"I intend to have order in this school. I shall lick the first boy who throws a spit-ball, or who does anything contrary to the rules of the school," said Mr. Thrasher, flourishing a raw hide, on the first morning. He read a long list of rules, numbered from one up to eighteen. Before he finished his rules, a little boy laughed, and caught a whipping. Before noon half a dozen were hauled up. There was a council of war at noon among the big boys, who, having had their own way, were determined to keep it. They agreed to give Mr. Thrasher a pitched battle. They had it in the afternoon; a half-dozen pounced upon the master at once, and after a short struggle put him out doors. They gave a grand hurrah, and pelted him with snowballs, and drove him up the street. There was great commotion in the town. Those who loved law and order were alarmed for the welfare of their children. "We must have a master who can rule them, or they will grow up to be lawless citizens," said Judge Adams. Mr. Cannel could find no one who was willing to teach the school. "I don't see why anybody who is competent to teach should be afraid to undertake the task," said Paul to Mr. Chrome, one day, as they talked the matter over. Mr. Chrome met Mr. Cannel that evening on the street. "If there is anybody who is competent to keep the school, it is Paul Parker," said Mr. Chrome, who had exalted ideas of Paul's ability to overcome difficulties. "I believe you," Mr. Cannel replied, and started at once to see Paul. "I will think of it, and let you know in the morning whether I will teach or not," was Paul's reply, after hearing what Mr. Cannel had to say. He talked the matter over with his mother. "It is a great undertaking, Paul; I cannot advise you," she said. When he offered his evening prayer, he asked that God would direct him. He thought upon the subject during the night. Could he carry it through? The scholars all knew him,--had been to school with him,--were his old friends and playmates. Bob Swift was a ringleader; and outside, not in the school, was Philip, who would make all the trouble he could. There was Miss Dobb, who would like to have picked him to pieces. There were others who would rejoice to see him fail. But would it not be glorious to succeed,--to triumph over Miss Dobb? But that was an unworthy motive, and he put the thought out of his mind. He resolved to undertake the task, and try to do good,--to guide and mould the minds of the scholars,--those who were to be men and women, who were to act an important part in life, and who were to live not only here, but in another world,--who, he hoped, would be companions of the angels. Would it not be worth while to aid in overcoming evil, in establishing law and order,--to inculcate a love of virtue, truth, and honor? It would require nerve, energy, patience, and wisdom. "I'll try it," he said to himself, after looking at all sides.