"But what's the honor—" began Hal, when Fred interrupted him.
"It isn't the honor—it's the money," he said. "I want you fellows to understand, so I'll tell you: father wrote me to try for the two hundred because mother needs it. I'm not any too good at science, so you see I've got to study like the old Harry. I don't want her or father to think I am letting fun interfere with helping them."
As the two older boys listened to this manly statement, they understood as never before the strength of Fred's character.
A moment or two they stood in silence, then each seized a hand impulsively.
"I hope you'll win," said Sandow, and Hal echoed the sentiment.
CHAPTER XIV
LIGHT OUT OF DARKNESS
Thankful was Fred for the Baxter tradition that gave to members of the First Form precedence in walking about the building and grounds, for because of it, he was enabled to let Sandow and Hal go upstairs alone. In fact, he tarried longer than necessary in the basement, because he felt in no mood for the comments and glances he knew would be bestowed upon him, both on account of his having been instrumental in the election of his rival to the captaincy and his decision to give up football.
"Oh, I wish father would let me quit school and go to work," he said to himself. "I believe it would be easier than to give up the team—especially, when all the fellows are calling me a traitor to the school."
As he gave voice to his feelings, Fred had reached the hall, which, to his relief, he found free from his schoolmates.