Discipline reigns and Gridley's good name must be preserved!" This brought a cheer from many, for Mr.Drake was genuinely respected by the boys as a good and fair-minded man.

Such men as Drake, Morton or Luce could lead these warm-hearted boys anywhere.
Stepping quickly back to the platform, Drake sounded the bell.
In an instant there was an orderly movement toward the desks.
At the second bell all were seated.
"In the absence of the principal," began Mr.Drake, "I-----" A low-voiced laugh started in some quarters of the room.
"Silence!" insisted Mr.Drake, with dignity.

"School has opened.
I-----" He was interrupted by a new note.

Out in the yard sounded the clanging of a bell, the quick trot of horses' feet and the roll of wheels.

The boys looked at one another in unbelieving astonishment.
Then heavy steps sounded on the stairway.