n investigation
it proved to contain the long-coveted motorcycle, Peter's joy knew no
bounds.

"Do you suppose now that your chum Strong could let Peter Coddington
return to school?" was his father's unexpected question.

Peter stopped short.

It was a long time before he spoke; then he said slowly:

"Father, I don't think there is a Peter Coddington any more. There's
only Peter Strong, and he is so interested in his work and in doing
real things that you couldn't coax him to go to school if you
tried--especially since he has just been given a new motorcycle!"

Mr. Coddington rubbed his hands together as he always did when he was
pleased.

"You must not decide hastily, Peter," urged he. "Take a week to think
carefully about it and then tell me your decision."

"But I know now!" cried Peter. "A little while ago I thought the tannery
the most awful place in the world; I hated the smell of it and the very
sight of the leather. But somehow I do not feel that way now. I did not
realize this until you spoke the other day of my leaving and going back
to school; then I was surprised to discover that, when I thought it all
over, I did not want to go back. Work can be fun--even hard work--if all
the time you know that you are doing something real--something that is
needed and that helps. If you don't mind, Father, I'd rather stay in the
tannery and aid Peter Strong to work up."

"Do you still insist on Peter Strong's doing the climbing? Why not give
Peter Coddington a chance?"

"I'd rather not, sir. It was Peter Strong who began at the foot of the
ladder, and I want him to be the one to reach the top if he can; it is
only fair. Please don't spoil it now by crowding Peter Coddington into
his place."

"Well, well! You may do your own way, Peter, but it is on one condition.
Nat Jackson needs a trip away. The doctors say he is tired out and won't
get well as fast as he should unless he has a change of some sort. I am
going to arrange with his mother to take him for a month to the
seashore, and I know he will be much happier if Peter Strong goes with
him. What do you say?"

Peter looked intently at his father, a tiny cloud darkening his face.

"You need not have any compunctions about going, Peter," explained Mr.
Coddington, reading the trouble in his eyes. "Both the boys have worked
faithfully and need a vacation. Their positions will be held for them
until they return and their pay will go on during their absence."