This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
92
BOUND TO BE AN ELECTRICIAN

gradually moved off, leaving Franklin master of the field.

"I am certainly not going to have an easy time of it in that factory," said Franklin to himself, as he brushed himself off and started for his boarding house, the jeers of half a dozen boys ringing in his ears. "Mr. Brice was right; they are the lowest class of working people, and as long as I refuse to associate with them they will do what they can not only to make it unpleasant, but also to injure me."

On the following morning Franklin went to work as usual. The others said but little to him, but he readily saw that they were but waiting their opportunity. Felter's looks were particularly dark and full of revenge.

Franklin was glad when Saturday night came and he was able to pay a visit to his Uncle Will's home and remain until Sunday night. He found his uncle much improved in health and able to sit up in bed. He was asked how he liked his work, and he replied that it was not just what he desired, but was good enough. He did not mention the quarrels he had had, realizing that this would only worry his relatives without doing any good.

When the young electrician returned to work on Monday morning he found the carpenters and machinists in charge of the shop. Extensive alterations were to be made, and during that time he and his fellow-workmen were to work in a corner of