n
as the rest were out of hearing. "I don't think Master Slodgers has had
such a prompt lesson before to correct that nasty way he has of
frightening every new boy that comes here; but I tell you what, though,
you mustn't go hitting out at big chaps like that, you know! Slodgers
would have pounded you into a jelly if I hadn't interfered."

"I dare say he would," I replied, passionately, not having yet quite
calmed down--the sight of the blood dropping from my poor nose adding to
instead of abating from my courage. "But, I would have made him feel
something first! I don't care if he had killed me! I would do the same
again if he made fun of my father. He said I told lies when I was
telling the truth."

"Well, well, that's all right," said my rescuer, soothingly. "I've no
doubt I should have struck him, too, if I had been in your place. I
like you for standing up to him so bravely, and that's the reason I took
your part, independently of my always trying to stop his bullying.
Slodgers is a cur at heart, and I dare say you would lick him in the end
if you could hold out long enough, although I wouldn't advise you to
tackle him until you know how to use your fists better, if I am not by!
I think you said your name was Martin Leigh, to change the subject from
the brute, eh?"

"Yes," I answered, readily; "and I must now thank you for your kindness
in coming to my help."

"Oh, stow all that! May I call you Martin?"

"By all means," said I, gladly; "there's nothing I should like better."

"All right then, that's agreed. My name is Tom Larkyns, and you may
call me Tom, if you like."

"May I?" I asked, deferentially, proud of his condescending to be on
such cordial terms with me. "Won't it sound too familiar?"

"Nonsense," said he, laughing cheerily. "We'll swear a bond of eternal
friendship, like Damon and Pythias," and he squeezed my hand in his
strong grip, as if he meant it.

Tears came into my eyes; but not with pain. It was at the happy
consciousness that at last I had come across some one who really cared
for me personally. Uncle George's scanty amount of affection for me was
due to the fact of my being his brother's child, while Molly, the maid-
servant, the only one else who had ever evinced any kindly feeling
towards me, had been actuated by pity for my forlorn and neglected
condition amongst my own kindred; but Tom was my very own friend, mine
by choice and selection. Had he not singled me ou