ate-ment of the professor. Yet it was very
strange that any one should have a complaint to make against Paul
Kendall, who had always been noble and manly, gentle and conciliating.

"Yesterday, just before the storm came on, Mr. Kendall was reciting with
the Greek class," continued Mr. Hamblin. "Word came to him that his
presence was required on deck. He asked my permission to go on deck. As
I could not see the necessity of his leaving the class before the lesson
was finished, I refused to give him permission."

"Did he leave then?"

"Not then; but half an hour later another message came to him, and he
left, contrary to my orders, and contrary to my protest," added the
professor, waxing indignant as he recounted his wrongs.

"What was the message that came the second time?" asked Mr. Lowington,
mildly.

"I do not remember precisely what it was--I am not versed in sea terms;
but I do remember that Mr. Kendall left the class contrary to my express
order. Not contented with this, he called all hands, and broke up the
school, when there was no need of it. Such conduct is utterly subversive
of school discipline, and--"

"Excuse me, Mr. Hamblin, but as to-day is Sunday, I must defer hearing
any more of your complaint until to-morrow," continued Mr. Lowington,
rising from his chair.

"I desire to have this question settled before I resume my position in
the Josephine," said the professor, cut by the apparent coolness of the
principal.

"I will hear what Captain Kendall has to say about it."

"Sir," exclaimed the learned gentleman, "am I to understand that you are
not satisfied with the truth of my statement?"

"By no means. I wish to hear from Captain Kendall his excuse for leaving
the class. I am not able to determine whether it was satisfactory."

"I have already determined that question myself. I think I observed to
you that there was not a sufficient excuse for his leaving the class."

"I will defer the discussion of the matter till to-morrow," replied Mr.
Lowington.

"I do not object to the delay, sir; but I do object to having any of the
statements of the pupil counterbalance those I have made."

"Do you wish me to condemn him without a hearing?"

"I do not wish you to condemn him at all. I simply ask to be sustained
in the discharge of my duty as a teacher."

"I will hear what more you have to say to-morrow, Mr. Hamblin."

"Very well, sir; but you must allow me to remain on board of the ship
until to