"On business!" exclaimed the principal, apparently taken aback by the remarks of Vallington. "I did come on business."
"You will oblige me by stating it, sir. I have been chosen the leader of this company, and I represent the students here assembled."
"My business is to order you back to the Institute," continued Mr. Parasyte, becoming a little excited by the independent manner of our leader.
"In behalf of those whom I represent, I must decline to obey the order—at least for the present."
The eye of the deputy sheriff twinkled as he listened to these speeches. He seemed to regard the affair as a big joke, and to appreciate it accordingly. Though none of us had ever had any official relations with him, we knew him as what all the people called "a good fellow," witty, jovial, and never severe even in the discharge of his duties. It is more than probable that he knew Mr. Parasyte as the boys knew him, and despised him accordingly. At any rate, we judged from the expression on his round face, that he was at heart on our side, however his official position might compel him to act.
"I am sorry, boys, that you have engaged in this rebellion, for it will not be pleasant for me to compel obedience," continued Mr. Parasyte, struggling to repress his anger.
"I am sorry, also, that we have been compelled to take this unpleasant stand," replied Vallington, with dignity. "If you are willing to hear it, sir, I should like to state the position of the boys in this matter. Perhaps the difficulty can be arranged; if it can, we will at once return to the Institute."
"If there are any real abuses, I am willing to correct them. I will hear what you have to say."
Vallington briefly rehearsed the grievances of the boys, and demanded that Thornton should be restored to all his privileges, without punishment, and that Mr. Hardy should be reëngaged.
Mr. Parasyte turned red in the face, and bit his lips with anger and vexation.