TOM SLADE WITH THE COLORS
CHAPTER I
TOM MAKES A PROMISE
Tom Slade hoisted up his trousers, tightened his belt, and lounged against the railing outside the troop room, listening dutifully but rather sullenly to his scoutmaster.
"All I want you to do, Tom," said Mr. Ellsworth, "is to have a little patience—just a little patience."
"A little tiny one—about as big as Pee-wee," added Roy.
"A little bigger than that, I'm afraid," laughed Mr. Ellsworth, glancing at Pee-wee, who was adjusting his belt axe preparatory to beginning his perilous journey homeward through the wilds of Main Street.
"Just a little patience," repeated the scoutmaster, rapping Tom pleasantly on the shoulder.