refused a loan, though quite aware that
they are never likely to repay it. My young readers will be sure to meet
specimens of this class, against whom the only protection is a very firm
and decided "No."

CHAPTER XVII. THE NIGHT SCHOLARS

Immediately after Thanksgiving Day, the winter schools commenced. That
in the center district was kept by a student of Dartmouth college, who
had leave of absence from the college authorities for twelve weeks, in
order by teaching to earn something to help defray his college expenses.
Leonard Morgan, now a junior, was a tall, strongly made young man of
twenty-two, whose stalwart frame had not been reduced by his diligent
study. There were several shoe shops in the village, each employing from
one to three boys, varying in age from fifteen to nineteen. Why could
he not form a private class, to meet in the evening, to be instructed in
advanced arithmetic, or, if desired, in Latin and Greek? He broached the
idea to Stephen Bates, the prudential committeeman.

"I don't know," said Mr. Bates, "what our boys will think of it. I've
got a boy that I'll send, but whether you'll get enough to make it pay I
don't know."

"I suppose I can have the schoolhouse, Mr. Bates?"

"Yes, there won't be no objection. Won't it be too much for you after
teachin' in the daytime?"

"It would take a good deal to break me down."

"Then you'd better draw up a notice and put it up in the store and
tavern," suggested the committeeman.

In accordance with this advice, the young teacher posted up in the two
places the following notice:

"EVENING SCHOOL

"I propose to start an evening school for those who are occupied during
the day, and unable to attend the district school. Instruction will be
given in such English branches as may be desired, and also in Latin and
Greek, if any are desirous of pursuing a classical course. The school
will commence next Monday evening at the schoolhouse, beginning at seven
o'clock. Terms: Seventy cents a week, or five dollars for the term of
ten weeks.

"LEONARD MORGAN."

"Are you going to join the class, Walton?" asked Frank Heath.

"Yes," said Harry, promptly.

"Where'll you get the money?" asked Luke Harrison, in a jeering tone.

"I shan't have to go far for it."

"I don't see how you can spend so much money."

"I am willing to spend money when I can get my money's worth," said our
hero. "Are you going?"

"To school? No, I guess not. I've got thro