With this promise Roland was measurably satisfied. The thing that troubled him was that Oliver seemed to have triumphed overhim in their recent little difference. Perhaps, could he have fathomed his step-father's secret designs respecting Oliver, he would have felt less dissatisfied. Mr. Kenyon was never more to be dreaded than when he professed to be friendly.
CHAPTER VII.
ROLAND'S DISCOMFITURE.
O N the way to school Oliver overtook Frank Dudley.
"Well, Oliver, how's the weather at home?" asked Frank. "Cloudy, eh?"
"No; it's all clear and serene."
Frank looked astonished.
"Didn't Mr. Kenyon blow you up, then?" he asked.
"Not a bit of it. He gave me a five-dollar bill without my asking for it."
"What's come over him?" asked Frank in amazement. "His mind isn't getting affected, is it?"