108 WHAT MAKES THE HAPPY TEACHER ?

a speck on their shoes; all should be starch and rose-
water. It is not in this planet, however, Miss Hotchkin,
that your ideal seminary can be conducted. The earth
will soil, cloth will wear, and youthful spirits will break
over the brim ; our great task is to keep matters within
bounds, and to prevent ill words and ill tempers.”

“Can you ever persuade me, sir, that those vehement
fellows, who are now so busy in saddling yonder calf,
are fit for study ?” |

“ Among the first boys in the school,” replied Barry,
“and among the best in every sense. You now see
them full of spirit and fun ; you will presently see them
silent, -collected, and studious, as eager to master a
difficulty in algebra or grammar, as yesterday they were
to win at a rowing-match.”

“You amaze me! I thought play and study were
exact opposites.”

“So they are; but the charm of life is made up of
these delightful opposites. It is the transition from
hilarity to seriousness which gives a zest to school-boy
life, never to be forgotten. I sometimes think we might
gain something by carrying the same a little further
into life. It might prevent some wrinkles and gray
hairs, even though it should interrupt us a little in our
~ race after money or office.”

“So you let them do as they please ?” |

“By no means, madam. You see they are this
moment under my supervision : in half an hour I shall