of the masters stood ready
to mark the time of their arrival, there was a general shout for
Blackall and his fat boy.

"Oh, he was last seen in the chalk-pit, hacking him to pieces with his
knife, while he seemed inclined to treat his wonderful carriage much in
the same way." A boy who had just come up gave this news.

A few expressions of commiseration were uttered by Dawson and others;
but in their hearts no one really pitied the bully. How could they?
What had he ever done to win the affection, or regard, or esteem of any
one of his school-fellows? Certainly, to those with whom he associated
and whom he patronised, he had ever done far more harm than good; and of
this most of them were aware at the time, though they might not be
willing to acknowledge it to themselves; and bitterly were they
conscious of it before many years were past, when they reaped the fruits
of his pernicious example. Several sunk into early and dishonoured
graves: others lived, ruined in health and constitution, to bemoan the
fate which their folly and vice had brought on them. But to return to
our merry racers.

They were called up forthwith to receive their prizes. The most
valuable were some serviceable fishing-rods, reels, lines,
fishing-baskets, a couple of bows, and the various accoutrements
required in archery, a good bat or two, and similar things valued by
boys.

The Doctor made a very neat speech, and complimented them all on the
skill and talent displayed both in kites and carriages.

"Especially I must compliment you, Bracebridge, on the beauty of your
kites, and the skill with which you have managed them."

"Not me, sir, but Ellis deserves the praise," answered Ernest in a
clear, loud voice, so that every one might hear. "He is a very clever
fellow, sir, only he does not know it. He thought of the carriages and
the kites, and, indeed, of every thing; I merely helped him. I joined
him because I knew that by himself he would be too diffident to carry
out his own plans. I was his assistant, that was all."

"I am glad to hear you thus speak of Ellis, but you equally deserve the
prize, although you only aided him in carrying out his plans. I have,
therefore, to present you with this bow, and all the equipments
complete; and you, Ellis, with this fishing-rod, and all the
accompanying gear."

Ernest, who was perfectly free from timidity, and always expressed
himself well, made a very appropriate reply; and, at poor E