Read an Excerpt
CHAPTER III. IN WHICH EENEST IS EXPELLED FKOM THE PARK- VILLE LIBERAL INSTITUTE. FELLOW-STUDENTS," I continued, when the school-room was still enough for me to be heard, " I am willing to submit to the rules of the Institute, and even to the injustice of the principal. For my sake, as well as for your own, behave like men." I folded my arms, arid was silent again. I felt that it was better to suffer than to resist, and such an exhibition of rowdyism was not to my taste. I glanced at Mr. Parasyte, to intimate to him that he could say what he pleased; and he took the hint. "Young gentlemen, this is a new experience to me. In twenty years as a teacher, I have never been thus insulted." This was an imprudent remark. . "Be fair, then!" shouted Bob Hale; and the cry was repeated by others, until the scene of disorder promised to be renewed. I raised my hand, and shook my head, deprecating the conduct of the boys. Once more they heeded, though it was evidently as a particular favor to me, rather than because it was in keeping with their ideas of right and justice. "I intend to be fair, young gentlemen," continued Mr. Parasyte; " that is the whole study of my life. I am astonished and mortified at this unlooked-for demonstration. I was about to make a further statement in regard to Thornton, when you interrupted me. I told you that I purposed to give him an opportunity to redeem his character. I intend to do my duty on this painful occasion, though the walls of the Parkville Liberal Institute should crumble above my head, and crush me in the dust." " Let her crumble!" said a reckless youth, as Mr. Parasyte waxed eloquent. "Will you be silent, or will you compel me to resort to that which Iabhor to physical force ? " Some of the boys glanced at each othe...
