We are studying
the fauna and flora of central Africa -- at least, they are doing
so under my guidance."
"They must be learning a heap -- under you."
"Do you mean to say I am not capable of teaching them!" cried
Josiah Crabtree, wrathfully.
"Well, if I was in their place I would want somebody else besides
the man who was discharged by Captain Putnam and who failed to get
the appointment he wanted at Columbia College because he could not
stand the examination."
"Boy! Boy! You know nothing of my ability!" fumed Crabtree,
coming closer and shaking, his fist in Dick's face.
"Well, I know something of your lack of ability."
"You are doing your best to insult me!"
"Such an old fraud as you cannot be insulted, Josiah Crabtree. I
read your real character the first time I met you, and you have
never done anything since which has caused me to alter my opinion
of you. You have a small smattering of learning and you can put
on a very wise look when occasion requires. But that is all there
is to it, except that behind it all you are a thorough-paced
scoundrel and only lack a certain courage to do some daring bit of
rascality."
This statement of plain truths fairly set Josiah Crabtree to
boiling with rage. He shook his fist in Dick's face again. "Don't
dare to talk that way, Rover; don't dare - or -- I'll -- I'll --"
"What will you do?"
"Never mind; I'll show you when the proper time comes."
"I told you once before that I was not afraid of you -- and I am
not afraid of you now.
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