the steps, met the smaller
coming down with an opened letter, and smiling.

"I've got it, Jack," said the smaller boy, joyously. "Here it is. I win,
but, of course, you're the alternate. Read it."

He handed the letter to Jack, but it was declined.

"What's the use?" was the somewhat sulky response. "I've lost, sure
enough. All I've got to do is to forget it."

"Then let me read it to you," said the winner, eagerly. "I want you to
feel glad about it--same as I would if you had passed first. Listen:

"'MR. WILLIAM DENMAN.

"'DEAR SIR: I am glad to inform you that you have successfully
passed the second examination for an appointment to the Naval
Academy, winning by three points in history over the other
contestant, Mr. John Forsythe, who, of course, is the alternate in
case you do not pass the entrance examination at Annapolis.

"'Be ready at any time for instructions from the Secretary of the
Navy to report at Annapolis. Sincerely yours,
JACOB BLAND.'"

"What do I care for that?" said Forsythe. "I suppose I've got a letter
in there, too. Let's see."

While Denman waited, Forsythe entered the post-office, and soon emerged,
reading a letter.

"Same thing," he said. "I failed by three points in my special study.
How is it, Bill?" he demanded, fiercely, as his disappointment grew upon
him. "I've beaten not only you, but the whole class from the primary up,
in history, ancient, modern, and local, until now. There's something
crooked here." His voice sank to a mutter.

"Crooked, Jack! What are you talking about?" replied Denman, hotly.

"Oh, I don't know, Bill. Never mind. Come on, if you're going home."

They walked side by side in the direction of their homes--near together
and on the outskirts of the town--each busy with his thoughts. Denman,
though proud and joyous over the prize he had won, was yet hurt by the
speech and manner of Forsythe, and hurt still further by the darkening
cloud on his face as they walked on.

Forsythe's thoughts were best indicated by his suddenly turning toward
Denman and blurting out:

"Yes, I say; there's something crooked in this. I can beat you in
history any day in the week, but your dad and old Bland are close
friends. I see it now."

Denman turned white as he answered:

"Do you want me to report your opinion to my father and Mr. Bland?"

"Oh, you would, would you? And take from me