Samuel knew that his letter was discovered then, and he hesitated.
"Samuel! come into the floor I say," exclaimed the teacher again, in a tone that was truly emphatic.
Samuel started, and took his place in the floor.
"Now turn round," said the teacher, "and face the school."
Samuel did as he was commanded, not knowing what was coming.
"Now spell Alpheus," said the teacher.
Some of the scholars who had read the letter began to laugh, as they now saw the design of the teacher. Samuel had his eyes open by this time, and saw what was coming. He hesitated and hung down his head.
"Be quick, sir. You shall have a chance now to exhibit your spelling acquisitions."
Samuel dared not refuse longer, so he began,
"A-l-al-f-e-fe-u-s-us."