“Enough of picking on a little fellow,” said Dan steadily.
“What is it to you?”
“I sha’n’t stand by and see Carlton abused.”
“He needs a little attention—and so do you! And you’ll both get it.”
Dan did not move from his position nor did he reply to the words of his angry classmate. As he looked at Gus he saw that the boy undoubtedly was possessed of great physical strength. He was not any taller than he, but was much heavier. Dan recalled too, what one of the boys had said, that “Gus Kiggins was one of the best boxers in the Tait School.” The fellow was angry now and not only inclined to quarrel, but apparently ready to seek trouble. Dan was also aware of the feeling of jealousy which doubtless had been aroused by what he had seen of his pitching in the scrub game of baseball. “Here comes Squint!” exclaimed Gus suddenly in a low voice, as the teacher who was in charge of the entry came into the hall. “That saves you this time, but if you don’t learn how to mind your own business you’ll get some teaching that isn’t down in the catalogue!” With this parting threat Gus turned and left the hall. The teacher nodded to the two boys who remained in the entry, and at once entered his room.
“Oh, thank you! Thank you!” exclaimed Carlton to Dan.
“For what?”
“For taking my part against that big bully.”
“Has he ever troubled you before?”
“Yes. He pulled my ears this morning, and when I cried he picked me up in his arms and held me over the balusters.”