" "I'll tell you," said Tom Barton,
"I'll find him out, boys--see if I don't!"
9. So he called for Fred to go to school, and on his way to the side door
walked lightly and somewhat nearer the kitchen window than was absolutely
needful. Looking in, he saw Fred standing at the table with a dishcloth in
his hand.
10. Of course he reported this at school, and various were the greetings
poor Fred received at recess. "Well, you're a brave one to stay at home
washing dishes." "Girl boy!" "Pretty Bessie!" "Lost your apron, have n't
you, Polly!"
11. Fred was not wanting either in spirit or courage, and he was strongly
tempted to resent these insults and to fight some of his tormentors. But
his consciousness of right and his love for his mother helped him.
12. While he was struggling for self mastery, his teacher appeared at the
door of the schoolhouse. Fred caught his eye, and it seemed to look, if it
did not say, "Don't give up! Be really brave!" He knew the teacher had
heard the insulting taunts of his thoughtless schoolmates.
13. The boys received notice during the day that Fred must not be taunted
or teased in any manner.
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