"Oh, by the by," continued the rich man, "Samuel tells me that you have offered two scholarship prizes."
"Yes, sir—to the two scholars who pass the best examination."
"How does my boy stand in the matter?"
"He is one of the most prominent competitors."
"I am very glad to hear it—very glad. Sam, you must do your best to-morrow. It would gratify me very much if you should succeed. I am ambitious for my son, Mr. Taylor, and I don't mind admitting it."
"Your ambition is a very natural one," said the principal. "Sam's scholarship is excellent and his record is very satisfactory."
"Thank you, Mr. Taylor. Your assurance is deeply gratifying to Mrs. Archer and myself. It will be the happiest day of our lives if Sam succeeds in the approaching competition."
"He has a very fair chance of success, sir."
"I think I've fixed things," said Mr. Archer complacently, after the principal had taken his leave. "The prize is as good as yours, Sam."