And before Walter could reply again, the perusal of Ishmael's thesis was finished, the paper was laid upon the table, and Walter's thesis was taken up.
"Now then; I wonder if he is going to murder mine in the same manner," said Walter.
The reader commenced and went on smoothly to the end without having miscalled a word or a syllable.
"That is a wonder; I do not understand it at all!" said young Middleton.
Ishmael smiled; but did not reply.
Professor Adams rapped upon the table and called the school to order; and then, still retaining Walter's thesis in his hand, he said:
"Ihe highest prize in the gift of the examiners—the gold watch—is awarded to the author of the thesis I hold in my hand. The young gentleman will please to declare himself, walk forward, and receive the reward."
"There, Walter! what did I tell you? I wish you joy now, old fellow! There! 'go where glory awaits you,'" smilingly whispered Ishmael.
"I understand it all now, Ish.! I fully understand it! But I will not accept the sacrifice, old boy," replied Walter.
"Will the young gentleman who is the author of the prize thesis step up and be invested with this watch?" rather impatiently demanded the wearied Professor Adams.