ad been so very kind as to give that
marvelously beautiful girl such a good opinion of himself. But when he
opened his mouth to reply he was afraid of saying something that
would shatter this good opinion; so he bowed politely and merely said,
"Thank you."

"I trust that you will find our association agreeable," said Miss
Nermal, smiling and walking toward him.

This remark turned Belton's mind to thoughts that stimulated him to
a brisk reply. "Oh assuredly, Miss Nermal. I am already more
than satisfied that I shall expect much joy and pleasure from my
association with you--I--I--I mean the teachers."

Belton felt that he had made a bad break and looked around a little
uneasily at the principal, violently condemning in his heart that rule
which led principals to escort young men around; especially when
there was a likelihood of meeting with such a lovely girl. If you
had consulted Belton's wishes at that moment, school would have been
adjourned immediately, the principal excused, and himself allowed to
look at and talk to Miss Nermal as much as he desired.

However, this was not to be. The principal moved to the door to
continue his tour. Belton reluctantly followed. He didn't see the need
of getting acquainted with all the teachers in one day. He thought
that there were too many teachers in that building, anyhow. These were
Belton's rebellious thoughts as he left Miss Nermal's room.

Nevertheless, he finished his journey around to the various rooms
and afterwards assumed charge of his own room. Some might ascribe his
awkwardness in his room that day to the fact that the work was new to
him. But we prefer to think that certain new and pleasing sensations
in his bosom were responsible.

When the young lady teachers got together at noon that day, the
question was passed around as to what was thought of Mr. Piedmont.
Those teachers whom Belton met before he entered Miss Nermal's room
thought him "very nice." Those whom he met after he left her room
thought him rather dull. Miss Nermal herself pronounced him "just
grand."

All of the girls looked at Miss Nermal rather inquiringly when
she said this, for she was understood to usually pass young men by
unnoticed. Each of the other girls, previous to seeing Belton, had
secretly determined to capture the rising young orator in case his
personal appearance kept pace with his acknowledged talents. In
debating the matter they had calculated their chances of success and
h