tell tales of any chap of the Den,
under any circumstances."

(3) "I promise never to fag for anybody more than I can possibly help."

(4) "I promise to do all I can to make myself jolly to the Den."

(5) "If I break any of these rules, I promise to let myself be kicked
all round by the chaps of the Den, as long as I am able to stand it."

Our heroes and young Aspinall were called upon solemnly to subscribe to
each of these weighty promises, under threat of the most awful vengeance
if they refused. And, as it seemed to each he might safely venture on
the promise required, they went dutifully through the ceremony, and had
the high privilege of exercising their new rights, ten minutes later, in
kicking a couple of recalcitrant Denites, one of whom, as it happened,
was the high-minded Mr Gosse, who had been detected in the act of
telling tales to a monitor of one of his companions.

Mr Gosse availed himself on this occasion of the last clause of Rule 5,
and lay down on the ground, after the first kick. He was, however,
persuaded to resume his feet, and finally had the inward satisfaction of
feeling that he had obeyed the requirements of the rule to the utmost.

This little matter of business being disposed of, and the usual
patriotic speeches having been delivered, the Den, which was nothing if
it was not original, proceeded to its elections--a somewhat tedious
ceremony, which it was very difficult for a stranger to understand.

A vicious-looking youth, called Culver, was elected president of the
club, Pauncefote (the rejected post fag) and Smith were appointed
treasurers, and, greatly to the surprise of the new boys, but of no one
else, Mr Gosse, still barely recovered from his loyalty to Rule 5, was
elected secretary, and made a very amiable and highly-applauded speech,
in returning thanks for the compliment paid to him.

After this, the Den resolved itself into a social gathering, and became
rather tedious.

Dick was interrupted in a yawn by Messrs. Pauncefote and Smith, who
politely waited upon him for his subscription, a request which Culver,
as president, and Gosse, as secretary, were also in attendance to see
complied with.

"How much?" said Dick.

"Threepence," said Smith, but was instantly jostled by a violent nudge
from Gosse.

"How much tin have you got?" demanded that official.

Dick, who had long ere this lost any reverence he might be expected to
entertain towards the secretary of the Den, re