respectable ‘omes like a viperish beast, and render man and wife miserable. I'll give you something to remember me | Strong as Dick was, he was unable to hold his own against Mrs. Simcox, who was a muscular woman, and her strength was increased by her fury, which had reached an ungovernable pitch. Thump, thump, her blows descended upor Dick's back and shoulders. His gown was torn into shreads, and after the lapse moment she was inclined to believe Miss Fletcher, and, | of about a minute and a half, Mrs. Simeox was leaning against the wall in strong hysterics, holding up in tri- Emily was questioned, but she would not confess | umph a flaxen-haired wig. st another, she fancied he was really Dick Lightheart. anything, merely replying vaguely that she did not “TI knew it hall halong. Iwas sure hit was a wig,” know, and Miss Fletcher was cut by all the girls for | she gasped at intervais. In the meantime, Dick walked gayl Blinded with rage, she did not scrutinize the person back to the | of her victim, who certainly presented a most peculiar kitchen entrance of Harrow House; as he opened the . appearance. door, he almost ran into the arms of Mrs. Simcox wh to look at the larder. ° was running,” she exclaimed. “ Beg pardon, I’m sure,” said Dick, “Are you the xk?" “Cook! bless mé, what an hinsult,” cried Mrs. Sim- ox, who as we have said, often confused her H’s, when excited. “Me the cook ! Who are you ?” “Well, my name’sa secret,” said Dick mysteriously. “Who have you come to see?” “The governor.” “What governor,?” cried Mrs. Simcox, trembling with “ Mr. Simcox; he met me in the street yesterday, and asked me to come up to see him in the middle of the day. I was to take care notto run up against his wife who, he said, was hideously ugly.” “Hugly! Me hugly?” } “Well, it ean’t be you,’’ continued Dick, “ because om are not at all bad-looking for your age.” The compliment m ed her, “No,” she said,‘ h’im not Mrs. Simeox, only a friend; but what did Mr. Simcox say to you ?”’ “ He told me he loved me, and we went into a pastry- cook’s shop, and had some soup and sherry—so nice— an¢ then he kissed me. Sonice. He is a delightful man. I love him so; tell him I'm here, will you ?”’ “Tl tell him. Oh, yes,”’ continued Mrs. Simcox her teeth with 6. You wait here, miss, till comes back. I'll tell him. Won't 1?” Bursting with rage, Mrs. Simcox went away to sum- mon hér husband, and lelt Dick half strangling himself | Dick, unconcernedly, as he with suppressed laughter. * The fat’s in the fire now, and no mistake,” he mut- tered. “Won't it beaspree when old Simcox says he don'tknow me? She'll tear his hair ovtby the roots. i know she will.” CHAPTER KX. MRS. SIMCOX 18 JEALOUS. | Deprived of his wig, his own hair stood up in a wild sort of way. @ care, young woman. Mind where you are! Blood oozed from scratches on his face; his bonnet hung around his neck by the strings, and rested on his back, which, through the rents in his dress, showed his jacket, and his Gubeiced legs were apparent through the awful tears in his once trim and pretty . “Why, it’s not a woman at all!” exclaimed Mr, Sim- cox: “It’samandressedup! Me, it’saboy. We've been hoaxed 1” “ Hoaxed 2” faintly repeated his wife. “Yes; it’saboy. It’s Dick Lightheart; he’s been playing a trick upon us. You ought to have known I could never be unfaithful to you, my dear, after all these years, too. Oh, Martha, what a fool you've made of yourself!” “Oh, Tom,” cried Mrs. Simcox, as the truth dawned upon her, ‘come tomy harms! Oh!” With a spasmodic cry, she threw herself into his by no means eager embrace, and with two or three hyster- ical shrieks, suitable to the occasion, fell into a faint. “ Casa of carry me out, sir,” observed Dick. He had begun to recover his serenity, and, with mock modesty, gathered up his skirts with a mincing air, which made the servants, who had come up to the area steps of the different houses to see the fun, shake with laughter. “Confound your impndence!” cried Mr. Simeox, who did not know what to do with his wife, she being a good weight. “You shall leave my house at once, and forever.” © “That will suit my complaint exactly,” answered 1 kissed his hand to the tit- tering servant maids. The professor would have shaken his fist at Dick had not his hands been engaged. “Take her in,” amswered the latter, “and shut her up. She is not fit to be allowed to run about loose. Look at my dress.” Handing her over to the care of the servants, who assisted her into the kitchen, Mr. Simcox returned to Dick. f ; “ How long, sir, is this disgraceful scene to continue ~ Dacx had not long to wait before Mr. Simcox made his | outside my house?” he said. Rear! was mingled with astonishment in the counten- anee of the worthy professor, who was dragged rather than led by his angry spouse. To be told that a young woman wanted him was an overw mistake. ~ There oa some ye Twill soon put it it, my dear,” he exclaim: vancing quickly alo I shenes 12 tie bank duce. Fe kl Dick put his finger to his lips, and with a significant air his head in Mrs. Simcox’s direction. “I'll cali again,” he said. “It’s all right, We under. stand ore another.” : “What do you mean, you brazen huzzy ?”’ exclaimed . Simcot ‘ “ Another time will do,” answered Dick. p bx "said Mrs. Simeox, ad her husband in her most excited manner, “I hask you hif you know ‘usey. ‘ 4 _“ Enow her ! I'll swear that Inever saw her before phe hee Setreitanhiee lite,” answered the bewil- schoolmaster. “Oh, Tom, Tom !” exclaimed Dick, putting his hand- _ kerehiefto his eyes, and tocry. “Notkuow : « You'll break my heart.” ; Pie, Ae Soe evga clr gt ik cong just Toe ‘aves boon cloving Se yeas if ‘Ss SA ore ‘tricked, grammatical! the “I may do as Llike in the street, I suppose? It’s not your street,” replied Dick. “Do you my authority, or do you not?” “Does it look like it? Iask you as a sensible man,” Dick said. “ What am I to do?” cried the professor, dragging at his hair frantically. “ Apologize for your behavior, and talk calmly. We may then come to some arrangement,’ replied Dick, adding, “Ah, here isamutual friend. Miss Bodmin, how pleased I am to see you.” It was the proprietress of the come to see Mr. Simcox and discover if she had been icked, as Miss Fetcher said, or not. “ What is it?” she exelaimed. “What is what ?” inquired Mr. Simeox, rather un- 'y- : “Tam Miss Bodmin, your neighborhood,” answered lady. ‘I keep a school for girls, and I have reason to believe I have been shamefully im upon by one of your raed IT allude to that o that thing She “It's a boy, Miss Bodmin, and It’s Dick Lightheart, the scamp a very bad too. family. What has he done to you?” Miss of the Dick forming a ice in th benefit of who were or standing in the street, | 4 iy Pits 7 7s looking ont of the windows him. “Come inside with you. I'll teaeh you a lesson” Come in. You shan’t do this with impunity. Comr in, Isay! Comein!” And every time he said “ Come in,” he cuffed him un mercifully. ? By dint of superior force he dragged him into the | house, and tore his clothes off, leaving him in his own, | 80 that he was a boy once more. | “There,” he exclaimed, flinging him from him in thé | passage, “that will do for you, I think. Go to the school-room. Take your Bible and write out in aclear, legible hand the Book of Genesis. Be off!” ‘ Dick “pulled himself together,” as he expressed it, and went away singing: | “**It seems to me but yesterday since we were boys together.” Chorus. ‘Jolly little boys, happy little boys since we were boys together.’ ” Mr. Simcex returned to Miss Bodmin. “Madam,” he said, “ will youcomein? Am: my | poor establishment can offer yeu is very much at your | service.” | ar ees a, you triumphed over that boy?” asked Miss “Thave. The wild beast is tamed.” A head was protruded from the passage window.” “Is he?’ said a voice; “that’s all you know. Don't count your chickens before they're hatched.” Mr- Bimoox took but he had disa; . Simeox up astone, bu He uttered a dismal groan, ee “That boy will be the desth of me,” he said, with a sigh. “Iam reluctant to give up the va 9 pounds a year that his father pays for his board and tuition, as my school is not a large one, but I do wish they’d take him home. “I know him of old,” remarked Miss Bodinin, “and I sympathize with you very heartily. I was \governess ~ in his father’s family. You will never do anything with him, sir, and he will never do you any credit ; the boy is naturally 3 scamp and come toa bad end. I am sorry to speak in this apparently unkind way of ee but it is my duty, and what I say is the result o) ence.” experi % ‘ will have him strictly watched, and he shall not annoy you again if I can help it.” “Thank you very much. How I feel for your poor wite. What ascene!” , “* Will you come in and speak toher? Perhaps a few words of consolation from one of her own sex ”——— “Certainly,” replied Miss Bodmin; “I will go with 4 pleasure.’’ } And the governess was ushered into the house by Mr. Simeox, finding his wife in the kitchen drinking brandy and smelling sal volatile and burnt feathers: alternately, while she kicked and struggled one minute, and screamed next. CHAPTER XXI, 2 DICK FALLS IN LOVE. Mr. Smecox took secret counsel with Mr. Snarley ag to how he should deal with Dick. t He did not like to be too severe with him, beeause he might run away. ete When the irritation natural upon Dick’s last freak’ - had died away, neither the usher, nor the principal, noreven Mrs. Simcox could help laughing, the whole affair was so comical. ree oe port and a pheasant in the evening Mr. and Mrs. Simcox positively made love te one another as they used to doin the old times, when he was an usher and she was the cook with savings im the bank. fe? “How could I have doubted you?” saidshe. ve “As if | would deceive you, my own!” replied he. , « And putting down two pheasant bones which they were respectively picking, they allowed their lips to meet in « greasy kiss. { The decided that Dick should not be beaten, » re when he had done six ten, and he did no more. ap J his brief visit to Miss Bodmin’s the eyes and pleasant smile of Miss; Henrietta Stoner hi made a deep impression upon him. vu He fell in love. 82 Aecting tale, isn't it?” said Messiter, with o smile “Really!” sf Oi Ses. To tr ; rm to throw a letter over the wall.” whined Mies ‘s-her-name don’t get it." , J aaked Emily to look out for it, and I both she and Henrietta are out "gs such s letter! It’s full of love. Emil: A iz
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Messiter hoisted him up on the wall. _ There was nobody there. ‘The were playing about in another part of the — but the note unfortunately slipped from his | “Tye been and gone and done it,” said Dick, as he ftom the wall. ** Done what ?” inquired Messiter. Suppose it is picked up _ and that I would give the world for a kiss from her ruby lips, and I have asked her to slip out and meet me this evening in her playground undér the wall at — ten. “Has she got a watch ?” “Don’t beso beastly practical,” said Dick, in a tone of annoyance ; “ you are always trying to throw cold water on a fellow. Of course she can guess the time. Suppose they go to bed at ten, can’t she count succes- Sive sixties, and so make the seconds into minutes, and shan‘t I be there and wait for her if she is late ?” “I think it was tather imprudent of you to get on | the wall,” said Messiter. “Why?” “The old dragon may have been looking out of the “Bother the . Who cares for her?” answer- ed Dick contemptuously. “‘She was Emily’s govern- ess, and I have played her so many tricks that she swears J turned her hair gray before its time.” “They turned away and joined the other boys in a game at prisoner's base. But Messiter’s apprehension was well founded. Miss Bodmin was on the lookout, and she happened to see him mount the wall. — She also chanced to see the little fluttering piece of paper fall to the ground. “A note,” she muttered. “For one of my girls, no doubt, and from that scamp, Dick Lightheart. I must see into this at once.” ly she walked into the playground, and, = to one or twoof the girls, hoped the young ladies were enjoying themselves. She picked up the note without being observed, and retired into her drawing-room to read it. At present her school was not large enough to per- mit her to | 8 gor * Is she had under her care erness: She the dozen ped, f, and so she no one to talk to her about her little troubles. Opening the note, she read it without scruple. “ Dearest Henrietta,” said Dick, “to have seen you once is to love you forever. My sister will have told eo of the deep impression you have made upon me. shall never be happy without you. Meet me by the moonlight slone this evening. The almanac tells me yours, Dick. “P.S.—Don’t mind that old frump, she can't hurt either of us.” “Wi ejaculated Miss Bodmin, when she had finished the dyes of this precious epistle. ; framp, Miss Bodmin; that's me. to be called old Miss Bodmin, frump. That's s playground, she tried to con- to the girls. which she had picked up. That Ipunish th Lhd oe as to quaterege romantic manner we described in the last chapter, Miss ff es i eth opment word. bed-room, and, as the win- fest from the ground, escape was im- to come. a ta passed Miss Stoner, she purposely dropped the son made all his “Emily,” said Miss Bodmin, sternly, “ you never told | they dreaded pursuit. Png 4 and what is more, they fanc: it, although she $ Miss Bodmin dragged Henrietta into fly, and, hel down by her side. SE me, Sve me girl cried plaintively. : % trougly thas Ir Simcox scareely "Lat mego. You have no right to hold m this!’ he exclaimed. | “Tl let you know whether hs Ae ee ‘ f - I have a right bo atlt q Voted 2 4 lm pie 2a 2
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DICK LIGHTHEART. an | euff). I'll teach you to defy me (punch), I’ve been} “I thought Icould have made myself useful to your! Still, a terrible accusation of which he knew himself too lenient with you (kick). You shan’t go on like | company in some sort of way,” replied Dick. to be innocent, had been brought against him. this(box). You young scamp, you shall learn who; “ You've gota father, I suppose?” It was a dreadful thing to be called a thief! is your master (hit). Your father gave me authority| “Yes.” “I give you my word of honor I know nothing about over you (punch), and told me to doas I liked with “ What is he?” it, sir,” he replied tremulously. * ’ you (kick); dnd I will, too” (punch). ~ “ Vicar of Ingarstone, near Hay ward’s Heath.” “ Has any one been in your box?” . Dick’s cries attracted the attention of some passers-| “I knowit,” said Captain Hanger, and a very good| ‘“ No one but yourself.” by, and one amongst them seemed inclined to inter- | living itis. What can you do in our line? Can you| “Itisn’t likely Ishould steal my own property, is fere actively on his behalf. ride or tumble ?” it?’ said the captain, with a sarcastic smile. This was an elderly man, who, looking at Dick by} “No.” “Noit isnot; but’?—— the light of the gas lamp, said : “Tl tellyou what he might do,” remarked the| “What? “I know that face.” good-natured clown. “ He could take the money.” “ How could it have gone?" said Dick. Looking up at the sound of the voice, Dick said : ; “*Socan all of us, when we get the chance,” re- “Don't try to humbug me. You have either stolen “Of course you do, Mr. Hopkins. I saved your marked the captain, with a laugh. the money-box or handed it tosome confederate. I | daughter Polly from falling down the trap at the circus.’| |“ What’s that ?”’ asked Dick. had no great opinion of your character from th first. A) « ‘sit. That's what I was trying to remember.| ‘Stand at the door, and receive the people’s money | man, or rathera boy, who could run away from school I thought I knew you,” replied Tom Hopkins. . as they come in, and put it in the till as you give them ; and Are the pranks I haye heard you say you did, is The oldclown was returning home after the per-| their tickets. We’re short-handed, and the captain | capable of any villainy.” formance at the circus. had to do that himself lately.” Dick cowered pre the denunciation, which he did Fortunately or unfortunately he had arrived justin! Captain Hanger thought for a brief space, then ex- | not expect from such a quarter. time to be of service to his young friend. | claimed: He saw now the value of a good character, which he “ You saved Polly and I'll save you,” said the clown.| ‘‘Idon’t mind putting him on to take money, just | had forfeited by his bad conduct at Harrow House un- **Let him go, governor.” for a start, as he’s in a fix.” der the care of Mr. Simcox. “Go about your business and don’t interfere with “Oh, thank you very much!” Dick cried, raptur- “Come! whois your confederate ?’"»shouted Captain me, my man,” replied Mr. Simcox. “‘ Heis oneof| ously. ‘“I’drather do anything than go home or be | Hanger. my p and I as his sehoolmaster have a right to | sent back to school.’’ «*T haven't one |” said Dick. take him home.” “ Considerit arranged then. Tom, you'll make him “You won’t give him up! I’ve a good mind to callin “And I dispute that right.” up a shakedown in your crib here for the night, and |a policeman, and have you locked up for your impu- “My name’s Simcox. fessor of ’—— as I shall give him ten shillings a week when we start | dence, but I might have expected to be robbed, when I “I don’t care a dump who you are. Let the boy go,” | at Lewes, he'll be able to remunerate you for your | picked you upas I did.” thundered the clown. kindness.” At the prospects of being dragged off to a police cell Mr. Simcox said he wouldn’t. “Tdon’t want his money,” answered the clown. | on suspicion of having committed theft, Dick trembled Tom Hopkins wasn’t a man to stand any nonsense, | “He saved the girl from being seriously injured, and | in every limb. : and letting out with his left, Mr. Simcox rolled over | owe him something for that.”* “ Wait till to-morrow !’’ he exclaimed. “ Do, please into the gutter and lay in the mud half stunned. This arrangement relieved Dick’s mind considerably. | wait. Something may be discovered by then which “ Now then, come along with me,” said Hopkins, lay-| Captain Hanger asked him a variety of questions, | will acquit me.” ing hold of Dick’s arm. | and appeared to have taken a liking to him, which, on “That isas much as to say that if I give you till to- “ But Henrietta ’"—— began Dick. the whole Dick could not be said to have returned. morrow you will speak to your accomplice and try and “Oh! bother Henrietta!” There was something about the captain’s face and | recover the money. Youre an artful young dodger, | “I love her and she loves me.” manners he did not care about. : and no mistake.” “If she does, she'll find a way of getting at you.| Is was handsome, yet it was.a bad face. “T haven't taken it, and I know nothing about it,” Don't stop, the police will be up directly. To-morrow’s| He learned afterwards that Captain Hanger had been | Dick persisted. ,and I don’t care about being locked up in a | in the army, but was obliged to leave the service onac-| “Ofcourse not. Stick to that; lie itout. However,” quad till Monday. Come on.” count of his misconduct, g sentenced to dismissal | replied the captain, sarcastically, “I'll give you till to- Thus, constrained, Dick took a despairing look at | by a court-martial. morrow. I shall not say anything, and I advise you to Henrietta, and suffered himself to be drawn away by | Having no visible means of subsistance, he lived | hold your tonguealso. Come to my room at the hotel : his rescuer. ; upon his wits in various ways, untilat length a rela-| at ten in the morning,’and then we will talk the matter , ae tion died, and left him a small sum of money, with | over.” which he became proprietor of the show in whichTom| With this Captain Hanger went away, leaving Dick CHAPTER XXIII. Hopkins played the part of clown. overwhelmed with shame and apprehension. . Being a thorough Bohemian, he got on with his| He went tothe lodging he occupied in the town,which DICK TAKES MONEY. troupe, who regarded him as a clever, though un-/ was in the same house with Hop and his daughter, | scrupulous man. and retired without speaking to either of them. Leavtnc Miss Bodmin and the professor toget home| One thing was very much in his favor. For hours he lay a on his squalid bed, as best they might, with the captive and weeping Hen-| He made the entertainment so far successful that | and he began to contrast his present position with that rietts, Tom Hopkins and Dick hurried along until they | they were all paid on Saturda ht, and with | he had so rashly quitted. reached one of those small and comparatively cheap | theatrical people it is a great thing — a Saturday. A hundred times he wished himself back again at Mr, , thoroughfares in the neighborhood of Church Street. The next morning Dick accompanied the strollers by | Simcox’s. ? Here the clown lodged with his daughter, having the | train to Lewes, and helped them to make arrange-| That someone had stolen the cash-bor he did not three rooms on Seqneat floor. ments for a performance in the evening. doubt for a moment; nor, on calm reflection, did he Agatha had quit the circus before her father, and | Messengers sent on before had placarded the town, | blame the captain for accusing him. had her gorgeous dress as the “Fair Maid of | and when the eve! came, and Dick took his place| He never sup that Captain Hanger had for hia Circassia,” for the homely-looking cotton print of every ; in the money-taking there was a goodly shower of | own tracted it; all he coulddo was to be- Sr half-crowns, shillings and oaeae, these being the | wail unhpppy position, andlament that he could « was aoe in the interesting occupation of | charges for admission respectively. ~ have been a goose as to leave his school, where ening oe — onions for her father’s supper as he | Tom Hopkins and Polly treated him with the ut- Lad = pe fed, well housed, well taught, and well : Saas ae ee , : we ' J ‘ei3' ee 4 nay" mh
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| DICK LIGHTHEART. ti Seu; wes are the son of agentleman. Iam poor. I should not | “Very well, You further say he keeps money in his | like to see = in the hands of the police, but at the desk, but will not give itto you. Why not go to his/ same time I cannot afford to losemy money, either desk and take out what there is in it? It is in reality only your own money.” “It would be stealing,” said Dick. “That's what you must do, or I shall hand you over to the police.” Dick was much troubled. ' “Take your choice,” concluded the captain. you do not "—— “Rob my father 7?’ put in Dick. “1 don’t cali it robbing him at all. It is only taking your own money, aiter all. Butif you do not get me the sum I require, I shall prosecute you on suspicion of stealing my cash-box. ‘3s a certainty. You pe out of that. Ifyou take your own money, asl it, out of your father’s desk, you will not get into trouble. The most your father could or would do, if he found you out, would be to lecture you on the impropriety of helping yourself. But, asI said be- fore, take your choice. 1 will give you five minutes. . One touch of the bell-rope will call the police, and you The sheets of his sermon were lying upon the table | will be taken off to prison, my boy.” just as he had written them, and thrown them on one The captain held his watch in one hand while with | side when they were finished. ; the other he the bell- eB Attracted by an irresistible impulse, Dick approached A thousand thoughts rush pell mell through | the table. Dick's brain. He looked over the half-finished folio. Better, he thought, to accept the terms of Captain| “To you who are young and inexperienced, L appeal | Hanger than to have his name in thecounty papers and / specially,” the reverend gentleman had written. “The to be branded as a thief, even if he were acquitted of the | Almighty sends you temptations for which you are_ through your fraud or carelessness.” - Setting his teeth together, Dick climbed over the gar- en gate. Dick was pleased to see that there were no lights in the rectory windows. This was not surprising, because the members of his | family retired to rest early, and if his father did sit up, | it was to write a sermon for the ensuing Sunday. He looked at the study window. The lamp was on the table, but its flame burned very dimly, and the light it gave was hidden by a shade. : The fire flickered in the grate, and cast fantastic shadows on the floor. | Getting upon the window-sill by the aid of a box tree whtiok grew outside, he pushed up the window and en- | tered. His father was sitting asleep in an arm-chair. Apparently fatigued by work, he had taken a little | rest. «Te | window with more agility than he expected from was a very respectable man—a retired officer in the army, and this man of whom you speak brought his gray hairs with sorrow to the grave. Hanger was expelled from the service into which his father’s long service and interest had introduced him. He had suffered more than one term of imprisonment, and is a ruffian of the worst description. ie told you | to do this ?” “ Yes.”* “If you refused the penalty was to be ”"—— “ He said he would hand me over to the police.” “Do you know anything about his money-box? On your honer, now, Dick ; our future friendship and in- be depend upon the truthfulness of your re- ply.” “On my word of honor,” Dick answered, “ 1 know no more of what became of it than you do, father.” “TI believe you,’’ said the old man. “TI may be bad and wild, father,’’ Dick cried, “but I “That is enough, my boy. Sit down in that chair and thank Heaven that you have this night been res- cued from the commencement of a life of crime, which might have ended you know not where.” Dick sat down penitent and humbled, but more hope- ful than he had been for some time. A weight was removed from his heart, which had op- pressed it terribly. He watched his father anxiously as he got out of the aman of his age, and gradually receded from his sight in the distance. | would scorn to tell you 4 lie.” charge. little prepared ; but if you remember the lessons which | He little knew that the captain had invented this ac- | have been taught you, and haye faith in earnest prayer, you will be ps aon the sin of falling. Serve thy Creator eusation asa plan for making him rob his father in n in the days ot thy youth, and he will not forget you in order to put money into his own pocket. If he had suspected the real character of his accuser, he | CHAPTER XXV. your old age.” Dick z DICK GOES TO A PRIVATE TUTOR. Dick read t only ‘would have defied him, but he did not know that he was a all that he got to find ont. Time’s up,” said the captain, replacing his watch in his waistcoat pocket. = -) “T'll do it,” said Dick, in.a strange voice. “ Very well, my lad,” answered the captain, “ I'll drive you over to Hayward’s Heath thisevening. Some one else shall be put in your place, and I suppose the show will go on without me for once.” The blood went and came to Dick’s cheek, and he felt sick at What would he not have given never to have left his ess & manner, which had hose lines, while the blinding tears forced themselves into his eyes. He was of a mind to forego his enterprise. But the reflection that Captain Hanger was outside, and that he would pursue him relentlessly, urged him on to the completion of his crime. He had lett school, thrown up his home, and es- | tranged himself from his loving friends to throw in his lot among strangers, from whom there was no merey to be ted “| must do it,” he groaned. The cash-box, in which Mr. Lightheart always kept a considerable sum, was placed in the table drawer. In the drawer was a key. Turning this, Dick drew out the box, which, from its weight, was well filled school in so rash and rec brought him into contact with Captain Hanger? At present, though su: ted, he knew he was not 3 be thief, but in afew short hours—— Suddenly his father moved restlessly in his chair. He dared not think what the future had in store for| Dick remained, as it were, rooted to the spot. him. A minute and it seemed an age to him. At yas too dreadful. Then he glided serpent-like to the still open window. —— The Rey. Mr. Lightheart nodded again, and Dick breathed more freeiy. But as he proceeded, he stumbled over the hearth- | rug, and the heavy cash-box fell from his hands with a CHAPTER XXIV. CAUGHT IN THE AcT. Ox the following day Captain Hanger made all his ar- ‘ rangements for being absent in the evening, and after! Mr. Lightheart awoke with a start. the cireus was filled, he told Dick to “ake a seat beside| By the pale dim light of the waning lamp, and the * bim in om mae and they started together for Hay- | flickering gleam from the fire, he his son. ward's F “Dick !” he said, “am I dreaming ? Dick sat, still and silent, like a criminal being taken | The cash-box on the floor and the open window met before a magistrate for examination. his gaze, and he comprehended all in a moment. He was fast in the toils, and thought it would do no to his feet, he walked towards Dick, who was so overwhelmed with shame that he could not answer. Shutting the window, he placed his hand on hisson’s shoulder, and ssid in tones of sorrow rather than of anger, “ oat pt elle 4 this?” Dick bow lo Never in his life had he experienced such pain as he felt at that dreadful moment. The captaie ke to him occasional! taining cay spo. o' a short answer in return. m “ You needn't be so downhearted, my lad,” said Cap- tain Hanger. when they had traversed about half the distance ; “ what you are going to do is not very dread- ful. You are eatitied to money when you come of age, aren’t you?” R “Have you come like a thief in the night to rob your “Yes,” said Dick. ‘ - | father?” pursued Mr. Lightheart. “ Well, your father the use of that, and you are| pick made no answer. to yourself to a portion of it.” The old man could say no more, He sank into his arm-cbair and sobbed like a child. ** He will break my heart,”* he murmured, adding fer- yently, “oh, Lord ! may it please you to take this cup ou that before.” * Did I ?—then I say it again,” said the captain sharp- ly, “and I'l say more. Ités only through my kind- ness you get out of the scrape s0 well” . hat scrape?” aaked Dick. | Stealing my money.” could bear bo more. « I did not steal od . He was a ted boy, and his father’s grief The captain laughed in bis own peculiar way. afflicted him ten time’s more than a severe reprimand cash-box. When I came for that box, it Is that so or is it not?’ ‘ and put itins was } ask you, father, but £ ot bitter afflictien from me ; forsbarper than aserpent’s | pares THE reverend gentleman was absent nearly a quarter of an hour, and Dick heard the sound of wheels dashing over the gravel, which gave him the impression that the captaim had taken his departure. 2 He's hooked it,”he muttered; “anda good job, too. What between Mr. Lightheart and Captain Hanger, Dick did not know, for his father contented himself with saying : “I have spoken to the bold, bad man, and he has gone, never to trouble us again, I hope. Ah me! what a change a few short years have made in him, Verily, the descent of Avernus is easy.” He did not speak much to Dick that night. He led him up to his own little bed-room, which was just as he had left it. : Kneeling down by the bed, the good old tleman asked a blessing on his son, and lett him, ouingx “ The affairs of to-night, Dick, shall remain a secret locked in, my breast. It would pain your relations, and especially your mother.” “ Thank you very much. It is just what I wanted to scarcely dared,” answered Dick, with tears of gratitude in his eyes. All that was said the next day was that Dick had come home unexpectedly. He was received with open arms. Mrs. Lightheart thought that the restraint of a school life was too much for Dick, as he had always been accustomed to a certain amount of freedom. 3 ‘ much more likely to get on with say three or youths of his own age or thereabouts, who are under the care of some competent gentleman. I look out for something of the kind.” For the next week he made inquiries and carefully read the advertisements, one of which at length en- ed his serious consideration, t ran thus: : ” To parents and guardians of unmanageable M, A. Cantab, third men. For terms, etc., dpply to Mr. M., race, Hove, Brighton.” i Mr. Lightheart went over to ton the a fe with the advertisement in his pocket- and upon Mr. M., who was a gentleman Markwell, residing with his sister,an elderly lady, who kept his house. 7 45. He had got under his care at that'time fourboys “¥ 4 abn tod wp ag lenee digs hat | about sixteen, and agreed to receive Dick. 4 . Pre you will deny that “ a as you were m © wha 5 ‘ (ate for that Soeey T” ae gh racer tat ae ik sna t night take gole ofyourmoney,| His terms were high, but he spared no care, and kept “No.” nse in reality it was only taking my own.” a liberal table. . gor ly Pant. oe you —_ to the police, it would} “ Who told 7 this, and “—- en yoo} dese since ao heard of this arrangement, he made no + 6 you eft yor y e cre 4 tanity of putting tings straight, Siisce cums te Dp Cr eareet —~ bes eich ued shocked and disgusted | “ You must promise me that you will not run sway ‘y However, we will not talk any more about! your master?” or disgrace me and yourself," said his father, ‘because come So put the best face|~ “I ran a with a friend of Emily’s,” answered | I want you to rei at Mr. Markwell’s till you cam go ye ve ho more sulking.” | Dick, “and we went to get married, but Mr. to a university, Poh Det severely, and Dick did not answer | and Misa Bodmin overtook us, because I had lost my} Dick gave the required promise. a / tened to do| way, and then I met some people connected with the| ‘*So you are an unruly boy, said his sister Agnes, circus, which was going to Lewes, and they ed me | with a smile. 4 Sees. Sa acatenee sea her se Tees | otiling a Toe, sod Tuer eld {| | Emily he tod te ll about you on ne hae night some one id me that if aid not go and get your t mean to write to you when they can post aletter — ” exclaimed he. “This is the rectory ; | cash-box, he would prosecute me in a police court.’ wi Bodmin gh ig EN a a Mg Say oa peg @ ofa » bu . ow way *er'Who late?” ake the parson. mares 7S. — Lorene What « sha wing dog- “ The proprietor circus—Captain ‘ * i Pee iened theme Hanger, repeated Mr. Lightheart, “I seem to Pe aro ee Isball hear foot- | know that name. ave , e advertisement,”’ continned =a aa sui bl te make off. _# He said he was born in this parish, as we cane « Thayen’tseen, that. : business. It w t as ae caeea% ; = Mr. Markwell’s, ime one rd sad, indeed, | only do it for your sake, “1 have it,” exclaimed Mr. Lightheart. ~ His father! Pap ashowed it to mamas and T pick > he fg ?> ’ Al . " a
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y 4 “my stvength is in my weakness. "Miss Priscilla shook her head as if she had her doubts, _ ‘but as the dinner personal DICK LIGHTHEART. Dick read it. | “Oh!” he said, in a significant tone, “they might have told me this. I'll let Mr. Markwell know whether his system of discipline will have satisfactory results | with me or not. Thank you, Aggy. I had intended to be a good boy, but I shan’t now. They won’t let me | be when I want to.” t “Oh! but you must. Paps says you shall go to Ox- | ford as soon as you can pass the examination, and then | be hopes you'll take to the church, as you can have | bis living when he retires.” “TIshall go into the army,” Dick said; “but it’s no | use talking now. They'll find it all out in time.” } “You won't run away, dear, will you?’ exclaimed | ““No, I won't. I've had eee. of running away; | but Ishan’t be idle» Mr. Markwell shall admit that I am a most diligent boy.” : He smiled in. ; “That means that you will play tricks. If you do, | ‘write to me and tell me all about them. You are so funny when you begin, Dick.” ; Dick kissed hia little sister, and soon afterwards went | to Mr. Markwell’s. | This Was a quiet, middle-aged gentleman, with a be- | Beyo"ent aspect. He al-vays liked to trust to the honor of his young | His was the soft and gentle manner of dealing with actions. j Mr. Lightheart did not accompany Dick to the pri-| vate tutor’s. | gave him some money and the address, and wished | “ and mine, too, Dick,” said his mether. Dick said he would, and muttered as he drove to the station, “Promises don’t cost much. It pleases them and don’t hurt me.” At first he felt deeply grateful to his father for his kindness, but that feeling soon wore off, and he be- ; came as independent and callous as before, though he | could not repress a shudder when he reflected upon | the a he situation in which the unscrupulous ; Captain ger had placed him. | When he drove up to — Terrace, Mr. Mark- | well came out to welcome e “Ah!” hesaid. ‘Glad to see you.” “Sorry that 1 can’t return the compliment,” replied Bick. - “Ahem ! you are Mr. Richard Lightheart, I presume.” | *}'m an unruly youth.” Mr. Markwell looked surprised. se “ You advertise for them, you know,’’ continued Dick; | * so you ought to be pleased when they come. But I am very unruly, indeed. They can’t.do anyt with meanywhere. I’ve run away from three schools, and | been sent away from six more. I’m dreadful. You will have a time of it with me. I-like to be candid.” 2 boy,” said Mr, Markwell, with a smile. “You are a character.” “*T haven't got a good one, if that’s what you mean.’ | “Never mind, we shall be good friends, I know,” said Mr. Mark well. Lhave my doubts about it, for you'll find me yery | . Just order my things to be taken in, will you ? , L say, what time do you dine?’ “At two—always punctually at two.” “It is now one,’ said Dick, looking at his watch. “JT shall take a stroll along the Parade. Hove israther inconvenient for getting into Brighton. dade 5 you don’t live more central. Ta-ta! see you at din- ner. hates lg pecan dagd strolled off with his hands in his Here ! my dear young sir, stop. This will never do,” cried Mr. Markwell. “just settle with the cab- short, and you can put it boy—stroll on.” Mr. Markwell was astonished. calis me ‘ dear boy,’ and says, ‘stroll on,’”’ repeated he. “ What is the world coming to?” But it was useless to try and bring Dick back. So he paid the cabman, and had Dick’s things taken stairs by the servant. “i fiss Priseilla Markwell, the sister, had overheard this scene from the passage, and was as much amazed as her brother “What a young imp,” she said. “We must be patient with him,” said Mr. Markwell, his benevolent . “His father gave me to under- ‘stand that he was unruly, but do not I advertise for re- ? Iskall triumph in the end, for though like a meek sheep, yet a roaring lion con- her su » Se aaseSr oc into Dick’s room with a bunch of keys, one of for the Parade. mateens far betor he met a well-dressed young || us, and I'm the son ofa clergyman.” — gentleman, who, ashe neared him, did not seem in-[ clined to make way. j The pavement was rather narrow in one part, owing to the erection ofa boarding, during some repaire to | one of the houses. “ Get out of my way,” said the young gentleman. | “ Get out of mine,” said Dick. | They glanced defiantly at one another. f “‘Inever make room for a blackguard,” said the first | speaker. Dick lifted his hat slightly and replied with a bow, “T always do,”’ and stepped into the street. : He walked on. : **Here!I say, you fellow,” cried the young gentle- | man. j “Well, you blackguard,”’ replied Dick, ““whatdo you } want?” ; “I like you—let us exchange cards. 1 am the Honor- | able Henry Brabazon, and Iam being coached at Mr. | Markwell’s, near here.” | “Indeed, Honorable Henry Brabazon. It’s a pity | your coach does not teacn you manners. I’m Dick | Lightheart, sen of a parson.” : “Are you? Well, here’s my pasteboard. I like your | pluck. It's rather fun to be shut up as you shut me up. Glad to know you. Let's have a liquer.” « All right,” said Dick. There was a hotel near, and they went into the bil- liard-room, where three young gentlemen were drink- ing and playing billiards. “ These are our fellows. We are all at Markwell’s and “ Marker,” cried Brabazon, “agitate the communica- | tor. Our internal organizations are in a state of exhaus- | tion, which can only be revived by the beer of the coun- in the pewter of the period.” é bell was touched and the waiter entered. “*]'ll toss you who pays,” said the honorable, when | the beer ved. “IN pay, but I never toss; it’s low,” answered Dick, throwing ashilling to the waiter, and telling him to keep the change. “That will do just as well,” said Mr. Brabazon. ae you, Honorable Henry Brabazon,”’ answered “You speak,” whispered Brabazon ; “it’s c: “Ts it?’ said Dick, with ane Weems before. “All right ; but I gay {”’ ” apparent innocence. “I How's your father?” 3 — _ = odd fish.” 4 ave heard before, It’s a I have, ifing good bitter, Honorable—I aaa Brabazon. se a your mother?” “ Her ladyship was quite well when she wrote last.” “That's gratifying. I feel better”’ Dick answered. Mr. Brabazon looked at him with a puzzled sion, as if he could not quite make him out Mert o's getting in afog,”” thought Dick. CHAPTER XXVI AN UNRULY YOUTH. Dicx looked on at the oe tomedhe bees home te dinner. men to ome . oat walk with yout I’m going your way,” said “ All right ; buckle to,” beara, ersten teat Own €: t “That's your sort,” said Dick. “ How about the old woman?” “Oh, they have to go too.” : “ Here’s one coming ; shall we charge her?” The eens lady, however, saw them ahead, and per- over, and got out o The boys laughed. ‘* You're a nice set of young men for a smal! tea party. Tshould think they'll Tt 5 up a testimonal for you—tea- pot or medal,” observed Diek. ; “We let them know a thing or two,” answered Law- ess. “Gentlemen should always act as such,” continued A young man, who lookedlikea sh , came by, and putting his shoulder well forward, Dick meas ashove which sent him up 3 lamp- post, from which he fell on his knees in the gutter. “Saying his prayers,” observed Lawless. oung man resented this treatment, and came up e which was way. street “That fuult, my good lad. We men." ead Dok. = We've ant an honorable amongst | “The new must not give me my title every time you | sary. addish. expres- | i ‘Mr. Kkwell’s unruly boys, crossed | thelr «Come on, all of you!” cried the excited clerk, put. ting himself in a “Gentlemen don’ putting his hankerchief to his nose. “Oh, don’t they?” answered Dick. ***Then I shall put my gentility on one side for once. , There’s some- thing for you, Mr. ‘esman ! man hits you another time, take off your hat, and say, ‘Thank you, sir!’”’ ting attitude. ht with cads,”” said Brabazon, The young man and Dick indulged ina fair fight) back in the. which ended in Dick leaving him on his street, in about three minutes, not knowing where he- — having very confused ideas of things in general, Brabazon smiled, and they walked on. «Are you hurt ?” he asked of Dick. * Not got a scratch.” “You polished him off well ; but we don’t like street rows ; they are vulgar.” “You go the right way to get into them,” answered Dick. Ishall Galtiemstonse your ways soon. I’m sorry you gotthat prop on the nose. He knew how to prop, but so did I. Does it hurt?” “ Well, it is' painful,” answered Brabazon. They now reached Mr. Markwell’s. “ Good-bye,” said Brabazon, “I can’t ask you in.” “Don’t apologize, Ican sit in the hall,” replied Dick. The young gentlemen stared at him. “If you've got a bit of cold meat or a hunch of brea you don’t want, I shall be thankful,” continued Dick. Brabazon laughed. “You ares funny fellow, anyhow,” he said. « Regular lick, ain't 1?" answered Dick, whose object was to be as peculiar and yulgar as he could, just for the fun of shocking the young gentlemen who, he Sake, would enjoy the joke when they found out who e was. “There's the dinner-bell,” said Burrell, “‘we must goand wash. If he likes tosit there, let him.” Andfwhen a gentle. The others acquiesced, and they all went away, leay- _ ing Dick alone. tly Mr. Markwell came into the hall. “Oh, Lightheart,”” he said, “why are you sitting there? Come into the dining-room. I you to your future companions.” “Thank you, sir,” said Dick. He was led into the dining-room and given a seat near Miss Priscilla. Dick saw at once that she wore a wig. He remembered he had in his pocket a fishing-line with a hook attached. This he caréfully Ba out and ‘unrolled, contri dexterously to slip the hock into Miss Priscilla‘s b: hair without being perceived, as he hands with ker, on her brother’s introducing him pore. my dear.” The line he allowed to fall upon the ground, but he held it between his knees for instant use when neces- will introduce The young gentlemen now entered the room, and stared very considerably at seeing Dick. “Our new pupil, Dick Lightheart,” said Mr. Mark- ; “you must know one another.” “ This is the Honorable Brabazon,” interrupted Dick. “J know him. How do, Brabazon? bear Burrell. Wish you luck, Chapman. t, Law- ow’s | less.” “Dear me, how strange! You seem old friends,” observed Mr. Markwell. “ Quite old i lied Dick. ‘ Honorable Bra oa Hike the Twins, ain’t we Brab al being called “ Brab,”* “Funny boy!” seeeeeeen Mr. ell. “You'll say so when you get to kn ” “Tm all there.” g Ow me,” answered brute !” observed Lawless. “Well, silence,” continued Mr. Markwell. “*For what we are to receive,’ etc; Miss tlemen, you will take your choice.” “Mutton for me, and cut it fat, mum,” said Dick. Miss Priscilla shrugged her shoulders, The new boy's v She assisted self to mustard him i ; mustard with mutton!” whispered Diek, with his mouthful, “and taters.' This is what I call plummy, this no pbs she said, “ your education seems and as you came here for im. ust not be offended if I speak to you ” e got up to shake as” Priscilla has roast mutton, but I think I have Youn replied Brabazon. giving him | gen a? iad really dreadful. . ‘ou, Brabazon to proceeding-/ ,‘Ploughboy! Clodhopper! Beast!” answered Law- Markwell’s young gentle, | less. ; bee A little more 3 there’s a Sarna. teeta ee Blouse $o welt, Wise repiied. with Gaathy ; ourselves here upon our r “So Brab said, mum, when he @ old lady —
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af mum ; touching the fat?” ! Be silent, sir? y. Philip,” she added, address- ; ing her brother, “ this boy is a shoeking : Tm atreat, mum. Ill bet you didn’t bargain | for a chap like me. I'm Sussex all over. Sally, more | “taters, and pick “em out crummy, like yourself.” | The servant smiled, and handed him the vegetables. | “What shall I do? My ears ache already. He is | excruciating!” cried Miss Priscilla. ; “Let him alone, dear. We will soon teach him better manners,” observed Mr. Markwell. } “T for one protest aganst such companionship being | thrust upon me,” said the Honorable Mr. Brabazon. : “ And so do I,” said Lawless. : “ Ain't I genteel enough ?” asked Dick. “io.”° “Not by along way, ch? Well, I'll try to cuta bit | finer,” said Dick, adding, “Governor, I'll trouble you. | Birds is fine now, and I do dearly love a pheasant. Bit of the breast and a wing will do me first-rate, and don't | forget the bread sauce. My' it makes one’s month | water.” “He hasn't even washed his hands or brushed his | hair,” said Miss Priscilla. : * Please, mum, it’s a ,”" said Dick. ; “What's a wig !" eaid Priscilla, nervously. : “My thatch,mum. I had a fever, and have worn 4) wig ever since. Don’t you like em, mum?” “Horrors wu horrors accumulate! Fancy a boy with a wig! Fancy anybody being so base as to wear | other people’s hair !"* cried Miss Priscilla. “Suppose you’ve got none, or very little of your own, mum ?” said a “Don’t address me in that way!” : - Beg pardon, mum ; didn’t say you wore a wig. Do ‘ou? : “Dol?” Oh, this inmsolence! Vulgar little boy, | know that I do net wear a wig, and would scorn todo such a thing !” Here Miss Priscilla locked fondly at the Honorable Mr. Brabazon, who was an especial fsvorite of hers, and | who she fancied in return rather liked her. | “Oh, my! ain’t she making eyes at Brab ?~ said Dick, bs at Sarah, the house-maid, who was waiting at 6 7 Sarah, being human, could stand no more ; she rush- ed out imto the passage and leaued against the table, fairly roaring. ‘ “The impudence of that girl,” said Miss Priscilla. * Ain't it awful vulgar in a gentleel family, mum ?”" said Dick. “Tis to her, that I will. I'l give her notice.”’ answ Miss Priscilla. “ My dear, be patient,” said Mr. Markwell. “TI cannot bear it, Philip.” said Dick. “Go in and win, mum, Miss Priscilla arose. Dick grasped the pecans with his left hand, He knew the catastrophe must come as soon as she moved any distance. “ CHAPTER XXVII. THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF'’S NEPHEW. ‘Miss Prrscit1, moved with dignity towards the door. Thok felt a pull at the string and gave a jerk. Off came the wig. Miss Priscilla stood fora moment wigless, the few hairs she had standing out in boll relief on her yellow- looking head, and her glorious curls were lying at her feet. She gave a shrick—a p’ shriek of agony, and gnshed trom the room ia hinting condition. ‘Dick ran forward, picked up the wig and took out the | fish-hook, which he replaced in his pocket without be- observed. Sh Give me that—that thing,” said Mr. Markwell, snatching it from Dick’s hand. And he followed his sister. “That's neat,” observed Dick, sitting down. “Don't address yourself tome. Iam a gentleman!” on aoeti ater if don’t look out,” “Your ty you if you do A answered Dick, “ But don’t cut up rough, Brabazon the f “J shall do nothing of the sort, sir!” “Please yourself. You'd rather punch my head, wouldn't you !—only it's not teel,”’ answered Dick, Te aben’t miss you, and I dare say we shall not have to put the shutters up,” Dick said with his usual cool- ness. drew his chair near the fire, as did the other su tended their studies. servants cleared the dinuer things away, and Dick took up a book. Just then there was a knock at the door, and a gen- tleman was announced. ~ Lieutenant Smart,” said the servant, “to see Mr. ” he said, “I did nok. expect to Bee 4 DICK LIGHTHEARL. is one of the senior lords of the admiralty, to get mea and is trying ship,” Dick whistled. ee _“ Tell your master to be quick and come out here, a8 e presses. ¢ may miss a valuable opportunity of acquiring a “ “That's how the wind blows, is it?” he said. “I | good connection.” see.” “Lieutenant Smart went up to Brabazon and shook hands with him, as he did with the other pupils, to whom he seemed to be well known. It was not his first visit to Mr. Markwell’s. ~ Do you know that cad?’ said Brabazon, in a tone of disgust, pointing to Dick. “Cadi” repeated the lieutenant, in amazement. ~* He’s one of my cousins, and as nice and gentemanly a fellow as ever breathed.” “ We don’t think so.” “ How long has he been here”, *“*An hour or two, and that’s Lawless. “There must be some mistake, which I can put right. Here, Dick, I want to speak to you,”’ exclaimed the lieutenant. Dick approached. “You've been up to your tricks, you young rascal,” continued Lieutenant Smart. ‘‘ Admitit, now, or I'll never speak to you again. nice. Tell us “*I dare say Mr. Brabazon will find out for himself in time,” replied Dick. * too long,” answered } Sarah went to Mr, Markwell’s door and toid him all this, at which his impatience increased wonderfully. When Lawless arrived he explained the ent in which he was placed, and they both searched in every direction for the clothes, which, of course, were red, be found, as Dick had hidden them during the t ght. “It’s very odd,”” said Mr. Markwell ; “and it’s very annoying, as the gentleman won’t wait.” “ Will a pair of mine do, sir?” answered Lawless. “Too short.” “Yet you might make shift with your smoking-cap and dressing-gown, and a pairof slippers. You can talk to him on the doorstep.” “‘So Icould; a good idea,” said Mr. Markweil. Lawless presented him a pair of trousers, and helped him to dress,as he sympathized with him in his un- pleasant position. The trousers were hideously short, coming down only a little way below the knees ; and in a smoking- “ Dear me,” he exclaimed, as he was “how tiresome all this is! Aide-de-camp, I presume, to the “ That won’t do. Tell us your motives for mystify- | commander-in-chief. Bother the trousers, how short ing them,” persisted the lieutenant. “The fact is, Brabazon annoyed me by his gentility, and all that sort of and [ thought I would have ' they are! You see my advertisements do good. How do I look® Wants to | pried his nephew. How short this dressing-gown is! I shall be known to the horse some fun with him. If Y offended him, I apologize, and | guards. Do my calves showmuch? Come along; he’s am ready te shake hands. friendly terms with any one.” “ Then you're not a cad ?” said Brabazon. “T hope not. I’ve only been fogging you, and now Smart has let the cat out of the bag, it’s no use keeping up the joke.” They all laughed, and soon got into good temper. The lieutenant could not stop. He was on his way to London, and had only paid them a passing visit. What be had said about Dick put him on a very good footing with his companions. Mr. Mark well did not suspect his share in unwigging Miss Priscilla. Every one thought it had been insecurely fastened, though she herself had a different opinion ; but she said nothing, and had the moral courage to come into the room at tea-time as 1f nothing had happened, though sho looked coldly upon Dick. Mr. Markweill gave him some books, and being a thoroughly good scholar himself, soon found out what he knew, and what he ought to be taught Throwing off the vulgar behavior he had assumed, Dick soon became a favorite, and so keenly did the young gentlemen feel the satire that he had directed their gentility, that he heard nothing more ut taking the whole of the pavement, pushing peo- ple into the street, and similar nonsense. Each boy lad a bed-room to himself, and Dick slept, in one next door to Mr. Markwell. In the night he got up to execyte a little scheme that he had conuootet. With the utmost care and gentleness. he abstracted from the drawers and cupboards every — of trousers and everything in the shape of coat and hat, belonging to his tutor. These he put into a cupboard in his own room, and locked the door. He had previously ascertained that Mr. Markwell did not come down to breakfast till ten o’clock, leaving his pupils to get up their lessons as they liked before that hour. Indeed, there was not much work done at Mr. Mark- well’s. If a boy choge to work, he did so; if he did not, he let it alone. ’ The next morning Dick was up early and went out for a walk, going to a livery stable, and looking at some for hire. Ata bair-dresser’s he bought a beard, whiskers and mustache, and wrapped in his great coat, looked quite a Pe nn personage from what he had done previ- ously. . He hired a phwton for ‘two hours, and getting in, drove up to Mr. Markwell’s exactly at half-past ten. Sarah opeued the door, but did not know Dick at all. “Is Mr. Markwell in?” he 4 “Just getting up, sir. I hear the bell ringing now for the hot water. Who shall I say?’ asked Sarah. “Tell him an aid-de-camp of the commander-in-chief is here, and wishes tos to him about placing his nephew under his charge,” said Dick, “ Yes, sir.” Sarah went up to Mr. Markwell’s room, and knocked at the door. - “ Here's a gentleman, sir,” she said. “Who is he?” asked Mr. Mark “ Something to do Ree omnes nr sir, and wants to place w with you.” ~ Ask him fnaide ; and Sarah, where the deuce have sua ce ad a ; and costs, and bless me,I can’t finds boo! “Ob! sir,” said Sarah, “I know nothing about trous- | “ “Send Mr. Lawless to me, then, and make haste,” said the bewildered Mr. Markwall. giggling, and told Lawless the mas- I can’t,” answered Dick. “I'm lame of one ; can't get in and k= spor haa eed I don’t want to be on un-|inahurry. Great people do not like to be kept wait- ing.” Mr. Markwell descended the stairs, opened the door, and stood shivering on the doorstep. “Good-morning, sir,” he e “I am only just up.” “* What do you say ?” replied Dick. “Come nearer.” “Tam only just up.” > “Tam rather deaf.’ “ Only—just—up,” shouted Mr. Markwell. “Please get into the trap,” replied Dick, “and sit down for a moment by my side. lam lame and rather deaf, or I would not give you the trouble.” Mr. Markwell muttered something about the nui- sance of having such a visitor, and climbed up into the trap, taking a seat by Dick's side. In his extraordinary costume, he did not recognize him any more than the servants had done. \ He took him for an army man, who wished to place his nephew under his charge. “TI have heard of you, Mr. Markwell,” said Dick ; ‘‘and the commander-in-chief wishes to place his nephew under yourcharge. Iam one of his camp.” rs thought,” answered Mr. Markwell, “that the commander-in-chief was the Duke of Cambridge, aud his nephews would be—what would they be? Idid not know he had any nephews.” “ Oh, dozens,”’ replied Dick. * Bless me!” Suddenly Dick jerked the reins, and the horvse he drove starved off. “Hi! stop; I’m not dressed!” cried Mr, horror-stricken. ‘‘ Where are you to?” “ Certainly,” said Dick. “Ifyou w like a drive, | I will give you one.” - bes | not say so.” oh a jJouder; I am rather deaf, and the wind’s strong.” “For goodness sake, stop the horse.” “How much did you say for the course ?” asked Dick, “I didn’t speak of it.” “Quite right. I want to know terms for a course of lectures. The commander ‘8 nephew will only have six months to spend with you, then he goes up for his examination.” “Oh, do stop, please—please do! Consider the state I am in, and the figure I shall cut,” exclaimed Mr. “Speak louder,”’ said Diek. Mr. Markwell aroge und shouted in his ear: “” p." “All right,” said Dick, “I'll make him go faster.” And Hg ms Be up the horse. = ee “I didn’t say that. Oh, what shall I do?” : “*Have a cigar?” asked Dick, taking out a case, and pany Barge nickly, and as th ; 2 wen q - as crowded part of the Bing’s Road, the siderably at Mr. Markwell. f neared the © je stared con- — “Turn him around,” said Mr. Markwell in Dick’sear. — “He won't turn! He's got such a temper! ‘s the bit in his mouth! Tye lost all contrel over hisee™ “We shall be platens are sahenre last week, and the a 8 a fore I Gund myself on a dining-room table “Oh! the vicious beast. My dear sir, do t Brabazon says you are not/ ¢ap,a dressing-gown and slippers, Mr. Markwell pre- ¢ about it. Out with it—no nonsense.” | sented a very eccentric appearance. ¢ .. = q “a _ ‘
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é DICK LIGHTHEART. sers coming down just below the knees; with his} “You must come with me, sir,and put my great “TI could stand anything but a bankrupt grocer,” saéd dressing-gown, which had come undone, and which he | coat over you, and let the people believe that you are | Brabazon, with asneer. could with difficulty keep the wind from blowing off | going to the county asylum,” said Pollard. his shoulders, he presented as funny a spectacle as the Brightonians had seen for a long time. For a moment he stood as if bewildered. “Seize him! stop him |” exclaimed Dick, at the top of his voice. “He's alunatic. He'll do somebody harm. Stop him! stop him !” Two or three of the more adventurous of the crowd | : | plant. made a dash at him. “Why?” answered Mr. Markwell. “I’m not mad.” “T know that sir; you are no more mad than | am!” | “It’s my firm impression that I'm the victim of a | practical joke. It is very odd that the aid-de-camp of some the commander-in-chief should behave in such an ex- traordinary manner, and be unable to stop his horse !"’ “* Aid-de-camp, my eye, sir!” said Pi “It's a) But the crewd will hoot you, and make it un-| “What's the price of dips!’ asked Burrell. “If you want to know, you can go and inquire.” “Don't cheek me,” cried Burrell, angrily ; “I won't be cheeked by an errand boy." “If hg make impertinent observation to me, Ishall reply to them as | see fit.” ? “ Will you? then, perhaps, you will get a slap on the Nose for your pains.”’ “ You call yourselves gentlemen,” said Horace, with nor Mr. Markwell, frightened out of his wits, took to his | pleasant, unless you doasIsay. Come with me! I'll | sarcastic emphases, “‘ but neither your heels and rushed off in the direction of home. “‘Harkaway! Tallho! Fetch him back,” cried Dick. “A madman! amadman! A sovereign for the one who ne. him. Hi! hi! hi! Collarthe madman! Hi! An excited mob set off in chase of the luckless tutor, ‘who seon lost one shoe, and then the other. ae pursuer seized his dressing-gown, and that came This was followed by his smoking-cap, and soon he ‘was being hunted in his night-shirt and the short pair of trousers that Lawless had lent him. Fear gave him wings. Dick smiled grimly, and drove quickly to the yard from which he had hired the trap. Paying for it, he turned up a doorway, took off his false hair, and looking himself again, he walked into the King’s Road. Mr. Markwell had been headed by the crowd, and turning around, was running back again. “A lunatic! A madman! Stop him! Hi! hi! hil” shouted, or rather roared the the crowd. “ He'll have a fit,” thought Dick. Mr. Markwell suddenly darted down some steps lead- ing to the beach, and seeing a bathing-machine, dashed up the ladder and bolted the door. The crowd, which w larger every moment, ed around the machine, and its members dis- cussed the best means of securing the supposed escaped iunatic. “Burn it down,” said one. “Smash it up with a hatchet,” said another. “He's got a knife. Take care,” remarked a third, with a vivid i ® The horror of Mr. Markwell may easily be conceived. To be dragged ont in such guise and chased by the rabble, taken for a lunatic, and at last brought to bay in a bathing-machine, was like a dream to him. But that it was a fearful and embarrassing reality the shouts of the ever-increasing multitude proved. CHAPTER XXVIII. HENRIETTA’S COUSIN. » Tse position in which Mr. Markwell found himself ? was a most unpleasant one. He was fantastically dressed; into the cen- ter of fashionable Brighton, on a false pretense—taken for a lunatic, and hunted into a bathing-machine by a wild and frantic crowd. In the seclusion of his peculiar retreat he could hear the cries of the ever-increasing mob, and their sugges- ‘tions for getting him out of his harbor of refuge. What could he do? Tn an agony of apprehension he put his head out of a little window at the side, which was opened by a slid- ing panel, and gazed upon his tormentors. Astone flung by an errand boy went near his nose, and he beat a retreat. Af this moment the proprietor of the machine came wp, and addressing a number of people, said : * What's all this row about ?” “It’s a lunatic,” replied the man spoken to. “A what?” ‘k, staring, raving mad !"” “A “ Where ?”” “In that machine.” “Why, that’s my machine!” replied the proprietor, “unpleasantly ‘whose name was Pollard, and whose patronymic was |\ “Ican’t help ‘painted on the side. “That won't do; I must try and get him out.” He went up the steps and knocked at the door, the crowd admiring his courage as much as if he were a lion-tamer going into a den of fierce animals thirs for his blood. “Let me in,” said Mr. Pollard. “I shan’t,” replied Mr. Markwell. “Come out then,” said Mr. Pollard. “Not if I know it,” replied Mr. Mar! who thought this was a ruse on the part of the mob get to their power. a was a complication of the situation, and Pollard did not know what to do; to break open the door of the machine would be to injure his own property, and he could not recover damages against a lunatic in an Or ae the conclusion that it was best to humor minded said their Some of the more 1 prayers expected to see him again. por was opened an Pollard went in, and fo him hat had happened. him in a mo- tell ’em I've tamed you down and cowed you like, and that you are going back with me to the asylum from which you have escaped.” - “So be it,” answered Mr. Markwell, with a sigh; “I place myself in your hands.” Pollard led the way down the steps, and on to the beach, keeping a tight hold of the schoolmaster and saying to the people, ‘‘He’s all right. I’ve got him, and meau to take him back to his triends.” The crowd made way for them, and hiring a fly, Mr. Markwell was driven to his residence at Hove, where he arrived full of gratitude to Pollard for his clever management of the affair and the loan of his great coat, for which he made him a handsome present. Quick as Mr. Markwell had been in getting home, Dick had been quicker, and he had, on the pretense of going up to his own room, replaced all his tutors clothes which he had abstracted the night before. Miss Priscilla was delighted to see her brother back again, and listened to his story with amazement. A ad could have played you such a trick?” she “TI know not,” answered Mr. Markwell. “‘ That it is a trick Icannot doubt, for no one conmected with the commander-in-chief would act in such away. I fearI have been the victim of some one’s pleasantry.” Whether he suspected Dick or not he did not say, and there was an end of the matter. But though he was disappointed in having the nehpew of the commander-in-chief as a pupil, he was greatly surprised in another way, for the Rev. Mr. Lightheart sent him the son of a triend of his, whose name was Horace Stoner, the cousin of Miss Henrietta, Emily s friend and school-fellow, of whom Dick was so | fond. Horace was not a boy calculated to be popular with Mr. Markwell’s young gentlemen. He was quiet and studious. He knew his friends were not very well off, and that his success in life would depend upon his own exer- tions, which induced him to work hard. Mr. Markwel} undertook to prepare him for the uni- versity examination, and he hoped te obtain a scholar- ship, which would enable him to live at Cambridge without troubling his friends. He was about fourteen, tall, fair and delicate look- ing, Gentemenly, in his manner, and submissive. did not speak unless he was spoken to, and was generally to be found with a book in his hand. Dick did not know that he was Emily’s friend's cousin, his dear Henrietta’s cousin, and therefore did not put himself out of the way to be civil to him. One morning, about a week after Horace Stoner had arrived, the young gentlemen were in the room they used for studying. Some were — 5 — writing, and Brabazon happened to the morning paper. =P say,” he pase rot “‘here’s a Horace Stoner a ase n es a a on in —— wherever ay ma, . Is heany relation of yours, yo shaver? Batt looked up, and his tap cokceel ant ie did not like the question. “‘Can’t you answer when you are spoken to?” ex- claimed Brabazon. “Yes.” 3 “Well, then, what did Iask you? “ It is my father,’’ answered Horace. “Your governor | You don’t mean to say you arethe t , : ed % len ee I am. I knew my father what in trouble, but they did not tell me he was abank- teary though I have heard that is nothing in the city,” he . “Isn't it? Bankruptcy means cheating your credi- tors.” “T am sure my papa would not cheat anybody out of a halfpenny. He is much too honest, and people in trade cannot help being unfortunate sometimes. It may happen that you have taken bills from a man who fails to pay ; so that you,in your turn, cannot pay others to whom you are indebted.” “ For my part,I wish old Markwell would be more cular about who he takesin. We don’t want all he and bobtail of the city to associate with,” observed n. “Have you ever served behind the counter?” in- Burrell, nired , Yes, sometimes,” answered Horace. “How often have you run across the street for change?” asked Dick. : “IT don't know. Ihave gone for change for a note when father hadn't it in the till.” “And they are going to send you to Cambridge! What's the good of trying to make a you?” said Brabazon. “ Sow’s ears don’t make silk purses. You'd better go home and stick to yourshop.” Ce They eousalted any inclioationaaml a0 Sen temas in me to 8 studious life, I was allowed to do as I — — Hoonse, Selling inclined to cry, Das ”” ansWi , but to show any weakness of that sort to his un- kind critics. “I shall be obliged to you if you will not address gentleman of | time your mannerentitle you to that designation. I ex- pect better treatment from Lightheart, because, m father and his were old school-fellows together, and was through him I came here ; and then again, — Lightheart is at school at Kemp Town with my cousin.” : 5 By Jove!” cried Dick. ‘‘ Is Henrietta your cous- “ Yes, she isan orphan, you know. Her father was my father’s brother,”’ replied Horace, “ I’m surprised—rather—a few. It’s knocked me off my perch, and doubled me up into a cocked hat,” ex- claimed Dick. “I thought I should find a friend in Dick Light- heart,” continued Horace. “ And so you shall. Did you hear about——” _ “Young Henrietta running away to get married? Yes,” answered Horace with a smile and many a good laugh we had over it.” «Hullo! what’s that?” asked Chapman, “ Light- heart running away with a girl. Idid not know that he wasof the spoony order of fellows. We must hear all about that. Enlighten us further, my good grocer.” “ Perhaps you will mind your own b’ ess ;” cried Dick, flushing angrily. * I did not speak to you. Let thegrocer answer.” “Stonor, holdy our tongue,” Dick said. “ Oh, if you are going to be_his champion, because you’re spoony on his cousin, I shan’t interfere. Per- haps you'll be an acquisition behind the counter,” sneered Chapman, “ We've had enough about the grocer. Drop it; Dick exclaimed. “The first fellow who chaffs Stoner any more will find out his mistake.” 7 “ You were doing it yourself just now.” ‘f “ Never mind; if you want to have arow with me, T'm ready for any of you.” And Dick glared defiantly around him. CHAPTER XXIX. AN ADVENTURE ON THE BEACH. CuaPMaN was not a coward, but he was im with an idea of his own importance, and had imbibed the ideas of the Honorable Henry Brabazon, son of Lord Broadacres, whose gentility had been made fun — of by Dick on his arrival at Mr. Markwell’s. He thought fighting low—only worthy of cabmen and roughs. On this occasion he accepted Dick’s challenge, and said : I choose to speak to the grocer, I shan’t ask your on.” « Ifyou utter that word again, I shall pitch into you,” exclaimed Dick, , “ What word?” “You know well enough.” ; “J don’t fight. It’s “ Then I do,”*said ogee a re “and that makes all the difference,as you will find when I prop you in the eye.”” “I always said you were not a gentleman,” Cha continued ; “you would not use such language if you were; and we might have known what you were by your conduct when you first came here, which you may have thought very humorous, though it did not strike me as being so ; and what I suggest to my friends is that we cut both you and the grocer.” “Oh, you will say it, will you?” cried Dick, be- tween his teeth. He sprang over a couple of forms ani struck at Chap- man, who, however, was prepared for the assault, and promptly parried it. Dick was not to be thwarted, however, and feinting with his right, struck him on the jaw with his left, = EE he — like castanets. > followed up success by two more blows, the last of which was a Taam eerene and man lay on his back, having very confused ideas teats general, “ Do any more of you want a taste of it?” he exclaim- ed, looking around ; “ [shail be most happy to oblige to my friend 1 fle you all, from the Honerable Henry Lawless.” - { They their shoulders and said nothing. “ All t,” said Dick, smiling triumphantly, “ know Dow what you we pon, & expect if yon chat ‘Chapman was attended to by Lawless, who said: “ Pick yourself up, old man.” With difficulty he arose and sat down, looking fa- riously at Dick. “ Pull yourself together,” continued Lawless ; “ your will come.” " vs ies alee = you — wed now, ‘ settle their utes in that way.” tly at-him, > i
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ere fl DICK LIGHTHEART. my sake,” ed Horace Stoner. ** I feel very sorry that this disturbance should have taken place, though I should not have been strong enough to fight ad own — a am deeply grateful to you for your championship.” “Thave put aiend to the annoyance, at all events, and I don’t think they will any of them venture to chaff a in,” answe: Dick. “Not if they have any respect for your sledge-ham- mer = tg] How hard you do hit!” “Yam, Ican slog alittle,” Dick answered, ‘‘ and a very useful accomplishment it is, too, I can tell you.” Pen] this occurrence, Dick and Stoner became great ends. The other pupils did not speak to them, which did not annoy Dick much, as he found Horace’s society all he required. There was a.fund of information, and a gentle, pleas- ant mode of conveying it, in the grocer’s son which made him a useful and interesting as well as an agree- able companion. The winter passed and the pleasant spring-time came. Dick had made great progress in his studies, and had given Mr. Markwell every satisfaction. He was anxious to please his father, and make up to him all he owed to his kindness during the disgraceful affair into which Captain Hanger had betrayed him. The Rev. Mr. Lightheart wrote to Dick, telling him how pleased he was to her of his good conduct. Brabazon and the other pupils kept their word. They Dick's and Stoner’s existence, and went about by themselves, as they did before. The two boys were “cut dead,”’ but their enemies @id not not attempt to chaff them any more. Chapman had been taught a lesson, which the others were not slow to learn. Dick was a dangerous customer and one not to be trided with. Stoner and Dick used to bathe together, and one fine day they were strolling along the beach when a school came up. “Hold hard!” cried Dick, pressing Stoner’s arm. 8. oe will you do?” “Waita bit. They’re going to bathe. Let them get in. We'll sit down and watch them. Accordingly they sat down in a secluded corner. There were half-a-dozen bathing-machines that were drawn up the shelving beach by means of a whieh was worked by a horse. As far as the eye could reach on either side, there were no other machines, and it seemed to Dick that if the horse was got away, it would be impossible to draw 7 “Snarley’s in. Now for it,” said Dick. “Now for what ?” asked Stoner. “Will you do what I ask you?” “Tell me what it is.” ce on tek Oe and ride away while the bathing- machine man looking.” pt Le ag the idea, ay ie o me,” pleaded Dick. nem ag ad wiheatereniea” answered Horace “ But it is, in my opinion 7 of getting out of it again.”’ to do then,” here, so long as the machine man don’t catch up near the wall, It's better Ram into the beast with your on by his mane. maa had gone into a but be had built things, such as towels, etc., in. Dick gave Horace a leg up and away he went, the old horse trotting nimbly a y, and had nearly reached “ AD and B locked in hard and fast. ¥ 3 E 5 [ : ee i cf k pt A 3 i i . 3 I uf ing to work his way out with a hatchet. than on | visi , eert meen eae “ Everyone Hi! hithi! I wonder how my boysare! Oh,dearme! | perbaps he has drawn the other machines up, and has | forgotten me? I always was afraid of the water !" “T don’t want you to quarrel with your friends for ; this. I won’t deal with him any more. Help! help! | “My education in that respect was neglected; but = are only joking. Take me off, and not a word shall said about your refusal in the first instance.” “‘T don’t care what you say,”’ Dick replied. “I am Another wave bigger than the former came with a | my own master now, and you certainly shall not come tush into the machine, and made it shiver again, nearly | ashore in my boat.” taking the usher off his legs. “That's the eleventh. They say the eleventh wave is always bigger than the others. What am fF to do?” said Mr. Snarley. His hat and coat now floated with his socks, and his boots were knocking about on the floor with the motion of the tide. 4 The usher grew desperate. “TI will not die like this! I will make an effort. I will not perish like a rat in a drain !’”" Thoroughly frightened, he managed to climb on the | wheel of the machine, and so got onthe top of the machine, over which he threw bis legs. | “Help! Pag! Good people, help!” he cried piteously. |“ Confound thatman! Help! Where is he ?—my boys will be drowned. Hi! hi! Oh!’’ This latter exclamation was caused by Dick, who, scaling near the machine, threw a dead star-fish at ‘im. It struck him in the mouth, and entered that orifice, which was wide open, owing to his bawling. “ Pish |” spluttered Mr. Snarley, picking at the fish ; ee It stinks ; fangh !—what a bad taste it as.” The boys, meanwhile, were making the most terrible noise, for they thought they were going to be drowned. Those who could swim got into the water aud so gained the shore in theirclothes, but they were only about a dozen in number. “I forgot the boys,” muttered Dick, “ this is growing serious; another five minutes, and it will be a case with oe ne He looked around to see if he could obtain any assist- ance, A small crowd had collected, attracted by the cries of the usher. The situation was becoming embarrassing. be began to see that he had carried his joke a little too far. It was all very well to have Mr. Snarley in his shirt and trousers on the top of the machine. But the position of the boys in the machines was growing more dangerous every minute. Dick turned pale. He was getting alarmed. CHAPTER XXX. RESCUED. —— TELY, Awe cri —_ Laer ad a a happened to come by in a large t for hire. ick ran down to the beach and hailed him. “ Want a row, sir?’’ said the man. “ Yes,”’ said Dick. “Pull in.” ‘ The waterman did so, and got his boat near enough to the beach for Dick tospring on bourd, “Where to, sir?” asked the boatman. “Go to the bathing-machines and take the boys out. The horse has bol! and the man can’t wind them up.” This was quickly done. In less than five minutes four out of the five ma- chines were emptied, and in the fifth Dick found Mes- siter, his old friend. “Is it you, Dick?” said Messiter. ‘‘I can understand now why we were left in the sea. Where's the bath- ing man?” fi Dick winked and pointed to the hut, from whence the sound of knocking came, as if the prisoner was try- “In there? /What a lark?” replied Messiter. ‘Look at Snarley,” said . “He'll have a fit. ~— the the boat with me, and we'll row around «AN right. You don’t know how pleased Iam to ou. I heard you were at a private tutor’s in ton, and thought you would have given us a t. “ Not good eno , old boy,” replied Dick. The boys were ittie wet about the legs, and a good deal frightened, but none of them were hurt in any bea —_ they stood on the beach, looking curiously at er. When the boat came tothe machine, Mr. Snarley re- Dick. He had been watching the process of ex g the boys with conside satiefaction, ep that it was his turn to come next to dry and. « Ah, Lightheart, hew do?” he exclaimed. “ You are al aces to save us from a most unpleasant catas- trophe.” ri «Cat what, sir? It’s a big word, and rather too much for me,” answered Dick. F “ Never mind; I will a Oe ee Fo cclace te going pubes teh. Walhed the hat, which ve is o 2 nea been described as a treacherous element; it is so “ Lie on your oars,”’ said va hee = te -e * “Why are you stopping?” continu . Snarley. “You Wiest kee any aaxioty to got sshore. I am a ri- diculeus o up here half drowned.” ¥ “You can’t come in my t,”” Dick s not?’ see Brig ith them for dear life. As you are should learn to swim,” remarked Dick. n iY At this moment, a huge wave sent three of the six machines rolling on their sides, Mr, Snarley’s being amongst the number. He stood a good chance of being drowned, but Dick — a boat-hook into his clothes, and dragged him om ard. “Pull in quickly,” said he giving the boatman some money. Dick and Messiter assisted the usher to land, and he walked to the bathing man’s hut, intending to remon- ae: with him in very strong terms for his bad be- avior. Just then the door flew open with a crash befores vigorous kick, One glance showed the infuriated man his machines on their sides, and in danger of being smashed against the beach. Runnjng wildly up to Mr. Snarley, he hit him vio- lently on the nose, and sent him rolling over on the shingle. “T’ll teach you to play your confounded tricks w me! he cried, “Look at my beantiful machines.” “My good man,” began Mr. Snarley, wiping the sand out of his mouth. “Don't good man me,” replied the fellow. “My worthy, but impulsive friend, listen to me. I have cause to complain, for we were nearly all drowned through your negligence, and had it not been for the bravery and presence of mind of this young gentle- maz, who, I am proud to say was one of my pu we should have ”’—— : “Hold your jaw !" interrupted the man. “Where's my horse ?"’ And having discovered his new loss, he began to ruz about like a madman in all directions. “ Good-morning,” said Dick, “I must be off.” He thought that it was time to look after Horace Stoner, who might be caught on the horse, omen - hands with Snarley and Messiter, left them to fight out with the machine man. He found Stoner near the old Chain Pier holding the horse by the bridle, and wiping his face with a pocket h: 4 “ What's the matter?" asked Dick. “ The brute threw me off, and I was a good deal hurt,” answered Stoner. “Never mind. Come along with me and leave the horse. The owner will be here after him soon; and as appearance that Suarley presented when sitting half nied on the top of the bathing-machine. “*I wish I could be as light-hearted and as merry as you,” remarked Stonor, as they walked along : What's the use of being miserable?” answered CK. o as help i poe hg ai “For my part ways keep up my spirits. I been on my best behavior, though, since I Markwell’s, because I wanted to show my father that I could go on well if I chose, Still, to-day I could resist the temptation of playing Srarley a joke. don’t know what a tyrant he was when I was private l. But what's the matter with you noticed this morning, after the post came in and read your letters, that you were down in the mouth ‘| about something. Out with it. You can trust me with me peat secrets.” d not like to worry you; but I had a letter fom “ Yes.” “My father is very poor. He is to his — creditors in full since his bankruptcy, at) hich Chapman and Brabazon chaffed me when they read it in the papers. You renember. It was the time when you took my part so om oY “ That was nothing,” said Dick, innocently. “ Ob, but it was, and I have never forgotten it, nor ever shall—all the more you have suffered for my sake by being cut.” fix I don’t care twopence about. What‘s your y ered 5 to me at school. I would gladly into the sh ‘ainks I know enough, © explain it at my leisure. Let | Miss Bodmin “Indeed. I wish Iwas @ man and could work te keep her. I'd marry her to-morrow, if I could see my way. l love your Horace.” ; PR vd vaid Horace Stoner, “and I hope day é some <i I may have the pleasure of calling you my : though it is not a cheering prospect te marry into ¢ odds when you love one another ?* wa @ = _— . swered Dick. about time of it.” i ry Does she really ask after me?” said Dick. — 4 . ~~ do. She always asks afteryou when | = ~ ij y =
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gaw that foo! 4 & DICK LIGHTHEARE®. “Oh! yes, constantly.” “Bless her heart. It may have been very foolish of me to run away with her, because we are too young to marry yet; I see that, and I don’t think I’m good enougb for her. They call mea scamp, but Ill reform.” “Tam sure I see nothing objectionable in your con- dnct,” answered Horace. “Ifyou like to amuse your- self now and then, why shouldn’t you? You are a entleman, and can iook forward to an excellent future. go long as you do nothing dishonorable, it doesn’t matter much.” ~ Dick’s face flushed as he thought of the time when | attempted to rob his father. Ifheésucceeded then, he would always have been in Captain Hanger’s power;, and what his future might | have been in that case he shuddered to think. All at once he stopped suddenly. “What is it—are you not well?” asked Stoner, anx- iously. Dick could not speak. He was only able to look ina dazed sort of manner at amen who confronted him. CHAPTER XXXI. THE APPARITION. “So,” said a voice he knew too well, ‘‘we meet again, Master Dick Lightheart. It was Captain Hanger. . Recovering himself by an effort, Dick said, ‘I wish to have nothing tosay to you. Our acquaintance— puch as it was—came to an end unexpectedly, and I have no desire to renew it.” “Possibly not; but I want to speak to you, and we livein a free country, and there is no law to prevent our conversing. I shall take the liberty of talking to you,” replied the captain, in his usual jaunty, careless manner. “ Let me pass.” . “*Not at ail. Have you forgotten your theft?’ Stoner stared. : “ How dare you speak to mein that manner?” Dick said, angrily. “If you don’t mind what you are about, I will do you an injury, and I would any man who attacked my honor, were he as bigas an ox. You know very well that I didn’t take your cash-box, and you are a villain.” ‘Pretty language. What would you say if I were to calla policeman and give you in charge now!” asked the captain. “You can’t doit. Your own character is too wel! known, and my father would have something to say about the’—— He hesitated. “About what? Go on.” “You know what.” “ The fact is, you are in my power, and you know it. Where are you now ?” “Pind out,” said Dick. z eins ing the whirlwind with a vengeance, and h things, whether done in youth or age, cannot go without punishment. This was the bitter result of his rash and disobedient behavior when at Mr. Simcox’s,and the result of run- ming away from school. ; er’s confident manner frightened him. e from pocket one pound thirteen and six- ye and his watch and chain, bis mother’s present, Loy the tain, saying ; field Terrace, Hove,” an- tting the in his Papin pt poeket, while You shall hear again from your humble ser- bs > seowered: the captain. j sy ” asked Stoner, , horror-stricken. at the heart and downcast eyes Dick sehool and met the circus peo- money-box was lost, and he was weak put in AZ and knoy that you me but I'am shocked.” “a er and extonded her 4 “ Honor,” supplied Dick, with his accustomed impul- siveness. “Say it out likea man. Don’t spare me.” Stoner was silent. F “I think I shall go and drown myself in the sea,” Dick continued, desperately. ‘‘I den’t care about liv- ing, now I have lost your good opinion.” “TI will try to think well of you, because you acted on the compulsion of that bad man. Don’t be rash, ful story,” continued Horace Stoner. “Pity me, Horace. bad at heart,” moaned Dick. “I believe you,” answered Horace ; “ we are all im- | perfect, and far be it from me to condemn you. This | man who has just left us urged you to take what you thought your own money, and ”’——. He stopped abruptly. | The cries of many people startled him, and he saw a | fly with a runaway horse coming at full speed up the | King’s Road. | The driver was vainly trying to stop the horse. In another moment the maddened animal dashed up against a lamp-post, and the fly was shattered to pieces. Miraculously, the driver escaped unhurt, but the oc- cupant was thrown almost at the feet of the boys.§ He was terribly injured, for he fell upon his head upon the curb, and blood flowed from the wound. ** Captain Hanger !” ejaculated Dick. It was in truth the captain, who had hired a fly to go somewhere, and the horse being frightened at some noise, ran away, with the disastrous result we have detailed. * The unfortunate man breathed heavily, and seemed ying. The crowd took him into a chemist’s shop, anda surgeon was sent for. But before he came he had breathed his last. In the midst of his career and in the prime of life he had been cut off. But betore he died he recognized Dick, who, with aren had penetrated to the little parlor behind the shop. A momentary gleam ofintelligence lighted up his face. “This is a judgment upon; me,” he murmured ; “I have just time to say that I myself took the cash-box from the office. You are innocent.” With peevish impatience, he unfastened the chain of Dick's watch, and handed them both to him. His strength failed him, or he would have restored the money. “Say you forgive me?” moaned the wretched man, pitifully. , “ With all my heart,’ answered Dick, generously. His lips moved as if in prayer. Then the former dull, impassive look of insensibility came over him, and his eyes closed. The boys remained till all was over, and then took their departure, sad and sorrowful, “ Never mind the money,” said Dick. “I have the watch, and you are a witness that he cleared my char- acter.”” “Certainly,”’ said Horace. “He would have been a terrible enemy. I should never have been free from his attacks. How soon ac- cidents happen. Is it not true that in the midst of life we are in death ?”’ 4 “It is indeed ; and now, Dick, try to forget this un- happy episode.” 2 . Only promise me one thing ?” «That you will still be my friend, # it you 8 my and say nothin to may dear Henrietta about what you have heat to-day.’ “I do promise, gladly.” The boys shook hands again, and Dick returned to Mr. Markwell’s with a lighter heart, though it was mnany a long day before he forgot the awfully sudden death of the miserable Captain Hanger. Horace Stoner had letters repeatedly from his cousin, whosaid she was very happy. In her last letter she told him that she was going for a cruise in the yacht “Sapphire,” which had been built for Mr. Maidment, her guardian, Dick heard this, and hoped that she would not run into any danger, though he had a strange misgiving, for which he could not account, that some harm would happen to her. He had made the acquaintance of the coastguardsmen at Hove, and listened with awe to their accounts of wrecks which had taken place on the coast. Whether it was dwelling upon this that gave rise to an incident we are about to relate or not, we will not pretend to say. ; The circumstance may have been owing to that sub- tle communion existing between the spirits of those who love one another. But the mystery enveloping the supernatural world | gin is so deep, that it is idle to speculate upon anything fm gh with it, however strange or extraordinary it may be. Dick had gone to bed at the usual hour, The wind was blowing fresh, and gradually increased to a gale, and so furious were the gusts that the case- ments rattled ominously. The windows looked out upon the sea, and he could, before he went to sleep, hear the sea beating violently upon the bleak and uz: In the middle of the night he er ey ee ee ; was a young 3 hair flowed over her shoulders, ‘drenched with sea-water. a. p The expression of her face was agonizing in the Gras to Dick as it imploring’ his pre: "fle recognized his 4 i ci= Saige 4 ges esp e r “ r ~ ae . pis Loe? Sy t Dl egeagee AS. 1h Reh ce Dick. Your sin has found you out; butit is a dread- | lL acted foolishly: but Lam not he saw a form and her attire was | —— 7 With a cry, he work up and gazed around him wonderingly. : Nothing but a murky blackness met his eyes. The sea still roared, and the wind and the rain beat against the window-panes without. . At that moment he heard the sullen booming of a gun at sea. ; ; It was a signal of distress. He lay still and listened. 3 Again and again, at intervals of half 3 minute, came the dreadful and foreboding sound. =» . “Some vessel has stranded, and will soon be a wreck on a-night like this,” he muttered. “I must get up.’” Springing out of bed, he struck a light, and, looking at bis watch, he found it was half-past two. Quickly dressing himself, he determined to go to the beach, and speak to his friends the coastguardsmen. Their station was not far off. He could not account for his conduct. , At any other time he would have gone to slee: But there are times when we feel eom: certain things without knowing why. We obey a mysterious cause, and are urged on against sa ney or perhaps we have no will at all in the matter. When dressed, he went cautiously atong the passage, not wishing to disturb the other sleepers in the house, and stopped before Horace Stoner’s door. . His rest was apparently feverish, for he was tossing about in his bed, and talking wildly in his sleep. *“Wake up, Horace,” cried Dick. “ What is it?’ asked the boy, rubbing his eyes. **I want you to get up.” Aes Iam so glad you have come. I have had suchabad eam.” “What did you dream about?’ asked Dick. “It is very curious; but I was dreaming about Flenrietta. I thought she came to me, and asked mato help her.” “So did I dream about your cousin,” answered Dick, “There is something wrong. Get up quickly.” Again the signal gun boomed out, andits sullen noise was carried by the wind shorewards. “What is that?” cried Horace. ; “A signal gun from some ship in distress. I am going to see all about it. Will youcome? Yes or no. There is no time to be lost. The ae ee station is not far off.. We shall be in time to 1 a hand to the poor souls, if we hurry.” “ All right!” answered Horace, getting up. The night was not cold, though the weather was so alarmingly rough. In a short time, both boys were ready, and descended» the stairs quietly, letting themselves out at the front: door, and issuing into the street in the gray dawn of: early morning, for it wasjnow the beginning of summer, and the nights were shorter as every week progressed. ’ te eh CHAPTER XXXII, THE WRECK. Tux boys hastily made their way to the coastguard station. ‘ at Men engaged in the service was running about with - of th ‘hom he knew, named one em, whom N Sisceann Dick asked what had happened. : “A gentlemen's yacht, sir,” was the reply, “has been driven ashore by the beserctagees Agrdene. beat- a pe aie a” en, ~ nen jstae — we are ig the roc a at. oe Can T Jend a hand ?” said Dick. “No, thank you,sir, we're not short handed, and you don't understand the process,” answered the Dick and Horace consequently contented themselves with looking on. The sea ran very high, and broke in clouds of feath- ery spray over the doomed vessel, which was just dis- cernible in the dim morning light. Presently the costguard fired the first rocket, which, being aimed too low, did not reach the yacht. i The second attempt was more successful, the rocket) striking the rigging and enabling the sailors to seize the rope which was attached to it, and make it fast. Simmons then placed himself in the belt, and was) com lostin the huge waves at times, which seemed to him Hwee hack oie rend of mercy 4 Di 2 e ‘here reatoratives were administered to + ae “Is my father safe, and my mother, and my sister?’ he inqui ¢ a ap over; and you are Miss:
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He rushed from the house, and went once more to the beach. It was agony to think that his dear Henrietta should | rashness. | grateful in He did not then stay to consider what an extraor- inary interpretation his dream had had, though it / taken with others to the nearest hotel. afterwards. oon to arn _ 5 Simmons made three trips e yacht, bringing safely away. Mrs. Maidment and her two daughters. * There is one more lady,” he said; “we'll have her, and then we must look after the men.” * Dick did not doubt that this was Henrietta, and he strained his eyes to see if she were coming. ° “It is my cousin’s turn next,” murmured Horace, to whom Dick related all that he knew. “I wish they would let me go along the rope,” Dick eaid. “ She is safer with Simmons. He is stronger than we are, and has moreexperience. Is it not odd that we should wake up with our dreams, and come here to find that Henrietta really is in peril?” “So s re that I cannot understand it. But, hush | here comes.” As he spoke, they could see Simmons hauled along with a girl in his arms. He neared the shore, and the boys held their breath. there was asharp crack, and « despairing cry. Both man and girl vanished as if swallowed up by the ravenous sea. The rope had broken. In fact, the sea had caused the yacht to givean alarm- ing lurch, and the strain was more than the rope could It snapped in half, and Simmons was struggling in the sea, his lovely burden on his arm. “ Heaven help us? she will be drowned |" cried Hor- ace ; “I must save her |” Before into the a Dick was y distracted. Seeing a coil of rope lying on the beach, he tied one end rounda taff, and the other round bis waist. ?” asked s coastguard. who saw what his purpose. “I know it,” Dick said, who was very calm now. —_ my movements ; when I grasp the girl, haul a a ee man. Simmons, who was much exhausted, found himself obliged to drop his hold of the insensible girl ; and, in order to save his own life, dragged himself ashore by the aid of the broken rope. 5 Dick saw this, and the next moment was battling with th- waves. He did not know what had become of Horace, but he fancied he heard him crying for help some distance lower down the beach. where the waves washed him. Dick's eyes were a. a pale face and long, fair ‘hair, like tangled seaweed, which ever and anon ap- peared and disappeared. The waves drove him back ; and it was with the ut- gnest difficul*y that he got into deep water, though he was slight.y helped by an undercurrent caused by the receding of the tide, which was rapidly going out. His great fear now waa that she would torise no more before he reached her. She was somewhat assisted in os by the clothes moyancy. she wore, which gave ber a temporary The coastguard fired another rocket, and the appara- tus was repaired. Simmons was too weak to be of any more use, He crawled ashore and was helped by strong arms, more ce Dax ire, So Ge aga while one of his e rae ace on the rope. Tus wae enacted while Dick wee searching for close to him. was impossible to say whether she was alive or dead. Placing his arm firmly round her waist, be made to those on shore. a time he did not seem to be heard. A joyous feeling came over him when he felt himself drawn in. They had heard his cries, and were pulling at the By his t conduct Henrietta had been snatched from the jaws of death. He was sepetet, So. ie coastguard station, while er. Dick could éo no more, or he would have gone in search of Horace. : His strength bed departed, and he was as helpless as e@child. \. Mr.Maidment and one of the crew were brought in, forever. went dows,and the sun rose Maidment, congratulating himself cape of his family, went down to the beach. bad be said. “ How is that ?—there were anyore — stop him, he had plunged madly | ad 8 $$$ . | grief, and getting up, cilla, f DICK LIGHTHEART. Horace had perished because he did not stay to reflect | as Dick had done, and courted certain death by his They were careful to say nothing to Henrietta about the shocking occurrence when she recovered, and was The news of the wreck rapidly spread,and several people made their way to the scene to gratify an idle curiosity. Dick was standing by his full of tears. and directing well’s house. There was a smile of resignation on his parted lips, and his hands were folded over his breast, either by accident or ay ow “Heis with the angels now,” murmured Dick. “ Hallo! who is this ?’’ cried a voice at his elbow. He turned round and tery, or 2a Brabazon and Law- es to whom he could not help replying in a severe one : “Itis the boy you persecuted and despised because he was a tradesman's son; but he died.in trying to save another, and has gone, I trust, where there is no distinction of class, fer in the sight of Him who made us we are all equal.” “ You need not presch a sermon,” answered Brabazon. “Perhaps we were wrong. Anyhow, I am very sorry for this.” “Tell us how it happened,” asked Lawless. Dick's voice was choked by emotion as he related first his dream, and then the episode of the wreck. He did not dwell upon his own bravery in saving Henrietta under such circumstances. He merely stated that she was finally rescued. “You may as well add, sir, that it was you who saved the young lady,” said Simmons, who was standing by with a stretcher on which to place the body of Horace, “Did you really ?” asked Brabazon, looking at him y- “ He will tell you all about it,” replied Dick, sinking down on the beach by the side of his friend, and crying again unrestrainedly. “It was a fine thing, sir; as fine a thing as was ever done,” cried Simmons. “Therope broke while I had herin my arms, and the sea tore her from me. It wouldn’t have done it if I had been strong and well, but I had made three journeys before, and I hadn't any strength lett to speak about. However, young master here ties a rope about him, and in he goes. Nothing could have saved her if it had not been for him.” “I’m proud of you,” said Brabazon, “‘ and if you will shake hands, be friends ty Dick extended his hand with a mournful smile? “This is a lesson to us not to be atenmity with one another,” he said, pointing to Horace. They put him on the stretcher, and he was carried to Mr. Markwell’s house, and laid upon his bed. : Mr. Markwell had received no intimation of what had hsppened, and his astonishment may be ned, His first care was to telegraph for the unfortunate boy’s father. ) A message came from the hotel to say that Mr. Maid- ment and Miss Stoner wanted to see Dick—the latter being anxious to thank him personally for his courage- ous conduct, But Dick made an excuse, “TI should go ifI were you,” said Mr. Markwell, who was by. “IT can't see hiscousin, sir,” said Dick, “* because I can- not forget that it was indirectly through me that he met with death. If ] had not roused him up and taken him with me, he would not have been tempted to rush into the sea and so be drowned.” “You blame yourself without acause. Becomforted —thege accidents are directed by an All-wise Providence. Tt was not your fault,” answered Mr. Markwell. But Dick burst out sobbing again, and would not go to see Henrietta, | reg dead friend, his eyes removal to Mr. Mark- CHAPTER XXXII, TECK IS A SCAPEGRACE STILL. Muss Pamcrnna Manecweiu had been very fond of — Stoner, whom she liked as much as she detested cx, She did not agree with her brother that Dick was not to blame for Horace’s death ; on the contrary, she heid that it was altogether his fanlt. “If he had not got up in the night and worried Hor- ace Stoner into accompanying him to see the wreck, which he heard of through the minute-gun, the poor boy would not have been drowned. As to the appari- tion, that is in my opinion all nonsense, and only an excuse for going out. He is a bad boy. None of the other young gentlemen like him, and I should send him away.” “He -. brave pene for he saved the girl's life,” remarked Mr. ‘kwell. “ For whom he has conceived s foolish attachment. His character came with him,” answered Miss Priscilla. This conversation took place in the study, and Miss Priscilla did not notice that Dick was present. He had been sitting in a corner, brooding over his walked straight to Miss Pris- “Here ts the boy himself. You should be careful about what you say, my dear,” observed Mr. Markwell. “Your remarks about myself, ma’am, are not very complimentary,” said Dick ; “and I will thank you in future to them to yourself. I recognize no authority bere but Mr. Markwell’s.” “and that you do not care much about,” answered Miss Priscilla. “But I shall not waste my breath in arguing with you.”* “Thank you,” answered Dick, with a provoking Miss Priscilla went away, and pee returned to his | In the evening, Mr. Stoner came down from London, His grief at his son's death was Imtense, but he was to heaven for preserving the life of his niece. By this time the news had been broken to Henrietta; and the father of the dead boy and his niece mingled their tears together. : Mr. Stoner was generous enough to call upom Dick and shake him bythe hand, while he thanked him warmly for what he had done. “ Do not come and see Henrietta now,” hesaid. “I wish to spare her any further excitement; but when the holidays come, I shall expect you to visit meat my_ little place at Wimbledon. You may rely upon Hen-~ rietta being there also. Do not blush. I know story of your running away; and, if she likes wel! enough, I will do all I can with her guardians to help on your courtship, but"——_—s > “ What sir ?”’ asked Dick. “ Boys and girls cannot marry. You must remember that. This is an age of early marriage; royalty has set the exampie. Yet you must be twenty yesrs old at least before you two could marry one another.” “Thank you, sir, for what you have said. Thank you very much,” answered Dick. “My poor boy is to be buried at Brighton. You will follow him ?” “Gladly. We were such and—and ""—— Dick broke down; he could say no more. Mr. Stoner patted him on theshoulder and went away. In a week from that time, Horace was buried in the Brighton Cemetery. 6 ladies of the family did not follow him, but Dick saw Henrietta for a short time; and altho the oc- casion was 3 melancholy one, he left her the fond assurance that he was dearer to her than before. had formerly existed between him and the pe wt od They all became friendly again; but Miss ‘= dislike to Dick increased to positive rudeness. “T can’t stand that old girl’s cheek much remarked Dick to Brabazon, one day, when summer holidays were hiner 2 “T must say she’s not so nice in her manner to you as she might be,” answered Brabazon with a smile. “She has never forgiven me for pulling her wig off,” observed Dick. “Fort though she could not prove that I did it, she had her suspicions.”’ “ That was great fun.” ea ig hten her out of her wits,” said Dick. “Now we are_wor! hard for the examination, you know, we sit up later than she, and Mr. Markwell, too.” “What's the dodge ?” asked Brabazon. (“111 buy a black mask and make a row in the corri- dor, pretending Iam a burglar and bring her out of bed in her nightcap, and then laugh at her,” . “Will it be fair?’ said Brabazon. f “It will be alark, and I was always inclined that way.” - But | ee “T don’t ask you to me. You won't be involved init. Ionly ask you to hold your row and enjoy the fun.” “ All right,” answered Brabazon. i With Dick, to conceive an ides of this sort, was in- stantly to put it into execution. He bough? a black mask to cover his face, and armed himself with the pistol he had bought for shooting cats. ecient rae a. the Said The other pupils were was about to play Miss Priscil They on the stairs. Dick, about half-past eleven o'clock, went to the corn . ridor, looking very much like a burglar. He went into Miss Priscilla’s room, and gtanding by the bedside, exclaimed in a stern voice : ‘ “Your money and the key of the plate-chest, or your Chis ith this he presented the pistol at her head. Miss Priscilla awoke with a start. “ Oh dear, kind gentleman,” she answered. “ Takeail T have, but by. to She handed him the watch and her purse, which she hee under the pillow, as well oaths tor ot the plate- chest. “It is well,” said Dick, in atragic tone. “Dare to move for the space of two hours, instant death will be your portion.” Miss Priscilla was in a terrible fright. She nearly fainted. But directly the burglar’s back was turned, she re- membered that her brother always kept a loaded re- room, and that he would be terribly 1 with her, if she allowed the contents of the — were Mines pp tered ap awa: rly peed m. Accordingly, she got up as iy she would, and entered in her and nigh kind, some- , which was of an old- thing resembling an inverted coal-scuttle. In the middle of the passage Dick flashed his lantern _ Thieves! Murder! Murder! Thieves! Thieves!’ she cried, at the top of her voice, shrieking — loudly afterwards. In an instant Mr. Markwell, revplver in hand, was room. Dick was about to beat s retreat. lantern ; and nat that lar who had come to rob the premises, he leveled fod Stick to Don’t Tet the rascal gol” he exclaimed. Dict fell down on the ¢ }= . F. <9 pm
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eel Sue Mr. Simcox, Harrow House, Kemp Town i 7 DICK LIGHTHEART. Miss Priscilla had fainted in the corridor, but nobody seemed inclined to pay much attention to her. “I'm afraid he is hurt, sir,”’ said B: n. rabazo. } “Hurt? Serves him right; one is justified in killing $ burglar.’ “But he’s gets lar.”” “What!” cried ter itaskwall, in amazement. It's Lightheart, sir,” continued Brabazon. « *Nonsense.” It is indeed, sir.” E “How did he eome to put on that mask, and take that pistol and frighten my sister out of her senses?” “It was sl] done in fun, sir. Miss Priscilla has tor- mented him @ deal lately, and he thought he good would her out, by htening her.”’ “And you leat yo to this proposition? Oh, 1 said Mr, Markwell, sadly. “We didn’t know.” “You should have thought of the consequences. But it is always true, that one black sheep contami- nates the whole flock.” “Shall I run for a doctor, sir?” said Brabazon. “He seems a good deal hurt,” ' “Deo so; pray go at once. We will convey him to his room. Dear me; what a misfortune.. We have had but excitement since he came here. Silly, boy! Mr. Brabazon, run, and lose no time,’’ said Mr. Markwell. Brabazon was off like a shot, and the other pupils, with their tutor’s help, carried Dick to his bed-room. He bled a little from a wound in his leg, but they ow ag the bleeding as well as they were able with towels. When thedoctor came, he made an examination of ee ee Se ees graze of the flesh in the region of the calf of the eg of had not been large, or the con- Sequences wo have been much more serious than they were. Mr. Markwell was very nervous, and did not bow to shoot. It was a wonder that he hit Dick at all. They all thankful were committed, or any dreadful injury As it was, Dick was only ill for a day or two. He did not mind the os ae as he was Mr. Markwell was so much annoyed with Dick’s con- duct on more than one occasion, that he wished not to =e his charge any longer. “ ee eh een “and T ought to get rid of od “ Quite right,”’ answered Miss Pris¢illa; “I very much | ve of your determination. You would have done | . long before, had you taken my advice.” “The fact is, my dear sister,’ continued Mr. Mark- well, “that Iam more fitted for teaching than manag- ing boys. I should like to take a situation as head mas- ter in a small school.” “TI wish you would,” replied his sister. “Iam tired of aiong oie eos a, ordering the dinner, — eir clothes ns."” ““You have an independent’ income of a hundred a Jeukh and some money saved, be yo net It would grieve ‘me to separate from you, but I should like to see you ina mga here.” thoughtfully. “Let us each follow the bent of our inclinations,” cried Mr. Markwell. “ They each took up a newspaper and began to look the sdvertising columns. 2 Rn his sister, “Iwas just about to Take the same observation.” Have you, too, found something to suit you?” “Thave. Listen.” | ‘Mr. Markwell put down his paper, and his sister read him the advertisement of a small but genteel business, such as she wanted, in a fashionable part of ton. “Excellent,” hesaid. “ You shall take that, ; and now, my dear, hear this: “ ¢Scholastic.—Wanted a gentlemen of ability and attainments, a graduate of one of the Universities, ac- customed to teach the young. Respondent must be able to take the position of senior master in a small, select, but flourishing school. If he can bring a connection’ with him, he will find it to his advantage. Apply to “You are an M.A. and an L.LD.,” said ‘iiss Prisctila, proudly. , “Tam,” veplied Mr. Markwell, “ and I will go this very day .o Mr. i u aomeniady. he ut on his hatand walked along the . to ww House. Mr. Simcox saw him at once. “My dear sir,’’ said Mr. Simeox, “you are the very a to you thatmy mani want. I donot mind confessing ive. Irequire 8 gen * creature, He time now, and we get on very Pa? with me some together ; betwi um gnd me and the post, | Bhaniey dows not know more do. Beis all very little boys. 4 ete, have been a private tutor, and have 3 " Nader my charge Fraga oy I may be able’ » . o the wash, and sewing on but- | | to bring with me ; one is the Honorable Mr. Brabazon, know | the son of a peer. “Very good,” said Mr. Simcox, rubb his hands. * Tiike alord’s son. Reference permi in the pros- pectus, ver—y good.” . “Then there’s a clergyman’s son.” » “Ah, very good, Clergymen are always first-rate references.’ «And Mr, Lightheart is’”—— “ What did you say ? cried Mr. Simeox, nearly bound- from his chair. “Lightheart! His son Richard has been some time | under my charge.” | “No wonder, my dear sir, you want to get rid of your responsibility, and are tired of conducting the business | of a private tutor if you have that imp of darkness in | your house,” said Mr. Simcox, with a groan. |” “You know him, then?’ exclaimed Mr. Markwell, in surprise. ; “ Khow him! don’t I? He was here for s long while, and nearly brought usall to the verge of the grave.” “Dear me, how strange! I heard he been at school somewhere in thisneighborhood, though I was far from suspecting that you were his old schoolmaster. “TI do believe, I should have conquered him if he had stayed,” continued Mr. Simcox; “Snarley is also of the same opinion.” “Try again. “After all,” said Mr. Bela panctoality tata let eating pulous punctuality that is positivel . “Tt isa question in my yoind” Mr Markwell went on, “ whether a master does his duty toa boy by expell- ing him. Suppose the stubborn spirit conquered, and a victory obtained, is it not better than casting out the black sheep with s brand upon him ?” “You are right, my dear sir.” “Thave advertised 1 for unruly boys.” “So have I.” “Can we not together subdue any number of the | most stubborn ?” continued Mr. Markwell. | “Let ushopeso. Join me in”— that no tragedy had been “Did you say a glass of sherry?’ interrupted Mr. inflicted. Markwell. Ae si |. “Ah, pardon me,” exclaimed Mr. Simcox, ringing the ’ : rivation of staying in-doors for bell thankful to have escaped with| Presently sherry and biscuits stood upon the table, and the schoolmasters ed themselves. “Very fine,” said Mr. Markwell, smacking his lips;a true, dry flavor. Well, as I was observing, we ought to succeed if we unite our exertions. Look st/our experience.” “I consider that fortune has done me a happy turn in sending you to me,” answered Mr. Simcox. Their conversation lasted sometime, and the prelim- inaries of the fasion were to. ee oe schoolmasters decided to enter into a part- nership. Several otherinterviews were n before every- thing was settled. Saati | ih after the summer holidays. Dick went home, as did the other boys, and behaved himself as well as he could, which was not too well. It was from his father that he first heard of tho change Mr. Markwell had made. “So,” said his father, “‘ you will have to go back to your old school, and have two masters to govern you “The more the merrier, sir,’’ replied Dick. “ And you will try to behave well.” “lalways do try my best,” Dick said. “ Remember that your future prospects in life depend ge our working hard now,” continued the Reverend 5 Lightheart. “You'll see, father, that I shall grow up such aclever boy, that I'll set the Thames on fire,” said Dick His father smiled. “ Your sisters want to see you,” he went on. “To see me? Why, it’s only an hour ago siuce we met at breakfast, Emily put a black beetle in my tea, or I did into her’s. It’s all the same.” : “A little visitor has arrived.” ve a circulating library and | ‘stead of one.” kod Miss Priscilla, soon, With a bound he left his father’s “study, and ran to the morning-room, where Mrs. Lightheart and the girls were assembled. In the midst was Henrietta, looking very lovely in her little traveling cloak and bonnet, Agnes and Emily were kissing her, as girls will one another whén they meet. “* Mayn’t I have one ?” said Dick. “ For shame, Richard,” replied his mother, “ Have ae no, better manners? Shake hands with Miss toner.” , Dick did so, and immediately kissed the back of his Mrs. Lightheart heard this, and thought that Hen- rietta complied with Dick’s request, and kissed * isis ace ieee Cree aoe, SS ee were in my young days. . “ Dear Mrs, Lightheart, what do you mean ?” asked Henrietta. “ You kissed Dick, unmistakably,and”—— “ Indeed I did not.” Harry dear,” said Dick, addressing ge Y” cried prior — much anno; “How you kissed you De =e heard it,” said Dick, “if you didn’t you onght to, and I'll give you chance before you’re a year older.” It was arranged that they should begin Dantages | “I won't speak to you once all the time I am heen that I won’t |’ Henrietta said, angrily. : ** And I'll help you to pay him out,” said Emily. ¢ “ Two to one, Emmy, that’s not fair; but you're only girls.”’ said Dick, la . “ Henrietta”— “Call me Miss Stoner, sir, if you please,’’ she ex- or call thin; lease, long “You may me any @ you pi so ag- you don’t call me too late for dinner.” said Dick, “ but I will humor you before company. The mum’s par “ Don’t call me the mum, sir,” cried Mrs. Lightheart “T'm your mother.” “Sol have always been led to believe,” answered ~ Dick. ‘Let me go on with what Iwas saying. You're. . pitching into me all round. I was about to inform the charming, but somewhat crusty Miss Stoner, that I ap about to become a neighbor of hers again.” oe “ How is that ?’’ asked Henrietta. s “if you don’t Emily. “Emmy,” said Dick, threateningly, ’ and salt in your bed to- horsehair =r have ‘tana sn addres respectfully. Y¥ < you s me y- You are, non ip hme Try to reform and leave those pizis alone; you wear their lives out, And if I ear anything of putting things in people’s beds I'll tell your father.” “Don’t do that,” replied Dick; “you frighten me, Ihave some difficulty in drawing my breath, and you know I was consumptive asa boy. Tell Simcox & Co., but don’t—oh ! do not tell my father; he might beat me.” As he spoke he made aludicrous grimace at Agnes, who stuffed her pocket handkerchief into her mouth to prevent en yoo ag f “ Well, I will not, as you beg so earnestly,” answered Mrs. Lightheart. “ ng glad to see that you have yet some feeling leftin you. Run away and play. Stoner is fatigued with herjourney, and must want to take her things off.”” Dick went away, but as he passed his mother con- trived to pin an antimacassar to her collar; it hung | down gracefully behind, and a roar of laughter when he gained the passage told him that the girls had found out the trick. ws ’ “ He is the same Dick,” said Emily, when they got wee and always will be,” said Agnes “ and alwa .? sai c. “I don't ans him I, toon he amet y vege os ” said Henrietta; “though he on, F “a kisses‘when he hasn’t. If he really had a kiss I should not have cared so much.” Aform bounded in at the door, strong arms encom- — her, and three — — man e on each cheek and one on ps. Then the form bounded out again, and Henrietta looked as ifshe wouldliketofaint. =~ <3 On ay Emily, “TI didn’t think Dick would have done such e4 “ How mean, to listen at the door and then come in steal kisses that,” said Henrietta. “= heard Skene that you wouldn’t have cared if he did do it,” observed * was always Dick’s friend. « Never mad, eee Henrietta, putting her hair in rder, “he shan’ Me one But he saved your life, dear,” said Agnes, Henrietta began to cry. «Don’t talk about that, please, Agnes,” she said, “I did love oye ey ae cousin, so much. He was + bored os Henrietta’s grief soon passed to talk about a dozen things at once ag can talk ; ‘ was satisfied. kiss, and that was all he wanted, away. They only was rather oe ray rer tat Life at the vate tutor’s been rather slow, s dreadfully sudden There was a chance of renewed excitement and fun, Besides this, he liked Messiter. It was worth anything to get back to Messiter once, And then there was Mr. Snuarley. “Texpect,” said to - been fat since Ileft. It isn’t good for to be teo fat, I shall be him a ma’am, you, as right as ninepence, W's So it will be seen that the return to Harrow House School souk full of tooaoee $40 Wee Joh naa w Py re rather liked the idea than otherwise -
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CHAPTER XXXIV. DICK FINDS A RIVAL, Dune the holidays, Messrs. Simcox and Markwell } had not been idle. They had a new school-room buil culars far and wide, which brought them afresh ad- dition of pupils, so that the school was nearly seventy strong pF the boys reassembled. Mr. Markwell took the highest class in classics and | tmnathematics. » Mr. Simcox bad the next, and a new usber, named Slocum, was expressly engaged for the third form, while Mr. Suarley superintended the fourth, consisting of the smaller boys. To accommodate the new arrivals, a house next door had been taken, and doors were made in the wall to allow of communication. One was Mr. Markwell’s house and under his care, the other Mr. Simcox’s, thotigh they were both united and formed one establishment. Dick Lightheart arrived early in the morning on the day sppointed for the return of the boys. : ‘He saw several old faces, and many new ones. “Among the former was his friend Messiter. They shook hands cordially and adjourned to the school-room, which was in a state of confusion, as there was no work on the first day. “I didn’t expect to see you back again,” said Messi- “There jen deja Jy ters Sod we have all groaned under the s ofa ." “Indeed! Who may he be?” “His name is Armond,”’ said Messiter; “ he is a tall, hulking fellow, with long, wiry arms, and sledge-ham- mer fists—an awful bully, and a fellow I'm sure you won't like at all.’" “Oh, that’s the size of it, is it ?’’ said Dick. He took up a piece of chalk and began to write on the slate. : ¢ Simecx &Co., Purveyors of Latin, Greek, and Math- % peared first; then he wrote, “Cocky Ar- ethane not a bad name for him. He is cocky,” said Messiter, laughing. ! « And he shall be called Cocky Armond from this day forth,” Dick. ‘ , ‘s B. B.?’ inquired Messiter. “That's just what I want to know,” exclaimed a t voice at his elbow. Dick quietly looked up at the questioner. B.,” he replied, “ stands for beast and bully.” “Ob, dees it? Thank you for the information, and now perhaps you'll oblige me by rubbing that out.” os dear no,” answered Dick, coolly. “ Then I shall have to make you.” _ +“ Messiter, who is this individual ?” asked Dick, “It's ee ee gna Messiter. tay ba ter, you’ve forgotten one ra. ** What's that?” “Didn't I tell you he should have a nickname? When you have oecasion to speak of Mr. Armond in future, you Pleased to give him his prefix. Cocky ond sounds well. Repeat it after me.’* ad him. He was a tall, thin, dark boy ofabout seventeen years of age, » eg AY ae ee a > fap ong big beavy eyes, 2 g jaw and a nose. yor facn't want any of your cheek, Mr. What’s-your- name,” Armond. 7 oa eart—Richard Lightheart. Sorry I haven't a * replied Dick. Well, I don’t wantany of your cheek, I tell you.” “Den't you? Can't help that. The obligation is on your side. Sorry for om, if you can't see it. I've ; degree. Cocky Armond, ~ B. B. . Sound wal, dosen't it, Messiter ?” me _“Sjamond tried undisputed sway in the school for some was the favorite of the masters. “ike popular applause is what they i a ¥ ve upon. shall to give you a licking,” said Armond, “All right," replied Dick, “Knock me down, and ” to give him & box of the ears, but Diek and the intended blow missed You didn’t do it provoking grin. hie head, and sent out cir- | d VER S44 TEE EMI ASLSE 1+ Atlength he succeeded in striking him under the ear with one of his sledge-hammer blows. Dick spun across the reom, just as the door opened, and he tell into the arms of Mr. Snarley. “What 1s all this?’ exclaimed the usher, looking | | round in surprise. ‘You boys, you boys, this will not | am “ Morning sir,’’ said Dick, recovering himself alittle. | “It's Mr. Snarley, think, though my ideas of things | in general are rather confused just now.” } “ Lightheart, as I live,” replied the usher. “But I might have guessed it. No other boy would have set the school in an uproar five minutes after his arrival.” Dick sat down ona form and looked at Armond, who was applying his handkerchief to his mouth, and with- drawing it crimson-stained. “ Are you also concerned in this riot, Armand?” con- tinued Mr Snarley : “Tn my position, sir, of head of the school, it is my duty to keep order,” answered Armond. “Very true. Allowance must be made for your po- sition. How did this broil originate?’ Armond had wi offthe slate the words which re- ferred to him, and, pointing to what remained, said : “ Lightheart, sir, had written ‘ Simcox and Co., Pur- veyors of Latin, Greek and Mathematics.’ I thought this disparaging, and remonstrated with him, where- -upon he struck me viciously. I forbore to hit him again until he struck me twice, and then I knocked him across the room, as you ived when you entered.” Dick drew a long b , and letit out again in the form of aloud whistle. “What have you to say to this, Lightheart ?” asked Mr. Snarley. “ He's told more lies, sir,in two minutes than any average boy will tell in a twelvemonth,’’ replied Dick. “ Stop a bit,” said Mr Snarley, holding up bis hand. “I don,t like the use of the words ‘ lies’ or ‘liar.’ Say ‘ falsehood * or “ story-teller.’ ”’ “T’'ll call him Ananias, who, the Bible says *’—— «“Silence! Did z7% or did you not, write the sen- tence on the slate ?”’ “ Yes,”’ replied Dick. “ Did you, or did you not, strike Armond first ?”’ “I did, sir.” “Then his case is proved.” “But "— Not a word!” exclaime! Mr. Snarley; “No more. “ you are clearly in the wrong.” Armond smiled maliciously. He knew beforehand that the usher would take his part if he could. “TI will be heard, sir, He pitched into me,” exclaimed Dick, because I wrote something else on tho slate, which he has rubbed out.” “ What was that?’’ “Cocky Armond, B. B.” “ What may theenigmatical letters B.B, mean ?’’ in- quired Mr. Suarley. “ Beast and bully, sir. I have heard his character, and I took the liberty of christening him.” “You were wrong. Armond is at the head of the school, which has very much ¢ ed since you were here before, and Armond was justified in maintaining his authority. We must have discipline,” said Mr. Snarley, adding, “* What is a school without discipline?” No one answered him, and he went on. “ As this is the first day of your assem! together, I shall pass over this breach of discipline. not let it occur again. Armond, come with me; you must have your eye attended to. Boys, live together in peace and unity.” . Snarley his arm in that of Armond, and left the school-room together. he boys crowded round Dick, delighted with the proof of his prowess he had given them. “We'll him ‘ Cocky’ forever,”’ said one. “ And B. B.’ too,”” exclaimed another. “Did he hurt you ?” asked Messiter. “Bather. He doesn’t fight fairly. I didn’t ae thats round-hander under the ear, but I 1 to his tactics the next time,” answered Dick. © had made an enemy of Armond, who was not ofa forgi or forgetting disposition. ha Tem doa a haves Messi m. ‘his part; they 1 know Mister Cocky Armond. ; “Tl stop him at that game,” said Dick. — «* Will you ?” ” Yes, This very night, if he gives me achance.” — And Smith—you remember the fellow we called “'The man who wasn’t all there—had a tile off. I re- collect him,” said Dick “Well, he’s aspy of “armond’s. It's all spying here now. We can’t low our noses without some one tell- somebody ued Messiter. “That's a nice state of things, It’s lucky for youl oy gaoy . the the boys continued to arrive, and Mil! Min t towards evening with the exception Armond in a manner per- | of a few who were absent throu and, with scientific tap tap, | Bible, and Parteners awe aects Soy Sago ferka'intaomeats’ "7" | nemte ot pupa they had chon tnd ‘eos young gentleman would re-| Then the boys retired to their rooms, which had been fees - Slt YA 1 ree. x ‘ c * on fa or ' ~~ ; : ~ a & A au example of him,” said | cried. In Dick’s dormitory there were three boys, one o bance was Messiter, another Fowler, and anothe mith. . The latter had been putin as a spy upon them, and is was his duty to inform Armond ot everything that was done contrary to the rules. _Messiter guessed this, and informed Dick of his sus- Picions. : : “It you are right,”’ said Dick “ we'll make his life a burden to him, and he'll be glad to ask to be re- moved.”’ Most of the boys had brought from home some luxn- ries in their boxes, and these were to be eaten when Snarley, who had charge of their passage, had been roung to see that the light was out. This was duly accomplished as the clock struck ten. “Now, my boys,” ssid Dick, springing out of bed, “ produce the spread.”” This was dune with arapidity worthy ofthe occasion. The delicacies were temptingly arranged on Dick’s counterpane, All but Smith assembled round the eatables, anxious to begin the feast. “Where's Smiff?, Come along, old fellow, and tuck in,” exclaimed Messiter. “‘I'd rather not, thank you,’’ replied Smith. “I'm not hungry.” “ What's the odds ? Lam always hungry when there's anything in the way.” “You mustexcuseme, 4t's notright; that's another thing : it’s against the rules.” “Humbug,” said Dick. “Who says strawberry jam? Spread some on a coffee biscuit or some. of that short- bread, Fowler. I'll attend to Smif.” The boys began the feast, and. the luxuries began to diminish in size and number. - Two pairs of lighted candles stood on the mantlepiece, which gave plenty of illumination. melon oy have something, smiff,” cried Dick. «It’s ght." , “| know that, Lightheart ; butit does no make ary — difference. I would rather starve than do anything wron, “ replied ey + ealth 7 “ We have too much regard for your bi to neglect you. Fowler, hand me that box of tooth powder.’ Fowler did as he was requested. . Dick spread some jam on a biscuit, and with the blade of his knife mixed a lot of tooth powder in it. r “ Meesiter,’’ he said, “I wi thank you for the soap.” When it was given him, he scraped a quantity on the top of the tooth-powder. “Oh!” he said looking round, “ that citrate of mag- nesia on the tlepiece will do; hand it over: and . you, Messiter, scrape some slate-pencil.’” The slate-pencil and magnesia were added to the mess, oo — ¢ ae COCRY ARMOND 18 MISTAKES FOR A BORGES " Tue boys thoughtit might be Mr, Gnarley - tho was prying about, or the pew usher, Mr. aon ee % to show his zeal. and their m was strengthened minutes had one Dick got out ap ip to come es eae when 2 sees hy . said ** Didn't you cane with you?” “Yes; and so oa : i =. «In the comer, neatmy bet, and X iia 3 our’s there also,” said Messiter, == y , - a v , oa ty #
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” "know “ira out and collar yourcane. Give me mine, | “ What for?” * Bick CHAPTER XXXVII, THE ACOIDENT. “War's the matter. sir?” asked the attendant. « 4 little,” replied Dick. “But that’s not it.” yy ~Tdun't teow; foe Apmond so-arak. J shall be-all slabs. peaeeRy> It’s only a passing teintnnee;: let = Cartalnly,” repli y. place. oN sir,” cried Jackson, who was a tall activeleoking fellow of ive and thirty, and had private in the arin.y. > not ready,” ond. a ta You've got your flannels and the ball wered aot who went whiter every eae pack of his “Yon see he’s want to see this cove per Armond todoit? If so, I must mac going * so, I m swear [saw ’—— ~ on myself, been ‘et ~ 4 ; f
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pi — — ‘*Hold hard,” cried Dick, at the top of hig voice. “For God's sake don’t jump.” Jackson paid no attention to him. “Stop, I say,” continued Dick, in astill louder key. “Some villain’s cut the ropes !"" The came too late, Jackson taken the leap. The next moment, the bar he had grasped on the third trapeze gave way beneath his pressure, and he fell to the a with s dull thud. He had m on his back, and lay perfectly still and insensible. The blood from his mouth, eyes, nose and ears. “Is he dead?” the boys, in a fearful whisper. Armond was the first to run to pick him up. In an excited tone he cried : “Thisis infamous! Lightheart must have done this!” “Don't you say that,” cried Messiter, who was by his side. “Why not?” said ond. “Didn’t he shirk the ee ee eee ah be to get me to go on ahead of “Lightheart has not been here all day, and had noth- ing to do with the arrangement of the ropes; and you | were here this morning in the playhour. bout other pecple.” So shut up DICK LIGHTHEART. bang by a mere thread, so that an accident was inevita- | ° A cab having been fetched, the attendant was re-| moved to his home, and the doctor accompanied him. | The proprietor of the jum told the boys to } binot until the usher came for them, and then to return | ome. “ Mr. Snarley,” he said, “‘ has only gone to smoke a | cigar on the beach. He will be back directly. This is a business, boys—a bad business, and I did not think it of any of you.” “ Please, sir, I hope you don’t think that I would be guilty of such a despicable act?” exclaimed Armond. “Isay nothing at present, except that it must be in- vestigated. If the trapeze had been missed in the ordi- nary way, you would have come down on your feet, and have had nothing worse than a slight shake ; but to cut the ropes. Ah, it isa bad business, and some one is the yillain.” Messiter was by Dick’s side, and he said : “Go up and speak to him.” “Ishan’t. I’m innocent, and it mustcome aH right by and by,” replied Dick. “ Won't it look well to ”—— “You're too anxious, Harry. Let the thing alone. It’s all right as it stands. I know what I'm about,” “I can'ttalk to y®u now, my good man,” said Ar- | interrupted Lick, mond, “ run for a doctor, some of you.” “What's he been saying about me?’ asked Dick, who had heard his name mentioned. “ He says you cut the ropes,” answered Messiter ; “but don’t take any notice of him now,” * Won't I, by Jove!” said Dick. “Turn round, you cowheel-peeling tripe-boiling son ofa cent. per cent. bill discounter !” ‘This was addressed to Armond, who confronted him , yet in a shamefaced manner. torrent of invective had taken Armond by sur- for he did not think anyene knew who or what people were. * What de you mean?” asked Armond, his under lip brs, ws | a little, - I say.” “I think you might have more decency than to at- tack mejust now, You see that Iam to do the best I can in the absence of a doctor, the man Diek. “Yes. Tocut the ropes of a trapeze is going a little beyond a joke,” rejoined Armond. “Confound your impudence !” exclaimed Dick, beside ¢ astonishment. “‘ Why, I never ropes.”* “Why did you stop as you did, and want me to goon?” “I should have ——— = if you had done so, be- cause I should then have wo that jt wasn’t you who did it.”’ “Nor was it,” rejoined Armond. “Oh, yes, it was,” said Dick. '“ Your refnsal to take my turn quite convinced me of that, my boy. But I'll have it out of you. I'll be upsides with you before I'm | done.” “Your violence will not do you any good.” said Ar- ee ee ere You're nothing better than a charity boy,” contin- Dick. That's low, abuse, and I shall not lower my- seli by pany anny an ga “Does yeur pay for you?” ” After a fashion,” laughed Dick. “He hada bill of naam cy, wae Oe eee ou! Armond glared at him as if he could have sprang at his throat and strangled him. But he did not. “Do confine yourself to the point, Lightheart, ifyou must talk.” “Iam sticking to the point, and the point is your villainy,” replied Dick. “Or your own. Who shall say which? How did be tad the rope was cut if you didn’t do it your- “Shall I tell you?” replied Dick. “If you can.” “When I got close to the third trapeze, and was about to ing, I saw, or thought I saw, that the strands of rope had been cut low down close to the bar, it was God’s mercy that I drew back in time.” “4 clever get out, but it won't do,” said Ar- mond, with a sneer. “We shall see, Mr. Cocky Armond,” answered Dick— “wesball see, Mr. B. B.. Mr. Cowheel-boiler, tripe- dresser, charity boy, rope-cutter, etc.” This wordy war, which was not very seemly in the presence of the wounded man, was put a stop to by the entrance of the De get of Re aim, who had been advised of the accident, bad brought a doc- ter who lived a few doors off. An examination of the attendant’s showed that his skull was fractured, and that oT mdeghe . though it was not ht bis "He will bo well again in six weeks or a couple of months,” said the doctor.. “But he has had s narrow gy ot is EO. How did it ha r A _ volunteered an ‘ _ theart did tt, csaees Det be was eulprit, while others said the ro: had broken. aleda “8 " The} bad decidedly been cut with a knife, and left to i r Ra Mr. Snarley was much shocked when he heard what had happened, and that one of his boys was suspected of having caused the accident. He would not believe it, and declared that the young tlemen of Harrow House School were incapable of ing gnything of the sort. j The ropes were shown him, and though they looked as if they had been cut, he wasinclined te think that old age caused them to snap. He walked home with Armond, to whom he said : “It never does to t that one is in the wrong, and, ng the credit of the school, we must make them prove it.” “L agree with you, sir,” rejoined Armond. There is no doubt that Lightheart cut the rope to be revenged upon me ; but, as you say, let them prove it, if he won't confess.” “ Phere must always be a motive for a crime, and, as you say, he hates you.” “ Fiercely ; and other boys have told me what he has threatened to do to me.” “Lam glad the young assistant waa not much hurt. Tt ht have been a serious affair. Fancy his break- ing neck. There would have been an inquest, which would have resulted in the ruin and break-up of the school.” — a Suess Lightheart for what he tried to do to me, Sy exclaimed Armond, “and have no wish to expose LR “ The affair must be hushed up, and I will getup a general subscription among those who attend the gym- nasum for the injured man.” a. A good idea, sir; I will give five shillings wil- y.” “And I,”’ said Mr, Snarley, “ will head the list with half a sove' This will pay his doctor’s bill and Ag ‘ be | hope, though,” exclaimed Armond, “ that the boys will show their destation of such a dirty trick by cut —— “ T should think they would look very coldly upon him. Boys do not like any. underhand work,” an- swered Snarley. It happened, however, that the school was diyided in opinion about the ou! Some took Armond’a e . om th = t' 1 al, and so it num! ey were ty nearly equ: 80 came about that there wae abe rot Rag, Armond- ites and the Lightheartites. These hated one angther, and frequent fights took place. From the height to whieh public feeling ran it was not atall unlikely that some day there would be a bat- | ! by ney eae athe’ sattved.” Ouc-|'. “teinmast See, Gamsont ie te ae pruned tt e m was w ved. e- “ Si-lence Now, attention a half of the school beliowed that cut the rope to in- | di.’ Orn thor balf sly held the opinion that Ar mean’ Son amandum be in do?” ; 8 OF o ion that-Ar- “No, sir. How can a mond had tried to mill Dick by making the last trapeze | exclaimed Mr, Slocum, with subdued ‘e ¥ insecure. “Dum, then, sir,” replied Dick, getting it right et The attendant of the subscription, including five from Messrs. Simeox and ‘kwell was sent to and out of the school the affair was forgotten. At Harrow House, however, the hatred between the Lighthearties and the Armondites rather increased than Civil wars are always the most cruel and ferocious. School quarrels are equally prolonged and dan- gerous CHAPTER XXVIII. MB, SNARLEY PERFORMS IX PUBLIC, Tae a ee hard and ary ery progress in their studies under the new system of tuition. Messrs. Simcox and Markwell determined to give them a treat Cireulars and advertisements announced the fact that was coming to the Pavilion at concerts for s limited num- for the boys to ac- ter- and have an evening's ey the Great theart was called the third form. were and parsing Latin. volume of Czsar before him, and was ap- { oop repenonce f. the amount | las parently taking a great interest in the great conqueror’s Fi Siaeibne just sat d after uit himself ‘owler ust sat down ting satistactorily. -" Mr. Slocum’s eye traveled round the benches until it rested on Dick, who by hanging down his head, hoped he would not be selected. Alas! it was the device of the ostrich, and equally in- efficacious. “ Lightheart |’ exclaimed Mr. Slocum. “Sir,” replied Dick, who not ha prepared the lesson out of school, as he ought to have done, scarcely knew a word of it. “ You will stand up and construe, but first of all an- swer me a few questions, We have this m met with the Campus Martius. What does that mean * Campus means a field, sir,’’ replied Dick. “Very well. Goon.” Peas Campus Martius must mean the field-marshal, There was a laugh at this amongst the better infor- med, but Mr. Slocum instantly suppressed it. ‘ Silence there, or I will give you fifty linesall round,” he said, sternly. “ Understand, Lightheart, that Campus Martius does not mean field-marshal or anything like it. I take it to be the name of a place, which you — call the Martial Field, or Field of Mars. Mar's do you see?” : Why not Pa’s Field, sir,” said Dick, with an inno- cent look. Ry > negroes translate the lesson for that,” cried Mr. mam, savagely. “ Please, sir, you said it was the martial field and I said it was the field-marshal. “ What's the difference ? I only put the cart before the horse.” “ That is a stupid proceeding of which only a clumsy person would be guilty, Now, attention. We have in the next line the word amandum.” “ Yes, sir.” “ Now, what is amandum ?” “A man dumb, sir? Why, a chap that has‘nt got thi use of his e—a dumb chap, in fact. You put th cart before the horse this time, sir. I hav thought that any child would have known a dumb mat was a cove—I mean a’ — “ Si-lence !"' said Mr. Slocum, in his most awful tone. The boys stopped their tittering with difficulty. It is dfficult to prevent boys from laughing when their fancies are once tickled. aaa vow ge njert abe tenet donsatanal an ¥ meant to e y- “You, Ligh write out and translate the lesson twice. If boys will be funny, they must pay for the privilege.” “ Please sir;’—— began Dick. “ Si-lence. Now what is amandum?” “I don’t know, sir. y “Yes, youdo. Tell me instantly, or I will have you ” cried Mr. Slocum. is blood was up now, and he did not intend to be beaten by Dick. “Part of the verb amo, sir,” said Dick. “Very et: es — find your memo- ry presently,” ‘. a pleasant smile. “Now goon. What part is it?” ‘ - ’ “What sir?” “Yes. Gerund or supine ?” “Su sir,” re Dick, whose ideas about verbs, when he got out of the indicative mood, were rather vague. “No,” thundered Mr. Slocum. 7 “Then it must be a gerund,” said Dick. “Right. It an Goan, Now, attention. are gerunds in di, do, dum. . What is this a in?” “ Di,” replied Dick; adding quickly, “ No never say die, sir.”’ “Oh ! at it again, are you?” cried Mr. Slocum, purple with rage. ‘ You will oblige me by ow poner yom lesson three times, in addition to which you write one hundred times: ‘I will . make no more bad puns.’” * “ a es eee t. “The conclusion is inevitable. Now, im @rder to” os eee a * See scre black in the Mr. Simcox held up his hand again. adiieeaesen lk es eT us yon gata dire informing them at inden thee bea uniform one which of “ethek bent down and “I thought he wouldn't stand the 7 |
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DICK LIGHTHEART. “*Je’s too stingy,” said Messiter. “Writing-paper and envelopes will be supplied you Mr. Snarley,”” Mr. Simcox went on, ‘‘and I will sketch a letter on the large slate, which you will please copy.” Paresh | Hoo-rah!’’ cried Dick. “Now, boys! Hoorah-ab-sh !” Unfortunately nobody followed his lead, and he was frightened at his own voice. “ Lightheart,” said Mr. Simcox, ““be good enough to | restrain your impetuosity. Probably the sound of your eu valee poe pleasing to yourself than it is to others.” Mr. ‘ermeox took up 8 piece of chalk and wrote on the big slate : __ * My dear father, mother, [see (as the case may be}—I have sincere pleasure in informing you that our eral good conduct and admirable and steady progress f= Sroer studies ”»—— “specially in gerunds,” whispered Dick to Mes- Siter. ~ that part of the half which has already sed, has icduced our kind and respected head , Mr. Simcox and Mr. Markwell, to propose giv- us agreat treat. 4 “The celebrated Bounce has arranged a series of . concerts in the great hallof the Pavilion, and we are to attend in a body, if the proposal meets with your ‘ Spproval. “The small charge of half-a-crown will be made for WR each of us, which it it presumed you will not object to '» pay, for this superlative gratification to us. The _ soothing and elevating art of music is highly caleul- ated to refresh our minds, and I trust, my dear father, mother, (as the case may be), that I shall re- _ eive an early reply from you, granting the request ‘. vhich I make to you in this letter. 4 “Tam glad to add that my health is excellent. Iam rery happy, and feel that I would not exchange the htened management, the home treatment, includ- ng a liberal diet, and the splendid education I am re Seiving at the hands of Messrs. Simcox & Markwell for that of any other sehool iy the voy. “Tam “My dear father, mother, guardian (as the case may be), “Your ever affectionate and dutiful son . “TIen’t the governor laying it on thick?” remarked iter. “Rather,” replied Dick. “It’s awful rot, though. _ “What's the of making us tell such a heap of lies?” “You mean about being happy, and the liberal diet,” : ’ answered Messiter. > «Yes. If Isend for asecond cut of mutton, I only _°-eet a mangy little slice that wouldn’t nourish a two- _‘-Fear-old.” “No talking,’’ exclaimed Mr, Slocum, as Snarley came round with pepe. \ Por the next h. hour the boys were engaged in the Pleasant pastime of writing their letters. Dick, out of pure mischief, copied the words on the slate verbatim, putting in “‘my dear father, mother, (as the case may be),”’ each time they occurred. “ Have you finished, Lightheart ?”’ asked Mr. Slocum, him sucking the end of his pen. “Yeu, sir.” “ Hand me your letter.” _ Dick did so, and stood by his side while he looked it “You stupid boy,” said Mr. Slocum, “You should Rot putin father, mother, or guardian. You have 4 father, I suppose S “Yes, ane ay - ply ‘my dear father. “ Dick took it back, and did as he was told, but he t the first letter, and made the boyslaugh by show- it to them out of school. Everybody asked Fowler questions about everything, ‘because he had been longer in the school than anyone Mj eare to obtain a corner near the stage. The Great divided his concertinto two parts—the first serious and sentimental and made one weep; the second was comic and noisy, and caused one to laugh. Great was the applause when the curtain fell on the They filed into the seats appointed for them, Dick ance t come by, Dick put a note in his | “Who is this for ?” asked the attendant. “ Our usher, Seo Saartey, wants it to be given to the * rel Dick. “Mr. Bounce is having a glass of sherry wine in a reom back of the stage,” replied the attendant. “All the better. Give him the note, and gay it came one of our ushers,” replied Dick. ’ man went away and knocking at the door of the i ay tat 2 peieshe xem, found Mr. Bounce regaling himself as he “ What’s this ?” asked the great m good-natured, jolly-looking fellow. “ Note for you, sir.” “Who from?” an, who was astout, this ‘ere school, sir.”” “ Wait,” exelaimed Mr. Bounce, taking the note and reading its contents, which were as follows: | “ RESPECTED AND ACCOMPLISHED SIR: * Tam an humble follower of your art, and my favorite | Song is ‘ By the Sad Sea Waves I Left My Loved One | Weeping.’ You may not be acquainted with it, as it is my own composition ; it is, however, my ambition to sing it, during the interval that has to elapse between the serious and comic parts of tains unparalleled enter- tainment. May I make so bold as to ask you to intro- duce me to the audience as formerly a pupil of your own, I can assure you I shall not you, as my reputation asa sentimental singer is very high. Ishall ever be your deeply grateful and obliged sery- Slawonr 8x ” ant, BNARLEY. “ Fourth form master at Harrow House School, Kemp | Town, Brighton.” * When the Great Bounce had finished reading the let- ter, he said : “ Go and ask Mr. Snarley to come to me at once,’” “ Yes, sir,” replied the messenger. He went back to Dick, who was anxiously awaiting his appearance. “Where’s the gentleman who wrote the note ?”’ asked the man. \ a Snarley, do you mean?” “Yes.” “ He’s there. That tall, thin man in a white choker.” “ White what, sir? Beg pardon, but ”“—— “ White tie, you fool !’’ replied Dick. “*Cut along— make haste.” The man pushed his way to Mr. Snarley, and touched him on the shoulder. “It’s all right, sir. I’m the attendant.” “Allright! What’s all right? I was not aware any- thing was wrong,” replied Suarley. “ Governor wants you. Quick, sir.” “Who?” / “Mr. Bounce, sir. He as is performing.” “‘Oh ! he wants to see me, does he ?”” “ Yes, sir,” replied the attendant. “ Where is he? In the private room, I sup “ That's just where you'll find him, sir. Follow “ Did he say Snarley? Are you sure that he said want to see Mr. Snarley ?””’ “Them was his very words, sir,” answered the mes- senger. “ead on, I will follow,” exclaimed Snarley. He left his seat and went after the attendant to the pri- yate room, which communnicated with the stage by a door in the scenery. Mr. Bounce was standing on the threshold of this door. He only had to push the curtains a little on one side to be in front of the audience. «+ Ahem !”’ began Mr. Snarley, “‘a Mr. Bounce, I be- lieve?” “ That’s me,” said the great singer, rather ungram- matically. “Tam proud, more than proud, to make the ac- quaintance of so distinguished a gentleman, whose celebrity has”—— : “ Cut it short, please ; time for the second part will be up directly, and boy audiences are apt to kick upa shindy if you keep them waiting,” said Mr. Bounce. “But, ay dear sir, I’’"—— “Come along this way. Make haste: and, I say’’—— Bounce bent down as Mr. Snarley approached him, | 5 at me.” xf | ery well, then. Write this over again, and put | and added “Don’t listen to an encore—that’s do it over again, you know.” “Certainly not. I don’t quite understand,” stam- mered Mr. Snarley. “ But ifit is your wish” —— “ It is, Mr. Snarley, and now come on, sir; they are beginning to stamp their feet. Come on.” “Come on—as Shakespeare says—come on, Macduf- fer. No, I don’t mean that, it’s Macduff. Come on Macduff!” exclaimed Mr. Snarley, attempting to be jocose, and breaking down lamentably. “ Mind you don’t turn out a duffer,” said the Great Bounce, adding: “ Give me your hand; I'll lead you on and give ‘em a word.”’ “*Give them what ?’’ “A little patter ; that’s what you want, isn’t it? Come along.” The next moment he had pushed aside the curtain = capes upon the stage, leading Mr. Snarley by e hand. — CHAPTER XXXIX. AS AWKWARD FIX Ir was Mr. Snarley’s first appearance in public, and he took very good care it should be the last one. He could not understand why or wherefore he had been led on to the . But as the great singer was with him he thought must be all right. The flood of light which came from the gas lamps nearly blinded him. For a short time the audience flosted before him in- distinctly ; but after a while he made out familiar faces clearly, especially those of Mr. Markwell and Mr. Sim- hereon rested a cloud of wonder, not unmixed boys who occupied the arena, ih came the outside public, in the more expensive / all came the rows of benches, filled with | All had their gaze upon him. oe 5 what it all means?” said Mr- Snarley to Leading him to the edge of the footlights, the Great Bounce said: “ Ladies and gentlemen, it is with pride and pleasure **Gentleman name of Snarley ; one of the ushers in | that I present to your favorable notice Mr. Samuel Snarley, the respected assistant in Harrow House School, that famous seminary for young gentlemen.” At this there was great cheering among the boys, in which the public joined. 2 “ Go it, Snarley ; never say die.” This was from Dick, who was thi of gerunds. “Mr. Snarley,” resumed the Great Bounce, “is de- sirous of occupying your time fora few minutes. He is not going to trespass.on your good nature long, but when I inform you that years ago he was amost prom- ising pupil of my own, and that his ability is second to none, you will, no doubt, wish he were here to en. tertain you in my place.” Pulling the great singer by the sleeve, Snarley in vain endeavored to arrest his attention. “He -will sing you,”’ continued Bounce, “‘ By the Mad Sea Waves I Left My Loved One Drinking’—no, - that’s not it; it’s a fragment of his own compositien, and I'm not quite sure of the title.” Here he glanced at the note he held in his hand, “Oh! I remember now,” he added; “it’s by the sad Sea waves. Yes, ‘By the Sad Sea Waves I Left My +e One Weeping.’ Beautiful thing, ladies and gen- tlemen.” Bending to the orchestra, he said: “ Strike up, music. Anything in two sharps, and not too loud, will do.” Atremendous shout of applause at this announce. ment rent the air. The Great Bounce rushed hastily back behind the curtain. Mr. Snarley stood like one rooted to thespot. He was deadly pale. He would have run.away too, but it was necessary to say something, as he began to see that he was the victim of a shameful hoax. : Though why the Great Bouncce should play off his pleasantry upon him he was at a loss to imagine. “ Hurrah for Snarley !”, cried the boys. “ Order, or- “Tue penton ces : e lay a plaintive air, 7 e orchestra an to play a p’ a “My dear hoya,” paid Mr. Snarley in a dreadfully "aingt ob 1" roared the bo - og 6 boys. Mr. Simeox looked at Mr. Markwell, and the latter, regarded Mr. Simcox. “Dear me,” said Mr. Simcox, “this'is very s I did not know that our friend Snarley was a man ot musical attainments.” “Nor I,” returned Mr. Markwell; ‘‘it is singular he should not have said anything to us about it.” “ Or asked our m,” observed Professor Sim- cox. “Quite so. It is bold on his part, and I do not think will increase his authority among the boys hy thrusting himself forward in this way.” “I have heard Snarley play the fiddle to a slight ex- tent, and he has followed my lead in the Old Hundredth on a Sunday evening,” said Mr. Simcox. “That's a different thing. His putting himselfon a level, as it were, with professionals is intolerable pre- rn a Mr. A snag tage conversation the shouts, sereams, cat- calls and cries of the boys, increasedalarmingly. _ Snarley bowed and put his hand on his heart. The orchestra haying played the first bar of the music they had selected as suitable for his song, stopped. “ Order }” cried Dick, “ he’s going to begin.” Instantly there was a dead silence. “ Gentlemen,’ said Mr. Snarley, “there is some mis- take here.” “| thought so,” observed Mr. Markwell. : “Tam the victim of a cruel joke,” continued Snar ey. “Didn't I say so,” remarked Mr. Simcox. “Sing, sing !” cried the boys. “I cannot sing,” exclaimed Mr. Snarley, get ine passion. “I never sang asongin my life. i you it’s ajoke.” “ What did you get on the platform for?” cried Dick. - “Tt’s all nonsense. No more rot, no more humivug. Give us a hymn if you can’t do anything else.” Driven to desperation, Mr. Snarley replied : “I could do a hymn, a trifle of Dr. Watts, it that would please you, and calm this excitement. Let us say, ‘Dogs delight,’ or ‘"Twas the voice of the sine | gard,” or ‘I’ve been there and still would go.”” “Go home and put your head ina bag,” said swag in the shilling seats. Mr. Snariey attempted to speak again. but his voice was drowned in shouts of laughter. The absurdity of his proposal wen 50 Seepeueet and mirth-provoking that the audience found itizre- © sistible. The confusion now reached its — Mr. ages x, y scandalized, 3 «Is “J should remonstrate with him,” said Mr. Mark- “Well?” he said, “how did you get on? You : to be a favorite. The boys are making noise enough.”
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DI@K LYQVUTHEART. “ Whatis the meaning of this outrage, demanded Snar- ley. “Why did you lead me on to that pistform, tomake melook sidieulous? Iam the laughing stock of every- " “Can’t you sing r ‘“No. Inever Soult in my life.” “Why did you send me this letter?" asked the Great Bounee “What letter? Show it me.” ‘Mr. Snarley took the letter which Dick had written and concocted. The trath dawned upon him. * It was a hoax. “JT did not write this,” he said. “It isa device of the enemy. I see it all now.” “Eh?” cried the Great Bounce, “Not write it! Them we have, in the language of the poets, been sold. Awkward rather, very, a3 it makes me look foolish as well as : I acq st But wi oad out of him. “Can't talk any more now. Bounce. “ Must go on again at once. Very sorry, but | ean’t be hel Showing Mr. “snarley the way out of the room into ; the hall, he went on the stage, and soon put his audi | ence in a good temper by his comicalities and excellent ou of blame, sir,” replied Mr. Snarley. ; Bp» Aad the delinquent, I will have it . Suarley at-once sought the head masters, show- | ed them the letter, and explained how he came to make | an exhibition of himself. “Whose writing is this?” asked Mr. Simeox. “I know not; the band is disguised,” replied Mr. Smarley. “ I wish I did know—that’s all.” | it was fortunate for Dick that his handwriting was { ) or he would have been found out. So perturbed was Mr. Snuarley’s mind, that he ata | mot think of asking the attendant’ who had given b: the note, and Dick was not discovered. Dick and Messiter nad many a laugh in private over = joke, but they did not take anyone into their con- ence. The incident was soon forgotten by the masters, = h Mr. Snarley was often greeted with the cries of “ One day the ‘bors were out —- and they i» a ona w announcing t grand. the Beis Gardens at Shoreham. “9 “ Look at that,” exclaimed Dick. “ROYAL SWISS GARDENS. “Positively the last Monster Fefe of the present sea- gon. . - “ Great ry ys of pa Seaty nyt including per- ormances in the J boating on t! 2 lakes, swings, bowls and other amusements. “ Refreshments .. the first quality. “The proprietor has ‘great pleasure In announcing ih ne banat 0 targe cost. mecnsed ths services of the socomplished and renowned Miss Agatha Mountserrst, who tae appeared betoro all the crowned heads in “Why, that’s my Vow # Lees exclaimed Dick. *“Your Polly,” said Me “Yes, T anved her from falling down the trap the night I went to the circus with atenant Smart.’ *t Tlike to gol” “Would you?” “Yes,” Messiter. “It would be a spree.” “Well We cates ” said Dick. can’t get out, and if we could, we should be missed and when we came back.” “No we shan't T've got a dodge,” said Dick. “What is **Tll write a letter in my father’s hand, which I can imitate toa T. It shall be directed to Professor Sim- and in it he shall ask bis permission for me and my young friend Messiter to come sad spend the day Latest Issues of THE 5 GENT Mie AWAKE LIBRARY: : ) 12eT Denver Dan Outwitted; or, The Outlaw’s Pes ee Sere rerrrirees by C. Little 1208 Denver Dan the Sheriff ............ es Little 1208 Denver Dan to the Rescue; or, The taineer’s a C. Little 1210 Denver Dan and Chums... .... by C. Little 1211 Denver Dan in New Mary Oe Re cy aead by C. Little 1212 The Twin Boy Scouts. . St. John | 1213. Prairie Phil; or, The ae Got no time,” said Mr. | 35 ood | 1224 Lasso Luke; or, The Three Prairie Pards. with him, as he is in Bri to come to him at the ord Hotel “Stunning,” . name down, sir?” said Dick, taking up a sheet of fools- cap. » : ir, Simcox hesitated, and the man who hesitates ie ost. Dick hastily wrote—‘‘ Professor Simeo: 4 Bt pene og dropped the little gold coin pe Ww: “Tam glad to see you engaged in so meritorions es enterprise, Lightheart,”” he said, “Indeed, your be havior is much better than it used to be, and 1 aw pleased to behold the amendment.” “Thank you, sir. I’m only a little wild at” times; ; and if thet is an ~ 4 alteration in — it is due to y pag ory e managing the boys under ie T rol to bg ps “ And have something te ee Jumbo.” “Tehan'ts @ rap for Oko. aktes answerod Dick, with a smile. i$ After this the subscrien let All list filled vag gave their sixponces also contri!;uted. And Dick said, “ It going to Shoreham.” [To be continved in W1DE Awixx Lr BRARY No, 1255, entitled : zi “DICK LIGHTHEARTS TRIALS” 2 1235 Jack Harkaway and His Round the World. Son's Aaven era Harkaway and His Son 1237 Young Harkaway Pirates. faceeear aa agit iaiand, 143 law Young. Jack Young J = a rab Jack way and the ~ ‘a