walked up to him with flashing eyes: “Adler, I’ve got a crow to pick with you.” “Go ahead with the picking,” sneered the older boy, and Herbert flushed hotly at the contemptuous tone. [32] [32] “A few minutes ago you referred to me as a coward.” “Well, what of it?” “I want you to take that word back; I won’t stand for it.” Adler broke out into a coarse laugh. “Why, the little fellow is feeling his oats,” he cried; “he looks like a bantam rooster.” “Never mind what I look like,” retorted Herbert hotly. “I want to know whether you’ll take that word back.” “Don’t get excited, little chap.” “Will you take it back? Say yes or no!” demanded Herbert. “I say no,” drawled Adler. “Then I say take that!” As he spoke, Herbert reached up and gave the fellow a resounding slap on the cheek. Adler was so dazed at the unexpected assault that he stood still gazing stupidly at his assailant. The small boys in the group were secretly delighted at the indignity put upon their worthless companion, but were discreetly silent. Herbert walked off tingling with delight at having satisfied his outraged feelings. [33] [33] CHAPTER IV IN WHICH FORTUNE UNEXPECTEDLY FAVORS DAVID HARKINS IN WHICH FORTUNE UNEXPECTEDLY FAVORS
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