The next day Mark, with some misgivings, repaired to the shoe manufactory as usual. He knew he had done a bold thing in defending Johnny against his employer's son, but he never thought of regretting it.
"I would do it again," he said to himself. "Catch me standing by and seeing Johnny whipped by any boy, no matter who he is."
Mark laid aside his hat and coat, and went to his customary bench.
He had been at work fifteen minutes only, when Mr. Waite, the head of the room, entered, and went up to where he was standing.
"Mr. Collins wants to see you, Mark," he said.
"Do you know what for, Mr. Waite?" Mark asked.
"No, Mark, but I hope it is to raise your wages," said Mr. Waite, pleasantly, for he had always liked our hero.
"I am afraid it is something quite different," said Mark, shaking his head.
"No trouble, I hope, Mark?"
"I can tell you better when I return."