The scholars were not a little amused at this illustration of their teacher’s self-conceit, which was quite in keeping with previous exhibitions of the same weakness.{139}
“I wish Mr. Slocum would favor us with a specimen of his declamation,” said John Sandford, at recess.
“He must be a regular steam engine,” said Walter Pratt; “that is, according to his own account.”
“The principal of the celebrated institution in Maine thought a good deal of Theophilus,” said Julius.
“What a phenomenon he must have been!” said Tom Allen. “He appears to have stood first in everything.”
“But he seems to forget easy,” said Frank Bent. “Complex fractions are too much for him.”
“Well, how about asking him to speak?” resumed John Sandford. “Who goes in for it?”
“I,” said Julius.
“And I.”
“And I.”