“Oh, if you only knew how hard I worked for an oration!” he exclaimed, as if apologizing for his manner. “When Ray gave me a lift and I determined to turn over a new leaf, I made up my mind for one thing, that I would do the best I could in the little time that was left me in college. In Freshman year I stood well up in my class, and, even since then, found no difficulty in holding a fair rank, but I was conscious of having wasted many opportunities, and having neglected my studies. I thought of my father, who knows nothing of my experience――who has all along thought that I was a model son, and has denied himself and saved at every point to secure me an education, and supply me with the money which I squandered so recklessly. I had deceived him long enough, so I determined that I would go in and work hard to secure a position of honor, in order that it might serve as some return for all that he had done for me. I was severely handicapped, but I worked incessantly, and――well――now it is all right.” Howard ended abruptly, his voice trembling with emotion. “Howard, you ought certainly to feel proud, for you have accomplished wonders,” said Ray. “You have gained twelve or more positions in one term. You deserve more credit than any man on the honor list.” “I don’t think so much of myself,” said Howard, “for I suppose that the knowledge I have crammed into my head so rapidly will, for the most part, slip away after a few months; but it was for the old gentleman I worked chiefly――you see I am paying back my debts in every way.” “I suppose your father will come on to Commencement,” I said. “Yes, indeed. He wouldn’t miss it for the world; and I know how proud and happy he will be. I must write him a letter to-night, and tell him all about it,” said Howard, moving toward the door. “And are you sure that this does not inconvenience you?” said Ray, fingering the bills. “Not in the least,” answered Howard, as he took his leave. “It is all extra money, outside of my expenses, and it makes me easier to give it to you.” “There!” cried Ray, with a smile, as the door closed upon Howard. “Didn’t I tell you he would keep his promise?” CHAPTER XXXII THE FINAL GAME Belmont was looking her prettiest on the day before Commencement. It seemed as if the town, the college grounds, the buildings, the trees, and even nature itself had summoned the pleasantest expression to greet the host of guests that thronged to the Commencement exercises. Of these exercises the great baseball game formed one of the most important and interesting in the eyes at least of graduates and undergraduates; and the special interest that centered in this game had brought to Belmont a largely increased number of friends.