“Old man, you knocked Clemmons clean over the ropes, and the Lord bless you for it. I just heard him say that next year would tell a different story, so you know what is before you. He is a bad man on even terms.”
“Yes, he’s a dangerous rival, I admit; but being forewarned is forearmed. Perry and I thank you for the hint. Clemmons did splendidly, and I congratulate you upon your standing number three—make it number two next time, for I intend to be number one.”
“Well, Merrill, that is the first boast I ever heard from your lips; but I’ll keep it dark and book it for future reference.”
“Do so,” said Mark with a laugh.
“Ah! I nearly forgot to tell you that I receipted for three express packages for you and put them in your wardrobe.”
“Three express packages for me?” asked Mark, with surprise.
“Yes, you will find them here,” and Bemis Perry opened the wardrobe.
One was a box, a foot square, and marked:
“Valuable.
“CADET MIDSHIPMAN MARK MERRILL.”