"There, now see what you've done!" cried Job Haskers, as the battle ceased for the moment, and Dave let go the whip.
"It wasn't my fault—you shoved me into it," answered Dave.
"It was your fault, and you'll pay the damages. That statue was worth at least fifty dollars. And you'll take your thrashing, too," added the teacher, vindictively.
"Don't you dare to hit Dave," cried Phil, "or me either, Mr. Haskers. You can punish us, but you can't whip us, so there!"
"Ha! Both of you defy me, eh?"
"We are not to be whipped, and that settles it," said Dave.
"I presume you think, because you are two to one, you can get the better of me," sneered the teacher. He knew the two boys were strong, and he did not wish to risk a fight with them.
"I don't want to get the better of anybody, but I am not going to let you whip me," answered Dave, stubbornly.
"If you are willing, we'll leave the matter to Doctor Clay," suggested the shipowner's son.