hallenges to the other
pits to play football and rounders. I vote we call ourselves the
'Bull-dogs,' and Jack shall be our captain."

The proposition was carried with unanimity, and the "Bull-dogs" became a
body from that time. Harry was appointed treasurer, and the first
week's subscriptions were paid forthwith, and an hour later a room was
hired.

"Hullo!" Fred Wood said, as they poured in and took possession; "we
forgot furniture. We must have a table and some benches."

"It is the captain's duty to provide furniture," Jack said. "I will get
a big table and some benches on Monday, and then we'll draw up rules and
get 'em framed and hung over the fireplace, then we shall be all in
order."

Nothing could have been more happy than this plan of starting a club; it
gave all the members a lively interest in the matter, and united them by
a bond which would keep the lazy and careless from hanging back, and it
was quite with a sense of excitement that they met on the Monday
evening.

Jack had got a large table and some benches. Inkstands, slates, paper,
and pencils were on the table, and four candles were burning. He took
the place of honour at the head of the table, and the others, much
pleased with the appearance of the room, took their seats round the
table.

"In the first place," Jack said, striking the table with his fist to
call for order, "I have to report to you that I ha' seen the
schoolmaister, and he says that he will willingly give two hours two
nights a week to teaching the 'Bull-dogs.'"

This announcement was received with great applause, for the lads had
all become deeply interested in the matter.

"He says Tuesdays and Fridays will suit him, from seven till nine; and I
have, in your name, accepted with very many thanks his offer; for, lads,
it be no light thing that a man who has been all day teaching, should
give up two evenings a week to help us on, and that wi'out charge or
payment."

"That's so, Jack!" Fred Wood said. "I voate we pass a vote o' thanks to
Mr. Dodgson."

There was a chorus of approval.

"Someone ha' got to second that proposal," Jack said; "we must do things
in the proper form."

"I second it," John Jordan said.

"Very well," Jack said, "are you all agreed?" "All." "Very well, then,
I'll write that out neatly in this book I ha' bought to keep the records
o' the club, and I'll send a copy to Mr. Dodgson; I'm sure he will be
pleased. I had best act as secretary as well as c