arry, smiling.

"I shouldn't wonder," said Oscar. "That explains it to my
satisfaction. Well, now the lesson is over, sit down and we'll have
a chat. Oh, by the way, there's one thing I want to speak to you
about. We've got a debating society at our school. It is called
'The Clionian Society.' Most of the students belong to it. How
would you like to join?"

"I should like it very much. Do you think they would admit me?"

"I don't see why not. I'll propose you at the next meeting, Thursday
evening. Then the nomination will lie over a week, and be acted upon
at the next meeting."

"I wish you would. I never belonged to a debating society, but I
should like to learn to speak."

"It's nothing when you're used to it. It's only the first time you
know, that troubles you. By Jove! I remember how my knees trembled
when I first got up and said Mr. President. I felt as if all eyes
were upon me, and I wanted to sink through the floor. Now I can get
up and chatter with the best of them. I don't mean that I can make
an eloquent speech or anything of that kind, but I can talk at a
minute's notice on almost any subject."

"I wish I could."

"Oh, you can, after you've tried a few times. Well, then, it's
settled. I'll propose you at the next meeting."

"How lucky I am to have fallen in with you, Oscar."

"I know what you mean. I'm your guide, philosopher, and friend, and
all that sort of thing. I hope you'll have proper veneration for me.
It's rather a new character for me. Would you believe it, Harry,--at
home I am regarded as a rattle-brained chap, instead of the dignified
Professor that you know me to be. Isn't it a shame?"

"Great men are seldom appreciated at home, Oscar."

"I know that. I shall have to get a certificate from you, certifying
to my being a steady and erudite young man."

"I'll give it with the greatest pleasure."

"Holloa, there's a knock. Come in!" shouted Oscar.

The door opened, and Fitzgerald Fletcher entered the room.

"How are you, Fitz?" said Oscar. "Sit down and make yourself
comfortable. You know my friend, Harry Walton, I believe?"

"I believe I had the honor to meet him here one evening," said
Fitzgerald stiffly, slightly emphasizing the word "honor."

"I hope you are well, Mr. Fletcher," said Harry, more amused than
disturbed by the manner of the aristocratic visitor.

"Thank you, my health is good," said Fitzgerald with equal stiffness,
and forthwith tur