"I am sorry you have lost the watch, Luke," said the teacher,
after Randolph's departure. "You will have to be satisfied with
deserving it."

"I am reconciled to the disappointment, sir," answered Luke. "I
can get along for the present without a watch."

Nevertheless, Luke did feel disappointed. He had fully expected to
have the watch to carry home and display to his mother. As it was,
he was in no hurry to go home, but remained for two hours skating
with the other boys. He used his friend Linton's skates, Linton
having an engagement which prevented his remaining.

It was five o'clock when Luke entered the little cottage which
he called home. His mother, a pleasant woman of middle age,
was spreading the cloth for supper. She looked up as he entered.

"Well, Luke?" she said inquiringly.

"I haven't brought home the watch, mother," he said. "Randolph
Duncan won it by accident. I will tell you about it."

After he had done so, Mrs. Larkin asked thoughtfully. "Isn't it
a little singular that Tom should have got in your way?"

"Yes; I thought so at the time."

"Do you think there was any arrangement between him and Randolph?"

"As you ask me, mother, I am obliged to say that I do."