“I shouldn’t think you’d be so kind to me, Mr. Howard,” he said, “when I tried to trouble you so much.”
“Oh, that’s gone by, Peter! I depend upon the older scholars, such as you and Phineas Morton, to help me, instead of hindering me. Will you do it, Peter?”
“Yes, I will,” said Peter.
“That’s right. Then we are friends.”
He offered his hand to Peter, and the latter took it. He felt flattered at being classed with Phineas Morton. It gave him a feeling of importance to be called upon by the master for help.
“If any of the boys make trouble, I’ll help you, Mr. Howard,” he volunteered.
“Thank you, Peter. With you and Phineas on my side, I am not afraid of any trouble.”
“When will you give me the first boxing lesson?” asked Peter.
“To-night, after school, if you like.”
“All right. I’ll stop.”