As a matter of fact, Crabtree was already "on the outs" with two
of the students, and he was afraid that if the truth regarding his
character became known his present position would be lost to him
and he would be cast off to shift for himself.
"You don't want me to speak to the students under your charge?"
said Dick slowly.
"Oh, of course you can speak to them, if you wish. But I - ahem -
- I would not care to -- er - er --"
"To let them know what a rascal you are," finished Dick.
"Crabtree, let me tell you once for all, that you can expect no
friendship, from me. You are not worthy of it. When I meet those
students I will tell them whatever I see fit."
At these words Josiah Crabtree grew as white as a sheet. Then,
setting his teeth, he suddenly recovered. "Are those your
friends?" he demanded, pointing up the lake shore.
As was perfectly natural, Dick turned to gaze in the direction.
As be did so, Crabtree swung a stick that be carried into the air
and brought it down with all force on the youth's head. Dick felt
a terrific pain, saw a million or more dancing lights flash
through his brain-and then be knew no more.
"I guess I've fixed him," muttered the former teacher of Putnam
Hall grimly. He knelt beside the fallen boy and felt of his
heart. "Not dead, but pretty well knocked out. Now what had I
best do with him?"
He thought for a moment, then remembered a deep hollow which he
had encountered but a short while before.
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