“My young friends,” began Colonel Owen, “you are all aware that your respected teacher, Mr. Haywood, is obliged to be absent for the remainder of the term. I have been able to secure as his substitute Mr. Walter Sherwood, who will do his best to carry on the work which Mr. Haywood has so auspiciously commenced. I hope you will receive him cordially and uphold him in his task.”
Walter felt some diffidence as he realized what a responsibility had been placed upon him.
He cleared his throat and spoke a few words.
“Colonel Owen has introduced me to you and expressed a hope in which I join him—that you will receive me cordially and uphold me in my work. I will now go about among the seats, make inquiries as to your progress, and arrange the classes.”
This short speech made a favorable impression upon all the pupils with two exceptions. These were the largest scholars—Ben Buffum and Enoch Snow. What they thought of Walter may be gathered from their conversation as they walked home together.
“What do you think of the new master, Ben?” said Enoch.
“I s'pose he'll do. He ought to, if he's been to college; but I'll tell you what, Enoch, it riles me to have a boy of my own age set over me.”
“Me ditto!”
“He would do for a primary school, but when it comes to young men like us, I don't like to let people know that he's my teacher.”
“It's all right for the others to obey him, but you and I are just as strong as he, and maybe stronger.”