As David nears 17 years of age, he recalls his transition from childhood to youth. He recalls his boyhood crush on Miss Shepherd who is a boarder at Mrs. Nettinghalls' establishment. Having made her acquaintance at a dancing-school, David regales her with gifts; he steals a kiss from her in a cloak room. Alas, David becomes privy to the rumor that Miss Shepherd is actually partial to a boy named Jones. One day, David notices Miss Shepherd out walking with her schoolmates. Miss Shepherd slights David and the courtship is over.
David recalls a young butcher in Canterbury who goes out of his way to challenge any and every boy who attends Doctor Strong's school to a fight. David accepts the challenge. When all is said and done, David recalls very little of the fight. He is bruised and battere
