“Here, madam,” he said, “no one ever gets on the football-team without proving their fitness.” “I am sure my son could have shown you that he had played on excellent teams in the past.” “What any one has done before coming here does not count; it is what he proves himself able to do here. Mr. Arlington could have come out with the other candidates and tried for a place on the team; but he seemed to think he would be taken on anyhow, for some reason or other.” “And why not?” exclaimed Mrs. Arlington. “I am sure I do not understand why Chester should be required to take the same chance as any common fellow.” “This is the common fellow’s country, madam. If he proves himself worthy to rise he rises, and no power can hold him down. Birth or wealth cannot place one on top and keep him there unless he has the brains and ability to stay.” “I hope you do not mean to insinuate that my son hasn’t brains?” exclaimed the indignant woman. “I am not given to insinuating remarks. If I have anything to say, I say it plainly.” She was offended, for this youth looked her straight in the eyes and spoke without the least symptom of cringing or fawning. Her wealth or social position did not awe or overcome him in the slightest degree. This was something to which she was not accustomed, and, therefore, it gave her great displeasure. Chester was angry, too, and he said: “Do not waste further words, mother. You have thanked him, and that is all that is necessary. Good-by, mother. Good-by, June. Wait till you come back to Fardale again, and you’ll find out how things stand. There will be a change.” He said this with an insolent look toward Dick, who seemed quite unaware that he had spoken. “Mr. Merriwell,” said June, leaning from the carriage, “I hope you will accept my sincere thanks for your many brave and generous acts. I feel that——” He lifted his hand, smiling. “Don’t overwhelm me with thanks, please!” he exclaimed. “It places me in an awkward position.” “Then I will say no more. I know you are not one to seek praise and thanks. We may not meet again for a long time, so I will say good-by.” She held out her gloved hand. “June!” said Chester quickly, “I wish to say a word to you.” He stepped between Dick and his sister instantly, preventing Dick from taking the proffered hand. What he said was spoken in a low tone, and Mrs. Arlington immediately directed the driver to start. So the carriage rolled away, and all Dick received was a smile and parting wave from June’s hand. Inwardly he was boiling, and he longed to knock Arlington down. Chester looked at him, laughed and turned to his classmates, who once more gathered about him. Brad Buckhart came striding up. “For the love of Heaven, pard,” he hissed in Dick’s ear, “let me soak him for you, if you can’t do it! I’ll make him think he was kicked by a mule! You hear me!” But Dick was a complete master of himself, and he took Brad’s arm, turning once more toward the academy steps.