`` There is one mistake here which we must rectify , '' said Mr. Acton , as he crossed out the low figures under the word `` Behavior , '' and put the much-desired 100 there . `` But I did break the rule , sir , '' said Jack , though his face glowed with pleasure , for Mamma was looking on . `` I overlook that as I should your breaking into my house if you saw it was on fire . You ran to save a friend , and I wish I could tell those fellows why you were there . It would do them good . I am not going to praise you , John , but I did believe you in spite of appearances , and I am glad to have for a pupil a boy who loves his neighbor better than himself . '' Then , having shaken hands heartily , Mr. Acton went away , and Jack flew off to have rejoicings with Jill , who sat up on her sofa , without knowing it , so eager was she to hear all about the call . In the afternoon Jack drove his mother to the Captain 's , confiding to her on the way what a hard time he had when he went before , and how nothing but the thought of cheering Bob kept him up when he slipped and hurt his knee , and his boot sprung a leak , and the wind came up very cold , and the hill seemed an endless mountain of mud and snow . Mrs. Minot had such a gentle way of putting things that she would have won over a much harder man than the strict old Captain , who heard the story with interest , and was much pleased with the boys ' efforts to keep Bob straight . That young person dodged away into the barn with Jack , and only appeared at the last minute to shove a bag of chestnuts into the chaise . But he got a few kind words that did him good , from Mrs. Minot and the Captain , and from that day felt himself under bonds to behave well if he would keep their confidence . `` I shall give Jill the nuts ; and I wish I had something she wanted very , very much , for I do think she ought to be rewarded for getting me out of the mess , '' said Jack , as they drove happily home again . `` I hope to have something in a day or two that will delight her very much . I will say no more now , but keep my little secret and let it be a surprise to all by and by , '' answered his mother , looking as if she had not much doubt about the matter . `` That will be jolly . You are welcome to your secret , Mamma . I 've had enough of them for one while ; '' and Jack shrugged his broad shoulders as if a burden had been taken off . In the evening Ed came , and Jack was quite satisfied when he saw how pleased his friend was at what he had done . `` I never meant you should take so much trouble , only be kind to Bob , '' said Ed , who did not know how strong his influence was , nor what a sweet example of quiet well-doing his own life was to all his mates . `` I wished to be really useful ; not just to talk about it and do nothing .
That is n't your way , and I want to be like you , '' answered XXXXX , with such affectionate sincerity that Ed could not help believing him , though he modestly declined the compliment by saying , as he began to play softly , `` Better than I am , I hope .
Acton Bob Captain Ed Jack Jill John Minot day fire