The more Ben thought it over, the more he felt that James was probably correct in his prediction as to the effect of his success.
"I am determined to beat Sam," he said to himself. The next morning he entered the schoolroom cool and confident, while Sam, though rather nervous, seemed almost equally confident.
"Mr. Taylor won't go back on me," he reflected, "after dining at our house; especially after father has promised to get him a higher salary."
The examination lasted all the session. It was partly oral and partly written.
"Boys," said the principal, "I shall devote the evening to the examination of your papers. To-morrow morning my decision will be made known."
"I wish it were over," thought Sam. "I think he'll give me the prize, but I should like to be sure of it."
Chapter XXI — Ben Wins at School
Every boy was in his seat the next morning at the opening of school. Though the choice lay between two only, there was a general interest felt in the result of the competition. Ben was the favorite, though Sam had a few followers—generally sycophantic boys who had a respect for wealth, or had favors to ask of him.