James called out the class.
All came out except Tom, who lounged carelessly in his seat.
"Thomas, don't you belong to this class?" asked the young teacher.
"I reckon I do."
"Then why don't you come out to recite?"
"Oh, I feel lazy," answered Tom, with a significant smile, as if to inquire, "What are you goin' to do about it?"
James thought to himself with a thrill of unpleasant excitement, "It's coming. In ten minutes I shall know whether Tom Bassett or I is to rule this school."
His manner was calm, however, as he said, "That is no excuse. I can't accept it. As your teacher I order you to join your class."
"Can't you wait till to-morrow?" asked Tom, with a grin, which was reflected on the faces of several other pupils.
"I think I understand you," said James, with outward calmness. "You defy my authority."