He had lost nothing, however, by not attending before.
In fact he had gained much, for both Parson Dan and Mrs. Royal had
carefully instructed him so that when he did go to school he was far
ahead of boys and girls of his own age.
Rodney got on well with all the scholars except Sammie Dunker, who was
eight years old, and a bully to all younger children. When boys of his
own age and older were around, Sammie was very quiet. But when they
were not present he tyrannised over the little ones to such an extent
that existence, especially during the dinner hour, became almost
unbearable. He had knocked out several boys younger and smaller than
himself, until at last there was no one left to dispute his authority.
Rodney Royal, accordingly, was a new and choice victim. Sammie knew
all about him, as he had been freely and severely discussed at his home
almost every day as far back as he could remember. Here, then, was a
lawful prey, and he gloated over the stories he would have to tell to
his father of what he had done to the waif.
At noon-hour, the first day, Sammie made himself very objectionable.
He centred his attention upon Rod, for thus his name had now become
shortened by every one except the Royals.
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