noon
The school bell had already ceased ringing , and the pupils had filed in and had taken their proper places . So Aleck and Pen went down the aisle , the one with stubborn resolution marking his countenance , the other with keen resentment flashing from his eyes . And poor Miss Grey , mild and peace-loving , but now troubled and despondent , who had thought to restore harmony among her pupils , foresaw , instead , only a continued and more bitter rivalry . Notwithstanding her admonition , rumors of serious trouble between Aleck and Pen filtered through the school-room during the morning session , and were openly discussed at the noon recess . But both boys kept silent . It was not until the day 's work had been finally disposed of , and the closing hour had almost arrived , that Miss Grey made her announcement . With all the composure at her command she called the attention of the school to the plan for a flag fund .