The little tutor walked bravely over to the desk and bowing low laid a carefully written sheet of paper on the desk, thereby purposely allowing an opportunity for expression of opinion. But he had crossed the room and reached his place before anyone began to speak; at first it seemed as if nothing was going to be said on their part. Then the President at last made answer, speaking very deliberately, it seemed to Stacy: "Well, Mr. Stacy, this is very sudden; very unexpected. We are surprised. Believe me, Mr. Stacy, in case the performance of your duties had not been satisfactory, we would have advised you." The little tutor believed him. "Furthermore, your work has been entirely satisfactory, has it not, Professor Thorne?" "Entirely," echoed Professor Thorne, across the room. The little tutor was baffled by the tones of the President. He thought they belied his words. Nobody seemed to be impressed as he had expected. "It is my intention to leave to-morrow!" he exclaimed, excitedly, making an emphatic gesture with his hand. "Surely, Mr. Stacy, you are laboring under some wrong impression. Surely, there is some misunderstanding. You are a little excited, Mr. Stacy. Perhaps you are a little overworked. You had better think it over before you make up your mind permanently." Professor Thorne here spoke up: "Don't you think, Mr. Stacy, that it would be a little unwise on your own account. Pardon me, Mr. Stacy, but I understand your circumstances, and it would be rather late in the year to obtain another position now." The President was about to say something further, but as he turned he saw on the young man's face a look as of a weak animal at bay; and he stopped.