I don't think I should make any exception in your case.

I'm sorry." Steve stared at his shoes, a somewhat mutinous expression on his face.
After a moment, "It isn't fair to say I'm not trying," he broke out.

"I _am_ trying, but things are too hard here.

They ask too much work of a fellow.

Why, if I was to get B's in all my courses I'd have to study eight hours a day! A fellow wants to do something beside stick in his room and grind, Mr.Daley.He wants to get out and--and play sometimes.
If you're on the football team you don't have any time in the afternoons and then, when evening comes, you're tired and sleepy." "But you have time between recitations in the morning, Edwards, to do some studying, do you not?
Other boys manage to both work and play.