After dinner Dan was summoned to the office which he found occupied by Mr. Collins, the Assistant Principal, and Mr. Forisher, the secretary. Mr. Collins greeted him cordially and shook hands with him. Mr. Forisher looked up an instant from his work and bowed almost pleasantly.
“Well, Vinton,” said the Assistant Principal, “I hear you have been making a hero of yourself.”
“Not much of one, sir,” answered Dan.
“No? Well, Mr. John T. Pennimore tells a different story. What you did was very well done, I should say. Just come inside here a moment, please; the Doctor wants to see you.”
The door marked “Private” was opened and Dan passed through at Mr. Collins’ heels. In front of a big, old-fashioned walnut desk sat Doctor Hewitt. Dan had never spoken to the Principal and felt a trifle alarmed. Doctor Tobias Hewitt was short, thick-set and very sturdy looking. In spite of his years—for he was almost seventy—his cheeks were ruddy, his face singularly free from wrinkles and he held himself perfectly erect. He had a fine, kindly face and a very pleasant voice.
“Doctor, this is Vinton, of the Third,” said Mr. Collins.
“To be sure,” exclaimed the Doctor, rising from his chair and taking Dan’s hand. “And a credit to the school, Mr. Collins. I’m glad to make your nearer acquaintance, Vinton. You did a splendid thing yesterday. I thank you on my own behalf. I’m glad that one of my boys showed such admirable courage.”
“It wasn’t anything, sir,” said Dan, sheepishly.
“Your modesty is commendable,” replied the Principal, “but that is as it should be; bravery and modesty should go together. Mr. Pennimore has spoken very highly of you, my boy, and Mr. Pennimore is a gentleman whom we hold in excellent regard. By the way, Mr. Collins, Mr. Pennimore requested that Vinton should be allowed to visit his house. I think we can give that permission, can we not?”
“Certainly, sir. Vinton shall have permission to visit Mr. Pennimore whenever he likes outside of recitation hours. Of course should you wish to go there in the evening, Vinton, it will be necessary to obtain special permission.”