the Father of
his Country, for he also finds it extremely difficult to tell a lie.
Gentlemen, you may, at this very moment, be regarding a future
president of the United States. The thought should overcome you with
awe."

Bascomb's friends snickered, and the big yearling proceeded to address
himself directly to Davis.

"Look here, Baby," he said, "I want you to tell us just what happened
to you last night. We want to know the exact facts of the case."

With a trace of spirit, Davis looked up, and asked:

"Don't you, sir?"

"Don't I what?" demanded Bascomb, harshly.

"Don't you know?"

"What do you mean by that? How should I know?"

"I thought you might remember," said Fred, in a low tone.

That was enough to give the bully his opportunity to rave and bluster.

"That is an insult!" he fiercely declared, glaring at the little plebe
as if he longed to devour him. "Such an insinuation is an insult! Do
you mean to say that I had anything to do with the assault upon you?"

"I don't mean to say anything more about it."

"Oh, you don't? That is actually an open defiance. But I am going to
put a question to you, and see if you will refuse to answer me. What
do you know about it?"

"I know enough to mind my own business."

Frank laughed softly, and it was Bascomb's turn to flush angrily.

"You are very cool about it," grated the bully, reaching out and
picking up a glass of water. "Perhaps this will make you still cooler."

He flung the water full and fair into Fred Davis' face.

CHAPTER XL.

FOR THE UNDER DOG.

In an instant every lad save Davis was on his feet, for all knew what
naturally followed an act of this sort.

But the natural order of events did not take place. Davis slowly and
carefully wiped the water from his face with the napkin. His hand
trembled a little, and his cheeks were pale, the color having fled from
them in a moment.

Frank had taken a quick step forward, ready to see fair play.

Although it was generally known that Davis was a peaceful sort of a
fellow, who would not get into trouble if he could avoid it, still all
expected he would show resentment at this open insult.

Bascomb stood with an insolent sneer on his face, waiting. As Davis
made no move, he broke into a short laugh.

"There's courage for you, gentlemen!" he said, scornfully. "Why, the
fellow hasn't as much spirit as a dead mouse!"

Frank was about to speak, when Davis slowly rose to his feet