“He was impudent to me the second day, and I knocked him over. After that, he gave me much less trouble.”
“So he needs to be conquered into good behavior?” said Walter.
“It’s about so.” And Barclay looked at our hero with a natural doubt whether he would be able to cope with the troublesome scholar.
“Does Peter know anything about boxing?” asked Walter, who understood what was brewing in the mind of his companion.
“Nothing at all. Do you?”
“I have a fair knowledge of it. Peter may be a little stronger, but if worst comes to worst, I think I am a match for him.”
“I am glad to hear it, Mr. Howard, for I suspect he will give you a chance to display your science upon him.”
“I wouldn’t undertake to encounter the big fellow--what is his name?”
“Phineas Morton. He won’t require it. If he finds you are a good teacher, he will stand by you.”
“Then I am not afraid. John Wall probably isn’t very friendly, but I am not afraid of him.”