Chapter XX · DOWNWARD PROGRESS.
Reading edition
CHAPTER XX. DOWNWARD PROGRESS.
Oscar's dread of going to school—Unsuccessful pleas—Oscar at school—His indifference to his studies—A "talent for missing"—A reproof—Kicking a cap—Whistler's generosity—Benny Wright—Oscar's bad conduct—Regarded as incorrigible—The tobacco spittle—Oscar's denial—Betrayed by his breath—A successful search—The teacher's rebuke—The new copy—Its effect—A note for Oscar's father—What it led to—Concealment of real feelings—Bridget's complaint—The puddle on the kitchen floor—Oscar's story—Conflicting reports—A new flare-up—The truth of the matter—Bridget's departure—Examination day—The medals—The certificate for the High School—A refusal—Bitter fruits of misconduct.