Warmly came the congratulations of the cadets upon his success, and going to his room with a happy heart, he found there Bemis Perry, who said warmly as he entered: “Old man, you knocked Clemmons clean over the ropes, and the Lord bless you for it. I just heard him say that next year would tell a different story, so you know what is before you. He is a bad man on even terms.” “Yes, he’s a dangerous rival, I admit; but being forewarned is forearmed. Perry and I thank you for the hint. Clemmons did splendidly, and I congratulate you upon your standing number three--make it number two next time, for I intend to be number one.” “Well, Merrill, that is the first boast I ever heard from your lips; but I’ll keep it dark and book it for future reference.” “Do so,” said Mark with a laugh. “Ah! I nearly forgot to tell you that I receipted for three express packages for you and put them in your wardrobe.” “Three express packages for me?” asked Mark, with surprise. “Yes, you will find them here,” and Bemis Perry opened the wardrobe. One was a box, a foot square, and marked: “VALUABLE. “CADET MIDSHIPMAN MARK MERRILL.” The second was a small package also, bearing a value mark, while the third was a money envelope addressed in a graceful feminine hand which caused Mark to exclaim: “This is from my dear, good mother.” He broke the seal, and within found a letter and one hundred dollars. The letter he hastily read. It was as follows: “CLIFF CASTLE, Thursday. “MY OWN DEAR SON: I have had you in my mind ever since your last letter informing me of your triumphs in the sports allowed at the academy, and your determination to win the first honors of your class, though, as you state, young Clemmons, of B----, may be a dangerous rival. “I fear that you will study too hard and make yourself ill, for well I know your determined nature to stop at no obstacle. My anxiety is such that I wish you to telegraph me of your health the moment you receive this, for I express my letter from B----, and have arranged to have your message sent to me as soon as it arrives. I shall be in suspense until I hear from you. I send herewith one hundred dollars, knowing that you will have use for money, now that your first year is about ending, and I can readily spare it, as your venture with your schooner has turned out most substantially, as I hinted in a former letter.