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diff --git a/old/53407-h/53407-h.htm b/old/53407-h/53407-h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index 48b8a03..0000000 --- a/old/53407-h/53407-h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,12546 +0,0 @@ -<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" - "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> -<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> - <head> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=iso-8859-1" /> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Style-Type" content="text/css" /> - <title> - The Project Gutenberg eBook of Dave Porter's Return to School, by Edward Stratemeyer. - </title> - <link rel="coverpage" href="images/cover.jpg" /> - <style type="text/css"> - -body { - margin-left: 10%; - margin-right: 10%; -} - -@media print, handheld { - div.chapter {page-break-before: always;} - div.break {page-break-before: always;}} - -@media handheld { -.poem {display:block; margin-left: 1.5em;}} - - h1,h2 {text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ - clear: both; -} - -p { - margin-top: .51em; - text-align: justify; - margin-bottom: .49em; -} - -.small {font-size: 80%;} -.smaller {font-size: 90%;} -.xlarge {font-size: 120%;} -.xxlarge {font-size: 200%} - -.gesperrt {letter-spacing: 0.2em; - margin-right: -0.2em;} - -hr.chap {width: 65%; margin: 3em 17.5%;} -hr.full {width: 95%; margin: 3em 2.5%;} -hr.r15 {width: 15%; margin: 1em 42.5%;} -hr.r65 {width: 65%; margin: 3em 17.5%;} - -table {margin-left: auto; - margin-right: auto;} -@media handheld { -table {width: 98%; margin-left: 1%; margin-right: 1%;}} -.tdl {text-align: left;} -.tdr {text-align: right;} - -.topspace1 {margin-top:1em;} -.topspace2 {margin-top:2em;} - -.pagenum { /* uncomment the next line for invisible page numbers */ - /* visibility: hidden; */ - position: absolute; - left: 92%; - font-size: smaller; - text-align: right; -} /* page numbers */ - -.center {text-align: center;} - -.right {text-align: right;} - -.smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} - -.caption {font-weight: bold;} - -/* Images */ -.figcenter {padding-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 1em; - margin: auto; text-align: center; max-width: 100%;} - -/* Poetry */ -.poetry { - display: block; - margin: 1em auto; - text-align: center} - -.poem {margin: auto; - display: inline-block; - text-align: left -} - -.poem .stanza {margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em} - -.poem span.i1 {display: block; margin-left: 1em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} -.poem span.i1-5 {display: block; margin-left: 1.5em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} -.poem span.i2 {display: block; margin-left: 2em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} -.poem span.i0 {display: block; margin-left: 0em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} - -.poem .stanza {margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em;} - -/* Transcriber's notes */ -.transnote {background-color: #E6E6FA; - color: black; - font-size:smaller; - padding:0.5em; - margin-bottom:5em; - font-family:sans-serif; - text-align: left; } - </style> - </head> -<body> - - -<pre> - -Project Gutenberg's Dave Porter's Return to School, by Edward Stratemeyer - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with -almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or -re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included -with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license - - -Title: Dave Porter's Return to School - Winning the Medal of Honor - -Author: Edward Stratemeyer - -Illustrator: Charles Nuttall - -Release Date: October 30, 2016 [EBook #53407] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK DAVE PORTER'S RETURN TO SCHOOL *** - - - - -Produced by David Edwards, Brian Wilsden and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -book was produced from scanned images of public domain -material from the Google Books project.) - - - - - - -</pre> - - -<div class="figcenter"> -<img src="images/cover.jpg" alt="COVER" width="531" height="800" /> -</div> - -<hr class="r15" /> - -<div class="figcenter"><a id="Frontispiece"></a> -<img src="images/frontis.jpg" alt="" width="323" height="500" /> -<div class="topspace1"></div> -<div class="caption">The <i>Snowbird</i> continued to forge ahead.—<i>Page 265</i>.</div> -</div> - -<hr class="r65" /> - -<div class="break"> -<p class="center"><span class="xxlarge">Dave Porter Series</span></p> -</div> - -<hr class="r65" /> - -<h1><a name="DAVE_PORTERS_RETURN" id="DAVE_PORTERS_RETURN"></a>DAVE PORTER'S RETURN TO SCHOOL</h1> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_i" id="Page_i">[i]</a></span></p> - -<p class="center"><span class="smaller"><b>OR</b></span><br /> - -<span class="xlarge"><b>WINNING THE MEDAL OF HONOR</b></span><br /><br /> - -<b>BY</b><br /> - -<span class="xlarge"><b>EDWARD STRATEMEYER</b></span></p> - -<p class="center">Author of "Dave Porter at Oak Hall," "Dave Porter in the South<br /> -Seas," "Old Glory Series," "Pan-American Series,"<br /> -"Colonial Series," "American Boys' Life of<br /> -Theodore Roosevelt," etc.<br /> -</p> -<div class="topspace2"></div> -<p class="center"><span class="xlarge"><i>ILLUSTRATED BY CHARLES NUTTALL</i></span></p> -<div class="topspace2"></div> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<img src="images/piii.jpg" alt="" width="121" height="150" /> -</div> -<div class="topspace2"></div> -<p class="center"><span class="xlarge"><span class="gesperrt">BOSTON</span><br /> -LOTHROP, LEE & SHEPARD CO.</span></p> - -<hr class="r65" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_ii" id="Page_ii">[ii]</a></span></p> - -<div class="break"> -<p class="center">Published, March, 1907</p> -</div> - -<div class="topspace2"></div> - -<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Copyright, 1907, by Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Co.</span></p> -<hr class="r15" /> -<p class="center"><i>All rights reserved</i></p> -<hr class="r15" /> -<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Dave Porter's Return to School</span></p> - -<div class="topspace2"></div> - -<p class="center">Norwood Press<br /> -<span class="smcap">Berwick & Smith Co.</span><br /> -Norwood, Mass.<br /> -U. S. A.<br /> -</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_iii" id="Page_iii">[iii]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="PREFACE" id="PREFACE"></a>PREFACE</h2> -</div> - -<p>"<span class="smcap">Dave Porter's Return to School</span>" is a -complete story in itself, but forms the third volume -in a line issued under the general title of "Dave -Porter Series."</p> - -<p>In the initial volume of this series, entitled -"Dave Porter at Oak Hall," I took pleasure in introducing -to my readers a typical American lad, of -strong moral qualities, and told of many of the -things which happened to him during a term at -an American boarding school of to-day. Such a -school is a little world in itself, and Dave made -both friends and enemies, and aided one weak -and misguided youth to a realization of his better -self.</p> - -<p>The great cloud over Dave's life was the question -of his parentage. His enemies called him "a -poorhouse nobody," which hurt him to the quick. -At length he made a discovery which led him to -begin a search for his missing relatives, and in the -second volume of this series, entitled "Dave Porter -in the South Seas," we followed the lad on a most -unusual voyage, in a quarter of our globe but little -known. Here Dave met his uncle, and learned - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_iv" id="Page_iv">[iv]</a></span> - -something of himself and his father and sister, -which pleased him immensely.</p> - -<p>In the present volume the scene is shifted back to -Oak Hall, where Dave goes to finish his preparation -for college. His friends are still with him, -and likewise his enemies, and what the various -students do I leave for the pages that follow to relate. -In all his trials Dave stands up for what is -honest and true, and in this his example is well -worth following.</p> - -<p>Again I thank the many young people who have -taken an interest in my efforts to amuse and instruct -them. I hope this volume may prove to -their liking and do them good.</p> - -<p class="right"> -<span class="smcap">Edward Stratemeyer. </span></p> - -<p><span style="margin-left:2em;"><i>Washington's Birthday, 1907.</i></span></p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_v" id="Page_v">[v]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CONTENTS" id="CONTENTS"></a>CONTENTS</h2> -</div> - -<table summary="contents"> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">CHAPTER</td> -<td class="tdl"> </td> -<td class="tdr">PAGE</td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">I.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">At the Railroad Station</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_I">1</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">II.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">Something of the Past</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_II">11</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">III.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">Dave's Return to Oak Hall</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_III">20</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">IV.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">In the Dormitory</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_IV">29</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">V.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">Something of a Mystery</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_V">38</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">VI.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">Job Haskers's Bad Night</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_VI">47</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">VII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">A Challenge Accepted</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_VII">57</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">VIII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">The Rivals of Oak Hall</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">66</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">IX.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">The End of the Game</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_IX">76</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">X.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">All on Account of a Kite</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_X">86</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XI.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">At the Widow Fairchild's House</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XI">95</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">At Work in the Dark</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XII">105</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XIII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">In the Hands of the Enemy</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">115</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XIV.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">Carried Off</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">125</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XV.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">Off for the Game</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XV">134</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XVI.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">The Great Football Game</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">143</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XVII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">How the Game Ended</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">153</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XVIII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">A Funny Initiation</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">163</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XIX.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">Almost Scared to Death</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">173</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XX.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">A Student's Strange Disappearance</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XX">182</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXI.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">The Cavern in the Woods</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">191</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">A Boy and a Motor Cycle</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">201</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXIII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">What a Runaway Led To</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">211</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXIV.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">More Plans than One</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV">220</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXV.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">The Fight in the Gymnasium</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXV">229</a> -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_vi" id="Page_vi">[Pg vi]</a></span></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXVI.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">The Disappearance of Nick Jasniff</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI">239</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXVII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">What Happened at Rockville</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII">249</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXVIII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">An Ice-Boat Race</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVIII">259</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXIX.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">The Cabin on the Island</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIX">269</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXX.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">Dave's Heroism</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXX">279</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXXI.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">Gus Plum's Confession</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXI">289</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXXII.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">The Medal of Honor—Conclusion</span></td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXII">297</a></td> -</tr> -</table> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_vii" id="Page_vii">[Pg vii]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="ILLUSTRATIONS" id="ILLUSTRATIONS"></a>ILLUSTRATIONS.</h2> -</div> - -<table summary="illustrations"> - -<tr> -<td class="tdl"> </td> -<td class="tdr">PAGE</td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdl">The <i>Snowbird</i> continued to forge ahead.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Frontispiece"><i>Frontispiece</i></a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdl">Dave began to mount the improvised rope.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Dave_began_to_mount">50</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdl">Carl was made to bow until his nose touched the floor.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Carl_was_made_to_bow">166</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="tdl">He made one wild leap forward.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#He_made_one_wild_leap">288</a></td> -</tr> - -</table> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[1]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="xxlarge center">DAVE PORTER'S RETURN<br /> -TO SCHOOL</p> -</div> - -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a>CHAPTER I<br /><br /> -<span class="small">AT THE RAILROAD STATION</span></h2> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"Here</span></span> comes the train, fellows!"</p> - -<p>"I hope Dave Porter is on board."</p> - -<p>"He will be, and Ben Basswood too. Ben wrote -to me that they were coming to-day."</p> - -<p>"I wonder if Dave will be glad to get back to -Oak Hall, Lazy?"</p> - -<p>"Why not?" returned Sam Day, a big, round-faced -youth, with a shock of curly hair hanging -over his forehead. "Didn't we have fine times -when he was here last term?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, but——" Maurice Hamilton paused to -glance at the train that had rolled into the Oakdale -station. "There they are, sure enough! -Hurrah!"</p> - -<p>The train had come to a stop and a dozen or -more passengers alighted. In the crowd were two -boys, each carrying a dress-suit case. Both were - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[2]</a></span> - -tall, well-built, and manly-looking. The one in the -lead had a face full of merriment and earnest eyes -that were rather out of the ordinary.</p> - -<p>"Dave!" cried Maurice Hamilton, rushing up -and catching the youth addressed by the hand. -"You don't know how glad I am to see you!"</p> - -<p>"Same here, Shadow," responded Dave Porter, -and gave the other boy's hand a squeeze that made -the lad wince.</p> - -<p>"Whoa, Dave! I want to use that hand -again!" cried Shadow, as he was familiarly called. -"Not so hard."</p> - -<p>"And how are you, Lazy?" went on Dave Porter, -turning to the other boy on the platform. -"Active as ever?" And he smiled brightly.</p> - -<p>"No, it has been dead slow since you and Roger -and Phil went away," answered Sam Day. "How -are you, Ben?" he added, to the second youth from -the train. "I hope you've come back to stir things -up."</p> - -<p>"Oh, Dave will stir 'em up, don't you worry," -replied Ben Basswood. "He feels like a two-year-old -colt since—well, you know," he added, in a -lower voice.</p> - -<p>"Any one would," responded Sam Day, heartily. -"My, but what a trip you must have had to the -South Seas!" he added, to Dave. "Wish I had -been along!"</p> - -<p>"Every one of our crowd has been wishing - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[3]</a></span> - -that," said Shadow Hamilton. "When you're -settled down, and have time, you must tell us all -about it, Dave."</p> - -<p>"I certainly will. Have you seen anything of -Phil and Roger yet?"</p> - -<p>"They are coming to-morrow."</p> - -<p>"Good. All the others here?"</p> - -<p>"All but Polly Vane and Luke Watson. Polly -had to go to his aunt's wedding, and Luke had to -go around by way of Albany, on business for his -father. But the whole crowd will be on hand by -the end of the week."</p> - -<p>"And what of Gus Plum and Nat Poole and -that crowd?" asked Ben Basswood, with a shade -of anxiety in his voice.</p> - -<p>"Oh, they are around, as lordly as ever. But -say, wasn't Plum taken down when he heard that -Dave had found some relatives and was rich! He -wouldn't believe it at first; said it was a fake."</p> - -<p>"But it is true," cried Ben Basswood, his face -glowing. "Dave's folks are rich. I don't know -but that Dave is the richest boy at Oak Hall now."</p> - -<p>"Oh, come, let us talk about something else," -said Dave, blushing in spite of himself. "Where's -the carryall?"</p> - -<p>"Here you are, gents!" cried a voice from the -end of the platform, and Jackson Lemond, the -driver from Oak Hall, appeared. He got down -on one knee and made a profound bow to Dave. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[4]</a></span> - -"Hope I see you well, Lord Porter," he went on, -humbly.</p> - -<p>"Lord Porter?" queried Dave, in bewilderment.</p> - -<p>"Hush!" whispered Sam Day, quickly. "Some -of the fellows told Horsehair you were a real, live -lord now, and he believes it."</p> - -<p>"But I am not," cried Dave, and burst out -laughing. "Up with you, Horsehair, or you'll -get your knee dirty."</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir, yes, sir," answered the driver, nervously. -"Will—er—will Lord Porter sit on the -front seat, or——"</p> - -<p>"A lord always drives himself," answered -Shadow Hamilton, with a grin. "Horsehair, -you'll have to sit on the back spring."</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir, but—er——" The driver of the -carryall paused. "Any more boys?"</p> - -<p>"Look here, fellows," interrupted Dave, throwing -his dress-suit case on the top of the carryall. -"I like fun as well as anybody, but making out I'm -a lord is—well, it's something I don't like. Even -though my folks may have a little money I want -to be just as I used to be."</p> - -<p>"Ain't you no lord?" gasped the carryall driver.</p> - -<p>"Of course not—I'm a plain, everyday American -boy."</p> - -<p>"Well, I'll be switched! Them young gents -told me as how you was a real lord, an' was coming - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[5]</a></span> - -to the school with four colored servants, an' a -whole lot more."</p> - -<p>"And now Dave has spoiled it all," said Shadow -Hamilton, with a ponderous sigh. "Puts me in -mind of a story I once heard about a——"</p> - -<p>"Yarn No. 1," interrupted Ben. "I thought -you'd begin to tell 'em as soon as we arrived. You -have 'em bottled up, and unless you pulled the cork -now and then I suppose you'd explode."</p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind of another story, -about a——"</p> - -<p>"Wait till we are on our way to the Hall," cried -Sam Day. "All in!" And one after another the -schoolboys piled into the big carryall which was to -take them to Oak Hall. The turnout was just -about to start when there came a cry from the -other end of the station, and two youths appeared, -each loudly dressed, one somewhat after the manner -of a dude and the other in the style of a sport. -Each carried a small parcel, showing he had come -down to the town to do some shopping.</p> - -<p>"Gus Plum and Nat Poole!" whispered Ben, -and his face fell. "I hope they don't want to ride -with us."</p> - -<p>"That is what they are going to do," answered -Dave. "I am sorry myself, but it can't be helped."</p> - -<p>"Jump in if you are going along," cried the Hall -driver.</p> - -<p>"Who have you got?" sang out Gus Plum, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[6]</a></span> - -rather roughly. He came closer with his companion -and stared at those in the carryall. -"Humph!"</p> - -<p>"How do you do, Plum?" said Dave, politely. -He knew Gus Plum to be the bully of the school, -but he had determined to be perfectly fair to all.</p> - -<p>"Humph!" murmured the bully again. "Got -back, eh?"</p> - -<p>"I have."</p> - -<p>"Humph!"</p> - -<p>"Going to cut a fearful swath, I presume," said -Nat Poole, who was the bully's close crony.</p> - -<p>Dave's face flushed. He had anticipated trouble, -but had not expected it to come so soon. A -sharp answer came to his lips, but he suppressed it -and remained silent.</p> - -<p>"Don't start in now, Plum!" cried Ben. "If -you are going to the Hall say so and get in."</p> - -<p>"I'll go to the Hall when I feel like it," growled -the bully. It was plain to see that he was in an -unusually bad humor.</p> - -<p>"Well, we are not going to wait for you to make -up your mind," said Shadow Hamilton. As we -shall learn later, he had good reasons for counting -Gus Plum his enemy. "Are you going, or are you -not?"</p> - -<p>"See here, Hamilton, you can't boss me!" roared -the bully. "I'll get in when I please."</p> - -<p>"The carryall has got to wait for us," added - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[7]</a></span> - -Nat Poole, maliciously. "Dr. Clay said we could -come back in it."</p> - -<p>"Then come on," said Sam Day.</p> - -<p>"We are not through with our errands yet," -answered Gus Plum, and winked in secret at his -crony.</p> - -<p>"That's it—and the carryall has got to -wait till we are through," added Nat Poole, -quickly.</p> - -<p>"How long?" asked Dave, looking sharply at -Plum and Poole.</p> - -<p>"Oh, about half an hour," answered the bully, -carelessly.</p> - -<p>"This is a shame," muttered Sam Day. -"Horsehair, can't you come back for them?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly," answered the driver.</p> - -<p>"Then off we go!" cried Shadow Hamilton. -"I'd rather ride without them anyway," he whispered.</p> - -<p>"Hi! stop!" roared Gus Plum. "If you drive -to the Hall you won't be back for an hour and a -half or more. You've got to wait for us."</p> - -<p>At this bold announcement there was silence all -around. The students in the carryall looked at -Dave, as he was their natural leader.</p> - -<p>"There are four of us who want to get to the -Hall without unnecessary delay," said Dave, -steadily. "Either you can go along now, or wait -till Horsehair comes back."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[8]</a></span></p> - -<p>"That's the talk," came promptly from Dave's -chums.</p> - -<p>"So you are going to play the master, are you?" -blustered Gus Plum. "Going to rule the roost, -eh? and make everybody bow low to you, -eh?"</p> - -<p>"Nothing of the kind, Plum. I merely -wish——"</p> - -<p>"Oh, I know! You've talked soft to me before, -and soft to Nat, too! I suppose you think -now you have money you can do anything here. -Well, it don't go—not with me anyway, and I want -to give you fair warning right now, at the very -start. I want you to understand——"</p> - -<p>"Plum, don't talk so loud, you are drawing a -crowd," whispered Ben. "Dave is all right, and -you know it."</p> - -<p>"Humph! I want him to understand——"</p> - -<p>"Plum, listen to me," said Dave, leaning out of -the carryall and facing the bully squarely. "I intended -to have a talk with you later, but since you -are so insistent we may as well have it out right -now. When it was decided that I should come -back to Oak Hall I made up my mind to do my -best to keep out of trouble and stick closely to my -lessons. I also made up my mind to steer clear of -you, and Nat Poole, and all the others of your -crowd, and I was going to ask you to leave me -alone. I want absolutely nothing to do with any - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[9]</a></span> - -of you, and I don't want any of you to go around -talking behind my back, as you have been doing -in the past. You know I could do some talking on -my own account if I wanted to, but I prefer to keep -silent. Now then, are you willing to meet me on -those terms or not?"</p> - -<p>"Humph!"</p> - -<p>"That is no answer."</p> - -<p>"You can't bully me."</p> - -<p>"You are the bully and always have been, and -you know it."</p> - -<p>"That's the truth," said Sam Day.</p> - -<p>"Plum, you've got to take a back seat, and the -sooner you do it the better off you'll be," added -Shadow.</p> - -<p>"Exactly what I say," was Ben's comment.</p> - -<p>"All against me, just as you always were!" cried -Gus Plum, savagely. "But never mind! Just -you wait, that's all!" And he shook his fist as he -backed away.</p> - -<p>"You're a set of sneaks!" murmured Nat Poole, -as he too retreated. But he was careful to speak -in such a low tone that nobody in the carryall understood -him.</p> - -<p>"I don't want to ride with you; I'd rather walk," -went on the bully.</p> - -<p>"I'll come back for you two," said the driver, as -he took up the reins again. "Git up there!" he -cried to his team and snapped his whip. "Looks - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[10]</a></span> - -to me like there was trouble in the air," he continued, -glancing first at the students left behind and -then at those in the carryall.</p> - -<p>"I am afraid you are right," answered Dave, -soberly.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[11]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a>CHAPTER II -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">SOMETHING OF THE PAST</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">Once</span></span> again Dave Porter was brought face to -face with the troubles which he had hoped had -been put behind him forever. He had expected -to have the best kind of a time on returning to Oak -Hall, and here were his old enemies, Gus Plum -and Nat Poole, ready to do all in their power to -make his schooldays miserable.</p> - -<p>To those who have read "Dave Porter at Oak -Hall" Dave needs no special introduction. In -that volume was related how the boy was found -when a little child wandering along the railroad -tracks just outside of the village of Crumville, and -turned over to the poorhouse authorities. Every -effort to establish his identity failed, and when he -grew up he was taken in by a broken-down college -professor, Caspar Potts, who had turned farmer.</p> - -<p>The old professor did what he could for the -youth, but his farm was mortgaged to a hard-hearted -money lender, Aaron Poole, the father of -Nat Poole, just introduced. Aaron Poole would -have sold the old man out had not aid come from - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[12]</a></span> - -an unexpected quarter. There was an automobile -accident, and Dave succeeded in saving the life of -a little girl, Jessie Wadsworth. For this the -Wadsworth family were very grateful, and when -it was learned that Caspar Potts was one of Mr. -Oliver Wadsworth's former college professors, the -rich manufacturer took the old professor to live -with him, and also took care of the mortgage. -Then, for his bravery, and because Dave reminded -him of a dead son, Mr. Wadsworth resolved to -send the youth to a boarding school and give him a -thorough education.</p> - -<p>Oak Hall was the institution selected, an ideal -place of learning, located not a great distance from -the town of Oakdale, in one of our New England -States. The buildings were substantial and surrounded -by beautiful grounds sloping down to the -Leming River. Stately oaks grew on the grounds -and in that vicinity, giving the school its name.</p> - -<p>Dave had but one boy friend in Crumville, Ben -Basswood, who also went to Oak Hall, but the lad -was not slow to make other acquaintances, some of -whom became his closest chums. Among the number -were Roger Morr, the son of a United States -senator; Phil Lawrence, whose father was a ship-owner; -Joseph Beggs, usually called Buster because -he was so fat; and Sam Day and "Shadow" Hamilton, -already introduced.</p> - -<p>For a time all went well and the poorhouse boy - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[13]</a></span> - -was happy. But then came trouble with Gus Plum -the bully, and with Nat Poole, who also became a -student at the Hall. Poole told everybody that -Dave was a "poorhouse nobody," and Plum -taunted him, with the result that there was a fight, -in which Dave came off the victor. But this only -angered the bully the more, and he vowed to "get -square" sooner or later.</p> - -<p>"I'll take it out of the poorhouse whelp," he -said to Chip Macklin, a small youth who was his -toady, and laid his plot with care. But the plan -miscarried, and when Dave learned the truth he -gave Chip Macklin such a talking to that the small -boy resolved to have nothing more to do with the -bully. Macklin turned over a new leaf, and was now -hailed as "a pretty decent sort of chap" by those -who had formerly despised him. Then Plum did -something which got Shadow Hamilton into serious -trouble, stealing a collection of valuable postage -stamps belonging to the master of the school, -which poor Shadow had hidden when he was sleep-walking. -This base action was also brought to -light, and the bully came near being expelled from -the Hall.</p> - -<p>The question of his parentage was ever in -Dave's mind, and when he gained what he thought -was a clew he followed it up as promptly as possible. -An old sailor named Billy Dill declared -that he knew Dave or somebody that looked exactly - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[14]</a></span> - -like him, only older. This unknown individual -was on an island in the South Seas, and the youth -arranged to visit that portion of the globe in one -of the ships belonging to Phil Lawrence's father. -Phil, and Roger Morr, went with him, and also -Billy Dill, the necessary funds for the trip being -furnished by Oliver Wadsworth.</p> - -<p>As related in the second volume of this series, -"Dave Porter in the South Seas," the voyage of the -<i>Stormy Petrel</i> proved to be a decidedly strange -one. Fearful storms were encountered, and a portion -of the crew, led by a dishonest supercargo and -a mate, tried to run off with the vessel, leaving -Dave, his chums, the captain, and some others, on -an uninhabited island. But in the end the vessel -was retaken, and Dave reached the place for which -he was bound.</p> - -<p>A great and happy surprise awaited the youth. -He came face to face with a Mr. Dunston Porter, -who proved to be the boy's uncle. Mr. Porter -was rich and was wandering around the islands of -the Pacific looking for a treasure said to have been -buried by the natives years before. The uncle -told Dave that he was the son of a twin brother, -David Breslow Porter. Dave's mother was dead, -but there was a sister Laura, one year younger than -Dave. Mr. David Porter and his daughter Laura -were now in Europe, traveling for the former's -health. Dave had been stolen from his parents - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[15]</a></span> - -by a crazy nurse, and because of this Mr. Porter -never went anywhere without taking Laura with -him. There was a good deal of money in the -family, a fair share of which would rightfully fall -to Dave when he became of age.</p> - -<p>As was but natural, Dave was impatient to meet -his father and his sister. He and the others journeyed -back to the United States, and various messages -were sent, to Mr. David Porter and to -friends at Crumville. Then Dave and his uncle -journeyed to the Wadsworth home, where they -were warmly received.</p> - -<p>At first the message forwarded to Dave's father -in Europe brought no reply, but at last came back -an answer from the keeper of a hotel in Paris -where Mr. Porter and Laura had been stopping. -This said that the Porters had departed some weeks -before for an extended trip to Norway, after which -they expected to sail for New York, to which place -all mail was to be addressed. Where the two -travelers were at the present time there was no -telling.</p> - -<p>"Dave, this is hard luck," said the boy's uncle, -on receiving the news. "I don't know what to do -except to wait."</p> - -<p>"Can't we send letters to different cities in Norway?" -returned the youth. "I want to meet my -father and my sister so much!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, we can try that," answered Dunston Porter, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[16]</a></span> - -and the letters were sent without delay; but so -far no answers had been received.</p> - -<p>Oak Hall had opened for the fall term, and -after some discussion it was decided that Dave -should return to that school until some word was -received from his father. In the meanwhile Mr. -Dunston Porter became the guest of Mr. Wadsworth.</p> - -<p>Outside of the fact that he was impatient to meet -his father and his sister face to face, Dave was -very light-hearted when he and Ben Basswood left -Crumville on their journey to Oakdale. Being a -"poorhouse nobody" was now a thing of the past, -and he felt relieved to think that no one could -again taunt him regarding his parentage. More -than this, he was now in the care of an uncle who -was kind and loving to the last degree, and he was -provided with all the money he needed, and it was -"his own money," as he told himself with great -satisfaction.</p> - -<p>He had already met some of his chums since returning -from the South Seas—boys who had -stopped off at Crumville while on their railroad -journey to Oakdale. All had congratulated him -on his luck and wished him well.</p> - -<p>But Nat Poole had not been happy over Dave's -good fortune. They had met at the local post-office, -and Poole had made some undertoned remarks -that did not please Dave in the least. As a - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[17]</a></span> - -matter of fact Nat Poole, even though fairly well-to-do -himself, envied Dave because of his riches.</p> - -<p>"Wait and see how he tries to lord it over us -when he comes back," said Nat Poole to Gus Plum, -when the two met at Oak Hall. "I suppose he -will put on such airs there will be no living with -him. And he will do what he can to buy all the -other fellows over to him."</p> - -<p>"He shan't lord it over me, or buy me over -either," answered the bully. His tone was very -bitter, because of the fact that his own position in -life seemed to be going down. His father had -lost money steadily during the past year, and it was -now almost a question whether Gus should continue -at school or leave and go to work.</p> - -<p>"It made me sick to see how Crumville folks -bowed and smiled to him," went on Nat Poole. -"When he was nobody they wouldn't notice him—now -they tumble over each other to shake him by -the hand."</p> - -<p>"But has he really got so much money?"</p> - -<p>"They say so—but I don't believe it."</p> - -<p>"Does he dress any better than he used to?"</p> - -<p>"Hardly a bit better. If that uncle of his has -the rocks I guess he is miserly about using any."</p> - -<p>"Then maybe Dave won't have so very much -spending money," said Gus Plum, his face brightening -a bit.</p> - -<p>"I don't know anything about that. But I do - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[18]</a></span> - -know it makes me sick to think he is coming here -to show off in front of all of us."</p> - -<p>Gus Plum looked around cautiously. The pair -were in their dormitory and nobody else was within -hearing.</p> - -<p>"Nat, we hung together last term and we had -better hang together this term too," he whispered.</p> - -<p>"What do you mean—against Porter and his -crowd?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"I'll do that quick enough."</p> - -<p>"We must find some way to throw him off his -high horse."</p> - -<p>"Well, we don't want to get pinched doing it."</p> - -<p>"We won't get pinched—if we do the thing -right."</p> - -<p>"I'm willing to do anything that can be done to -make him eat humble pie."</p> - -<p>"I owe him a whole lot—and so do you," continued -the bully of Oak Hall, bitterly. "Don't -you remember how he treated us at the athletic -contests, and down at the boathouse? It makes -me boil every time I think of it!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, and the tricks he and his cronies played -on us," returned Nat Poole. "Gus, I'll do anything—so -long as we are not caught at it."</p> - -<p>"I'd like to fix him so he'd be disgraced before -the whole school." Gus Plum's voice sank to a -hoarse whisper.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[19]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Can we do it?"</p> - -<p>"Maybe we can," was the answer.</p> - -<p>And there and then, two days before Dave got -back to Oak Hall, these two unworthies plotted to -disgrace him and leave a smirch upon his fair -name.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[20]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a>CHAPTER III -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">DAVE'S RETURN TO OAK HALL</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">The</span></span> carryall containing Dave and his friends -soon left Oakdale behind and was bowling swiftly -along over the smooth highway leading to Oak -Hall. The boys were all inside, leaving the driver -to manage his team in any way that suited him. -Usually they loved to torment Horsehair, as they -called him, but now they had other matters on their -minds.</p> - -<p>"The same old Plum," said Ben, with a sigh. -"Doesn't it make one weary to listen to him?"</p> - -<p>"Better try to forget him, and Nat Poole too," -answered Dave.</p> - -<p>"That is easier said than done," said Shadow -Hamilton. "Which puts me in mind of a story. -There was once——"</p> - -<p>"He is bound to tell 'em," came, with a groan, -from Sam Day.</p> - -<p>"Never mind; go ahead, Shadow," said Dave. -"Sam said you could start in after we were on -board, and I'd rather hear a story than discuss -Plum and Poole."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[21]</a></span></p> - -<p>"You were talking about forgetting Plum. One -day a boy got into his mother's pantry and stole -some preserved plums. When the plums were -found missing the boy's mother caught him and -cuffed his ears in good style. Then the boy went -outside and his chum told him to stop crying. -'Forget that your mother cuffed you,' said the other -boy. 'I ain't thinkin' of that,' answered the boy -who had stolen the plums. 'Then stop crying.' -'I can't.' 'Why not?' asks the other boy. 'Because -the plums was hot an' I kin feel 'em all along -my throat yit.'" And at this anecdote a smile -passed around.</p> - -<p>"I suppose football is being talked about," observed -Ben, after a brief pause.</p> - -<p>"Yes, some of the boys are playing already," answered -Sam Day. "I have been waiting for -Roger to get back. He was captain of our eleven -last season, you'll remember."</p> - -<p>"Yes, and you were right tackle."</p> - -<p>"Do you suppose we'll get another challenge -from the Rockville Military Academy?"</p> - -<p>"Sure we will," burst out Shadow. "They'll -want to wipe out the defeat of last year."</p> - -<p>"Gus Plum has organized a football team of his -own," observed Sam. "He has got Poole and a -lot of new students in it. They call themselves the -Arrows, and one boy told me they were going to -have suits with arrows embroidered on them."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[22]</a></span></p> - -<p>"By the way, what of Chip Macklin?" asked -Dave.</p> - -<p>"He is around and as bright as a button," answered -Sam. "It is simply wonderful what a -change there is in that chap since he cut away from -Plum."</p> - -<p>"Oh, look at the apples!" cried out Ben, as the -carryall made a turn in the road. He pointed to a -tree in a field loaded with the fruit. "Wish I had -one."</p> - -<p>"You won't get any there," declared Shadow. -"That's Mike Marcy's field and he keeps any number -of dogs."</p> - -<p>"Well, I never!" burst out Sam, feeling down -under the seat. "If you hadn't spoken I should -have forgotten them entirely." He brought out a -bag containing a dozen big red apples. "I bought -them while we were waiting for the train. Here, -boys, help yourselves." And he passed them -around.</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Sam," said Dave, as he bit into one -of the apples. "This is fine." And the others -said the same.</p> - -<p>Each had his story to tell, and Sam and Shadow -listened with eager interest while Dave told of his -long trip across the Pacific, and his many adventures -since he had left the academy.</p> - -<p>"Sounds almost like a fairy tale," declared Sam. -"I'd like to see something of the world myself."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[23]</a></span></p> - -<p>The carryall made another turn and came in -sight of the river, dotted here and there with small -craft. Along the shore grew some bushes and a -few trees.</p> - -<p>"I see some of the fellows are out rowing," observed -Dave. "I'd like to go out myself some -day, before it gets too cold."</p> - -<p>The carryall was passing a point where the road -was considerably higher than the surface of the -stream. Dave had bitten into a second apple, that -proved to be wormy. Now he leaned out of the -carryall and sent the fruit spinning down through -the bushes toward the river.</p> - -<p>"Hi! hi!" came back a voice from the shore -below. "Who hit me?"</p> - -<p>"Gracious, I must have hit somebody!" exclaimed -Dave. "I didn't mean to do it."</p> - -<p>"What's the matter?" demanded the driver, -pulling his team in.</p> - -<p>"You needn't stop," answered Ben. "Dave -threw an apple away, that's all."</p> - -<p>"I've got to fix the harness—there's a strap -loose," went on Lemond, and leaped to the ground. -He was at work when a man appeared, climbing up -the river bank through the bushes. It was Job -Haskers, one of the assistant teachers at the -Hall, the only instructor the students did not -like.</p> - -<p>"Ha! so some of you played a trick on me, eh?" - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[24]</a></span> - -fumed Job Haskers, as he emerged upon the road -and strode toward the carryall. "Nice doings, I -must say!"</p> - -<p>"Did the apple hit you, Mr. Haskers?" asked -Dave, mildly.</p> - -<p>"Did it hit me? I should say it did, right on -top of the head."</p> - -<p>"I am sorry, sir."</p> - -<p>"So you threw it, Porter. I am amazed that -you would dare do such a thing."</p> - -<p>"I didn't know you were down there—in fact, I -didn't know anybody was there."</p> - -<p>"A likely story," sneered the teacher, who was -very often hot-headed and unreasonable.</p> - -<p>"I am telling the truth, sir," and Dave's face -flushed.</p> - -<p>"I cannot go out for a quiet stroll by the river -side but somebody must hit me in the head with a -hard apple," growled the instructor. "Have you -just arrived?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"You ought to be more careful of what you are -doing."</p> - -<p>"As I said before, I didn't know anybody was -down there."</p> - -<p>"I presume you didn't want to see me." The -teacher turned to all of the boys. "Where did you -get those apples?" he asked, suspiciously.</p> - -<p>"I bought them in Oakdale," answered Sam.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[25]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Haven't been stopping at some orchard on the -way?"</p> - -<p>"You may ask Mr. Cassello, the fruit man, if -you don't believe me," and Sam drew himself up.</p> - -<p>"Well, be more careful after this, or you'll hear -from me!" answered Job Haskers, and strode off -down the road in a thoroughly bad humor.</p> - -<p>"Phew! but we are catching it all along the -line," was Ben's comment. "First Plum and -Poole, and now Haskers. Wonder what we'll -strike next?"</p> - -<p>"I didn't mean to hit anybody," said Dave. -"How peppery he is!"</p> - -<p>"And he thinks we took the apples from some -orchard," added Sam.</p> - -<p>"Well, such things have happened," observed -Ben, with a grin.</p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind of another story," said -Shadow. "There was a little boy, and his mother -had been away nearly all day. 'Mamma,' said he -when she came home, 'can I have two apples?' -'Won't one do?' she asked. 'No, I want two.' -'Very well,' said his mother. Then she saw him -go to the basket and get one apple. 'I thought -you wanted two,' she remarked. 'Oh,' he -answered, 'I had the other one this morning!'"</p> - -<p>Sam burst out laughing and so did the others. -"I see the drift of that," said Sam. "You haven't - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[26]</a></span> - -forgotten when we went to Japlet's orchard after -apples——"</p> - -<p>"And the bull cornered Sam," said Ben. "Don't -forget that, Sam."</p> - -<p>"Nevertheless, Haskers is hard on us, and he -had no business to call Dave down as he did, just -for throwing the apple into the bushes."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps he has found out something about that -ram and how he got up in his room," whispered -Ben, and then a laugh went up, in the midst of -which the driver started up the carryall and the -journey to Oak Hall was resumed.</p> - -<p>Dave was on the watch, to catch his first sight of -the school. They were passing through a bit of -woodland. Now they made a turn, and rolled out -in front of a broad campus lined on either side with -a boxwood hedge. At each corner of the campus -were clumps of monstrous oaks, the leaves of which -had just begun to turn, and at the entrance were -more of the same kind of trees.</p> - -<p>The school itself was a thoroughly up-to-date -structure, of brick and stone, laid out in the shape -of a broad cross. The classrooms, the office, and -the dining hall and kitchen were on the ground -floor and the dormitories and private bedrooms -and the bathrooms were above. Off to one side of -the campus was the gymnasium, and down by the -river were a boathouse and a row of bathing -houses.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[27]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Hurrah! Here we are at last!" cried Dave, -and his heart gave a bound.</p> - -<p>"Let us give 'em the old song, boys!" cried Sam -Day, who was a good singer, and he at once started -up the following, to the tune of "Auld Lang -Syne":</p> - -<div class="center"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="poem"> - <div class="stanza"> - <span class="i1">"Oak Hall we never shall forget,</span> - <span class="i2">No matter where we roam;</span> - <span class="i1">It is the very best of schools,</span> - <span class="i2">To us it's just like home.</span> - <span class="i1">Then give three cheers, and let them ring</span> - <span class="i2">Throughout this world so wide,</span> - <span class="i1">To let the people know that we</span> - <span class="i2">Elect to here abide!"</span> -</div> -</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>They sang with a will, and when they had -finished they added the old academy cry:</p> - -<div class="center"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="poem"> -<div class="stanza"> - <span class="i1-5">"Baseball!</span> - <span class="i2">Football!</span> - <span class="i2">Oak Hall</span> - <span class="i2">Has the call!</span> - <span class="i0">Biff! Boom! Bang! Whoop!"</span> -</div> -</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>"Hello! hello!" sang out a dozen voices from -the campus. "Here come some more of the old -students!"</p> - -<p>"There's Dave Porter and Ben Basswood!"</p> - -<p>"Hello, Dave, how do you feel after traveling -across the Pacific?"</p> - -<p>"Bring any of those South Sea Islanders with -you?"</p> - -<p>"Mighty glad to see you back, old man!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[28]</a></span></p> - -<p>So the cries rang on, as Dave and the others left -the carryall. Dave was surrounded, and half a -dozen tried to shake hands at once.</p> - -<p>"We want you on the football team, Dave," -said one.</p> - -<p>"I'm glad to know you found your folks," added -another.</p> - -<p>"You've come back to stay now, haven't you?" -asked a third.</p> - -<p>Dave shook hands all around. As the school -song had it, the place felt just like home. For the -time being his heart was lighter than ever, and his -return to Oak Hall filled him with more pleasure -than words can express.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[29]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a>CHAPTER IV -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">IN THE DORMITORY</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">It</span></span> took Dave several days to settle down and -during that time he heard but little from Gus Plum -and Nat Poole, who prudently kept their distance, -awaiting the time when they might do Dave some -injury.</p> - -<p>During those days Roger Morr and Phil Lawrence -arrived, both hale and hearty from their trip -with Dave across the Pacific. The senator's son -had spent two days in Washington with his father, -while Phil had been settling up some affairs with -his parent regarding the cargo of the <i>Stormy -Petrel</i>.</p> - -<p>"This is certainly like old times," remarked -Roger, as the crowd sat in their dormitory. "I -hope we have as much sport as we did last -season."</p> - -<p>"We will have, don't worry," answered Phil.</p> - -<p>"Provided Job Haskers doesn't stop us," said -Buster Beggs, who was lying across one of the -beds. "Tell you what, boys, he is sharp on this - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[30]</a></span> - -term. Yesterday he caught me writing on the -boathouse wall and he made me write 'chirography' -five hundred times."</p> - -<p>"Well, that's a good way to improve your handwriting," -answered Dave, with a smile. "I've -done a little of that sort of thing myself."</p> - -<p>"He kept me in two hours yesterday, when I -wanted to play football," growled Shadow Hamilton. -"It was a burning shame."</p> - -<p>"But what did you do?" questioned Roger.</p> - -<p>"Oh, nothing much. Nat Poole was coming -down the aisle and he made a face at me. I -happened to stretch out my leg and Poole tripped -and went flat. Then old Haskers said it was all -my fault."</p> - -<p>"And what did Poole say?" asked Sam, with -interest.</p> - -<p>"Oh, he threatened to punch me good—but he -didn't do it. He started to quarrel after school, -but Gus Plum called him off."</p> - -<p>"Well, that was queer," observed Dave. "Generally -Gus is out for a fight."</p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind of a story," came from -Shadow. "A little——"</p> - -<p>"Narrative No. 206," broke in Sam.</p> - -<p>"You shan't keep me from telling it," went on -Shadow, calmly. "A little man——"</p> - -<p>"How small?" asked Roger, with a wink at the -others.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[31]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Oh, that hasn't anything to do with it. A little -man once met another man——"</p> - -<p>"Was the other man small, too?" questioned -Phil, seriously.</p> - -<p>"Never mind if he was or not. A little man -once met another man who had a big bulldog with -him——"</p> - -<p>"What was the color of the bulldog?" asked -Dave.</p> - -<p>"What color? See here, I——"</p> - -<p>"When you tell a story, Shadow, give us the details, -by all means. Was he white or black, red or -yellow? Or maybe he was cream-color, or sky-pink, -or——"</p> - -<p>"He was—er—he was a regular bulldog color. -Well, this man——"</p> - -<p>"Sort of a brownish blue, with a dash of crimson -and violet," suggested Phil.</p> - -<p>"He was a regular common, everyday bulldog, -only he was very big and very savage."</p> - -<p>"Muzzled, of course," came from Roger. -"Bulldogs always are."</p> - -<p>"I saw one once that wasn't," added Buster -Beggs.</p> - -<p>"Some of 'em wear silver-plated muzzles," observed -Sam.</p> - -<p>"Do you mean to say this bulldog had a silver-plated -muzzle?" demanded Dave, turning to -Shadow.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[32]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Who in creation said he had a muzzle?" cried -the would-be story-teller. "I said——"</p> - -<p>"I know you did, Shadow dear," said Luke -Watson, who sat on a low stool with his banjo in -his lap, tuning up. "Don't let them sidetrack you, -or the bulldog either."</p> - -<p>"What I want to know is this," said Phil, impressively. -"Were those men white or black? -That may have a very important bearing on the -moral of the tale."</p> - -<p>"See here, if you don't want to hear the -story——" began Shadow, half angrily.</p> - -<p>"We do! we do!" came from several at once.</p> - -<p>"We are dying for you to finish," said Roger. -"Now start up again. A small bulldog once came -along, leading a big, fierce man——"</p> - -<p>"That's not right," broke in Buster. "A small -bulldog once met another bulldog leading a bulldog-colored -man who——"</p> - -<p>"Great Cæsar! That's as bad as the story of -the canner," broke in Sam. "The canner can eat -what he can and what he can't he can can, can't -he?" And a laugh went up.</p> - -<p>"I am going to tell this story if I die for it," -cried Shadow. "A small man—remember that—met -another man—remember that—with a big, -fierce bulldog—remember that. The small man -was afraid, but he didn't want to show it, so he said -to the man with the bulldog: 'Is that dog a valuable - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[33]</a></span> - -animal?' 'Yes,' says the other man. 'Well, -don't let him loose, then.' 'Why not?' 'Because -I don't like dogs and I might hurt him.' Now -there's the story, and you've got to swallow it -whether you want to or not."</p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind of a song," said Luke -Watson. "Sam, you know it, and can join in," -and he began, accompanying himself on the banjo:</p> - -<div class="center"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="poem"> - <div class="stanza"> - <span class="i1">"I love him, I love him,</span> - <span class="i2">He's down at the gate;</span> - <span class="i1">He's waiting to meet me</span> - <span class="i2">No matter how late.</span> - <span class="i1">He loves me so truly,</span> - <span class="i2">It fills me with joy</span> - <span class="i1">To hug him and kiss him—</span> - <span class="i2">My poodle dog, Floy!"</span> -</div> -</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>The song rang out clearly and sweetly, and when -the verse was repeated the others joined in. But -then came a knock at the door, and Jim Murphy, -the big-hearted monitor, appeared.</p> - -<p>"Hush! not so loud," he whispered, warningly. -"Haskers is coming upstairs." And then the -monitor disappeared again.</p> - -<p>"I know what that means," said Luke, and rising -he put his banjo away in a closet. "He -stopped me before—he shan't have the chance to -do it again."</p> - -<p>The boys had scarcely settled themselves when -Job Haskers appeared and gazed sharply around - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[34]</a></span> - -the dormitory. He found all the boys either writing -or studying.</p> - -<p>"Who is making that noise up here?" he demanded.</p> - -<p>To this there was no reply.</p> - -<p>"If I hear any more of it I shall punish everybody -in this room," added the assistant teacher, -and went out again, closing the door sharply after -him.</p> - -<p>"He's in an elegant humor to-night," was Phil's -comment. "Must have swallowed some tacks, or -a cup of vinegar."</p> - -<p>"He ought to be taken down a peg," said -Shadow, who had not forgotten how he had been -kept in. "I wish we could do something like last -term when we got Farmer Cadmore's ram up in -his room and——"</p> - -<p>"That's it," cried Buster. "Only it won't do -to try the same joke twice. We'll have to think up -something new. Polly, give us an idea."</p> - -<p>He turned to Bertram Vane, who sat at a table, -trying to write a composition. Bertram was very -girlish in appearance, hence the nickname.</p> - -<p>"Please don't bother me now," pleaded Polly. -"I want to finish this composition."</p> - -<p>"We want some idea to work off on Haskers. -Open up your knowledge box, Polly," came from -Phil.</p> - -<p>"Really I can't," returned the girlish student. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[35]</a></span> - -"I am writing a composition on Bats, and I -want——"</p> - -<p>"Baseball bats?" questioned Roger.</p> - -<p>"No, no, living bats. Their habits are very interesting, -and——"</p> - -<p>"Polly has solved the question for us!" exclaimed -Dave, and began to grin. "Just the thing! -Polly, have you written much yet?"</p> - -<p>"No, I hadn't the chance, with so much talking -going on."</p> - -<p>"Then you had better change your subject, for I -don't think Mr. Haskers will want to read a composition -on Bats to-morrow—not if the plan goes -through."</p> - -<p>"What is the plan?" came eagerly from several -of the others.</p> - -<p>"I just happened to remember that one of the -boys over at Lapham's farm has a cage full of bats -that he caught last week. He said he would sell -them for fifty cents. Perhaps Mr. Haskers would -be pleased to have them presented to him."</p> - -<p>"Whoop! We'll get those bats!" shouted -Phil.</p> - -<p>"And put them in his room," added Shadow.</p> - -<p>"And as we are modest we won't say where the -gift came from," remarked Sam.</p> - -<p>The plan was approved by everybody, even -Polly Vane smiling faintly.</p> - -<p>"Bats are very curious creatures," he observed. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[36]</a></span> - -"They fly in people's hair, and they can make one -very uncomfortable."</p> - -<p>The crowd talked the matter over, and it was -decided to get the bats at once, if it could be done. -As Dave knew the boy who had the creatures he -was commissioned to go after them, taking -Shadow and Roger along.</p> - -<p>It was still early, so the three lads had no difficulty -in getting out of the academy building. -They did not, however, dare to ask for permission -to leave the grounds, and so stole across the campus -to the gymnasium building, back of which they -vaulted the boxwood hedge. Close at hand was a -road leading through a patch of woods to the Lapham -farm, whither they were bound.</p> - -<p>"We have got to watch out, when we are coming -back," said the senator's son, as they trudged -along. "We don't want to get caught by Haskers, -or Dr. Clay either."</p> - -<p>"When we return one of us can go ahead and -see if the coast is clear," answered Dave. "It will -be all right unless somebody has been playing the -spy on us."</p> - -<p>"I didn't see anybody."</p> - -<p>"Neither did I, but I believe they are going to -enforce the rules more strictly than ever this season."</p> - -<p>It was a cool, clear night, with hundreds of stars -twinkling in the sky. They knew the road well, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[37]</a></span> - -having traveled it many times before. They left -the woods behind, and then came out on a small -hill, below which was the farm for which they were -bound.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps the Laphams are in bed," said -Shadow. "Some farmers go to bed mighty early."</p> - -<p>"I know it, especially when the days are short," -answered Dave. "Well, if the boy's asleep we'll -have to wake him up. I guess he'll be glad enough -to sell the bats. He said his mother didn't want -him to have them around."</p> - -<p>"I see a light in the house," said Roger, as they -drew closer. "Have they a dog?"</p> - -<p>"No."</p> - -<p>"Then we can go right up to the door and -knock."</p> - -<p>The three students entered the lane leading up -to the farmhouse. They saw a light flash up in -one lower room and then appear in the next. -While they were gazing it suddenly disappeared, -leaving the farmhouse in total darkness.</p> - -<p>"Evidently they are just going to bed," said -Dave. "Hurry up, before they get upstairs."</p> - -<p>He broke into a swift walk and the others did -the same. They were close to the front porch of -the house when they heard a shrill cry from within:</p> - -<p>"John! John! Wake up! There is somebody -in the house!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[38]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a>CHAPTER V -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">SOMETHING OF A MYSTERY</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"Did</span></span> you hear that?" asked the senator's son, -as he and his companions came to a halt on the -porch of the farmhouse.</p> - -<p>"I did, and there must be something wrong," -answered Dave.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps there are burglars around," said -Shadow. "I must say, I don't like this," he continued, -nervously.</p> - -<p>"There was a burglary in Oakdale night before -last," said Dave. "I heard Swingly the janitor -telling about it."</p> - -<p>All three now heard a commotion in the farmhouse. -There was the slamming of a back door, -and then somebody came leaping down the inside -stairs.</p> - -<p>"Where is he, Jane?" they heard in a man's -voice.</p> - -<p>"I don't know, but I heard the back door shut," -answered a woman's voice. "And I saw a -light."</p> - -<p>"I don't see anybody," went on the man of the - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[39]</a></span> - -house, and lit a match. Soon he had a lamp in his -hand, with which he went to the back door.</p> - -<p>"Did you leave the wash-shed window open?" -he called out.</p> - -<p>"No," returned Mrs. Lapham. "I shut it -tight."</p> - -<p>"It's open wide,—and the back door is unlocked," -went on her husband.</p> - -<p>"Any thieves around, pop?" came in a boyish -voice.</p> - -<p>"Better git the gun," advised another boy, Bob -Lapham, who had the bats for sale.</p> - -<p>The man went out in the yard, lamp in hand. -As he did this, the three students walked around to -meet him.</p> - -<p>"Hello, what do you want?" demanded John -Lapham, halting and staring at his unexpected visitors. -"Were you in my house?" he continued, -suspiciously.</p> - -<p>"No, sir, we just came up," answered Dave. -"We want to buy those bats your son has for sale."</p> - -<p>"Did you see anybody around here—I mean -going out just now?"</p> - -<p>"No."</p> - -<p>"We saw a light, in the parlor and the sitting -room," said Roger. "It went out just as we came -up."</p> - -<p>"Then my wife must be right. Somebody has -been in the house. I must take a look around."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[40]</a></span></p> - -<p>The two Lapham boys now came out, and the -whole crowd looked around the farmhouse and the -stable near by. Not a soul was in sight anywhere.</p> - -<p>"Whoever he was, he has gotten away," said the -farmer, soberly. "I hope he didn't steal anything."</p> - -<p>He and his sons were but partly dressed and they -went in the house again, followed by the students, -who were curious to learn if anything had been -taken.</p> - -<p>"I brought home a lot of stuff from my aunt's -house yesterday," explained John Lapham. "She -is breaking up housekeeping and gave us her silverware -and such. I had it all in the box yonder."</p> - -<p>He set down the lamp and threw aside the cover -of the box he had pointed out. One look inside -and he gave a groan.</p> - -<p>"The silverware is gone!"</p> - -<p>"All of it?" queried one of his sons.</p> - -<p>"Yes, and the cut glass fruit dish is gone too!"</p> - -<p>By this time Mrs. Lapham had dressed and now -she came down. At the news she burst into tears.</p> - -<p>"Oh, John, you must get after those burglars!"</p> - -<p>"Can there have been more than one?" asked -Dave.</p> - -<p>"I think I heard two men moving around, but I -am not sure," said the woman.</p> - -<p>Another search was made by the students, while -the farmer and his sons hastily donned the rest of - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[41]</a></span> - -their clothing. Then John Lapham brought forth -a shotgun.</p> - -<p>"I'm going to get that stuff back," said he, determinedly. -"You say the burglars didn't go out -by the front road?"</p> - -<p>"We didn't see anybody," answered Roger.</p> - -<p>"Then they must have taken to the lane that -leads down to the river."</p> - -<p>"Let us go down and see, pop," said Bob Lapham, -eagerly.</p> - -<p>So it was agreed, and after a few words Dave -and his chums went along. For the time being the -bats were forgotten.</p> - -<p>"This may get us into a mess at the Hall," whispered -Shadow, as they hurried along. "In telling -the news Mr. Lapham will be sure to mention us."</p> - -<p>"Well, that can't be helped, and we'll have to -get out of it the best we can," answered Dave. -"It's our duty to help capture those burglars, if it -can be done."</p> - -<p>The whole party walked down the lane leading -to the river, which, at this point, overflowed a portion -of the Lapham meadow. The farmer had -brought along his barn lantern.</p> - -<p>"I see something!" cried Dave, as a bright object -caught his eye. But it was only a battered tin -can, which caused everybody to utter a short laugh.</p> - -<p>It did not take long to reach the water's edge. -Here they saw where a rowboat had been hauled - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[42]</a></span> - -up on the bank. In the mud and grass they made -out the footsteps of two men, but that was all.</p> - -<p>"Have you had a boat up here in the last few -days?" asked Dave of the farmer.</p> - -<p>"Ain't had a boat here in a month."</p> - -<p>"Then this must have been the burglars' boat."</p> - -<p>"I think so." John Lapham gave something of -a sigh. "They got a good start."</p> - -<p>"Yes, and we don't know which way they went," -added one of his sons.</p> - -<p>"Have you any idea what the stuff that was -stolen was worth?" asked the senator's son.</p> - -<p>"Fifty or sixty dollars, maybe more."</p> - -<p>"I shouldn't think any professional burglars -would bother to take such a small amount," was -Shadow's comment. "Maybe they are worthless -characters from around here."</p> - -<p>"Like as not," answered the farmer. "Maybe -the same rascals that robbed Jerry Logan's house -at Oakdale. They got about fifty dollars' worth -there too."</p> - -<p>They looked out upon the river as best they -could, but not a craft of any kind was in sight, nor -could they hear any sound of rowing. The farmer -drew a long sigh.</p> - -<p>"I'm stumped," he declared.</p> - -<p>"You'd better notify the authorities," suggested -Roger.</p> - -<p>"Won't do a bit o' good. The constable ain't - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[43]</a></span> - -worth his salt, and the justice ain't no good either. -If I want to find those burglars I've got to do it -myself."</p> - -<p>"Have you a boat?"</p> - -<p>"No, but I can get one in the morning, and I'll -get some of the neighbors to help me."</p> - -<p>There seemed nothing more to do just then, and -the whole party returned to the farmhouse. Then -Dave explained what he had come for to Bob -Lapham.</p> - -<p>"All right, you can have the bats," said the farm -boy. "They are in the barn. But what do you -want of them?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, we were going to use them for something—but -perhaps we won't now," said Dave, and -handed over the amount to be paid. Soon the bats -were brought forth, in a battered mocking-bird -cage. They were a round dozen in number.</p> - -<p>"See here, Bob, don't say anything to anybody -about our coming here," whispered Roger, slipping -an extra quarter into the farm boy's hand. "We -are not supposed to be away from the Hall, you -know."</p> - -<p>"All right, I won't say anything."</p> - -<p>"And keep your brother and your father quiet -too,—if you can."</p> - -<p>"I'll do my best. I don't know your names -anyway."</p> - -<p>"None of them?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[44]</a></span></p> - -<p>"No."</p> - -<p>"Good enough. Now we are off. Good-night."</p> - -<p>The boys were about to turn from the farmhouse -when John Lapham called them back.</p> - -<p>"What do you want?" asked Dave, and a -sudden strange sensation took possession of him.</p> - -<p>"I've been thinking that things look rather -queer," went on the farmer, pointedly.</p> - -<p>"In what way?" demanded Shadow.</p> - -<p>"How was it that you didn't knock on the front -door when you first came here?"</p> - -<p>"We heard a noise and we listened to find out -what it meant," answered the senator's son.</p> - -<p>"It seems mighty queer to me," said the farmer, -doggedly.</p> - -<p>"What do you mean, Mr. Lapham?" demanded -Dave, his face beginning to burn.</p> - -<p>"It's queer you should come here this time of -night just to get some bats that ain't any good to -nobody."</p> - -<p>"Well, that is what we came for and nothing -else."</p> - -<p>"You're sure you don't know anything about -that robbery?"</p> - -<p>"Mr. Lapham, do you take us for thieves?" -cried the senator's son, hotly.</p> - -<p>"I didn't say that; I said it was queer."</p> - -<p>"You know we haven't the stolen stuff."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[45]</a></span></p> - -<p>"And you are sure you don't know anything -about those other chaps?" mused the farmer.</p> - -<p>"Not a thing," answered Dave. "All we saw -was the light just before it went out, and heard the -noise."</p> - -<p>"It is preposterous to think we would come here -to take your silverware," went on Roger, warmly.</p> - -<p>"Oh, pop, they are all right," said Bob Lapham. -"All the students at Oak Hall are honest fellows."</p> - -<p>"I don't know about that," was the grim answer. -"They don't seem to be honest when it comes to -getting in our orchards."</p> - -<p>"I have never been in your orchard," said Dave.</p> - -<p>"Nor I," added Shadow.</p> - -<p>"Nor I," affirmed the senator's son.</p> - -<p>"Last season I had about half of my fruit -stolen."</p> - -<p>"Well, some of it was taken by the boys from -the military academy, you must remember," said -Bob Lapham, who evidently wanted to help the -Oak Hall students all he could.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I know that."</p> - -<p>"We are totally innocent," asserted Shadow. -"I don't see how you can suspect us."</p> - -<p>"What is your name?" demanded the farmer.</p> - -<p>Shadow hesitated and then straightened up.</p> - -<p>"I am not ashamed to tell you. It is Maurice -Hamilton."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[46]</a></span></p> - -<p>"And what is yours, young man?" went on John -Lapham, turning to Dave.</p> - -<p>"David Porter."</p> - -<p>"And yours?"</p> - -<p>"Roger Morr."</p> - -<p>"Morr, eh? Do you belong around here?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir, I come from near Hemson."</p> - -<p>"Oh! Then you ain't related to Mr. Samuel -Morr, of Bainridge?"</p> - -<p>"I am. He is my uncle."</p> - -<p>"Are you Senator Morr's son?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"Oh!" The farmer's face changed slightly. -"Well, that makes a difference. I know Mr. -Samuel Morr quite well," he continued, but did not -add that Roger's uncle held his note for two hundred -dollars, and he wished the same renewed for -three months. "Of course, if you are Senator -Morr's son it is all right, and I am sure you didn't -have anything to do with the robbery."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[47]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a>CHAPTER VI -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">JOB HASKERS'S BAD NIGHT</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">After</span></span> that the farmer questioned the boys -further concerning their visit to his home and at -last drew from the students their whole story. -When they acknowledged that they wanted to play -a joke on Job Haskers he smiled broadly.</p> - -<p>"I know that man," he said. "He wanted to -buy some apples and potatoes here once, to ship to -some of his folks, and he was so close and mean -about it, I wouldn't sell him anything. Go ahead -and play your joke on him, and I won't say anything -about it."</p> - -<p>"And you won't say anything about our visit -here?" questioned Roger, eagerly.</p> - -<p>"Not a thing—unless, of course, it becomes absolutely -necessary to do so."</p> - -<p>"You're a brick, Mr. Lapham," cried Dave, -much relieved. "We'll do all we can to help you -catch those burglars."</p> - -<p>"That we will," added Shadow.</p> - -<p>"I am afraid we'll never catch them, boys. The<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[48]</a></span> -constable here is no good, and I don't know where -to look for them," responded the farmer.</p> - -<p>A few minutes later found the students on the -return to Oak Hall, Dave carrying the cage full of -bats.</p> - -<p>"That was a narrow escape," was Shadow's comment, -as they hurried along to make up for lost -time. "I thought sure he'd report the matter to -Dr. Clay."</p> - -<p>"To think we should run into a burglary!" declared -the senator's son.</p> - -<p>"I wonder if the same fellows robbed Mr. Lapham -who committed the robbery at Oakdale?"</p> - -<p>"It is more than likely. I hope they catch the -fellows."</p> - -<p>It did not take the three youths long to reach the -academy grounds. Roger slipped in ahead and -was gone five minutes.</p> - -<p>"Hurry up—the coast is clear!" he whispered, -on coming back. "The side door is open and nobody -on the stairs, so far as I could see."</p> - -<p>They ran across the campus, Dave with the cage -full of bats still in his hand. They had almost -reached the door when they heard it slam shut. -Then the key was turned and the bolt shot into -place.</p> - -<p>"We're locked out!" whispered Shadow, in consternation.</p> - -<p>"Let us try the other doors," suggested Dave.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[49]</a></span></p> - -<p>They did this, making the entire round of the -school building. Every door was shut and -locked, even that to the kitchen addition being -tight.</p> - -<p>"Now we are in a pickle and no mistake," -groaned the senator's son.</p> - -<p>"I suppose the other fellows have gotten tired of -waiting for us and gone to bed," said Shadow. -"We've been away an hour and a half longer than -we expected."</p> - -<p>"One thing is certain, we must get into the Hall -somehow," said Dave. "We can't stay out here -all night."</p> - -<p>"Let us go around under one of our windows," -said Roger.</p> - -<p>They were soon under a window of Dormitory -No. 12. It was open from the top to admit the -fresh air. All was dark in the school building and -they had only the starlight to guide them.</p> - -<p>Gathering up a handful of pebbles, Dave threw -them at the window and Roger and Shadow followed -suit. At first nobody paid attention to this. -Then the window was raised from the bottom and -the head of Phil appeared.</p> - -<p>"Hello you!" he called softly. "Thought you -were going to make a night of it."</p> - -<p>"We were delayed," answered Dave. "All the -doors are locked. Can't you open one for us?"</p> - -<p>"I'll see."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[50]</a></span></p> - -<p>Phil's head disappeared, and then Sam Day and -Buster Beggs showed themselves.</p> - -<p>"Got the bats?" asked Sam.</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"Where are they?"</p> - -<p>"Here, in this cage."</p> - -<p>"Good enough!"</p> - -<p>The boys below waited fully five minutes after -that. Then Phil appeared once more.</p> - -<p>"It's pretty risky to open a door," he announced. -"Mr. Dale is below, and so are Pop Swingly and -one or two others. I think they are watching for -somebody."</p> - -<p>"I hope they are not watching for us," returned -Shadow, with a shiver.</p> - -<p>"No, I think they are looking for some other -fellows who went out."</p> - -<p>"Here's a fishing line," said Sam. "You can send -up the bats on that, if you like. Then if you are -caught, they won't find out what you were after."</p> - -<p>"A good idea," answered Dave, and tied the -cage to the end of the line. Soon the bats were -hauled up to the dormitory and stowed away in a -safe place.</p> - -<p>"I wish we could go up on the line too," said -Shadow, wistfully.</p> - -<p>"We can get a ladder from the barn and go up, -if you say so," suggested Roger. "Only, what -will we do with the ladder afterwards?"</p> - -<div class="figcenter"><a id="Dave_began_to_mount"></a> -<img src="images/p050.jpg" alt="" width="323" height="500" /> -<div class="topspace1"></div> -<div class="caption">Dave began to mount the improvised rope.—<i>Page 51.</i></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[51]</a></span></p> - -<p>"The ladder would expose us," said Dave. -"I've got a plan. Take the bed sheets and make a -rope of them, and we'll haul ourselves up somehow."</p> - -<p>The charm of this idea took instantly, and those -in the dormitory set to work to knot together five -or six sheets without delay. Then one end was -held fast while the other was dropped to the -ground.</p> - -<p>"Will it hold?" questioned Roger. "We don't -want to break our necks."</p> - -<p>"I'll try it," said Dave, and began to mount the -improvised rope hand over hand, bracing his feet -against the brick and stone building as he did so. -As the youth was a pretty good athlete he had -small trouble in gaining the top and hopping into -the dormitory. Then Shadow came up, followed -by the senator's son, and the bed sheets were hauled -back and separated. The sheets were somewhat -mussed from the strange usage, but that was all.</p> - -<p>The other boys wanted to know what had kept -Dave and his companions so long, but it was too -late to relate the whole story.</p> - -<p>"We can tell it in the morning," said the senator's -son. "Just now let us see how the land lies -for getting the bats into old Haskers's room."</p> - -<p>He and Dave tiptoed their way out into the hallway, -which was dark saving for a faint light near -a bathroom door. Not a person was in sight, but - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[52]</a></span> - -a faint murmur of voices came from a room -below.</p> - -<p>"I am afraid he will have his door locked," said -Dave. "He learned his lesson when he had the -trouble with the ram."</p> - -<p>But to their satisfaction they found the door to -the assistant teacher's bedroom unlocked. They -listened and heard Job Haskers breathing heavily.</p> - -<p>"He is sound asleep," whispered Roger.</p> - -<p>"Let us put the key on the outside first," answered -Dave.</p> - -<p>This was done, and then the two boys went back -for the cage of bats. The other students in the -dormitory wanted to see the fun, and half a dozen -went out into the hallway. In order that they -might not be seen and recognized, the light was extinguished.</p> - -<p>"I am going to loosen the bottom of the cage -and then throw the whole thing on Haskers's bed," -said Dave. "Stand ready, somebody, to lock the -door."</p> - -<p>"I'll do that," answered Phil.</p> - -<p>With caution the door was opened for a little -over a foot. Then Dave loosened the bottom of -the cage and shook the bats up. As they fluttered -around he threw cage and all directly on the teacher's -bed. Then the door was quickly closed and -locked and the key thrown down into the lower -hallway.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[53]</a></span></p> - -<p>For a moment there was silence. Then from -Job Haskers's room there arose a frightful -shriek.</p> - -<p>"Help! Get away! What is this? Oh, my -eye! Get away, I say! Oh! oh! Save me! I -shall be killed! Get away!" And there followed -a series of yells and thumps and the overturning of -a chair and a table.</p> - -<p>"He is enjoying himself—I don't think!" cried -Roger, with a chuckle. "Oh, say, listen to -that!"</p> - -<p>"Back to the room, or we'll be discovered," -warned Phil, and back they ran with all speed.</p> - -<p>But the strange commotion had aroused the -whole Hall, and dormitory doors were opened on -all sides and students rushed out to see what was -the matter. Then Dr. Clay appeared, garbed in -a dressing gown. Andrew Dale, the first assistant -teacher, ran up from below.</p> - -<p>"What is the meaning of this unseemly noise?" -thundered the good doctor. "Make a light, somebody."</p> - -<p>Several lights were lit. In the meantime the -noise in Job Haskers's room continued. The second -assistant was having a hot fight with the bats. -The creatures banged him in the face, whizzed past -his ears, caught in his rather long hair, and practically -scared him out of his wits. He made wild -passes at them with his hands, dancing around in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[54]</a></span> -the meanwhile, and in his bewilderment brought -down a steel engraving covered with glass with a -tremendous crash.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Haskers must be going crazy!"</p> - -<p>"Perhaps there is a burglar in his room!"</p> - -<p>"Look out that you don't get shot!"</p> - -<p>"I know what's the matter!" cried one fun-loving -student. "He must have the hydrophobia. -He said a dog tried to bite him a couple of days -ago."</p> - -<p>"Oh, if he has gone mad I don't want -him to bite me!" shrieked one of the younger -students.</p> - -<p>"Better chain him up and pour water on him!"</p> - -<p>"Mr. Haskers!" thundered the doctor, rattling -the doorknob. "Mr. Haskers! What is the -matter? Open the door."</p> - -<p>But the noise was so fearful that no attention -was paid to the request. Then came another -crash, as the assistant teacher picked up a book, let -it fly at the bats, and sent a big pane of glass in the -window into a hundred pieces.</p> - -<p>This was too much for Dr. Clay. Satisfied that -something dreadful was going on, he put his shoulder -to the door and burst it open. As he did this, -something whizzed past his ear and made him -dodge.</p> - -<p>"Stop! Don't throw anything at me!" he -called. "What in the world does this mean?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[55]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I don't know what it means!" roared Job Haskers, -who was so bewildered he scarcely knew what -he was saying. "Get out of here! Oh, my eye! -That's the third time I've been hit!" And he -made another sweep at his invisible enemy. Then, -as Dr. Clay backed into the hallway, the teacher -followed him and ran down the corridor like one -gone crazy.</p> - -<p>By this time somebody was bringing a lantern, -and Andrew Dale had armed himself with a club. -The doorway to Job Haskers's room had been left -wide open and the sounds within had suddenly -ceased. With caution Andrew Dale peered inside.</p> - -<p>"I do not see anything out of the ordinary," he -announced, looking around with caution.</p> - -<p>"Maybe the bats have cleared out!" whispered -Roger to Dave.</p> - -<p>"I hope they have. See, the window is open -from the top, and the bottom glass is broken out."</p> - -<p>One after another, teachers and students -crowded into the room. Phil spied the battered -bird cage resting near the foot of the bed, and, in -secret, passed it to Dave, who handed it to Sam. -The latter was close to the window, and threw the -object out as far as he could. In the meantime the -excitement continued.</p> - -<p>"I don't see anything."</p> - -<p>"Better look for robbers!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[56]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Maybe somebody is in the closet."</p> - -<p>The closet was searched, but nothing out of the -ordinary was discovered. The students in the -secret looked for bats, but every one of the creatures -had taken its departure for parts unknown.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[57]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a>CHAPTER VII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">A CHALLENGE ACCEPTED</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"Mr. Haskers</span></span>, I would like to have you explain -this affair," said Dr. Clay, after the excitement -had died down.</p> - -<p>"Have you—have you got them?" faltered the -assistant teacher, who was still much bewildered.</p> - -<p>"Got what?"</p> - -<p>"Why,—er—the—the things that were in my -room."</p> - -<p>"I can find nothing in your room, and neither -can Mr. Dale."</p> - -<p>"No—nothing? absolutely nothing, sir?"</p> - -<p>"Not a thing out of the ordinary. Did you -have a nightmare?" And the worthy master of -the Hall looked sternly at his assistant.</p> - -<p>"I—er—I don't think I did. I woke up suddenly, -sir, and something flew by my head. Then -something hit me in the face and got caught in my -hair, and after that I—er—I was hit half a dozen -times."</p> - -<p>"Ahem! This is certainly extraordinary. You -are sure you weren't dreaming?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[58]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I don't think I was, sir."</p> - -<p>"Was your window open when you went to -bed?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, from the top."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps a night bird flew in."</p> - -<p>"There must have been half a dozen of -them."</p> - -<p>"Well, whatever it was, it is gone now. You -had better go back to bed. You can push the chiffonier -against the broken-out window if you wish, -to keep out the cold air. Boys, I want you all to -retire. We'll have the window and the broken -lock mended in the morning."</p> - -<p>The doctor turned and waved the students away, -and one after another they departed for their -dormitories. Then he followed Job Haskers into -the latter's bedroom. The door was closed and -what was said was not heard by the others.</p> - -<p>"Well, that was certainly one on Job Haskers," -chuckled Roger, as he followed Dave to bed.</p> - -<p>"And I doubt if he ever learns what was the real -trouble," answered Dave.</p> - -<p>"By the way, I didn't see Gus Plum and Nat -Poole," said Phil. "It is queer they didn't come -out of their room."</p> - -<p>"Maybe they weren't in the building!" cried -Sam. "Mr. Dale was watching downstairs for -somebody."</p> - -<p>"I am not going to bother my head about it," - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[59]</a></span> - -announced the senator's son, as he began to get -ready to jump into bed, having disrobed in part before -playing the joke on the teacher. "The walk -made me tired."</p> - -<p>"I am tired, too, and sleepy," said Shadow.</p> - -<p>"Ditto here," announced Dave.</p> - -<p>All of the students had gone to their dormitories, -and once more quiet settled over the Hall. -The light that had been lit was extinguished, and -one after another the boys hopped into bed and -tucked the covers in around them.</p> - -<p>"Great hambones! What's this!" came, an instant -later, from Phil, and he began to wiggle from -head to foot.</p> - -<p>"Adam's tombstone, but this is fierce!" cried the -senator's son and sat bolt upright.</p> - -<p>"I should say it was!" declared Dave, as he also -thrashed around. "I can't stand this. Who put -something in my bed?"</p> - -<p>"I didn't!" declared Buster.</p> - -<p>"Nor I!" declared one after another of the occupants -of the dormitory.</p> - -<p>Once more the boys got up, and the light was -again lit. It was soon discovered that a mass of -burdock burs had been placed in the beds of Phil, -Roger, and Dave. None of the other beds had -been touched.</p> - -<p>"This is an itchy joke and no mistake," said -Dave, with a sickly grin.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[60]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Puts me in mind of a story," began Shadow. -"At a school——"</p> - -<p>"No stories just now!" cried Dave. "I want to -know who did this?"</p> - -<p>"I saw some burdock burs yesterday," said -Polly Vane. "Little Sammy Bilderman had -them."</p> - -<p>"Yes, and he gave them to Nat Poole," declared -Chip Macklin. "I saw him do it."</p> - -<p>"That explains it!" cried Dave.</p> - -<p>"Explains what?" asked several of the others.</p> - -<p>"Why Poole and Plum didn't show themselves -while the racket was going on in Haskers's room. -They came in here and fixed us up."</p> - -<p>"It must be so," said Phil, "for I know my bed -was all right before."</p> - -<p>Dave leaped noiselessly to the door and threw it -open. Nobody was outside, but he heard a door -at a distance close softly.</p> - -<p>"Somebody was out there. He just ran off," he -declared.</p> - -<p>"Come on," said Roger, and tiptoed his way -into the semi-dark hall, followed by Dave and Phil. -They made their way to the door of the dormitory -in which Poole and Plum belonged. They heard -a rustle and the faint creaking of two beds.</p> - -<p>"We've found them all right," whispered the -senator's son. "The question is, what shall we do -in return?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[61]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Wait," advised Dave. "We've had enough -for one night. Let us get to bed."</p> - -<p>The others were willing, and so they returned to -their own room. The burs were cleared away, -and in a few minutes more all of the lads were in -the land of dreams.</p> - -<p>In the morning, on entering the classroom, the -students found Job Haskers heavy-eyed and in anything -but a pleasant humor. He called one class -after another to order in a sharp, jerky voice, and -gave the pupils demerit marks upon the slightest -provocation. As a result Dave, Phil, and eight -other students suffered in their general average.</p> - -<p>"How I wish Dr. Clay would get rid of him," -sighed Phil.</p> - -<p>"And get another teacher like Mr. Dale to take -his place," said Dave. All the boys loved Andrew -Dale, who was as pleasant as he was capable.</p> - -<p>It was not until two days later that Roger met -Bob Lapham. The farm boy said his father had -heard nothing more of the burglars and the stolen -silverware, and had come to the conclusion that -little could be done in the matter.</p> - -<p>"It is too bad," said the senator's son. "I do -hope he gets his stuff back some day."</p> - -<p>Although Dave was out for fun and sport, it -must not be thought that he neglected his studies. -As my old readers know, he was a youth who put -his whole heart and soul into whatever he was - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[62]</a></span> - -doing, and this applied to his lessons as well as to -everything else. In the past he had kept close to -the top of his class, and he was resolved to retain -that position or do still better.</p> - -<p>"I came to learn something," he said, more than -once. "I am not going to neglect my lessons, no -matter what is in the air."</p> - -<p>"But you'll join our football team, won't you?" -asked the senator's son, who was looked upon as -the leader in that sport by nearly all the old football -players.</p> - -<p>"I will if you want me to, Roger. But you -know I am not an extra good player. Baseball is -my game, not football."</p> - -<p>"But we want you to play the position you took -last year, when you made that victorious run."</p> - -<p>"Very well. What of the other fellows?"</p> - -<p>"Ben will be quarter-back as before, and Phil a -half-back, and Sam right tackle. I haven't made -up my mind about the others yet, although I think -I'll try Shadow for center and Buster for guard."</p> - -<p>"What do you think of the team Gus Plum has -organized?"</p> - -<p>"Well, to tell the truth, Dave, I think some of -his fellows play pretty good football," answered -Roger, in a low voice, so that no outsider might -hear him.</p> - -<p>"Just what I think. Henshaw is a dandy quarter-back, -and Babcock makes a good, heavy tackle. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[63]</a></span> - -We ought to have them on our team—if we are to -play Rockville."</p> - -<p>"Well, I would ask them to join us, only if I do -that, Plum will say I am trying to steal his men -from him."</p> - -<p>The next morning came a surprise. Roger received -a challenge from the Arrows to play a game -of football the very next Saturday afternoon. Nat -Poole delivered the paper, and his face had a superior -smile on it as he did so.</p> - -<p>"Why, Poole, we are not in trim to play yet," -said Roger. "We need more practice."</p> - -<p>"Afraid to play us, eh?" sneered the aristocratic -youth. "I thought so."</p> - -<p>"I am not afraid. Make it three weeks from -now and I'll accept."</p> - -<p>"No, you must play this week or not at all. If -you won't play we'll challenge the Rockville -fellows."</p> - -<p>With this declaration Nat Poole hurried away, -leaving the senator's son much worried. As Roger -had said, his team needed practice. They were all -good players individually, but team work is what -counts in a modern game of football. He went to -consult his friends.</p> - -<p>"We can't do it," said Sam, shaking his head. -"Why, some of us scarcely know the new rules yet, -much less our signals."</p> - -<p>"We need at least two weeks of good, snappy - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[64]</a></span> - -practice," put in another of the players. "None -of us are hard enough yet."</p> - -<p>"This is a plan to get us into a hole," declared -Dave. "If we back out Plum will challenge the -Rockville boys and make out that his eleven is the -representative one from this school. It's just like -one of his dirty tricks."</p> - -<p>The boys talked the matter over a good hour, -and finally a vote was taken.</p> - -<p>"I say play," declared Dave. "Let us practise -all we possibly can. If we are beaten we can immediately -send a challenge for another game on -the Saturday following."</p> - -<p>So it was at last decided, although Roger, Phil, -and Sam were still doubtful. They declared it -was taking a big risk and that if they lost they -would never hear the end of it.</p> - -<p>In the meantime Gus Plum was laughing in his -sleeve, as the popular saying goes, feeling certain -that Roger's eleven would not accept the challenge. -Three of the players who had formerly played on -the team of the senator's son had left Oak Hall, -and that meant the substitution of green hands -from whom it was not known what to expect.</p> - -<p>"They'll crawl out of it," declared Nat Poole, -as he and the bully of the Hall and a student named -Jasniff talked it over. Jasniff was a newcomer at -Oak Hall, a fellow with a squint in one eye and a -manner that few of the boys cared to tolerate, although, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[65]</a></span> - -strange to say, it pleased Plum and Poole. -Jasniff smoked, and played pool when he got the -chance, and so did they, and, in addition, the new -student was fond of drinking and horse races,—a -poor sort of a companion for any youth who -wanted to make a man of himself.</p> - -<p>"You've got them dead to rights," said Nick -Jasniff. "They'll crawl, see if they don't."</p> - -<p>"I'll give them until Thursday to accept," said -Gus Plum. "If they don't, I'll send a challenge to -Rockville on Friday."</p> - -<p>"Will Rockville play us?" asked Poole. "They -may put up some sort of a kick."</p> - -<p>"I'll let them know how matters stand," answered -the bully of the Hall, with a suggestive -wink. "If Morr's crowd won't play us, then we -are the representative team of the Hall, aren't -we?"</p> - -<p>As the bully ceased speaking, Dave and Roger -walked up to the three other boys.</p> - -<p>"Here's our answer to that challenge, Plum," -said the senator's son, and held out a paper.</p> - -<p>"I presume you decline to play us," sneered the -bully, as he took the note.</p> - -<p>"On the contrary we take pleasure in accepting -the challenge," said Dave.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[66]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>CHAPTER VIII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">THE RIVALS OF OAK HALL</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">For</span></span> the moment after Dave made his announcement -there was a dead silence. The faces of Gus -Plum and his associates showed their disappointment.</p> - -<p>"Going to play us, eh?" said the bully, slowly.</p> - -<p>"You'll be beaten out of your boots," said Nat -Poole, with a sneer.</p> - -<p>"That remains to be seen," answered Roger. -"We accept the challenge and we are here to arrange -all the details of the game."</p> - -<p>A talk lasting nearly a quarter of an hour followed, -in which they went over such details as -seemed necessary. Plainly Plum was ill at ease. -He wanted to chose an umpire, referee, and linesmen -from outside of Oak Hall, but the senator's -son would not consent to this.</p> - -<p>"I am satisfied to have Mr. Dale for umpire," -he said. "And three of our head students can act -as referee and linesmen." And so at last it was -decided, but not without a great deal of grumbling.</p> - -<p>"You won't win this time, Porter," remarked - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[67]</a></span> - -Nick Jasniff, as Dave and Roger were leaving. -"After this game you'll never be heard of again in -this school."</p> - -<p>"'He laughs best who laughs last,'" quoted -Dave, and walked away, arm in arm with Roger. -Jasniff stared after him and so did Plum and -Poole.</p> - -<p>"They really mean to play after all," muttered -Poole. "I was dead sure they'd decline."</p> - -<p>"You never can tell what Porter will do," -growled Gus Plum. "I'll wager he got Morr to -accept."</p> - -<p>"Well, we've got to wax 'em good and -hard," remarked Nick Jasniff. "And we ought -to be able to do that easily enough—with Henshaw -and Babcock on our side. Those two -fellows play as if they belonged to some college -eleven."</p> - -<p>"Yes, I hope great things from Henshaw and -Babcock," answered the bully of Oak Hall.</p> - -<p>When Roger and Dave returned to the members -of their own eleven they were asked how Plum and -his crowd had taken the acceptance of the challenge. -Then the coming game was discussed from -every possible point of view.</p> - -<p>"Do you know, I'd almost rather beat Plum -than some outside team," remarked Phil. "He -deserves to be taken down."</p> - -<p>"I don't like Nick Jasniff at all," said Dave, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[68]</a></span> - -slowly. "In one way I think he is a worse fellow -than either Plum or Poole."</p> - -<p>"He has a bad eye," said Sam. "It's an eye I -don't trust."</p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind of a story," added -Shadow. "Now don't stop me, for this is brand-new——"</p> - -<p>"Warranted?" queried Dave.</p> - -<p>"Yes, warranted. Two Irishmen and a Dutchman -got into an argument and when they separated -all three were in bad humor. The next day one of -the Irishmen met the other Irishman. 'Sure, Pat,' -says he. 'I don't loike that Dootchmon at all, at -all.' 'Nayther do I,' answered the other Irishman. -'He has a bad eye, so he has,' went on the -first Irishman. 'That's roight, he has—an' I gave -him that same this very marnin'!' says the other -Irishman."</p> - -<p>"Three cheers for the new joke!" cried Roger, -and a general laugh arose.</p> - -<p>"Well, I suppose all we can do is to start practice -and keep it up until the day for the match comes," -said Dave, after the laughter had subsided.</p> - -<p>"That's it," answered the senator's son. "We'll -do what we can this very afternoon."</p> - -<p>The boys went to their classroom with their -heads full of the coming football contest. Roger -had already made up his eleven, largely from the -material of the season previous. But the boys - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[69]</a></span> - -who had gone from Oak Hall left weak spots in -the line which it was next to impossible to fill.</p> - -<p>Then came another set-back, which made Dave -and the others gloomy enough, and caused Gus -Plum and his associates to smile grimly to themselves. -Instead of remaining clear, a cold, dismal -rain set in that very afternoon and kept up for two -days. To practise on the football field was out of -the question, and all Roger's eleven could do was -to exercise in the gymnasium. Here there was -always some one of Plum's crowd to look on and -see whatever was being tried in the way of a trick -or a new movement.</p> - -<p>"I hope it rains Saturday, too," grumbled Phil. -"We won't be able to make any kind of a showing -at this rate."</p> - -<p>"It will be just our luck to have good weather -Saturday," sighed Shadow.</p> - -<p>Even Dave was disheartened, but he did not -show it. Instead he did all the practising he could -in the gymnasium and helped Roger whip the -eleven into shape. As he had said, he did not care -for football as much as baseball, but he was resolved -to do his best.</p> - -<p>On Saturday morning all the boys were up early, -to see what sort of weather they were going to -have. The sun was under a cloud, but by nine -o'clock it cleared up and a fine, warm wind from -the south sprang up.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[70]</a></span></p> - -<p>"That settles it, we have got to play," said Buster -Beggs.</p> - -<p>"Let us go out and practise as soon as we can," -said the senator's son, and called the eleven without -delay.</p> - -<p>Of course the match had been talked over -throughout the school and even outside. As a -consequence, when the time came to play, a goodly -crowd had assembled on the football field. There -was cheering for both sides and the waving of a -good many Oak Hall banners. In the small stand -that had been put up sat Dr. Clay and about twenty -visitors.</p> - -<p>"I don't see anything of Henshaw and Babcock," -said Dave, looking over the field. "They -must be going to play."</p> - -<p>"There they are, over in the corner, talking to -Plum and Poole," answered Roger, pointing with -his hand.</p> - -<p>"They must be planning some new move," -said Phil. "We'll have to watch out for -them."</p> - -<p>Presently Babcock, a fine, sturdy player, came -forward, followed by Henshaw. Both were -frowning, and when Babcock said something to his -companion Henshaw nodded vigorously. Plum -and Poole came behind, and neither appeared -particularly happy.</p> - -<p>The game was to be played under the rules of - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[71]</a></span> - -that year, with two halves of thirty minutes each. -When it came to the practice Roger's team did -what it could. The players were full of energy, -but the team work was not at all what it might -have been.</p> - -<p>"Want to tune up!" sang out one looker-on, to -Roger. "Get together!"</p> - -<p>"We are trying to," answered the senator's son.</p> - -<p>Plum's eleven did much better in practice, working -in perfect harmony. Only Poole made -fumbles, for which the bully of the Hall upbraided -him roundly.</p> - -<p>"Oh, don't howl at me," growled Poole. "I -am doing as well as you are."</p> - -<p>At length the game was called and the two -elevens lined up. They were pretty well matched, -although Henshaw and Babcock stood out above -the others.</p> - -<p>"Wish that pair were on our side," sighed -Roger. "Each of them has weight, wind, and -cleverness—just the things a good football player -ought to possess."</p> - -<p>There was no time to say more. The toss-up -gave Plum's eleven the ball and a few minutes later -it was put into play and sent twenty yards into our -friends' territory. Then came a scrimmage and -the leather went back and forth rapidly. The -play was ragged, for neither side had as yet settled -down to hard work. There was no brilliant play, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[72]</a></span> - -and when the ball was carried over the line by Henshaw -the applause was rather tame.</p> - -<p>"An easy touchdown!"</p> - -<p>"Now make it a goal."</p> - -<p>This was not so easy, for the wind had freshened. -The ball sailed outside of the posts, so that -the Arrows received but five points.</p> - -<p>Again the ball was put into play and now the -work on both sides became more earnest. Several -of Gus Plum's players became rough and Plum -himself tried to "spike" Dave with his shoe. -Dave gave the bully a shove that sent him headlong.</p> - -<p>"A foul! Time!" was the cry.</p> - -<p>"He tried to spike me!" cried Dave, hotly.</p> - -<p>"I didn't!" roared the bully.</p> - -<p>"He did—I saw it!" put in Roger.</p> - -<p>"Have you spikes in your shoes?" demanded the -umpire.</p> - -<p>"No," muttered Gus Plum, but his face grew -red.</p> - -<p>The umpire made him show the bottoms of his -shoes. Each had a small spike in it—something -quite contrary to the rules, as all football players -know.</p> - -<p>"Change your shoes at once, or get out of the -game," was the decision rendered, and Gus Plum -ran off the field with a redder face than ever.</p> - -<p>The first half of the game closed with the score - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[73]</a></span> - -12 to 0 in favor of Gus Plum's eleven. A safety -for Roger's team had been made by Dave, who saw -it was the only thing to do when crowded by Babcock, -Henshaw, and two others. The second -touchdown made by the Arrows came through -Babcock aided by several others.</p> - -<p>"We could whip them if it wasn't for Babcock -and Henshaw," said Luke Watson. "Those two -chaps are dandy players and no mistake."</p> - -<p>During the intermission it was seen that Gus -Plum was having another lively interview with -Babcock and Henshaw. But the two expert -players would not listen to the bully of Oak Hall.</p> - -<p>"Something is wrong in their camp, that's certain," -was Phil's comment.</p> - -<p>"Look here, if you say anything, I'll put you off -the team!" cried Gus Plum, to Babcock and Henshaw, -so loudly that many standing around could -hear him.</p> - -<p>"All right, put me off if you wish," answered -Babcock sharply.</p> - -<p>"I'll never play with you again anyway!" added -Henshaw. "I've done my best to-day, but this -ends it, if I never play again as long as I stay at -Oak Hall."</p> - -<p>"You're out of it, both of you!" roared Gus -Plum, in a sudden rage. "Dawson, take Henshaw's -place, and Potter, you take Babcock's place. -I'll show you that I can run a team to suit myself."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[74]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Very well," said Babcock, and turning on his -heel he left the field. Henshaw, without saying a -word, followed his friend.</p> - -<p>All who witnessed the scene were curious to -know what it meant, but none of the other Arrow -players would explain. Soon it was time for the -second half of the game. Two of Roger's players -had been slightly hurt, and their places were filled -by two substitutes, which weakened the eleven still -more.</p> - -<p>"Henshaw and Babcock are out of it!" cried -Phil, to Roger and Dave.</p> - -<p>"That gives us a better chance to win," said the -senator's son.</p> - -<p>"If it isn't too late," returned Sam Day; "12 -to 0 is a pretty hard lead to overcome."</p> - -<p>"We'll do our best," said Dave. "Let every -man go in for all he is worth!"</p> - -<p>The play was fast and furious from the very -start, and inside of two minutes Roger's players -had the leather close to the Arrows' goal line. -But then Nick Jasniff with extreme roughness -hurled Sam Day to the ground. Jasniff was off-side -at the time and his movements were consequently -contrary to the rules.</p> - -<p>"You may retire from the field," said the -referee, after he and the umpire had talked the -matter over.</p> - -<p>Poor Sam was in bad shape when picked up and - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[75]</a></span> - -carried from the field, but fortunately he recovered -inside of an hour. In the meantime another player -was put in his place and another in the place of -Jasniff and the game went on.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[76]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a>CHAPTER IX -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">THE END OF THE GAME</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"A touchdown</span></span> for the Morr team!"</p> - -<p>"That's the way to do it!"</p> - -<p>"Now make it a goal!"</p> - -<p>The leather had been carried over the line after -hard work. Without delay it was placed in position -for the kick and went sailing directly between -the two posts.</p> - -<p>"That's the talk!"</p> - -<p>"Now go and make another!"</p> - -<p>There were still eighteen minutes in which to -play. The goal made Roger, Dave, and the others -enthusiastic, and they "sailed in" as never before. -On the other hand, the loss of Babcock, Henshaw, -and Jasniff cast a gloom over Gus Plum's eleven -and the bully could do little to rally them.</p> - -<p>"It was a mistake to fire Babcock and Henshaw," -said one of the tackles. "They were our -best players."</p> - -<p>"That's right," added the center rush.</p> - -<p>"Do you mean to say they can play better than -I and Nat?" demanded Gus Plum.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[77]</a></span></p> - -<p>"They can play just as well," grumbled the -tackle.</p> - -<p>"Rot! Come on ahead and wax 'em!"</p> - -<p>But the call to "wax" Roger's team was of small -avail. With Babcock and Henshaw gone the -Arrows could do little or nothing, and soon Dave -kicked a goal from the field. Then came another -touchdown, another goal from the field, and two -more touchdowns. Each of the touchdowns resulted -in goal kicks. The Arrows were in despair -and could do absolutely nothing.</p> - -<p>"Pile it on!" cried Roger, enthusiastically. -"Pile it on, boys!" And they did pile it on, until -the whistle blew and the game was over.</p> - -<p>Final score—Plum's eleven 12, Roger Morr's -eleven 45!</p> - -<p>It was a terrible defeat for the bully of Oak Hall -and he could scarcely wait for the game to come to -an end. He fairly ran for the gymnasium when -it was over and did his best to keep out of sight -for the rest of the day and all day Sunday, and Nat -Poole went with him.</p> - -<p>The cheering for Roger and his eleven was -great, and all the players came in for their full -share of glory. Dave had done some remarkably -clever work, for which his friends shook his hand -and congratulated him.</p> - -<p>"Well, you gave Gus Plum's crowd all that was -coming to them," said one of the students to Dave. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[78]</a></span> - -"I don't think he'll ever organize another football -eleven in this academy."</p> - -<p>What this student said was practically true. -During the following week the Arrows held -several stormy sessions and the upshot was that the -eleven disbanded. Nearly all the players were -angry because Gus Plum had put Henshaw and -Babcock out of the game, for to this they attributed -their defeat. It leaked out that Plum had wanted -the two players to play some rough trick on Roger's -eleven, and both Babcock and Henshaw had declined, -stating that it was against the rules and unsportsmanlike. -This had angered the bully, and -hence the quarrel and separation.</p> - -<p>"I want to play fairly and squarely or not at -all," said Babcock, and Henshaw said practically -the same thing. Gus Plum denied the report, but -nobody believed him.</p> - -<p>During the following week Dave was taking a -walk along the river bank when he heard loud talking -close at hand. Looking through the bushes he -saw Sam Day and Nick Jasniff.</p> - -<p>"You had no business to jump on me as you did -at the game," Sam was saying. "It was outrageous."</p> - -<p>"Oh, stop your yowling," grumbled Jasniff. -"It wasn't done on purpose."</p> - -<p>"It was done on purpose, Nick Jasniff, and I -think you were a brute to do it."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[79]</a></span></p> - -<p>Sam had scarcely uttered the latter words when -Nick Jasniff, who carried a heavy stick in his hand, -leaped forward and struck out. The stick landed -on Sam's head and he went down in a heap.</p> - -<p>"Don't!" he groaned. "Don't hit me again!"</p> - -<p>"Won't I, though!" cried Nick Jasniff, in a passion. -"I'd like to know what's to hinder me?" -And he raised the stick again.</p> - -<p>"Stop, Jasniff!" came from Dave, and leaping -through the bushes he came up behind the student -and caught the stick in his hand. "What do you -mean by attacking Sam in this fashion?"</p> - -<p>"Let go of that stick!" ejaculated Jasniff, and -tried to pull it away. Then a tussle ensued which -came to an end as Dave twisted the stick from -the other youth's grasp and flung it into the -river.</p> - -<p>"What do you mean by throwing my cane -away?" cried Jasniff.</p> - -<p>"I want you to leave Sam alone."</p> - -<p>"I've a good mind to give you a drubbing."</p> - -<p>"Better not try it, Jasniff," answered Dave, as -calmly as he could. He stood on guard against -any treachery.</p> - -<p>"Think you're the king of the school, don't -you?"</p> - -<p>"No, but I am always ready to stand up for a -friend."</p> - -<p>By this time Sam was staggering to his feet. He - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[80]</a></span> - -rushed at Nick Jasniff and sent him backward into -the bushes.</p> - -<p>"You will hit me with your stick!" he exclaimed. -"Thank you, Dave, for what you did, but I can -take my own part." And he stood over Jasniff -with clenched fists.</p> - -<p>"Two to one, eh?" sneered Jasniff, as he got up -slowly. "That's fighting fair, ain't it?"</p> - -<p>"It is fairer than hitting a fellow with a stick," -retorted Sam. "But I can fight you alone, if you -want to fight."</p> - -<p>"I'll not soil my hands on you further," grumbled -Nick Jasniff, and backing away, he walked off -towards the school at a rapid pace.</p> - -<p>"The coward!" murmured Sam, as he and Dave -watched the departure.</p> - -<p>"Do you know, Sam, I don't like that fellow at -all," said Dave. "I've said so before. He's a -bad egg if ever there was one."</p> - -<p>"I believe you. Cadfield told me that there was -a report in the town Jasniff came from that he had -once set fire to a farmer's barn because the farmer -caught him stealing peaches, but the whole matter -was hushed up."</p> - -<p>"He doesn't appear to be any too good to set fire -to a barn. We'll have to keep our eyes open for -him after this."</p> - -<p>"I certainly shall. I don't want to be struck -down with a stick again," answered Sam.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[81]</a></span></p> - -<p>With the brisk autumn winds blowing, kite-flying -was in favor with many of the students of Oak -Hall and numerous were the big and little kites -that were sent up. Some were curiously painted, -some were of the box variety, while others were in -the shape of eagles and other big birds. Most -of the kites were raised from a meadow near the -river, and every afternoon a crowd of students -would go down to watch the sport.</p> - -<p>Roger made for himself an immense eagle kite, -while Phil tried his hand at a plain affair, shaped -like a diamond and eight feet high and five feet -across.</p> - -<p>"That ought to be strong enough to pull a -wagon," was Dave's comment, as he surveyed -Phil's creation. "You'll have to get a pretty -strong cord to hold it, otherwise it may drag you -into the river—if the wind happens to be blowing -that way."</p> - -<p>One afternoon a number of the boys brought out -their flat kites and started to see who could make -his fly the highest. Among the crowd was Nat -Poole, who had a gorgeous affair painted yellow -and red.</p> - -<p>"Wait till you see this soar upward," he said, -boastfully. "I'll bet it will go up a hundred feet -higher than any other."</p> - -<p>Half a dozen kites were already in the air and -soon more were raised. Then Poole ran his new - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[82]</a></span> - -kite up. It arose a distance of a hundred feet and -then began to dart from side to side.</p> - -<p>"You want more tail, Nat!" cried a friend.</p> - -<p>"That kite isn't balanced right," said Ben.</p> - -<p>"Oh, it's all right, only it isn't high enough," answered -Nat Poole. He was not one to take advice, -and so he did his best to get the kite to ascend -without altering it.</p> - -<p>Among those in the meadow at the time was Job -Haskers. He was going on a visit to some ladies -who lived not far from the Hall and was taking a -short cut instead of journeying around by the -regular road. He did not care for sports of any -kind and so paid small attention to what was taking -place. He was arrayed in his best, and on his -head rested a new high hat, the silk nap polished -to the best degree.</p> - -<p>Dave was aiding Phil to manage his big kite and -so did not notice the assistant teacher until Job -Haskers passed close by.</p> - -<p>"My! but he is dressed up!" Dave remarked to -his chum.</p> - -<p>"Must be going to see his best lady friend," was -Phil's comment. "Oh, look at Nat Poole's kite!" -he added, suddenly.</p> - -<p>Dave looked and saw the kite in question far up -in the sky and swooping wildly from side to side. -Then the kite made a downward plunge, skimming -over the meadow like a wild bird.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[83]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Look out, or somebody will get hit!" cried -Dave, and fell down as the kite passed within a -foot of his head. Then the kite went up again, -only to take another plunge.</p> - -<p>As this was occurring, Job Haskers was starting -to leap over a small brook that flowed across the -meadow into the river. Another wild plunge, and -down came Poole's kite on the teacher's head, -smashing the silk hat flat and sending Job Haskers -face first into the stream of muddy water!</p> - -<p>The score of boys who witnessed the mishap -could not help but laugh, and a roar went up. The -teacher floundered around wildly and it was several -seconds before he could pull himself from the -brook. His face and the front of his clothing -were covered with mud, and he was more angry -than words can describe.</p> - -<p>"You—you——Who did that?" he spluttered, -after ejecting some of the dirty water from -his mouth. "I demand to know who did it!" -And he shook his fist at the students.</p> - -<p>"The kite did it," answered one boy, who stood -behind some others.</p> - -<p>"Whose kite was it?"</p> - -<p>At this there was a silence, no one caring to tell -upon Nat Poole, who stood with the kite string -still in his hand and his mouth wide open in amazement -and terror.</p> - -<p>"I say, whose kite was it?" bawled the irate - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[84]</a></span> - -teacher, and then, as he rubbed the water from his -eyes, he caught sight of the kite and the string. -"Ha! so it was yours, Master Poole!"</p> - -<p>"I—er—I didn't mean to do it," stammered -Nat Poole. "The—the kite came down all of a -sudden."</p> - -<p>"Infamous! Look at me! Look at my hat!" -Job Haskers caught up the battered tile. "This is -an outrage!"</p> - -<p>"Really, I didn't mean to do it, Mr. Haskers," -pleaded Poole. He was fairly shaking in his -shoes. "The—the kite got the best of me!"</p> - -<p>"A likely story! You boys are forever trying -to play your tricks on me! I know you! You'll -pay for this silk hat!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir, I'll do that," answered Nat, eagerly.</p> - -<p>"And you'll pay for having this suit of clothes -cleaned."</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"And you'll pay all other damages, too."</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"And you'll go to your classroom and stay there -until supper time," went on Job Haskers, in high -anger. "Stay there every day this week, too. Do -you hear?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir, but——"</p> - -<p>"I will not listen to a word, young man. Go,—go -at once! If I had my way I'd dismiss you from -the school!" roared the assistant teacher.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[85]</a></span></p> - -<p>And then and there he made Nat Poole take up -his kite and march off to the academy, there to stay -in after school every day for a full week. More -than this, he brought in a bill for fifteen dollars' -worth of damage, to the silk hat and the suit of -clothing, and this bill Aaron Poole had to pay, even -though the miserly money-lender did his best to -evade it.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[86]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a>CHAPTER X -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">ALL ON ACCOUNT OF A KITE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"That</span></span>'s the time Poole caught it," remarked -Phil, after the excitement had come to an end.</p> - -<p>"That's right," answered Dave. "I am glad it -was not your kite, Phil."</p> - -<p>"So am I."</p> - -<p>"In one way, it was Nat's own fault," said -Roger, who was near. "Half a dozen told him to -balance the kite better, but he wouldn't listen."</p> - -<p>Down on the river some of the students had -attached their kites to boats and were having races. -But soon the wind changed and the kites veered -around to another point of the compass and the -races had to be abandoned.</p> - -<p>Phil's kite was well up and it was all he and -Dave could do to manage it. Roger and Ben grew -somewhat tired of the sport presently and brought -down their kite and wound up the string. Then -Phil and Dave began to lower the big kite.</p> - -<p>"The wind is freshening," observed Dave. -"Gracious! how this big kite does tug!"</p> - -<p>He could scarcely hold it as Phil wound up the -cord. Then came another blast of air and Dave - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[87]</a></span> - -fell backward with the broken string in his hand, -while the big kite went soaring away in the direction -of Oakdale.</p> - -<p>"There goes the kite!"</p> - -<p>"Stop it! stop it!" yelled Phil, forgetting himself -in his excitement.</p> - -<p>"How?" asked Dave, dryly, as he arose from -the grass.</p> - -<p>"I don't want to lose that fine kite," went on -Phil, soberly. "Why, it cost me over three dollars -to make it. It was part silk!"</p> - -<p>"Let us go after it," said Dave. "I don't think -it will sail so very far."</p> - -<p>Roger's kite was placed in the care of Buster -Beggs and Shadow Hamilton, and off went the -senator's son, Dave, and Phil after the runaway -kite. The course was almost straight for Oakdale -and presently they saw the silken affair settle in the -direction of Mike Marcy's orchard.</p> - -<p>"It is going down at Marcy's!" cried Roger.</p> - -<p>"I hope it doesn't get torn in the trees," returned -Phil, who was doubly proud of the kite because he -had made it alone and by his own plan.</p> - -<p>"Maybe Marcy won't give it to us," said Dave. -"Remember, he doesn't like us students."</p> - -<p>"Yes, and remember, too, that he keeps dogs," -added Roger.</p> - -<p>Mike Marcy was an Irish-American farmer who -had lived in that section for many years. He was - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[88]</a></span> - -what is termed a "close-fisted man," and one who -had but little to do with the outside world. He -was supposed to be rich, although he usually put on -an air of poverty whenever anybody called upon -him. His farm was of fair size, and contained a -good stone house, a barn, and several other out-buildings. -He had a big orchard, and to keep off -thieves kept half a dozen dogs, all of them more or -less savage creatures.</p> - -<p>The three students approached the orchard from -the rear and after looking around located the silken -kite in the limbs of an apple tree. The tree was -bare of fruit, but close at hand were other trees -loaded with golden russets.</p> - -<p>"Wonder if we can get that kite without being -seen," mused Phil, as he gazed longingly at his -property, dangling downward by its gorgeous tail -of fancy ribbons.</p> - -<p>"I don't see anybody around," answered Dave. -"And I don't hear any of his dogs either."</p> - -<p>"You want to go slow," cautioned the senator's -son. "He may be around, watching us on the sly."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps we had better go around to the road -and ask for the kite," said Dave.</p> - -<p>"No, he won't give it to us," answered Phil. -"He is too mean—I know him. I'd rather try to -get it on the sly."</p> - -<p>The wind was still blowing and it was growing -dark. They took another careful look around and - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[89]</a></span> - -then leaped the fence of the orchard. Soon they -were at the tree from which the kite dangled, and -Phil climbed up.</p> - -<p>"Catch it!" he called, as he loosened the tail, but -just then the wind caught the kite and carried it to -the other side of the orchard.</p> - -<p>"There it goes!" cried Dave, and made a run -after the object. The others followed, and -presently they had the kite in their possession. In -running through the orchard Dave caught his foot -on a tree root and fell headlong but did not hurt -himself.</p> - -<p>With the kite in their possession the three -students left the orchard as quickly as they had -entered it. It was now so late that they were -afraid they could not get back to Oak Hall in time -for supper and so set off at a brisk pace. But suddenly -Dave came to a stop.</p> - -<p>"I declare, my watch is gone!" he cried.</p> - -<p>"Your watch!" asked his chums, in concert.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I must have dropped it when I stumbled -in the orchard."</p> - -<p>"Oh, Dave, that's too bad!" cried Roger.</p> - -<p>"I'll have to go back for it," went on Dave. -"It's the new watch my uncle gave me."</p> - -<p>"Shall we go back with you?" asked Phil.</p> - -<p>"No, there is no use of all three of us being late. -You can tell Mr. Dale I lost my watch and stopped -to hunt for it."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[90]</a></span></p> - -<p>In another moment Dave had turned back and -Phil and the senator's son continued on their way -to Oak Hall. Dave started on a run, and it did -not take him long to reach the orchard once more. -Down under the trees it was very dark and he had -to feel around for the watch. But he had dropped -it just where he thought, and soon had it in his -possession again.</p> - -<p>"Now I had better hump myself and get back," -he murmured, and started for the fence once more. -Scarcely had he gone four steps when a form -loomed up before him and he found himself in the -strong clutch of Mike Marcy.</p> - -<p>"Caught ye, have I?" said the farmer, in a cold, -hard voice.</p> - -<p>"How do you do, Mr. Marcy," replied Dave, as -coolly as he could.</p> - -<p>"How do ye do, is it?" roared the farmer. "I'll -fix ye, ye villain!" And he started to shake Dave -with great violence. He was a strong man and -one given to sudden passion.</p> - -<p>"Stop!" cried the youth, trying to squirm away. -"Stop! What are you doing this for? I have -done nothing wrong."</p> - -<p>"Then stealin' apples ain't wrong, eh? And -stonin' my dogs ain't wrong, eh? And stealin' a -chicken, eh?"</p> - -<p>"I am not stealing apples, and the only time I -stoned one of your dogs was when he ran after me - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[91]</a></span> - -as I was passing on the road. I didn't propose to -be bitten."</p> - -<p>"Don't tell me, ye young vagabond! I know -you boys—a pretty crowd ye be, all o' ye! I'll -have the law on ye!" And once again Mike -Marcy shook poor Dave.</p> - -<p>"What is it, Mike?" came from out of the -gloom, and a woman appeared. She was the -farmer's wife and as hard-hearted as her husband.</p> - -<p>"I've got one o' them schoolboys," answered -the man. "Caught him prowlin' around the -orchard."</p> - -<p>"See here, I have done no wrong, I tell you, and -I want you to treat me decently," said Dave. "We -came over awhile ago for a kite, that sailed into -one of your trees. After we got the kite I discovered -that I had lost my watch and I came back -for it."</p> - -<p>"A fine story indade," muttered Mike Marcy. -"But it's not me that is going to believe that same. -I've caught ye and I am going to make an example -of ye!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, Mike, don't let him go," put in Mrs. -Marcy.</p> - -<p>"You haven't any right to detain me," said -Dave. "I have told you the exact truth."</p> - -<p>"I don't believe it, and until ye can prove the -tale ye'll stay here."</p> - -<p>With this Mike Marcy took a firmer hold of - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[92]</a></span> - -Dave's collar than ever and began to drag him -through the orchard towards the farmhouse.</p> - -<p>Dave struggled, but the strong farmer was too -much for him and he was compelled to go along. -The farmer's wife came behind the pair, armed -with a mop she had picked up at the back door.</p> - -<p>"What are you going to do with me?" asked the -youth, after a minute of silence.</p> - -<p>"Ye'll soon see," answered the farmer.</p> - -<p>They soon reached the barnyard attached to the -farm. Here, to one side, was a smokehouse, built -of stone, with a heavy door of wood and sheet-iron. -The small building was open and empty.</p> - -<p>"I'll put ye in there for a while and see how ye -like it," said Mike Marcy, and shoved Dave towards -the smokehouse.</p> - -<p>"See here, Mr. Marcy, you are not treating me -fairly. You have no right to make me a prisoner."</p> - -<p>"Sure and I'll take the right. I have suffered -enough and I'm going to teach somebody a lesson," -answered the farmer, grimly.</p> - -<p>"When Dr. Clay hears of this he'll make trouble -for you."</p> - -<p>"Will he? Not much, I'm after thinkin'. Ye -had no right to be trespassin' on my land. The -signs are up, and I take it ye can read."</p> - -<p>"I simply came over to get something that belonged -to me."</p> - -<p>"Well, ye'll stay here for a while, an' that is - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[93]</a></span> - -all there is to it," returned Mike Marcy, and without -further ceremony he thrust Dave into the -smokehouse. The youth began to struggle but -could not get away, and once inside, the door was -banged shut in his face. Then the bolt was -secured with a stout iron pin, and he found himself -a prisoner in pitch darkness.</p> - -<p>"I'll be back sooner or later," cried Mike Marcy, -in a satisfied tone. "So make yourself comfortable, -me laddibuck!" And then he walked away, -followed by his wife, and Dave was left to himself.</p> - -<p>It was a galling position to be in and Dave resented -it thoroughly. Yet what to do he did not -know. He could not see a thing and on all sides -of him were the thick stone walls of the building, -the only break being the iron-covered door, which -was practically as solid as the walls themselves. -Under his feet the ground was as hard as stone. -Everything was covered with a thick soot, so that -he scarcely dared to put out a hand for fear of becoming -like a negro.</p> - -<p>"Here's a fine mess truly!" he murmured to himself, -after several minutes had passed.</p> - -<p>He listened, but not a sound broke the stillness. -He wondered how it happened that Mike Marcy's -dogs were not around, not knowing that the farmer -had lost one through a peculiar sickness and had -taken the others away to a dog doctor for special -treatment.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[94]</a></span></p> - -<p>A quarter of an hour passed. The time was unusually -long to Dave, and now, at the risk of getting -black, he began to feel around the smokehouse, -looking for some means of escaping from his -prison. From over his head dangled an iron chain, -used for smoking purposes, and he climbed this, -reaching a crossbar above. From the crossbar he -could touch the roof, which proved to be of heavy -planking, well joined together.</p> - -<p>"If I could only knock off one of those planks I -might get out," he reasoned, and began to feel of -one plank after another, trying to determine which -would offer the least resistance to his efforts.</p> - -<p>Dave had just discovered a plank which seemed -to be a little looser than the others when a sound -outside broke upon his ears. Thinking that Mike -Marcy was coming back, he dropped to the flooring -of the smokehouse.</p> - -<p>The sounds came closer and presently he heard -two persons come to a halt close to the smokehouse -door. By their voices they were evidently men, -but neither was the owner of the place.</p> - -<p>Wondering what this new arrival meant Dave -remained quiet and listened intently. For several -seconds he could not make out what was being said. -Then he heard words which filled him with astonishment -and alarm.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[95]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a>CHAPTER XI -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">AT THE WIDOW FAIRCHILD'S HOUSE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"Are</span></span> you dead certain the money is in the -house?" were the first words that Dave heard distinctly. -They came in rather a hoarse voice.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I saw Mrs. Fairchild draw the money -from the bank. She put it in a black bag and -started straight for her home." The reply came -in a voice that was also hoarse, almost guttural.</p> - -<p>"It would certainly be a dandy haul."</p> - -<p>"Just what I've said all along."</p> - -<p>"But the risk. If that hired man sleeps in the -house——"</p> - -<p>"I don't think he does. The widow don't like -men folks around. I heard that from one of -the neighbors, the day I went to price some -chickens."</p> - -<p>"Well, we might go over to her place and take a -look around," came after a pause, and then followed -some conversation that Dave could not -catch. A few minutes later the two men walked -away, and the youth heard no more of them.</p> - -<p>Dave was amazed and with good reason. If he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[96]</a></span> -understood the situation at all the two men intended -to rob the house of a widow who lived -about half a mile up the road. They had seen her -draw some money from a bank somewhere and intended -to take the amount from her.</p> - -<p>"They must be the very chaps who robbed Mr. -Lapham and also the place in Oakdale," he -thought. "I must get out and do what I can to -outwit them!"</p> - -<p>In feverish haste he climbed the chain again and -pushed on the plank of the roof. By hard work he -managed to loosen one end, but the other end -seemed to be tight and refused to budge.</p> - -<p>"If I only had something to pry it off with," he -mused, but could find nothing. Then, almost in -desperation, he dropped to the ground again and -began to pound on the door, at the same time shouting -at the top of his lungs.</p> - -<p>For a good five minutes this brought forth no -response, but presently Mike Marcy came forth -from the farmhouse, lantern in hand, and stalked -over to his barn. When he came out he carried a -long rawhide whip in his hand.</p> - -<p>"Say, boy, quit that noise, or I'll tan ye well!" -he cried, wrathfully, as he came up to the smokehouse -and set the lantern on the ground.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Marcy, is that you?" queried Dave, -quickly.</p> - -<p>"Yes, 'tis, and I want ye to stop that racket."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[97]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Let me out at once—it is very important," went -on Dave.</p> - -<p>"Important, is it?" sneered the Irish-American -farmer. "'Tis more important ye stop that noise, -so it is!"</p> - -<p>"Mr. Marcy, listen to me," said Dave. "I have -something very important to tell you. If you -won't listen there will be big trouble. You must -let me out, and both of us must catch two burglars."</p> - -<p>"Sure, and what is the lad talkin' about?" exclaimed -the farmer.</p> - -<p>"I am telling you the truth. Let me out instantly."</p> - -<p>"'Tis a trick, I'm after thinkin'——"</p> - -<p>"No, sir, I give you my word of honor it is not. -Let me out and I will explain. Please hurry -up."</p> - -<p>Dave's earnestness at last impressed the farmer -to the extent that he opened the door cautiously for -the space of a foot. As the youth came forth the -man caught him by the arm.</p> - -<p>"Now don't try to run, or 'twill be the worse for -ye!"</p> - -<p>"Mr. Marcy, listen!" cried Dave. "Only a -short while ago two men were here. They stopped -close to the smokehouse to talk. They spoke of -the Widow Fairchild having money in her house -which she had just gotten from the bank. They - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[98]</a></span> - -talked of robbing her, and they went off to do the -job."</p> - -<p>The farmer listened and his jaw dropped -slightly.</p> - -<p>"Is it a fairy story ye are after tellin'?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir, it is the absolute truth. I think they -were the same chaps who robbed Mr. Lapham and -robbed that house in Oakdale. They seem to be -doing their best to loot this whole neighborhood."</p> - -<p>"They were here?" faltered Mike Marcy. At -last he began to believe Dave.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir, not over quarter of an hour ago."</p> - -<p>"Did they speak of robbing my place?" went -on the Irish-American farmer suspiciously.</p> - -<p>"No, sir, I am sure they started directly for Mrs. -Fairchild's place."</p> - -<p>"And ye want me to go with ye and catch -them?"</p> - -<p>"Isn't it our duty to catch them if we can?"</p> - -<p>"Sure. But can we do it alone?"</p> - -<p>"We can call up somebody else on the way."</p> - -<p>"So we can. Well, I'll go—but first I'll take a -look around my own place," added Mike Marcy.</p> - -<p>He took his lantern and walked around the house -and then told his wife of Dave's discovery. Mrs. -Marcy began to tremble as she listened, and she -shook her head when her husband said he proposed -to go after the robbers.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[99]</a></span></p> - -<p>"It is not meself is going to stay here all alone, -wid robbers floatin' around in the dark," said Mrs. -Marcy. "Let the boy call up the constable, or -somebody else."</p> - -<p>"It will take too long," said Dave, impatiently. -"Even now it may be too late."</p> - -<p>"Ye'll be safe enough with the doors and windows -locked," said Mike Marcy. "Ye can use -the shotgun if they come back. I'll take the -pistol."</p> - -<p>He was a man used to having his own way, and -soon he set off with his pistol in his pocket and a -good-sized club in his hand. Dave armed himself -with another club, and set a good stiff pace, once -they were on the road.</p> - -<p>"We can stop at Brown's house and call him -up," said Mike Marcy. He referred to Farmer -Brown, who occupied a house directly on the road -they were traveling. Reaching the place they -knocked loudly on the door and presently the -owner stuck his head out of an upper window.</p> - -<p>"What's wanted?"</p> - -<p>"Come down here," shouted Mike Marcy. -"We want ye to help capture two robbers."</p> - -<p>"Two robbers?" said Farmer Brown.</p> - -<p>"Mercy sakes alive!" burst out the farmer's -wife. "Are robbers around? We'll all be murdered -in our beds!"</p> - -<p>"They ain't here—they be over to the Widow - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[100]</a></span> - -Fairchild's," answered Mike Marcy. "Come on. -Is Bill around?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, here I am," said the farmer's son, from -another window. "I'll be down in a minit, with -my gun."</p> - -<p>There was a short argument after this, but in the -end Farmer Brown and his son Bill, a tall, wiry -youth of nineteen, agreed to accompany Mike -Marcy and Dave. Mrs. Fairchild's home was less -than a quarter of a mile away, and to cut off a bend -of the highway they took to an open field which -came to an end at the edge of the widow's -orchard.</p> - -<p>"There is the house," whispered Mike Marcy, -at last. "Better go slow now."</p> - -<p>"Yes, we don't want them to get away," answered -Dave.</p> - -<p>"Let us spread out around the house," advised -Farmer Brown. "The first one to spot the rascals -can give the alarm."</p> - -<p>So it was agreed, and while Dave went to the -rear of the dwelling the others passed to the front -and sides. The place was pitch dark on the inside -and lit up only by the light of the stars from without.</p> - -<p>Dave's heart was beating rather rapidly, for -there was no telling when he would find himself -face to face with the two robbers, and he realized -that they must be desperate characters. He - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[101]</a></span> - -clutched the club tightly, resolved to do his best, -should it come to a hand-to-hand encounter.</p> - -<p>Several minutes passed and slowly the four outside -walked completely around the building. Only -one window was open, that to the dining room.</p> - -<p>"See anybody?" whispered Mike Marcy, coming -up to Dave.</p> - -<p>"No."</p> - -<p>"Sure ye didn't make any mistake?"</p> - -<p>"I didn't see a soul. Maybe they haven't come -up yet."</p> - -<p>"That is so."</p> - -<p>"We can wait a while and see," suggested Bill -Brown. "If we wake the widder we may scare -'em off."</p> - -<p>They waited after that for another spell, but nobody -appeared, nor did they hear any sound out of -the ordinary. Then it was resolved to arouse -Mrs. Fairchild and wait in the house for the coming -of the robbers.</p> - -<p>"That is, if they are coming," said Farmer -Brown. "Maybe the boy made a mistake."</p> - -<p>"I am certain I made no mistake," answered -Dave, positively. "But they may have changed -their plans."</p> - -<p>"Humph!" muttered Mike Marcy. "If it's a -trick—But we'll talk that over later."</p> - -<p>The door had an old-fashioned knocker, and this -Farmer Brown used lightly at first and then with - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[102]</a></span> - -vigor. To the surprise of all in the party nobody -answered the summons.</p> - -<p>"The widder must be away!" cried Farmer -Brown. "Funny,—she was home at sundown. -Where would she go after dark?"</p> - -<p>"Perhaps she's been murdered," suggested Bill.</p> - -<p>"Murdered!" exclaimed the others, and Dave's -blood seemed to run cold.</p> - -<p>"A regular robber wouldn't stop at murder, if -he was caught in the act," said the farmer.</p> - -<p>"Maybe we ought to break in the door."</p> - -<p>"Or git in through the window," suggested -Mike Marcy.</p> - -<p>While they were deliberating they heard the -sounds of carriage wheels on the road. The turnout -was coming along at smart speed and all ran -towards the road to see who was driving. To -their surprise they saw the Widow Fairchild alight, -followed by a farmer named Burr and a hired man -called Sandy.</p> - -<p>"How do ye do, widder!" called out Farmer -Brown. "Been away long?"</p> - -<p>"Why, what does this mean?" stammered Mrs. -Fairchild, who was a woman of forty and weighed -at least two hundred pounds. She often went out -to do nursing throughout the Oakdale district.</p> - -<p>"We came here lookin' fer robbers," explained -Mike Marcy. "We thought they was comin' to -visit you."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[103]</a></span></p> - -<p>"By gum!" came from the farmer named Burr. -"Reckon you are right, Mrs. Fairchild."</p> - -<p>"Right? How?" asked Dave, quickly.</p> - -<p>"I'll tell you," answered the widow. "About -an hour ago somebody knocked on the door. I -opened the window upstairs and asked what was -wanted. A man was there muffled up in an overcoat. -Says he, 'Is that you, Mrs. Fairchild?' -'Yes,' says I. 'Well,' says he, 'you're wanted over -to Mrs. Burr's house right away. The baby is dying. -I've got to go for a doctor,' says he, and runs -away. I didn't hardly know what to do, but I -hurried into my clothes and locked up and almost -run to Mr. Burr's place. When I got there they -was all to bed and the baby as healthy as ever. -Then I got suspicious, for I've got four hundred -dollars in the house that I got out of the bank at -Rayfield to pay off on that new house I'm building -in Oakdale. Mr. Burr hitched up at once and -brought me over. So you know about the fellow, -do you?"</p> - -<p>"I know two men started for this place to rob -your house," said Dave.</p> - -<p>"Better go in and see if the money is safe," suggested -Farmer Brown. "Did you leave that window -open?" he added.</p> - -<p>"Window open? No indeed!" shrieked Mrs. -Fairchild, and without further ceremony she -brought forth her key and opened the front door. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[104]</a></span> - -Then she lit the lamp and began to make a search -of the premises.</p> - -<p>"They have been in here!" she wailed. "See -how everything is upset!" She ran to a china -closet. "Oh, dear, look at the dishes! Some of -'em broken! Oh!" She gave a wild scream. -"The money is gone! They have robbed me of -the four hundred dollars!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[105]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII"></a>CHAPTER XII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">AT WORK IN THE DARK</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">Dave</span></span> had more than half expected the declaration -the Widow Fairchild made, so when it came -he was not surprised. The others, however, -stared in bewilderment and dismay.</p> - -<p>"All gone?" queried Mike Marcy.</p> - -<p>"Every dollar!" groaned the widow. "Oh, the -rascals, the heartless villains! To rob a poor -widow in this fashion! And I worked so hard to -save that money! Oh, where are they? I must -catch them and get my money back!" And she -stalked around the room wringing her hands in her -despair.</p> - -<p>"What a pity that we got here too late," said -Dave. "I wish you had hurried more," he continued -to the Irish-American farmer. "I told you -not to waste time."</p> - -<p>"Don't ye blame me for this!" replied Mike -Marcy, half in alarm and half in wrath. "I hurried -all I could."</p> - -<p>"Let us make a search for the rascals," said Joel -Burr. "They may not be very far off."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[106]</a></span></p> - -<p>"It won't do any good," announced Farmer -Brown. "We've been around here too long a-looking -for 'em."</p> - -<p>"Yes, they're a long way off by this time," said -his son Bill. "With four hundred dollars in their -pockets they won't let no grass grow under their -feet."</p> - -<p>"This is the third robbery inside of six weeks," -was Joel Burr's comment. "Must say they be -getting mighty free-handed."</p> - -<p>In spite of what had been said, all went outside -and took a look around the grounds and up and -down the highway. But it was useless; not the -least trace of the burglars could be found anywhere -about.</p> - -<p>While the others were outside, the widow inspected -her house more thoroughly. She said a -dozen silver spoons were missing and likewise an -old gold watch and some old-fashioned gold and -pearl jewelry. She placed her total loss at nearly -five hundred dollars.</p> - -<p>Dave had to tell his story in detail, to which all -of the others but Mike Marcy listened with interest. -The widow blamed the Irish-American -farmer for not having come to the house sooner, -declaring that had he done so the robbers would -have been caught red-handed; and quite a war of -words followed.</p> - -<p>"What am I to do, now my money is gone?" she - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[107]</a></span> - -wailed. "I cannot pay that carpenter's bill and it -must be paid by the end of this month."</p> - -<p>"You'll have to notify the constable, or the -sheriff," answered Joel Burr.</p> - -<p>"What good will that do? They haven't done -anything for Lapham, nor for Jerry Logan who -was robbed in Oakdale."</p> - -<p>"Well, I don't know what you can do, widder."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Fairchild declared, when she had settled -down a little, that the man who had spoken to her -about the sick baby had had a hoarse voice, and all -were satisfied that that individual was one of those -Dave had heard talk near the smokehouse. But -she had not seen his face, so she could not give any -description of him excepting to say that he was -rather tall.</p> - -<p>It was now nearly eleven o'clock, and as Dave -had had no supper he was hungry. His tramping -around had made him tired, and he said if he was -not wanted any more he would go home.</p> - -<p>"Go as far as I am concerned," said Mike -Marcy. "But don't lay the blame of this robbery -on me. Remember, ye had no right to be trespassin' -on my property."</p> - -<p>"I simply told the truth," said Dave; and a little -later he withdrew and hurried forth into the night -in the direction of Oak Hall.</p> - -<p>It was a lonely road and a less courageous boy -might have been frightened. It was cold and - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[108]</a></span> - -quiet and he walked a full mile without meeting a -soul. Then, as he was passing Mike Marcy's orchard, -two figures sprang out in the darkness.</p> - -<p>"Dave!"</p> - -<p>"Hello, so it is you, Phil, and Roger! What -brought you out again?"</p> - -<p>"We came to find you. We were afraid you -had gotten into trouble with Mike Marcy," answered -Phil.</p> - -<p>"Where in the world have you been?" asked the -senator's son. "We reported that you had lost -your watch, but didn't expect you'd stay away so -long."</p> - -<p>"Well, I've had troubles enough," answered -Dave, with a faint smile, and as the three hurried -for the academy he told his tale from beginning to -end.</p> - -<p>"Well, if this doesn't beat the Greeks!" exclaimed -Phil. "Say, these robberies are getting -serious."</p> - -<p>"Are you going to tell Dr. Clay?" asked -Roger.</p> - -<p>"Certainly. I haven't done anything wrong, -so why shouldn't I tell him?"</p> - -<p>"I guess you are right. But I shouldn't disturb -him to-night. It will be time enough to go to him -in the morning."</p> - -<p>Phil and Roger had gotten out of the Hall by a -back way, leaving the door unlocked behind them. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[109]</a></span> - -The three boys, as a consequence, entered easily, -and then Dave took the chance of being discovered -by going down to the kitchen for something to eat. -In the pantry he found a pumpkin pie, some cold -beans, and some milk, and on these made a hearty -repast. Then he went to bed and slept soundly -until the bell awoke him at seven o'clock.</p> - -<p>He felt that he should be reprimanded and he -was not mistaken. Job Haskers strode up to him -as soon as he went below.</p> - -<p>"Master Porter, where were you last evening?" -he demanded, in harsh tones.</p> - -<p>"I lost my watch, Mr. Haskers, and went to -look for it. Then something very unusual happened, -which I am going to report to Dr. Clay."</p> - -<p>"Something unusual, eh?" said the assistant -teacher, curiously.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir. But I prefer to report to Dr. Clay."</p> - -<p>"Hum! Very well—I will talk to the doctor -myself later. We cannot permit pupils of this -institution to come and go at will." And with an -air of great importance Job Haskers passed on.</p> - -<p>As soon as breakfast was over Dave went to -Dr. Clay's private study. The worthy owner -of Oak Hall was at his desk, looking over some -letters which had just come in. He gazed at Dave -in mild curiosity.</p> - -<p>"Dr. Clay, may I speak to you for a few -minutes?" asked the youth.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[110]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Certainly, Porter. Come in and sit down."</p> - -<p>Dave entered and closed the door after him, for -he had caught sight of Job Haskers close at hand, -curious to learn what he might have to say for himself. -Sitting down he told his rather remarkable -story, to which the master of the Hall listened with -close attention.</p> - -<p>"These robbers are certainly getting bold," said -Dr. Clay. "It is a pity you could not get out -of that smokehouse sooner."</p> - -<p>"That is just what I told the others."</p> - -<p>"You are certain you went over to Marcy's only -for the kite and later for the watch?" and the doctor -looked Dave squarely in the eyes.</p> - -<p>"That's it, sir. I did not touch his apples or -anything else, and neither did Phil nor Roger."</p> - -<p>"Then he certainly had no right to lock you up. -Do you wish to make a complaint against him?"</p> - -<p>"No, not that. Only I wanted to explain why I -didn't get back to school last evening."</p> - -<p>"I see."</p> - -<p>"Mr. Haskers approached me about it and acted -as if he wanted to punish me."</p> - -<p>"Ah! Well, you can tell him that I have taken -the matter in hand and that you have been excused. -I have but one fault to find, and that is——" -The doctor paused and smiled.</p> - -<p>"That we didn't catch the robbers," finished -Dave.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[111]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Exactly. The authorities must get after the -rascals. Until they are caught nobody in this district -will be safe."</p> - -<p>After a few words more Dave left the office and -went to his classroom. As he did this Job Haskers -entered the doctor's office. He must have -asked the master of Oak Hall about Dave, for -after he came away he said nothing more to the -youth concerning his absence.</p> - -<p>The next few days went quietly by. From Lemond -the boys learned that Mrs. Fairchild had appealed -to the authorities and two detectives were at -work searching for the robbers, but so far nothing -had been learned about the rascals.</p> - -<p>"They'll keep quiet for a while," said Ben, and -such proved to be the case.</p> - -<p>One afternoon a letter reached Oak Hall addressed -to Roger Morr, Captain Oak Hall Football -Club. It proved to be the expected challenge -from Rockville Military Academy. The eleven -of that institution challenged the Oak Hall team -to play a game of football two weeks from that -date, on some grounds to be mutually decided upon. -Pinned to the challenge was a note stating a certain -rich gentleman named Richard Mongrace had -offered a fine gold cup to the winning team, providing -the match was played on the new grounds laid -out in his private park, located at Hilltop, six miles -from the river.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[112]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Here is the challenge at last," said Roger, and -he read it aloud. "I suppose there is nothing to -do but accept."</p> - -<p>"Yes, we've got to give them the chance to even -up," said Phil.</p> - -<p>"They haven't forgotten that we beat them last -season by a score of 11 to 8," said another of the -eleven.</p> - -<p>"I've heard something about their team this -year," said Ben. "They have dropped three old -players and have three A No. 1 fellows in their -places. Two weeks ago, as you know, they beat -the Hamilton eleven, 17 to 5, and day before -yesterday they played White College eleven and -won out by a score of 12 to 5."</p> - -<p>"Then they must be a heap stronger than they -were last year," said Buster Beggs. "For last year -White College beat them badly."</p> - -<p>"Yes, and Hamilton beat them too," added -Dave. "I shouldn't wonder but that they've got a -crackajack team this year."</p> - -<p>"Are we going to back out?" demanded the -senator's son.</p> - -<p>"No!" came back in a chorus.</p> - -<p>"Oak Hall never backs out!" cried Ben.</p> - -<p>"Well, where are we to play? I suppose they -would like to play at the Mongrace field," said -Roger.</p> - -<p>"It's a dandy spot—I was up there on my wheel - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[113]</a></span> - -last Saturday," said Shadow Hamilton. "They've -got a nice stand there, too."</p> - -<p>"And our field is all lumpy," said Phil. "The -doctor is going to have it leveled off next spring."</p> - -<p>"Then let us go in for that gold cup!" cried Sam -Day. And several others echoed the sentiment.</p> - -<p>A regular meeting of the football club was called -that night, and it was decided, after consulting -Dr. Clay, to accept the Rockville challenge to -play on the Mongrace grounds. A letter was accordingly -written and forwarded the next Monday.</p> - -<p>"Now we have got to brace up and practise," -said the captain of the eleven.</p> - -<p>"I wish you could get rid of two of our poorest -players and take on Babcock and Henshaw," remarked -Dave. "Those two would help us wonderfully."</p> - -<p>"They both want to come in," answered the -senator's son. "But I don't see how I can drop -any of our present members after the way they -have worked."</p> - -<p>"Yes, I know that wouldn't be fair."</p> - -<p>"I've already taken them on as substitutes. -Maybe they'll get in the game after all," went on -Roger.</p> - -<p>Practice began in earnest during that week and -all did their best to follow the coaching they got -from the first assistant teacher, Andrew Dale, who -had been both a college player and a coach. The - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[114]</a></span> - -play was a trifle mixed at times, but the boys -worked with a will and that counted for a good -deal. But then came a letter calling one of the -players home, to attend the funeral of an uncle.</p> - -<p>"I've got to leave the eleven," said Luke Watson. -"You'll have to get somebody to take my -place."</p> - -<p>"I am sorry to see you go," said Roger, sympathetically.</p> - -<p>"Take Babcock," went on Luke. "You couldn't -do better."</p> - -<p>"I will," answered the senator's son.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[115]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>CHAPTER XIII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">IN THE HANDS OF THE ENEMY</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">Paul Babcock</span></span> was more than glad to get on -the eleven actively, and that afternoon he showed -it in his practice. The work was snappy from -start to finish and gave Mr. Dale great satisfaction.</p> - -<p>"That is something like," declared the first assistant -teacher. "Keep it up and you will surely -win."</p> - -<p>After the practice was over Babcock left the field -in company with Dave. As the two strolled across -the campus they passed Gus Plum, who scowled -deeply at his former player.</p> - -<p>"Plum doesn't like it that you've come over to -us," observed Dave. "He looked like a regular -thundercloud."</p> - -<p>"He has nobody to blame but himself," answered -Paul Babcock. "Even if his team were -still in existence I'd never play with him again. I -want to act on the square, and that is more than he -wants to do."</p> - -<p>"I've heard he wanted you to use foul play."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[116]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Yes, he was at both Henshaw and me to do -some dirty work. But we declined, and I told him -I had a good mind to punch his nose for suggesting -it. That made him boiling mad."</p> - -<p>In due course of time came a letter from Mr. -Richard Mongrace, stating he was glad to learn -the match was to come off on his new grounds, and -that he would do all in his power to make the two -elevens and their friends comfortable. The -golden cup he proposed to put up cost exactly one -hundred dollars and was to belong to the school -winning it twice in two or three games, one game a -year to be played for it.</p> - -<p>Dr. Clay knew Mr. Mongrace well and one day -drove over to see the new grounds. He came back -in an enthusiastic mood.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Mongrace is certainly a fine man," said -the master of Oak Hall. "He has with him a sick -brother who cannot leave the estate. This brother -used to be a famous football player on the Princeton -team. For his benefit Mr. Mongrace has laid -out the field, and he is going to have some of the -best amateur teams in the country play there."</p> - -<p>"That will cost some money," said Roger.</p> - -<p>"Yes, but he is rich and can easily afford it. -He has erected a fine grand stand and will also put -up a big tent, where refreshments will be served to -the visitors from both academies."</p> - -<p>After that the doctor spoke about the coming - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[117]</a></span> - -event before the whole school. He said he trusted -that they would all act like young gentlemen while -guests of Mr. Mongrace and thus do their institution -credit.</p> - -<p>The only persons at Oak Hall who did not look -forward to the match with favor were Plum, -Poole, and Jasniff. At first they thought to remain -at home during the contest, but afterwards -changed their minds, the reason being a plan which -Nick Jasniff proposed.</p> - -<p>Jasniff was thoroughly unscrupulous, and a year -before had been dismissed from another boarding -academy because of his dishonorable actions. He -was a lad who was willing to do almost anything to -accomplish his end.</p> - -<p>Jasniff's plan was nothing more or less than to -play a trick on some members of Roger's eleven, so -that they could not take part in the game. This -would weaken the Oak Hall club to such an extent -that they would be likely to lose.</p> - -<p>"Can we do it?" asked Poole.</p> - -<p>"Certainly we can," answered Nick Jasniff. -"Why, such things have been done hundreds of -times."</p> - -<p>"Well, what do you propose?" asked Gus -Plum.</p> - -<p>"I'll tell you to-morrow. I've got to think it -over."</p> - -<p>"I wish I was dead sure Oak Hall would lose," - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[118]</a></span> - -whispered the bully of the school. "We might -make some money by the operation."</p> - -<p>"So we could!" cried Nat Poole. "All the -Rockville boys are betting they will win."</p> - -<p>"And we could bet the same way," said Jasniff, -with a leer. "Only we'll have to put up our money -through some outsider."</p> - -<p>"I can fix that," said Gus Plum. "I know a -fellow in Oakdale who will do it for us."</p> - -<p>The day set for the great football match dawned -bright and clear. As soon as they could get away -from their school duties Roger's eleven went out -for a short practice and Henshaw and the other -substitutes with them. Henshaw was sorry he was -not on the regular team, but said little about it.</p> - -<p>While the practice was going on, Plum, Poole, -and Jasniff watched all the players closely, trying -to gain the knowledge of some tricks and signals, -which they hoped later to divulge to the Rockville -eleven.</p> - -<p>The practice at an end, Babcock announced that -he wanted to go to a place called Leeton on an -errand. Leeton was a small railroad crossing two -miles from the school, where Babcock had a -relative living.</p> - -<p>"Wouldn't you like to go with me?" he asked -Dave. "We can go over on our bicycles and be -back inside of an hour."</p> - -<p>Dave was willing, thinking the short spin on a - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[119]</a></span> - -wheel would do him good. They soon set off, and -before long were well on the road.</p> - -<p>"There's our chance!" cried Nick Jasniff, as he -and his cronies watched the departure. "Just -what I wanted!"</p> - -<p>"Shall we go after them?" asked Plum.</p> - -<p>"Sure!"</p> - -<p>The bully and the others had bicycles—indeed -nearly every youth at Oak Hall had one, for the -craze was at its height. The three set off without -delay, following the same road Dave and Babcock -had taken.</p> - -<p>Unconscious of the fact that they were being followed, -Dave and his companion spun along. -There was a winding road, across a brook, then up -a hill, and over another small hill to the railroad -crossing. At several places pedaling was rather -difficult, but they did not mind it, being fresh and -with good wind.</p> - -<p>Arriving at the railroad crossing, Babcock -stopped at the house for which he was bound and -executed his errand. Then the two lads got a -drink of water at the well and started on the return.</p> - -<p>"I'll race you back!" cried Babcock.</p> - -<p>"Better not race to-day," cautioned Dave. "We -want to save our strength for the game."</p> - -<p>"All right, Dave, just as you say. But a little -race wouldn't hurt me."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[120]</a></span></p> - -<p>Not far from Leeton the road made a sharp -turn, coming up close to the railroad tracks. Here -there was a steep down grade for three hundred -feet. As the boys neared the turn they began to -coast, thinking the way perfectly clear.</p> - -<p>They were almost to the bottom of the hill when -something happened that filled them with alarm. -Close to the side of the roadway stood a tall, slim -tree. As they came up the tree fell directly in their -path.</p> - -<p>"Look out!" yelled Dave, who was in advance, -and then his bicycle struck the tree and he was -pitched headlong over the handle-bars. Babcock -also took a tumble, and both lads came down violently -at the side of the road, where there was a -gully filled with rocks and hard dirt. Both slid -along, turned over, and then lay still.</p> - -<p>A full minute passed and neither Dave nor Babcock -offered to get up. Then from out of the -bushes near by Plum, Poole, and Jasniff emerged.</p> - -<p>"We caught 'em right enough," muttered Jasniff. -"The tree came down just in time."</p> - -<p>"Ar—are they hu—hurt much!" faltered Nat -Poole. His face was as white as death itself.</p> - -<p>"They are certainly knocked out," answered -Nick Jasniff, coolly.</p> - -<p>"Oh, I hope they ain't dead!" gasped Poole, his -knees beginning to shake.</p> - -<p>"They are not dead," announced Gus Plum, who - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[121]</a></span> - -was bending over the fallen youths. "They are -stunned, that's all." And he breathed a short -sigh of relief, for he had been fearful of serious -results.</p> - -<p>"We had better get away, before they come to -their senses and recognize us," went on Poole, who -was the most timid-hearted of the unworthy -trio.</p> - -<p>While they were deliberating they heard the -whistle of a locomotive on the railroad and soon a -long train of empty freight cars came into view. -Then, when about half the train had gone by, the -cars came to a sudden halt, brought to a stop because -of a danger signal at the crossing.</p> - -<p>"What's the freight train stopping for?" asked -Plum.</p> - -<p>"Don't ask me," answered Nick Jasniff. "But -I say," he added suddenly. "The very thing!"</p> - -<p>"What?"</p> - -<p>"Let us put 'em both in one of the empty cars!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, don't bother!" answered Nat Poole, who, -had he had his choice, would have wheeled away -without delay.</p> - -<p>"They are only stunned—they'll soon come -around," went on Jasniff. "If we leave them here -they may get in the game anyway. We may as -well send them off to parts unknown!"</p> - -<p>This plan appealed strongly to Gus Plum, and -both he and Jasniff walked to the train and looked - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[122]</a></span> - -up and down the long line of empty cars. Not a -soul was in sight.</p> - -<p>"The coast is clear," said Jasniff. "Come on, -we can do it in a jiffy, and nobody will be the -wiser."</p> - -<p>They went over to Babcock, raised him up, and -carried him to the nearest of the cars. The sliding -door was wide open, and they pushed the unconscious -form half across the car floor. Then -they ran back and picked up Dave. At that moment -came the whistle of the locomotive.</p> - -<p>"Hurry up, they are going to start!" said Jasniff, -and they lost no time in pushing Dave into the car. -Then Jasniff rolled the door shut.</p> - -<p>"Might as well lock 'em in," he suggested, but -before he could accomplish his purpose the train -gave a jerk and went on its way. All three of -the students stared at it and watched it out of -sight.</p> - -<p>"They are gone, that's sure," murmured Gus -Plum. His heart was beating violently.</p> - -<p>"Yes, and they won't come back in a hurry," -chuckled Nick Jasniff.</p> - -<p>"Maybe they will be carried clear to New -York," said Nat Poole.</p> - -<p>"If they are, so much the better."</p> - -<p>"You are sure they weren't seriously hurt?"</p> - -<p>"I guess not."</p> - -<p>"If they are, and we are found out——"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[123]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Who is going to tell on us?" demanded Nick -Jasniff. "Don't you dare to open your trap, Nat."</p> - -<p>"Oh, I shan't say a word."</p> - -<p>"Nobody saw us," said Gus Plum. "So, if we -keep quiet, nobody will ever know we had anything -to do with it."</p> - -<p>"What about the wheels?"</p> - -<p>"Leave them right where they are. Somebody -will pick them up sooner or later. Both are -marked Oak Hall and have the initials on them."</p> - -<p>"Well, what are we to do next?" asked Gus -Plum, after an awkward pause.</p> - -<p>"Get out of here and wheel over to Oakdale," -answered Nick Jasniff, who had become the leader -of the unworthies. "We can put our money in the -hands of Lancaster and he can put it up on Rockville -for us. We are now sure to win."</p> - -<p>"Morr will put Henshaw in Babcock's place," -said Poole, as they rode away.</p> - -<p>"Will he? Not after Henshaw has had his dinner," -and Nick Jasniff winked knowingly.</p> - -<p>"Do you mean to dose him?" asked Plum.</p> - -<p>"I guess I will. I sit close to him and I can -drop a little powder in his food which will make -him feel weak and dizzy all the afternoon."</p> - -<p>"Have you got the powder?"</p> - -<p>"I can get it from Lancaster. He told me about -it several days ago."</p> - -<p>"It isn't poison, is it?" asked Nat Poole. He - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[124]</a></span> - -was beginning to grow afraid of Nick Jasniff's bold -ways.</p> - -<p>"No, it won't hurt him a bit, only make him -weak and light-headed for a few hours."</p> - -<p>"Then give it to him by all means," urged Gus -Plum. "With Porter, Babcock, and Henshaw out -of the game Rockville is bound to beat, and if we -make the right kind of bets we ought to win a pot -of money!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[125]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>CHAPTER XIV -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">CARRIED OFF</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">When</span></span> Dave came to his senses he found himself -rolling around the floor of the freight car. -The door was three-quarters shut and the train was -winding its way around several uneven curves.</p> - -<p>He put his hand to his forehead. There was a -big lump near his left eye and his left hand was -bleeding from several scratches. The car was full -of dust and he began to cough.</p> - -<p>"What a fearful tumble!" he muttered to himself, -and then sat up and stared around him. -"Where in the world am I?"</p> - -<p>He had expected to find himself beside the highway; -instead he was boxed in and moving along at -a speed of twenty or more miles an hour. He -glanced through the open doorway and saw the -trees and rocks flashing by. It took him all of a -minute to collect his scattered senses, and then he -gazed around the dust-laden car. Only a few feet -away lay the form of Babcock. The youth was -breathing heavily.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[126]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Paul!" he called out. "Paul! What does -this mean? Did you bring me here?"</p> - -<p>There was no answer, and on his hands and -knees he bent over his friend. Then he gave -Babcock a shake, and the hurt one opened his -eyes.</p> - -<p>"The tree—look out for the tree!" he murmured -and struggled to a sitting position.</p> - -<p>"Paul, did you bring me here?" went on Dave.</p> - -<p>"Me? Here? What do you mean? Where -am I?" stammered Babcock, and then he, too, -stared out of the doorway of the freight car. -"Well, I never!"</p> - -<p>It was not until several minutes later that the -pair comprehended the truth of the fact that they -were in a freight car that was moving along at a -good rate of speed and that they had been put in -the car by some party or parties unknown.</p> - -<p>"This certainly beats the Dutch!" cried Dave. -"Are you hurt much?"</p> - -<p>"I am pretty well shaken up, and my shoulder is -a little lame, Dave. How about you?"</p> - -<p>"I've got this lump and those scratches, that's -all."</p> - -<p>"You went into that tree and so did I. Do you -remember what happened after that?"</p> - -<p>"No."</p> - -<p>"Neither do I. Somebody must have put us in -here. Who was it?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[127]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Don't ask me, and don't ask me where we are -going either, for I haven't the least idea."</p> - -<p>The two students talked the matter over for -fully five minutes, but could reach no conclusion. -At first they fancied that they might have been -robbed, but nothing was missing but their wheels.</p> - -<p>"This is a mystery we must solve later," said -Dave. "The present question is, How are we to -get off this train and get back to the Hall?"</p> - -<p>A moment later the freight train passed through -a small lumber town. They heard a mill whistle -blowing. Dave pulled out his watch.</p> - -<p>"Why, Paul, it is twelve o'clock!"</p> - -<p>"Nonsense!" Babcock consulted his own time-piece. -"You are right! And we were going to be -back to the Hall by dinner time!"</p> - -<p>"Don't forget that to-day is the day for the -great football match."</p> - -<p>"Creation! Do you know it slipped my mind -for the moment! Why, Dave, we must get back!"</p> - -<p>"I agree with you."</p> - -<p>"Let us get off the train at once."</p> - -<p>"What, with the cars running at twenty-five or -thirty miles an hour! No, thank you! We've -had one bad tumble, I don't want a second."</p> - -<p>Babcock looked out of the doorway. The lumber -town had been left behind and they were running -through a dense woods. How far they were -from Leeton and Oak Hall they could not tell.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[128]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I wish we could signal the engineer, I'd soon -stop the train," said Dave.</p> - -<p>"Can't we crawl to the top of the car?"</p> - -<p>"We might if we were regular train hands, but -as greenies we had better not risk it."</p> - -<p>Another mile was passed, and the train began to -go around another curve. Then came a steep upgrade -and the speed of the cars was slackened.</p> - -<p>"We're slowing up!" cried Babcock. "Maybe -we can jump for it now."</p> - -<p>The locomotive was puffing laboriously, and -presently the train seemed to do little but crawl -along. The boys looked at each other.</p> - -<p>"Shall we go?" asked Dave.</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"All right, here goes!"</p> - -<p>Dave swung himself down and made a jump in -safety. Fifty feet further on Paul Babcock did -the same. Then the long freight train rolled by, -a brakeman on the caboose gazing at them curiously -as it passed.</p> - -<p>"Well, where are we?" asked Babcock, gazing -around with interest.</p> - -<p>"On the line of the D. S. & B. railroad," answered -Dave, with a grim smile.</p> - -<p>"I know that well enough, but where on the -line?"</p> - -<p>"Some miles from Leeton. The question is, -Shall we walk back on the track?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[129]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I don't know of anything else to do. We can -find out where we are when we reach that lumber -town where we heard the whistle blowing."</p> - -<p>They walked along the track for all of a mile -and a half and then came in sight of the lumber -town, which consisted of nothing but the mill, one -general store, and a dozen frame houses. It was -now nearly one o'clock and the men of the mill -were preparing to resume their day's labor.</p> - -<p>"What town is this?" asked Dave, of a boy they -met.</p> - -<p>"This town is Mill Run," answered the youth.</p> - -<p>"How far is it to Leeton?"</p> - -<p>"About twelve miles."</p> - -<p>"Twelve miles!" ejaculated Babcock.</p> - -<p>"Yes, and maybe more."</p> - -<p>"Do you know when we can get back to Leeton?"</p> - -<p>"Not till seven-thirty to-night. There are only -two passenger trains a day on this line."</p> - -<p>"Well, we've got to get back before to-night," -said Dave, decidedly. "We've got to get back -right now."</p> - -<p>"I don't see how you are going to do it," said -the boy. "Ain't no train, nor stage, nor nuthin."</p> - -<p>"Can't we hire some sort of a carriage?" queried -Babcock. "We won't mind the expense." He -came from a well-to-do family and had ample -spending money.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[130]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Might git old Si Ross to drive you over."</p> - -<p>"Who is Si Ross?"</p> - -<p>"Used to run the stage from here to Leeton before -the railroad went through."</p> - -<p>"Will you show us his place?"</p> - -<p>"Of course," answered the boy and took them -through the lumber town and to a small shanty on -the outskirts. Here they found Si Ross, a bent-over -old man who was rather hard of hearing.</p> - -<p>"Hi, Si!" called out the boy. "These fellers -want you to drive 'em over to Leeton."</p> - -<p>"They're arrivin' from Leeton?" queried the -old man.</p> - -<p>"No, they want you to drive 'em over—<i>drive -'em over</i>!" shrieked the boy.</p> - -<p>"Me drive 'em over?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," said Dave and Babcock at the top of -their voices, and nodded vigorously.</p> - -<p>"Cost ye two an' a half."</p> - -<p>"All right. Can you do it right away?" went -on Dave.</p> - -<p>"O' course I know the way."</p> - -<p>"Can you do it <i>right away</i>!" screamed Dave.</p> - -<p>"Sure—soon as I kin hitch up."</p> - -<p>"<i>Hurry up!</i>" yelled Babcock. "We want to get -there as soon as possible."</p> - -<p>"I'll git ye there soon enough, don't ye fear," -said Si Ross, and hobbled off to his barn. He -brought forth a bony horse and shoved out a - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[131]</a></span> - -rickety road wagon and began to hook up. The -boy helped him.</p> - -<p>"That doesn't look very promising," remarked -Babcock.</p> - -<p>"Is this the best turnout in town?" asked Dave, -of the boy.</p> - -<p>"It's the only one you can git," was the answer.</p> - -<p>At last Si Ross was ready to leave and the two -students got up on the rear seat of the wagon, Dave -first giving the boy ten cents for his trouble, which -pleased the urchin immensely. Then Si Ross -pulled himself to the front seat, provided himself -with a fresh chew of tobacco, and took up the reins.</p> - -<p>"Gee dap!" he squeaked to the bony horse and -the animal started off on a walk. Then the driver -cracked his whip and soon the steed was making -fairly good time over the lonely country road.</p> - -<p>Again the boys consulted their watches and -found it was now half-past one o'clock. The football -game was scheduled to start at half-past three.</p> - -<p>"Two hours to get there in," said Dave. "We'll -never make it."</p> - -<p>"I think we ought to start for Mr. Mongrace's -place direct," said Babcock.</p> - -<p>"But we haven't our football togs."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps Roger will take them along, or we -may be able to borrow some. One thing is certain, -we haven't time to return to Oak Hall for -them."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[132]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Do you know where Mr. Mongrace's estate -is?" asked Dave, in a loud tone of the driver.</p> - -<p>"Yes—very fine place," was the answer.</p> - -<p>"Can you take us there?"</p> - -<p>"How?"</p> - -<p>"<i>Can you take us there?</i>"</p> - -<p>"Sure. But I thought you wanted to go to Leeton?"</p> - -<p>"We must get to Mr. Mongrace's by half-past -three!" called out Dave.</p> - -<p>"I can make it—but we'll have to hurry."</p> - -<p>"Go ahead then."</p> - -<p>"Three dollars."</p> - -<p>"<i>All right!</i>" yelled Babcock, and felt in his -pocket. "Oh, pshaw! I've only got a dollar and -a quarter with me!"</p> - -<p>"Never mind, I've got it," said Dave, and -brought out the necessary bank bills.</p> - -<p>The sight of the cash was inspiring to Si Ross, -and he urged his bony nag along at a faster gait -than ever. They passed over one small hill and -then came out on a highway which was in excellent -condition.</p> - -<p>"I'd like to know who put us in that freight -car," said Dave, as they rattled along. "Do you -know, I've half an idea the whole thing was a put-up -job. That tree seemed to fall down right in -front of us and I don't see what should make it -fall. There was hardly any wind blowing."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[133]</a></span></p> - -<p>"It was certainly a curious piece of business all -the way through," returned Paul Babcock. "We'll -have to start an investigation after the game. And -we must try to recover our bicycles too."</p> - -<p>"Do you think any of the Rockville fellows -would be mean enough to play such a trick on us?"</p> - -<p>"I don't know. Whoever it was took big -chances. Why, we might have been killed!"</p> - -<p>"Well, it wasn't done by footpads, otherwise we -should have been robbed."</p> - -<p>"That is true. Well, the best thing we can——Whoa! -What's the matter!"</p> - -<p>"The horse is running away!"</p> - -<p>"The back-strap is broken!"</p> - -<p>There was no time to say more, for the wagon -was swaying from side to side. Then came a turn, -and a second later the vehicle ran off into a gully. -Crash! went one of the front wheels, and over -went the body. The horse came to a standstill -and Si Ross slid into some bushes, followed by the -two students.</p> - -<p>"Smashed!" wailed the old driver, as he got up -and surveyed the wreck.</p> - -<p>"And that ends our hope of getting to the football -field in time," added Babcock dolefully.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[134]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV"></a>CHAPTER XV -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">OFF FOR THE GAME</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"Where</span></span> in the world can Dave and Paul be -keeping themselves?"</p> - -<p>It was Roger who spoke. He and the others -had had their dinner and were out on the campus -doing a last bit of practising before starting for -Mr. Mongrace's place.</p> - -<p>"They certainly should have been here long -ago," returned Phil. "They won't have time to -get their dinner."</p> - -<p>"I wonder if Gus Plum and his crowd met them -on the road," said Sam. "They were out on their -wheels."</p> - -<p>"I'll ask them," said Shadow, and ran off to do -so. He met Nat Poole at the doorway to the -Hall.</p> - -<p>"Say, Nat, did you see anything of Dave Porter -and Paul Babcock when you were out on your -wheel?" he asked.</p> - -<p>Nat Poole started at the direct question and his -face changed color. But he quickly recovered.</p> - -<p>"No, I didn't see them," he answered. "What -makes you ask?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[135]</a></span></p> - -<p>"They are missing and I know you were out on -your wheel and they went out too—over to Leeton."</p> - -<p>"We went to Oakdale," said Nat, and turned -away, for fear of being questioned further. He, -Plum, and Jasniff had arranged it between them -to say they had been to Oakdale and nowhere -else.</p> - -<p>Shadow Hamilton returned to his friends and -related what Poole had said. Some of the students -had already departed for the football field, going -on their wheels and in one of the carriages belonging -to the place. The football club was to take -the carryall, and turnouts had been engaged for all -who were to witness the game.</p> - -<p>Soon Andrew Dale came out to see if the team -was ready. He was greatly surprised when he -learned that Dave and Paul were missing.</p> - -<p>"It may be they have been delayed," said he, -"and if that is so, they may have gone direct from -Leeton to the Mongrace estate. I think there is a -fairly good road."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps that is so," answered the senator's son, -brightening a little. "But they ought to have -come here—they knew I should be worried."</p> - -<p>"You had better take their suits along. We -can leave word here about the suits—in case they -come after we are gone."</p> - -<p>Swiftly the minutes went by until the club could - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[136]</a></span> - -wait no longer. Then into the carryall they piled, -regulars and substitutes, taking the outfits of the -missing players with them. Jackson Lemond was -to drive, and with a crack of the whip they were -off. Usually the boys would have been noisy and -full of fun, but now they were sober.</p> - -<p>"Paul told me he would surely be back," said -Henshaw. "I am afraid something has happened -to him."</p> - -<p>"Maybe they got a tumble," suggested Buster -Beggs. "But it would be queer if they both got -caught at the same time."</p> - -<p>The boys had brought their horns and rattles -with them, yet they made little noise as they rode -along, much to the satisfaction of Jackson Lemond, -who had been afraid they would scare the horses -and cause them to bolt. Yet the Hall driver was -sorry to see them so blue.</p> - -<p>"Ain't feelin' much like playin', I take it," he observed.</p> - -<p>"It is not that, Horsehair," answered Roger. -"We are alarmed over the absence of Dave Porter -and Paul Babcock."</p> - -<p>"Got to have 'em to play, eh?"</p> - -<p>"Well, they belong on the regular eleven."</p> - -<p>"Maybe they went ahead," said the Hall driver, -hopefully.</p> - -<p>The roads were in good condition, and soon they -reached the broad highway leading directly to the - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[137]</a></span> - -Mongrace estate. On this road they met a score -of turnouts all bound for the football field.</p> - -<p>"Hurrah! There are the Oak Hall fellows!"</p> - -<p>"Hope you win, boys!"</p> - -<p>"You've got to put up a stiff game if you want to -come out ahead this season. Rockville has got a -dandy team."</p> - -<p>So the cries ran on, while horns were blown and -rattles used. Then a big stage lumbered up, -carrying a number of students from Rockville in -their natty military uniforms.</p> - -<p>"This is the time we'll wax you!"</p> - -<p>"After this game Oak Hall won't be in it!"</p> - -<p>"Bet you two to one we beat you!"</p> - -<p>"Bet your small change on that, or you'll be a -beggar!" cried one of the Oak Hall boys in return.</p> - -<p>"We'll race you to the grounds!" said a Rockville -student. "Get up there!" he cried to the -horses pulling the stage. The whip was used and -the turnout bounded ahead.</p> - -<p>"Here, this won't do, Horsehair!" cried Phil. -"We can't let them beat us on the road like this. -Start up the team."</p> - -<p>Now, if there was one thing that Lemond took -pride in, it was his horses, and seldom was it that -he allowed anybody to pass him on the road. Dr. -Clay kept good animals, and Horsehair saw to it -that they were always in the best of condition. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[138]</a></span> - -Moreover, he and the driver for Rockville were as -bitter rivals as the students themselves.</p> - -<p>"Ain't goin' to pass us to-day!" said he, setting -his teeth. "Git up!" and he snapped his whip in -a manner that meant business.</p> - -<p>The horses understood, and in a moment more -a race was on in earnest. Stage and carryall -streaked down the broad road side by side, all of -the students shrieking themselves hoarse.</p> - -<p>"Go it, Horsehair! Don't let them beat us!"</p> - -<p>"Send 'em ahead, Jerry! We can't take the -dust of Oak Hall!"</p> - -<p>Faster and faster went stage and carryall and -now the two drivers settled down to the race in -earnest. Then came a turn and the Oak Hall -turnout shot ahead.</p> - -<p>"Good for you, Horsehair!" yelled Phil. -"Keep it up!"</p> - -<p>"Catch him, Jerry, catch him!" came from behind.</p> - -<p>"You can't catch us to-day!" flung back Buster -Beggs. "Good-by! We'll tell 'em you are coming!" -Then the carryall swept up to some private -carriages, passed them, and left the Rockville stage -in the dust of the road behind.</p> - -<p>The little brush served to brighten up Roger -and his companions, and as they drew close to the -football field they blew their horns and sounded -their rattles. When they swept into the grounds - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[139]</a></span> - -they were greeted with cheers, and Oak Hall flags -were waved everywhere.</p> - -<p>It was certainly a fine football field, as level as a -house floor and well roped off. To one side was a -neat grand stand, painted green and white, and -decorated with flags and bunting. At the far end -of the field was a big tent, where the refreshments -were to be served, and opposite the grand stand -was a special inclosure for any outsiders who cared -to witness the contest. Each school was well -represented by its followers, and there were fully a -thousand spectators in addition.</p> - -<p>"We couldn't have a nicer day nor a better -crowd," remarked Phil, as he gazed around.</p> - -<p>"Do you see anything of Dave and Paul?" questioned -Roger, anxiously.</p> - -<p>All looked around quickly and then hurried to -the dressing room under the grand stand. Not a -sign of the missing players was to be seen anywhere.</p> - -<p>"We've got fifteen minutes yet," said Roger. -"They may show up at any minute."</p> - -<p>"Are all the Rockville players here?" asked Ben.</p> - -<p>"Yes, and they look as if they meant business, -too," answered Buster Beggs.</p> - -<p>The grand stand had been divided into three -parts, the middle for the owner of the estate and his -special friends, and either end for the two schools. -In the best position on the stand was the sick - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[140]</a></span> - -brother of the owner of the estate, propped up in -an invalid's chair. His face wore a smile, as if he -enjoyed everything that was going on.</p> - -<p>In an extreme corner of the Oak Hall end of the -stand sat Gus Plum, Nat Poole, and Nick Jasniff. -They were awaiting the outcome of the game with -deep interest, although sure that their school would -lose. Through a friend in Oakdale they had -placed practically all their spending money on bets -in favor of Rockville,—in fact Gus Plum had gone -into debt twenty dollars, borrowing the amount -from a student named Chadworth.</p> - -<p>"Say, are you sure you fixed Henshaw?" whispered -the bully of the Hall to Jasniff. "He -doesn't look to be very sick or dizzy-headed."</p> - -<p>"Oh, I fixed him right enough," returned Nick -Jasniff. "Maybe the stuff hasn't had time to -work."</p> - -<p>"Or maybe you didn't give him enough," commented -Nat Poole.</p> - -<p>"I gave him the dose called for. Of course I -didn't dare to give him too much."</p> - -<p>"I don't see anything of Porter or Babcock," -went on Poole, with a side wink at his cronies.</p> - -<p>"No, it's funny where they are," answered Gus -Plum, in a loud voice.</p> - -<p>"Maybe they got afraid to play," added Jasniff, -in an equally loud tone.</p> - -<p>It soon became noised around that Dave and - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[141]</a></span> - -Paul had failed to show themselves, and Dr. Clay -himself came from the grand stand to see about it. -But nobody could give him any information.</p> - -<p>"Something must have happened to detain -them," said the owner of the Hall. "They would -certainly get here if they could."</p> - -<p>At last it was time to go out on the field for -practice. Henshaw was put in Babcock's place, -as he was able to play the position almost as well -as anybody, and a lad named Farrell took the position -reserved for Dave.</p> - -<p>"There goes Henshaw out," said Nat Poole, in -a low voice. "He seems to be all right."</p> - -<p>"Why shouldn't he be all right?" demanded a -student sitting behind the speaker.</p> - -<p>"I wasn't talking to you, Dodd."</p> - -<p>"Well, why shouldn't Henshaw be all right?" -insisted Dodd.</p> - -<p>"Why,—er—somebody said he wasn't feeling -well, that's all," stammered Nat Poole.</p> - -<p>"He told me he was feeling bang-up."</p> - -<p>"That so? Well, I'm glad to hear it," said -Poole, weakly.</p> - -<p>As a matter of fact Henshaw was feeling just a -bit faint and dizzy, the drug not having had time -to have its full effect. Luckily the lad was strong -and with a good heart action, so he was bound to -suffer less than had he been otherwise.</p> - -<p>There was a cheer for the Oak Hall players and - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[142]</a></span> - -another cheer when the Rockville eleven appeared -on the field. The practice of each team was -snappy and vigorous and brought forth applause.</p> - -<p>The umpire and the referee were college men, -chosen by Mr. Dale and a teacher from Rockville, -and the linesmen were others acceptable all around. -The practice over, there was a five minutes' intermission.</p> - -<p>"Dave and Babcock are not here yet," sighed -Phil, "I declare, it's too bad! If we have many -accidents on the field we'll be more than short-handed."</p> - -<p>"They wouldn't stay away of their own accord," -said Roger. "Something is wrong—I'm -dead sure of it."</p> - -<p>It had been decided that the two halves of the -game should be of thirty minutes each, with an -intermission of ten minutes. Roger, Phil, Ben, -and Buster Beggs occupied the positions they had -filled the season previous, and the others of the -eleven were placed to the best advantage. The -center and the right guard were a little weak, but -this could not be helped. On the other hand, the -Rockville eleven appeared to be exceptionally well -balanced.</p> - -<p>"Time to play!" cried Phil, presently, and the -eleven at once took their positions. Then the -Rockville men came on the field once more; and a -minute later the great game started.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[143]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>CHAPTER XVI -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">THE GREAT FOOTBALL GAME</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">At</span></span> the best it is next to impossible to describe all -the plays made in a fast and snappy football game, -and I shall not attempt to do so. From the very -outset Rockville Academy demonstrated the fact -that they had come to win or die trying, and they -were alert to a degree that brought forth admiration -even from their enemies.</p> - -<p>The toss-up was won by Rockville, and the center -kicked off amid a breathless silence. The -leather sailed in Sam Day's direction and he caught -it and brought it back twelve yards. Ben Basswood -was called to kick and sent it off to the forty-five-yard -line. It was caught, but lost to Phil -Lawrence, who managed to tear around the end -for five yards. Then followed a mix-up, and the -ball went back and forth four times, when it went -out of bounds and brought a loss to Rockville of -two yards.</p> - -<p>The whole crowd by this time was wild with excitement, -and every advance by one side or the -other was hailed with cheers, the tooting of horns, -and the swinging of rattles.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[144]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Phew! but this is hard work, sure enough," -whispered Phil to Roger. "They are pushing -things for all they are worth."</p> - -<p>"I believe they think they can wind us," answered -the senator's son.</p> - -<p>The ball was put into play a few seconds later. -"Twelve, twenty-six, fifty!" was the signal, and it -passed rapidly from one Rockville player to another. -Then came a sensational run of twenty -yards, the tackle with the ball rushing Oak Hall's -left end. But the fullback was after him and -brought him down just as it looked as if Rockville -might score a touchdown.</p> - -<p>"Say, look at that run!"</p> - -<p>"I thought he was going to make it, sure!"</p> - -<p>"So did I!"</p> - -<p>"They'll get it anyway, see if they don't!"</p> - -<p>So the cries ran on as the two elevens lined up -for the next scrimmage. The first half was now -eighteen minutes old, and exactly two minutes later, -despite the best efforts of Oak Hall, the leather -was forced over the line by the military academy -boys.</p> - -<p>"Hurrah! A touchdown for Rockville!"</p> - -<p>"That's the way to do it!"</p> - -<p>And then the crowd cheered harder than ever—that -is, those who sympathized with the military -academy. Oak Hall and its supporters sat silent, -and a few shook their heads and sighed.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[145]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Didn't I tell you?" whispered Nick Jasniff, to -Plum and Poole. "There's the first dose. That -money is as good as won!"</p> - -<p>"It suits me right enough," answered the bully -of Oak Hall. He did not add that he was very -low on cash and that his father had written, stating -that he could not supply Gus with any more spending -money for a long time to come.</p> - -<p>As soon as the touchdown was made the leather -was hurried to the field for a kick. It sailed -directly between the goal posts, and at this another -yell went up.</p> - -<p>"Six points for Rockville! That's the way to -do it!"</p> - -<p>"Now then for another, fellows! Show 'em -that is only a starter!"</p> - -<p>With eight more minutes of the first half left the -ball was put into play and once more it was sent -back and forth. Once Roger made a clever run of -fifteen yards and at another time, when a Rockville -player made a fumble, Phil snatched the ball, -sent it to Ben, who turned it over to Henshaw. -With the leather in his arm Henshaw made a brave -attempt for a touchdown, but was stopped on the -thirty-yard line. His run, however, was loudly -applauded, and for the time being it gave Jasniff, -Plum, and Poole a chill.</p> - -<p>"Phew!" muttered Plum. "I thought he was -going straight over!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[146]</a></span></p> - -<p>"He's the best player they've got," whispered -Jasniff. "I can't understand why that drug doesn't -work."</p> - -<p>But the drug was working, and it was that which -prevented Henshaw from making the touchdown -after covering twenty yards. He was growing -more dizzy each moment.</p> - -<p>"I must be getting the blind staggers," he said -to Roger. "Everything seems to be swimming in -front of my eyes."</p> - -<p>"Maybe you ran too hard," suggested the senator's -son.</p> - -<p>"No, I've been feeling that way for the past five -minutes. I don't know what's the matter with -me."</p> - -<p>"Do you want to quit?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, I'll try to play the half out," answered -Henshaw.</p> - -<p>With the ball on the thirty-yard line, Oak Hall -fought as never before to carry the leather on. It -did go down to the twenty-yard line, but only to be -lost on a fumble, after which a succession of brilliant -rushes and end runs by Rockville brought it -within striking distance of Oak Hall's goal line, -when a drop kick sent it once more between the -posts.</p> - -<p>"Will you look at that!"</p> - -<p>"A goal from the field! That gives Rockville -10 points!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[147]</a></span></p> - -<p>The cheering and the general din were tremendous. -Oak Hall had nothing to say. Plum and -his cronies chuckled to themselves.</p> - -<p>"Rockville is rubbing it in, eh?" chuckled Nick -Jasniff. "I hope they make it about 50 to 0!"</p> - -<p>"So do I," answered Nat Poole.</p> - -<p>Once more the ball went into play, and this time -Oak Hall sent it into the Rockville territory in a -grim, stone-wall way that could not be resisted. -But when it lacked still ten yards of the goal line, -the whistle blew, telling that time was up and the -first half of the game had come to an end.</p> - -<p>"Hard luck to-day," said Phil, grimly. "They -are certainly putting up a great game."</p> - -<p>"They have more weight than we have," answered -Shadow. "And I must say, their tackling -is first-class."</p> - -<p>"I think it is rough," said Buster Beggs. "I got -a kick in the shin that wasn't pleasant."</p> - -<p>"That Hausermann is rather rough," said Phil. -"I'd hate to have him come down on me."</p> - -<p>"Yes, and he plays off-side," said Roger. "I -had to warn him twice, and the referee warned him -too."</p> - -<p>Poor Henshaw was now so dizzy he could -scarcely stand and two of the other players had to -escort him off the field. Andrew Dale questioned -the youth closely.</p> - -<p>"You didn't eat or drink anything unusual?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[148]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Not that I know of, sir."</p> - -<p>"Did you ever feel that way before when -playing?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir, it never affected me in the least."</p> - -<p>"It is odd. I will call Dr. Blarcom, who is -present."</p> - -<p>The doctor came up and made a close examination. -He was much puzzled. He also asked -Henshaw about his eating and drinking. Then, -when the lad complained of feeling sick at the -stomach, he gave him an emetic.</p> - -<p>"He has certainly swallowed something that -hasn't agreed with him," said the physician, and -took Henshaw to the Mongrace mansion, where he -might give the sick student every attention.</p> - -<p>With Henshaw, Babcock, and Dave out of the -game, Roger hardly knew what to do for players. -The lad who had taken Dave's place was only an -ordinary player, and to put another ordinary player -in place of Henshaw would be to weaken the eleven -greatly.</p> - -<p>"It certainly looks like a walk-over for Rockville," -said the senator's son. "I can't understand -what is keeping Dave and Paul away."</p> - -<p>But four minutes of the intermission had passed -when there came a sudden shout from outside of -the grand-stand dressing rooms. Then with a -whirr a big red automobile dashed up and two -dusty-looking youths leaped out.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[149]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Dave and Paul!" ejaculated Phil, joyously. -"Where in the world have you been?"</p> - -<p>"Is the game over?" asked Dave, anxiously.</p> - -<p>"The first half is."</p> - -<p>"What's the score?" questioned Babcock, -quickly.</p> - -<p>"10 to 0 against us."</p> - -<p>"Is that so!"</p> - -<p>"But where have you been?" demanded Roger, -and added, almost in the same breath: "Can you -play?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly we can play—that is what we are -here for," returned Dave. "Will somebody lend -me a football suit?"</p> - -<p>"We have your suits here," said Shadow, and -brought them forth. "Climb right in."</p> - -<p>Dave and Babcock did "climb in," and while -doing so briefly related their adventures.</p> - -<p>"When the old wagon went to smash we thought -we were surely out of the game," said Dave. "But -a few minutes later a man came along in that automobile, -and we stopped him and got him to promise -to bring us here. We would have gotten here in -time for the first half only something got the matter -with the auto's batteries."</p> - -<p>"Dave, some enemies played that trick," said -Phil.</p> - -<p>"No doubt of it."</p> - -<p>"They wanted us to lose the game."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[150]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Of course," said Babcock.</p> - -<p>"Do you suspect any of the Rockville fellows?"</p> - -<p>"Not yet. I am going to investigate after this -game is over."</p> - -<p>"And I am going to investigate, too," added -Dave. "Why, we might have been killed!"</p> - -<p>The youth who had taken Dave's place on the -eleven was perfectly willing to retire, feeling that -Oak Hall was going to lose anyway. Babcock -took his old place.</p> - -<p>"I am sorry for Spud," he said, referring to -Henshaw. "It appears to me that something is -wrong all around."</p> - -<p>With the appearance of Dave and Babcock the -spirits of Roger, Phil, and the others arose wonderfully.</p> - -<p>"Now, boys, play for all you are worth," said -the senator's son. "Make every scrimmage count, -and if you get hold of the ball run like all-possessed. -We must get something this half, or we'll -never hear the end of it."</p> - -<p>"It will certainly make Gus Plum and his cronies -crow," answered Dave, grimly. "I suppose they -are here?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, in a corner of the stand," answered Buster -Beggs.</p> - -<p>"They were out on their wheels this morning," -said Sam Day. "Did you see anything of -them?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[151]</a></span></p> - -<p>"They were out?" repeated Dave, in surprise. -"Did they follow us?"</p> - -<p>"They said they went to Oakdale."</p> - -<p>Dave looked at Paul Babcock, who pursed up -his lips meditatively.</p> - -<p>"What do you think of that, Paul?"</p> - -<p>"I think it will stand investigation," answered -Babcock. "Somebody played us the trick, and it -certainly wasn't a friend."</p> - -<p>"Last year Plum and Poole were against us."</p> - -<p>At that moment came a call from the doorway -of the dressing room.</p> - -<p>"Time for the second half, boys. Come out on -the field."</p> - -<p>It had become noised around that Dave and -Babcock had arrived. A number believed this, -but others did not.</p> - -<p>"Do you think it is true?" demanded Plum of -Jasniff.</p> - -<p>"I don't see how it can be," whispered Jasniff in -return. "They must have been carried miles and -miles on that freight train."</p> - -<p>"Oh, it's only talk," grumbled Nat Poole.</p> - -<p>The eleven were now pouring into the field. -Among the first to show themselves were Dave and -Paul, and a roar of welcome went up from the Oak -Hall supporters.</p> - -<p>"There are Porter and Babcock!"</p> - -<p>"Now for some real playing!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[152]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Where in the world have they been?"</p> - -<p>"They are here, sure enough!" whispered Gus -Plum, hoarsely. "Nick, what can it mean?"</p> - -<p>"Don't ask me," growled Jasniff. "It beats -anything I ever heard of!"</p> - -<p>As soon as they came on the field Dave and Babcock -reported to the referee, as substitutes for the -two players that had dropped out. Then the -whistle blew, and the second half of the great game -was on.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[153]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>CHAPTER XVII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">HOW THE GAME ENDED</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">There</span></span> was another spell of breathless silence as -the ball went into play on the second half of the -great game. The kick-off was clean and clever, -and for several minutes the leather remained close -to the center of the field, each eleven struggling -desperately to force the line of the other. Rockville -had had one man slightly hurt and another -player had taken his place, one who was light and -very wiry. He took the ball for a run around the -left end, but was brought down. Then in the -scrimmage that followed the ball came to Dave -and he made a gain of ten yards, breaking through -and dodging in a manner that brought forth much -favorable comment.</p> - -<p>"That's the way to do it," was the cry. "Carry -it over the line!"</p> - -<p>But alas! for the hopes of Oak Hall. In the -very next mix-up Buster Beggs made a bad fumble -and the wiry substitute on the Rockville eleven secured -the leather. Before anybody could stop - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[154]</a></span> - -him he made a sensational run to the end of the -field.</p> - -<p>"Another touchdown for Rockville!"</p> - -<p>How the supporters of the military academy did -cheer and yell! Horns tooted madly and the -academy colors went waving in all directions.</p> - -<p>Gus Plum grinned silently, while Nick Jasniff -winked at him.</p> - -<p>"Say, we're all right, after all, eh?" whispered -Nat Poole.</p> - -<p>"Hush!" muttered the bully of the school. "If -our fellows should hear you they'd kill us! This -defeat will make them ugly."</p> - -<p>The touchdown was turned into a goal, giving -Rockville 16 points as against 0 for Oak Hall. -Things certainly did look blue.</p> - -<p>"Come, fellows, we've got to do something!" -urged Roger. "Everybody play for all he is -worth. Don't let a single chance escape you!"</p> - -<p>"I am going to do something if I die for it," said -Babcock, and went in with a vigor that nothing -could resist. Inside of two minutes he secured the -ball, dove to the left, turned, and started for the -right. Two Rockville players tackled him, but -Dave and Buster Beggs came between and Babcock -went on. Then Roger took a hand, and in the -struggle the ball went over the Rockville line amid -a yelling from Oak Hall that could have been -heard half a mile.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[155]</a></span></p> - -<p>"A touchdown for Oak Hall!"</p> - -<p>"Now wake up, boys, and show 'em what you -can do!"</p> - -<p>Dave held the ball and Roger made the kick. -The ball went through the posts fairly, scoring 6 -points for the Hall. Again came a cheer.</p> - -<p>"Well, it's only 6 to 16," whispered Nat Poole.</p> - -<p>"How much longer to play?" asked Plum.</p> - -<p>"Fourteen minutes."</p> - -<p>The six points gained put increased vigor into -Oak Hall, and now Roger gave the signal for a -certain mass play which had as yet not been tried. -Like a living wedge Oak Hall struck against Rockville, -and although the academy eleven carried -more weight they could not withstand such an onslaught. -They separated, and in a twinkling the -leather was carried up the field and across the line -a second time, within three minutes after the first -touchdown was secured.</p> - -<p>"Whoop! Hurrah! Look at that!"</p> - -<p>"Another touchdown! Keep it up, fellows!"</p> - -<p>"Oak Hall has struck her gait at last!"</p> - -<p>And then the Oak Hall colors were waved -wildly, while horns tooted and rattles were swung -on every side. It was now Rockville's turn to remain -silent.</p> - -<p>"Be careful, fellows, don't get excited," warned -Roger. "Watch your chances."</p> - -<p>The goal was kicked, making the score, Rockville - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[156]</a></span> - -16, Oak Hall 12. There were but eight -minutes more in which to play. Once again the -leather came into the field. Rockville was now on -guard against another mass play and it was decided -to try the left end. The ball went to Ben, who -passed it to Dave. Dave made a short run and -doubled, as if turning back. Then he plunged -forward, hurdled (it was the old style of playing), -and tore up the field for twenty yards. Then he -was brought to earth with a thud that made his -ears ring and caused him to see stars.</p> - -<p>"Are you hurt, Dave?" he heard Roger ask, -and sitting up he shook his head. Time had been -called, and he learned that for two minutes he had -been dead to the world.</p> - -<p>"I—I guess I am all right," he said, and with a -mighty effort pulled himself together. "Did—did -I gain anything?"</p> - -<p>"Did you gain anything? Well, rather!" answered -Phil. "It was a dandy play!"</p> - -<p>Again the ball was put into play, and it went -back and forth in a manner that was heartbreaking, -first for one side and then for the other. Then -came a warning cry:</p> - -<p>"Three minutes more to play!"</p> - -<p>It nerved all of the players up as never before -and the struggle was the most bitter yet. But -with less than a minute and a half to play Dave secured -the ball and made a clever pass to Phil, who - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[157]</a></span> - -started up the field. Babcock guarded him on one -side and Roger on the other, and in a trice another -sensational run was on.</p> - -<p>"Down him! Down him!" was the frantic -yell from Rockville, and just as Phil, panting for -breath, reached the goal-line he was caught and -thrown with tremendous violence, his head striking -the ground with great force.</p> - -<p>"Another touchdown!"</p> - -<p>"Oak Hall wins the game!"</p> - -<p>It was true, the touchdown had been made, fairly -and squarely. With drooping hearts Rockville -came out of the mix-up. There was nothing more -to be done, for all but quarter of a minute of the -time was up. Phil lay on the ball motionless, his -face buried in the grass.</p> - -<p>"He's hurt!" cried Dave, bending over his -chum. "Phil!"</p> - -<p>There was no answer, and now Roger and some -others came to the aid of the fallen one. They -turned Phil over. His face was pale and his eyes -closed. He made not the slightest sound.</p> - -<p>"Call the doctor!" said Dave, in as steady a -voice as he could command. "I—I hope he isn't -hurt very much."</p> - -<p>Water was brought and Phil's face was bathed, -but still he made no sound nor did he open his eyes. -Then the doctor came up and took charge.</p> - -<p>"He has received a severe shock," said the - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[158]</a></span> - -physician, after an examination. "As yet I cannot -tell how badly he is affected. His head is bleeding, -and it is possible he may have fractured his -skull. We had best remove him to the house."</p> - -<p>A barn door was procured and a blanket thrown -over it, and on this the hurt student was placed and -six others carried him to the mansion. In the -meantime there had been a great cheering over -Oak Hall's victory, but this soon came to an end -when it was known that Phil Lawrence had been -seriously hurt.</p> - -<p>"I hope his skull hasn't been fractured," said -Dave. "He certainly came down hard. I heard -the thump plainly."</p> - -<p>"So did I," answered Babcock, and then he ran -off to see how Henshaw was faring. He found -the latter sitting up in an easy-chair, as pale as -death itself.</p> - -<p>"Won out, eh?" said Henshaw, weakly. "Good -enough!"</p> - -<p>"How do you feel now?" questioned Babcock.</p> - -<p>"Oh, my stomach is better and the dizziness is -gone. But I am as weak as a rag."</p> - -<p>Through an attendant Henshaw had heard of -the arrival of Dave and Babcock and of the -progress of the great game. He was shocked to -learn that Phil had been seriously hurt.</p> - -<p>"This will put a damper on the celebration," -said he, and he was right. Only a few cared to - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[159]</a></span> - -celebrate with Phil, for all they knew, lying at -death's door. The sufferer was still unconscious, -and a messenger had been sent off for another -physician who was also a surgeon.</p> - -<p>"This takes the edge off the victory," said -Dave. "I'd rather lose than have anybody seriously -hurt."</p> - -<p>"Morr, we are mighty sorry for this," said the -captain of the Rockville eleven, coming up. "I -am sure you know it wasn't done intentionally."</p> - -<p>"I know that," answered Roger. "But the play -was pretty rough, especially towards the end."</p> - -<p>"It was a fair tackle," said the Rockville captain, -and moved off.</p> - -<p>Those from the military academy felt their defeat -keenly. Just when they had thought victory -certain all their hopes had been dashed to the -ground. They had to admit that Oak Hall had -played fairly from start to finish.</p> - -<p>"Boys, you did splendidly," said Dr. Clay. -"The one dark spot is the fact that Lawrence has -been hurt. I sincerely trust it does not prove -serious."</p> - -<p>While the doctor was doing what he could for -Phil, the two schools were entertained in royal -style by Mr. Mongrace. But Dave and Roger -could eat little, their thoughts being constantly -with Phil. Three others who did not enjoy the -feast were Plum, Poole, and Jasniff.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[160]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Hang the luck, anyway!" growled the bully, as -he and his cronies walked away from the table. -"Jasniff, this is the worst yet."</p> - -<p>"Who would have thought that they could pull -themselves together like that," grumbled Jasniff. -"Why, I never saw such work on any field. They -went at the play like demons—nothing could stand -before them."</p> - -<p>"Yes, and Phil Lawrence got a broken head for -his pains," said Poole, in a tone more of satisfaction -than regret.</p> - -<p>"I don't care a continental for Lawrence," pursued -the bully of Oak Hall. "What I am thinking -of is the money I have lost."</p> - -<p>"And the money I've lost, too," added -Poole.</p> - -<p>"Well, we'll have to pocket our losses, that's -all," answered Jasniff. "With Porter, Babcock, -and Henshaw off the list I thought we'd make a -sure thing of it—but we didn't, and there you -are."</p> - -<p>"I don't know what I am going to do about the -money I put up," said Gus Plum.</p> - -<p>"Write to your old man for some," suggested -Jasniff. "Tell him you lost your money, but don't -say how."</p> - -<p>"He won't let me have any more just yet—said -so in his last letter."</p> - -<p>"How about you, Nat?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[161]</a></span></p> - -<p>"My old man won't give up a cent until next -allowance day, and that's two weeks off. I'll have -to live on air till then."</p> - -<p>A little later Poole was called away by one of -the students, and Gus Plum and Nick Jasniff were -left to themselves. Plum was in a quandary, for -he had borrowed from several parties and now did -not know how to pay the amounts back. Jasniff -noticed his uneasiness.</p> - -<p>"Don't take the loss so hard, Gus," he said. -"Let us go off and have a smoke—it will settle -your nerves. If we were in town we might get a -drink. But we can't get it around here."</p> - -<p>"Let's go back to the Hall, I am sick of it here," -answered the bully of the school; and a few minutes -later he and Jasniff started off, leaving Poole behind, -in the company of several girls who had -driven in to witness the football match. Poole -always dressed very fastidiously, and sought the -company of the girls whenever the opportunity -offered.</p> - -<p>Halfway to Oak Hall, Plum and Jasniff determined -to ride on their wheels to Hampton, a -small village south of Oakdale. Here they put up -at the tavern, and Jasniff spent his last twenty cents -for some liquor. Then they sat down in the back -room, to smoke cigarettes and talk over their -future plans.</p> - -<p>"It don't feel nice to be dead-broke," said - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[162]</a></span> - -Jasniff. "Wouldn't you like to earn a little pile, -Gus?"</p> - -<p>"How?" questioned the bully eagerly.</p> - -<p>"Oh,—I don't know exactly," drawled Jasniff, -looking up at the ceiling. "But it might be done, -you know."</p> - -<p>"Well, I've got to get money somehow," answered -Plum, desperately. "I am not going -around without a cent in my pocket, and in debt, -too."</p> - -<p>"Will you stand by me if I show you a way to -get a little pile?" asked Jasniff, lowering his voice.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I will," answered Plum, boldly.</p> - -<p>"All right, then; I'll let you know what I can do -in a few days. I've got to consult somebody else -first, though."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[163]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>CHAPTER XVIII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">A FUNNY INITIATION</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">The</span></span> celebration to follow the grand victory was -a rather tame affair on account of the accident to -Phil Lawrence. The ship-owner's son was a prime -favorite with many of the Oak Hall students and -they asked about him constantly.</p> - -<p>"He cannot be moved at present," said the doctors. -"He must remain here." And after that -the sufferer was made as comfortable as possible in -one of the spare chambers of the mansion. A telegram -was at once sent to his parents, and they came -on the following morning. Poor Phil was still unconscious -but came to his senses that evening, and -by the following day seemed a trifle improved.</p> - -<p>"Oh, I do hope he gets over it entirely," said -Dave to Roger. "It would be awful to think of -his suffering all his life."</p> - -<p>"That is true, Dave. I'd rather we hadn't -played at all."</p> - -<p>"And to think it came at the very end of the -game," broke in Buster Beggs.</p> - -<p>"It will stop football for this season," announced - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[164]</a></span> - -Sam Day, and he was right. Dr. Clay -issued orders that very day that no more games -should be played until it was certain that Phil was -out of danger. Even as it was, a number of the -students received word from their parents and -guardians forbidding their playing any more.</p> - -<p>Dave wrote to his uncle and to the others about -the game, and received several letters in return, -including one from Jessie Wadsworth which he -kept to himself and prized very highly. In it the -girl wrote that she was glad they had won and was -sure Dave had done his full share to gain the victory, -but she was sorry to learn Phil had been hurt -and that Dave must be sure to keep out of harm.</p> - -<p>"We cannot afford to have anything happen to -you," wrote Jessie, "for we all think so much of -you." And this made Dave's cheeks flush and his -heart beat with keenest pleasure.</p> - -<p>The letter from Dunston Porter was also interesting, -but one paragraph made Dave's heart sink. -In this Mr. Porter stated that as yet no word of -any kind had been received about Dave's father -and sister.</p> - -<p>"It certainly is queer you don't hear from them," -said Roger, when he learned of this. "If they are -in Europe or in America at least one of your letters -must have followed them up."</p> - -<p>"It's a mystery to me," answered Dave, and -heaved a long sigh. He was more than impatient - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[165]</a></span> - -to meet his father and sister, and who can blame -him?</p> - -<p>The two bicycles belonging to Dave and Babcock -had been brought in by a farmer of that vicinity, -who had found them near the fallen tree. This -man was rewarded for his trouble, and Dave, -Roger, and Babcock went to the spot hoping to find -some clew to the mystery. They saw that the tree -was decayed near the roots but that it had undoubtedly -been broken off by force.</p> - -<p>"It was surely the work of some enemies," said -Dave. "The question is, Who is guilty?"</p> - -<p>"Perhaps we'll learn some day," answered the -senator's son; and there, for the time being, the -subject was dropped.</p> - -<p>As my old readers know there was a secret society -at Oak Hall known as the Gee Eyes, this -mysterious appellation standing for the initials, -G. I., which in their turn stood for the words, -Guess It. This society had its officers and its secret -password, and met "semi-occasionally or oftener" -as the by-laws had it. It was gotten up mostly for -fun,—the said fun being largely due to the initiation -of new members. Dave had joined and so -had his chums, and they had aided in initiating a -number of others.</p> - -<p>For various reasons Plum, Poole, and Jasniff -were out of this society. When Jasniff had -wanted to join—as a newcomer to the Hall—he - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[166]</a></span> - -had been rejected with scant ceremony. This had -angered him, and as a consequence he and his -cronies, along with several other students, had organized -a new society, called the D. D. A. Club, -the initials standing for Dare Do Anything. This -was supposed to meet once a month, and all sorts -of inducements were offered to get the other students -to join.</p> - -<p>"I hear the Gee Eyes are going to meet soon," -said Nat Poole, one day to his cronies. "Ain't it -about time the D. D. A. met too?"</p> - -<p>"Have you found a new member?" asked Jasniff.</p> - -<p>"Frank Bond wants to join."</p> - -<p>"Oh, he's only a little fellow," sneered Jasniff.</p> - -<p>"Never mind, we can get some fun out of him," -said Gus Plum. "I'd like something to do. -Things are dead slow."</p> - -<p>The Gee Eyes met the very next night, and hearing -of this the D. D. A. Club did the same. A -new student named Sultzer—a German boy—wanted -to join the Gee Eyes, and Dave and Ben -Basswood were appointed as a committee of two to -make ready for the occasion.</p> - -<p>"We'll have to give 'em something brand-new," -said Ben.</p> - -<p>"That will not be so easy—since we have tried -nearly everything," answered Dave.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"><a id="Carl_was_made_to_bow"></a> -<img src="images/p166.jpg" alt="" width="323" height="500" /> -<div class="topspace1"></div> -<div class="caption">Carl was made to bow until his nose touched the floor. <i>Page 167.</i></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[167]</a></span></p> - -<p>"They are building a new house over near the -Grislow place. Can't we do something there?"</p> - -<p>"Maybe we can," said Dave. "Let us look over -the ground."</p> - -<p>By the time the Gee Eyes met everything was in -readiness, and Ben Basswood brought Carl Sultzer -to the meeting, which was held in an old boathouse -down the river. In the meantime the other members -had attired themselves in cotton robes of red, -with black hoods over their heads and a yellow -tassel dangling over one ear. Some had wooden -swords, one a wooden hammer, and others stuffed -clubs.</p> - -<p>As Carl Sultzer, a fat boy with a round, ruddy -face, was thrust into the room, he was surrounded -and all present began to chant:</p> - -<div class="center"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="poem"> - <div class="stanza"> - <span class="i1">"Hoopra! hoopra! Dilly duddy!</span> - <span class="i2">Here he comes so fat and ruddy!</span> - <span class="i1">Hoopra! hoopra! Dilly dee!</span> - <span class="i2">Stranger, stranger! Bend your knee!</span> - <span class="i1">Hoopra! hoopra! Dilly dud!</span> - <span class="i2">Do you want to join this club?</span> - <span class="i1">If you do, down to the ground,</span> - <span class="i2">Make to us a bow profound!"</span> -</div> -</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>As the chant went on Carl Sultzer was forced to -his knees and was made to bow until his nose -touched the floor.</p> - -<p>"Vot is dis ding, annahow?" he asked, in a -trembling voice. "Is dis der Chee Eyes Club, I -ton't know?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[168]</a></span></p> - -<p>"This is the renowned Gee Eyes Club," came in -a solemn tone.</p> - -<p>"Wouldst thou join us, base stranger?" asked -another voice.</p> - -<p>"Yah, sure, I choin," answered Carl. "Put vot -I got to to alretty?"</p> - -<p>"Thou shalt soon see," was the answer. "Numbers -Three and Six, blindfold him."</p> - -<p>"Look here, I ton't like dis!" cried the German -student, as a bag was thrown over his head and -fastened around his neck. The bag had a hole in -the back, so that he could get air. But he could -not see a thing.</p> - -<p>"It must be done," was the answer. "For particulars -see Section 45, rule 917 of the by-laws. -Are you ready to learn the by-laws?"</p> - -<p>"Der py-laws? Vot I got to puy py der py-laws?" -asked the German student, cautiously.</p> - -<p>"You haven't got to buy anything. You must -learn them."</p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind of a story," came in -another voice. "A man once——Oh, excuse -me, I forgot!" And the story came to a sudden -end, as the speaker received a whack over the ear -from a stuffed club.</p> - -<p>"I believe Shadow would want to tell a story if -he was at a funeral," whispered one hooded figure -to another.</p> - -<p>"Lo! the march begins!" cried a loud voice, in - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[169]</a></span> - -Carl Sultzer's ear. It made the German boy -jump. Then he was caught by the arms and his -hands were tied behind him. In this fashion he -was marched from the old boathouse and in the -direction of the new building previously mentioned.</p> - -<p>"Vere you been daking me?" asked Carl.</p> - -<p>"Wait, and thou shalt see."</p> - -<p>"How I vos going to see of I got mine eyes -blindfolded alretty?"</p> - -<p>To this there was no answer, but several of the -hooded figures snickered.</p> - -<p>The new building reached, several of the boys -caught up the German lad in a blanket.</p> - -<p>"Vot is dis now?" he asked, in fresh alarm.</p> - -<p>"Be careful now while you carry him to the -top of the building," whispered one boy, but loud -enough for the German lad to hear.</p> - -<p>"Hi! vot is dis, annahow?" yelled Carl.</p> - -<p>"A new house they are building. We are going -to take you to the top," answered a member of the -secret society.</p> - -<p>"Maype I ton't vos vant to go py der dop alretty," -pleaded Carl.</p> - -<p>"It won't hurt you. Come on, fellows!"</p> - -<p>In a twinkling the German youth was lifted up -and carried along, over some wooden horses and -lumber piles. He thought he was going up—he -knew not where.</p> - -<p>"Hi! ton't you trop me town," he wailed.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[170]</a></span></p> - -<p>"No, Carl dear, we'll drop you up," came in a -cheery voice, and this brought forth another -snicker.</p> - -<p>Presently the boys came to a halt, and the victim -was placed on his feet on a narrow board.</p> - -<p>"Don't lose your balance," said one boy, cautiously.</p> - -<p>"It's about thirty feet to the ground," added -another.</p> - -<p>"Oh, my! I ton't vos vant to dumble, ain't it!" -shrieked Carl, in terror.</p> - -<p>"You won't if you are careful. Now you must -walk over the beams from one end of this building -to the other."</p> - -<p>"I can't vos do dot! I vos dumble town sure!" -wailed Carl.</p> - -<p>"You have got to do it if you want to join this -society. Here, let me place your foot on the next -beam," and Carl's right foot was caught up and -put on a beam a foot and a half in front of that -upon which he had been standing.</p> - -<p>"Look out! I vos dumble me town!" he -shrieked.</p> - -<p>"Steady now and you'll be all right," was the -answer. "Forward you go!"</p> - -<p>But poor Carl did not go forward, instead he -remained standing on the two beams, his knees -shaking visibly.</p> - -<p>"Forward!" was the cry again, and now he was - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[171]</a></span> - -tapped on the back with the wooden swords and -stuffed clubs.</p> - -<p>"I dumble me town! I dumble me town sure -as I vas porn!" he shrieked. "Ton't douch me!"</p> - -<p>"Then move on. We won't let you fall," said -one student, and still trembling the German lad -started to walk across the beams to the other end -of the building, as he thought. He passed over -seven beams when, of a sudden, one fell over. -Down he went, yelling wildly and clutching at the -beam he had just left. Then he struck the ground, -which was just under the beams, and rolled over. -In another moment the sack was taken from his -head and his hands were unloosened.</p> - -<p>"Vell, I neffer!" he ejaculated, gazing around in -a sheepish way. "I dink me sure I vos der top -of der puilding on alretty! Und I vos on der -groundt all der vile! Now ain't dot funny!" -And all at once he set up a roar of laughter. The -other students joined in, and the general merriment -lasted for fully five minutes.</p> - -<p>"Now, Carl, you are a full-fledged member of -the Gee Eyes," said Dave, coming forward. "Let -me congratulate you." And he gave Carl's hand -a tight squeeze.</p> - -<p>"Dank you," said the German lad. Then the -others shook hands, each giving Carl's hand the -tightest squeeze possible. Soon the youth began -to dance around.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[172]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Hi! somepody stop dot!" he roared. "I ton't -vont mine hand squashed to a jelly alretty! Let -go, I told you!" And after that he would do no -more handshaking.</p> - -<p>It was rather cold and soon one of the students -suggested that they go back to the Hall. But the -others demurred.</p> - -<p>"Let us take a trolley ride," said one. "Just the -thing in this moonlight. We can get back in -plenty of time."</p> - -<p>So it was agreed, and off the crowd set, in the -direction of the trolley line, upon which they had -had so much sport the previous summer. Nobody -dreamed of the surprise in store for them.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[173]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>CHAPTER XIX -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">ALMOST SCARED TO DEATH</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">While</span></span> the Gee Eyes were having their sport -with Carl Sultzer quite another scene was being -enacted some distance away, in the vicinity of the -trolley tracks.</p> - -<p>Little Frank Bond, a pale and highly sensitive -youth who had come to Oak Hall two weeks before, -was being initiated into the mysteries of the -D. D. A. Club by Plum, Poole, Jasniff, and several -of their cronies.</p> - -<p>Frank did not care for clubs, being a lad of a -retiring disposition. But he had been "talked into -it" by Plum, who thought he saw some keen sport -in scaring the little fellow half to death.</p> - -<p>"You must join by all means," said the bully of -the school. "Why, life at Oak Hall won't be -worth living unless you're a member of the D. D. -A. Club." And very foolishly Frank agreed to -submit to an initiation.</p> - -<p>"We'll scare him out of his seven senses," -chuckled Plum. "It will be a barrel of fun."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[174]</a></span></p> - -<p>"What will you do?" questioned the others of -the club.</p> - -<p>When the bully of Oak Hall unfolded his plan -several demurred, stating it would be rather severe -on a lad of Frank's temperament. But they were -overruled, and in the end the so-styled initiation -was carried out as the bully planned it.</p> - -<p>After a good deal of ceremony, which was great -fun and rather enjoyed by the small boy, Frank -was blindfolded and marched out in the direction -of the trolley tracks. The club members took to a -side road, where there was a single track running -to a town several miles distant. On this track was -a new turnout, which had been put down only a -short while before.</p> - -<p>"Where are we going?" asked Frank, timidly, -as the others hurried him along.</p> - -<p>"To the trolley tracks," was the answer. "We -want to test your nerve."</p> - -<p>"How?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, we'll put you on the tracks and let the -trolley run over you," answered Plum, brutally.</p> - -<p>"Oh, please don't put me on the tracks!" cried -Frank. "I—I know you don't want to hurt me, -but a trolley car might come along, and I might get -struck."</p> - -<p>"Oh, it's all right," said Jasniff. "If you're -ground up we'll pick up the pieces and give you a -decent burial."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[175]</a></span></p> - -<p>This sort of talk was kept up until the trolley -line was reached, and the effect was to completely -unnerve the young victim. He was allowed to see -the single track and then blindfolded once more, -and his hands were tied behind his back.</p> - -<p>"Now put him on the tracks," commanded -Plum, roughly.</p> - -<p>"And don't forget to chain him fast," added -Jasniff, rattling a dog chain he had brought along.</p> - -<p>"Oh, we'll chain him good and hard," said Nat -Poole.</p> - -<p>"No! no! Please don't!" cried Frank, and now -he tried to break away from his tormentors. A -struggle ensued, but in the end he was subdued and -dragged along the track to where was located the -turnout just mentioned. Here he was thrown on -his back, and his hands were fastened down to one -of the rails.</p> - -<p>"Don't! Let me go! Please let me go!" he -shrieked. "I don't want to be tied to the track! -I don't want to join the club! If a trolley should -come along I'd surely be hurt! Let me go!" -And he started to struggle again.</p> - -<p>"See here, aren't we going a little too far?" -whispered one of the students.</p> - -<p>"He's too sensitive for this sort of sport," added -another.</p> - -<p>"Oh, pshaw! it's all right," interrupted Plum. -"The little beggar won't be hurt in the least."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[176]</a></span></p> - -<p>"But he'll be scared to death."</p> - -<p>"Well, that's the fun of it," came from Jasniff.</p> - -<p>In the meantime Frank Bond continued to cry -out to be released. He was so frightened now -that he know not what to do. He struggled madly -to break his bonds.</p> - -<p>"I'm going to let him go," began one boy, a lad -named Messmer.</p> - -<p>"Don't you touch him," answered Plum, -roughly. "It's only fun."</p> - -<p>"But, Gus——"</p> - -<p>"Here comes the trolley!" shouted Jasniff. -"Now, Bond, take it easy when they run over -you!"</p> - -<p>"Don't throw the trolley off the track," added -Plum, brutally.</p> - -<p>The trolley came along swiftly in the semi-darkness, -and as it approached Frank Bond let out a -piercing scream for help. He was now completely -beside himself with fear.</p> - -<p>"Don't, don't! Help!" he screamed. "Save -me! Save me!" And then he began to foam at -the mouth.</p> - -<p>With a rush and a roar the trolley car came on. -The poor boy on the turnout track thought sure -it was going to run over him and struggled madly -to get free. Then, just as the trolley swept beside -him, he broke his bonds, leaped to his feet, and -stepped blindly toward the car. His arm struck - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[177]</a></span> - -the back platform and he was hurled backward. -Then the trolley, with its gleaming headlight, -swept on its way, the motorman taking no notice -of what had happened.</p> - -<p>"He's hurt!" was the cry from Messmer.</p> - -<p>"It's the little beggar's own fault," said Gus -Plum, but his voice trembled as he spoke.</p> - -<p>"Oh, I am killed! I am killed!" cried Frank, -struggling to his feet and throwing the bandage -from his eyes. He was foaming at the mouth, and -bleeding both at the head and on the hand. -"Don't let the trolley go over me again! Save -me! Save me!" And then, with a bound, he -turned and disappeared into the bushes and trees -which lined the trolley road at this point.</p> - -<p>"He has gone mad!" whispered one of the boys, -hoarsely.</p> - -<p>"As mad as a March hare," was the comment of -another of the students. "Come back, Frank! -It's all right!" he called out.</p> - -<p>"The little fool!" muttered Jasniff. "He -wouldn't have been hurt at all if he had remained -quiet." He raised his voice: "Come back here, -Bond, it's all over!"</p> - -<p>"I said he couldn't stand it," said Messmer. -"It was a shame to go so far."</p> - -<p>"Oh, don't preach to me," returned Jasniff. -"Bond, are you coming back?" he cried, in a louder -tone.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[178]</a></span></p> - -<p>The only reply was a distant scream, so cold and -uncanny it made all of the students shiver. Then -came other screams, gradually growing fainter and -fainter.</p> - -<p>"He is going deeper and deeper into the -woods!"</p> - -<p>"Say, we'll have to get him out of that!"</p> - -<p>"He has gone crazy, just as sure as fate," said -Messmer. "Come, we must bring him back and -do what we can for him."</p> - -<p>The wood was a long one and some distance -from the trolley turnout was another road, leading -down to the main line. Dave and his chums were -coming along this road when Ben came to a sudden -halt.</p> - -<p>"Listen!"</p> - -<p>"What did you hear, Ben?"</p> - -<p>Before Ben could answer Dave's question a -blood-curdling scream rent the air. It was followed -by another and then another.</p> - -<p>"My gracious! is that a ghost?" queried Sam -Day.</p> - -<p>"It's somebody in trouble perhaps," came from -Roger.</p> - -<p>"Of dot peen a ghost I dink I go me pack to der -Hall alretty now!" said Carl Sultzer, in alarm.</p> - -<p>"There are no ghosts," said Dave. "All so-called -ghosts are make-believes—humbugs, in -fact."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[179]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind of a story," said -Shadow, as the crowd came to a halt, listening to a -repetition of the cries. "A lot of college students -wanted to play a joke on their professor, so they -put together the body of one bug, the wings of -another, the legs of another, and the horns of another. -Then they went to the old professor and -said: 'Here is a wonderful new bug we have found. -What family does it belong to?' The old professor -looked the thing over for a minute. 'A -well-known family,' he said. 'A very large -family.' 'What?' asked the students, all ready to -laugh at the old fellow. 'The family of humbugs,' -answered the professor."</p> - -<p>"That's all right," said Roger, laughing, while -the others joined in.</p> - -<p>"Say, vot has dot hum-pug to to mit dot ghost?" -asked Carl, innocently. He had been the only one -unable to appreciate the joke.</p> - -<p>"Nothing, but—listen!"</p> - -<p>Buster Beggs broke off short, as another scream -rent the air. Then the members of the Gee Eyes -saw a wild-looking youth rush across the road and -disappear among the trees beyond.</p> - -<p>"Did you see that?"</p> - -<p>"It was a boy!"</p> - -<p>"He acted as if he was crazy!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, and do you know who it was?" demanded -Dave. "It was little Frank Bond!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[180]</a></span></p> - -<p>"So it was," added Roger. "Boys, what can -this mean?"</p> - -<p>"He must be in trouble," said Buster Beggs.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps some wild animal scared him," was -Ben's comment. "But what can he be doing out -here alone this time of night?"</p> - -<p>"Bond! Bond!" cried Roger. "Come back -here! What's the matter?"</p> - -<p>But the only answer that came back was another -scream, as the half-crazed lad plunged deeper and -deeper into the wood. Soon he was completely -out of hearing.</p> - -<p>"I don't like this," was Dave's comment.</p> - -<p>"Listen, I hear somebody else coming," said -Ben, and soon they heard Plum and his crowd approaching -through the woods. They were hunting -in several directions for Frank Bond.</p> - -<p>"Hullo!" cried Roger to the other crowd, and -soon the D. D. A. members and the Gee Eyes confronted -each other.</p> - -<p>"What brings you out here?" demanded Plum, -suspiciously.</p> - -<p>"We might ask the same question of you?" returned -Dave, coldly.</p> - -<p>"Oh, I say, Porter, have you seen anything of -little Frank Bond?" asked Messmer, stepping forward.</p> - -<p>"Yes, we saw him a minute ago. He ran across -this road as if he was crazy. What's the trouble?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[181]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Don't say a word!" burst out Jasniff, confronting -his fellow club member.</p> - -<p>"Bond got scared and ran away from us," went -on Messmer, ignoring Nick Jasniff completely. -"Did he—er—did he look hurt, or—er—crazy?"</p> - -<p>"He looked both," put in Roger. "What have -you been doing, hazing him?"</p> - -<p>"That's our affair," broke in Plum, warningly.</p> - -<p>"Look here, Plum, and you too, Jasniff, I won't -stand for any more of your talk!" cried Messmer, -wrathfully. "You went too far, and I said so from -the start." He turned again to Dave and Roger. -"We were initiating Bond into our club. We had -him down to the trolley track and—well, he got -badly scared and bumped into a trolley that was -passing. Then all at once he seemed to go crazy -and ran off into the woods. We don't know -how badly he is hurt or where he has gone to."</p> - -<p>"If that's the case, one thing is certain," said -Dave. "We must find him, and do it as soon as -possible."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[182]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX"></a>CHAPTER XX -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">A STUDENT'S STRANGE DISAPPEARANCE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">Much</span></span> against the wishes of Plum, Poole, and -Jasniff, Messmer told many of the details of what -had been done to poor Frank Bond. He did not -attempt to shield himself. His story was corroborated -by a student named Jardell, who was disgusted -by the attitude taken by the bully of Oak -Hall and his intimates.</p> - -<p>"I like fun as well as the next one," said Jardell, -"but I don't want to see it carried too far."</p> - -<p>"Oh, you needn't blame us for everything," -sneered Plum. "You're tarred with the same -brush."</p> - -<p>"There is no use in discussing the matter now," -said Dave. "What we want to do is to find poor -Frank. Why, he may be seriously hurt!"</p> - -<p>"I trust not," answered Messmer, turning pale.</p> - -<p>The students walked into the wood and a search -was begun that lasted the best part of an hour. -Nobody got on the trail of the missing boy and no -more cries were heard. It was so dark that but -little could be seen, and at last the whole crowd -came out on the road again.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[183]</a></span></p> - -<p>The thoughts of a trolley ride had been abandoned -by the members of the Gee Eyes, and they -decided to get back to the Hall as soon as possible.</p> - -<p>"But Dr. Clay ought to be told about Frank," -said Dave, to Messmer and Jardell.</p> - -<p>"I'll tell him," answered Messmer, promptly. -"I'll tell him the truth, even if I'm dismissed from -the school for it."</p> - -<p>"So will I," added Jardell.</p> - -<p>"Going to get us into trouble, eh?" growled Gus -Plum. "Better go slow."</p> - -<p>"I'll not mention any names," said Messmer.</p> - -<p>"Neither will I," added Jardell. "I am not -that kind."</p> - -<p>Presently all of the students returned to Oak -Hall by the shortest possible route. The Gee -Eyes went in a crowd by themselves, and because -of an open back door had small difficulty in entering -without being noticed. A little later Plum and -his cronies came in, followed by Messmer and Jardell.</p> - -<p>"Do you think Messmer and Jardell will really -go to the doctor?" questioned Sam Day.</p> - -<p>"I do," answered Dave. "They are good, honest -fellows, both of them. After this I reckon -they'll give Plum and his crowd the go-by." And -in that surmise Dave was correct.</p> - -<p>The boys listened in the upper hallway, and soon - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[184]</a></span> - -heard Messmer and Jardell enter the Hall. The -two held a whispered talk for a minute and then -walked boldly to Dr. Clay's room and rapped on -the door.</p> - -<p>"They are certainly going to face the music," -whispered Roger.</p> - -<p>"I admire their grit," was Ben's comment.</p> - -<p>The knock on the doctor's door was answered by -a voice from within, and presently Dr. Clay appeared, -clad in his dressing-gown. Then the -owner of the Hall and the two students went down -to the office.</p> - -<p>Exactly all that passed between the doctor and -Messmer and Jardell was never known to the -school at large. But it was known that the boys -told a straight story and utterly refused to mention -any names but their own and poor Frank Bond's. -As soon as the meeting in the office was over Dr. -Clay summoned Jackson Lemond and Swingly the -janitor, and all three went out, taking Messmer -and Jardell with them.</p> - -<p>"They have gone on a hunt," said Dave. "Oh, -I do hope they find that poor lad!"</p> - -<p>It goes without saying that some of the students -did not sleep well that night. Plum, Poole, and -Jasniff were particularly restless, fearing they -would be called to the bar of justice. They were -sure Messmer and Jardell would "blab" on them, -as the bully expressed it.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[185]</a></span></p> - -<p>"But if they do, I'll hammer the life out of -them," said the bully.</p> - -<p>"And so will I," added Jasniff.</p> - -<p>In the morning it was easy to see that something -was wrong. The teachers and hired help went -around whispering to themselves, and there was a -good deal of quiet talking among the boys. It -was soon learned that Frank Bond was still missing -and nobody knew what had become of him.</p> - -<p>As soon as the school was assembled Dr. Clay -addressed the students.</p> - -<p>"Young gentlemen, a most deplorable thing occurred -last night," he began. "One of the younger -students was taken out and 'initiated,' as it is called, -into one of your secret societies. The strain was -too great on his nerves, and after being hurt by a -trolley car, he became half-crazy and disappeared -into the North End woods. Two students have -already told me about the affair. I want to know -the names of the others connected with this occurrence. -Anybody who had anything to do with it, -stand up."</p> - -<p>There was a full minute of silence and the students -looked keenly at one another.</p> - -<p>"Does anybody in this assembly room know anything -about this at all?" went on the master of Oak -Hall. "Remember, young gentlemen, it is a -serious matter, and I want to learn all there is to -know of it."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[186]</a></span></p> - -<p>As the doctor ceased speaking Dave arose in his -seat. He was promptly followed by Roger, Ben, -and half a dozen others of the Gee Eyes. The -other students looked at those who had arisen in -astonishment, while Plum, Poole, and Jasniff were -dumfounded.</p> - -<p>"Is he going to blab too?" whispered Jasniff to -Plum, indicating Dave.</p> - -<p>"Looks like it."</p> - -<p>"Porter, what have you to say?" questioned Dr. -Clay.</p> - -<p>"Not a great deal, sir, but I am willing to tell -what I can. I had nothing to do with the hazing, -or whatever you may call it. But I was out near -the woods last night and I saw Frank Bond run -across the road and plunge into the woods at the -North End. A whole crowd of us searched for -him, but we could not find him."</p> - -<p>"And what have you to say, Morr?"</p> - -<p>"I was with Dave Porter, sir," answered the -senator's son.</p> - -<p>"So was I," "And I," came from the others of -the Gee Eyes.</p> - -<p>"You had nothing to do with Frank Bond -previous to his becoming frightened and running -away?" demanded the master of the Hall, sharply.</p> - -<p>"No, sir, I was not near him, nor were any of -my companions," answered Dave, indicating his -friends.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[187]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Then you were not with Messmer and Jardell?"</p> - -<p>"Not until after we met on the road and started -to hunt for Bond, sir."</p> - -<p>"We were with an entirely different party, Dr. -Clay," said Messmer, rising in his seat.</p> - -<p>"The party that 'initiated' Bond, is that it?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"Are those students in this room?"</p> - -<p>Messmer remained silent.</p> - -<p>"Messmer, answer me."</p> - -<p>"Dr. Clay, they are in this room, but I—I cannot -tell you who they are."</p> - -<p>"Porter, what have you to say?"</p> - -<p>There was a moment of breathless silence.</p> - -<p>"Dr. Clay, I would rather you would not ask me -to mention any names," said Dave, slowly but -firmly. "I think every fellow ought to speak up -for himself. He will if he has any honor about -him."</p> - -<p>"Then you decline to speak?"</p> - -<p>"I am very sorry to say that I do, sir."</p> - -<p>There was another pause, and then a rather -stupid boy arose and began to shuffle his feet uneasily.</p> - -<p>"What is it, Seabold?" asked the doctor.</p> - -<p>"I ain't going to hang back no longer, Dr. -Clay," stammered Seabold. "I was in that—er—that -mix-up with Messmer and Jardell. Porter - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[188]</a></span> - -and Morr and that crowd didn't have anything to -do with it. I don't like to be a sneak, but I can't -stand up for such a sneak as Gus Plum, nor Nat -Poole, nor Nick Jasniff neither. We were all in it -together, and as Porter says, they ought to have -honor enough to speak up and take their share of -the blame. We didn't mean to hurt Frank Bond, -only to scare him. When he ran away I got scared -myself and so did the others. We began to hunt -for Frank, and then Porter and his crowd came -along and helped us. But it was no use, we -couldn't find the boy. I ain't slept all night thinking -of Frank. I'd give all I'm worth to find him."</p> - -<p>"Who got up the plan to tie Bond to the trolley -track?"</p> - -<p>"Gus Plum spoke of it first."</p> - -<p>"It ain't so!" yelled Gus Plum, leaping up, his -face very red. "I didn't have anything more to -do with it than anybody else."</p> - -<p>"He spoke of it to me," added Seabold.</p> - -<p>"Poole, what have you to say?"</p> - -<p>"I—er—I didn't have hardly anything to do -with it," said Nat, lamely, his knees shaking beneath -him. "I—er—looked on—mostly."</p> - -<p>"Jasniff, did you propose the plan?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir," answered Jasniff, boldly. "I reckon -Messmer and Jardell and Seabold hatched it up -between them."</p> - -<p>"So they did," put in Plum, maliciously.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[189]</a></span></p> - -<p>"That is positively false," declared Messmer. -"As a matter of fact I said I didn't want to go so -far, because Frank seemed to be so frightened. If -I had had my own way I should have released him -long before the trolley car came along. He was -too nervous to stand such fun."</p> - -<p>"If the truth is to come out, Gus Plum is the one -who proposed tying Bond to the trolley track," -said Jardell. "I wasn't going to say a word, but -I am not going to stand here and let him throw the -blame on Messmer and me, or on Porter and his -crowd, or anybody else. I have told the exact -truth so far as I am concerned, and I am ready to -take any punishment that is coming to me."</p> - -<p>After this a long talk followed, and in the end -the master of the Hall said he would take up the -matter later, when it was learned what had become -of Frank Bond. In the meantime, so great was -the excitement, the school was dismissed for the -day, and those who wished to do so were told that -they might go out until sundown in a search for the -missing pupil.</p> - -<p>"I am certainly going out," said Dave, to Roger -and Ben. "I think we ought to do our best to find -him, or else find out about him."</p> - -<p>"Maybe he jumped into the river and drowned -himself," suggested Ben.</p> - -<p>"Or fell over some cliff and got killed," added -the senator's son. "A fellow so scared as he was - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[190]</a></span> - -might do almost anything. But I agree with -Dave, we ought to go out."</p> - -<p>The matter was talked over, and in the end -Dave, Ben, Roger, and Beggs set off in a little -party, taking a lunch with them. In the meantime -others went out too, so that the woods known as -the North End were alive with boys and men, all -searching for the missing student.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[191]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>CHAPTER XXI -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">THE CAVERN IN THE WOODS</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">The</span></span> four students remembered the part of the -big woods which had been gone over before and -consequently they did not attempt to search for -Frank Bond in that direction. They struck out -over a small hill and then along somewhat of a -hollow, though which ran a small creek that flowed -into the Leming River.</p> - -<p>The way was rough and uncertain, and several -times they had fairly to force their progress -through the bushes. Once Buster Beggs got -caught so thoroughly that the others had to turn -back to aid him.</p> - -<p>"Do you think Frank could have come in this -direction?" questioned Roger. "How could he -get through?"</p> - -<p>"A fellow who is half crazy will do all sorts of -queer things," answered Dave. "And as we -couldn't find him in the other part of the woods, it -appears to me as if he must have come this way."</p> - -<p>Over an hour was spent in searching along the -creek, but without avail. They called Frank's - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[192]</a></span> - -name a great number of times, but not a sound -came back save the call of the birds.</p> - -<p>"I shouldn't like to run across any snakes," said -Buster Beggs.</p> - -<p>"I don't believe there are any very bad snakes -in this woods," answered Ben.</p> - -<p>They now made another turn and came up to -the face of a rocky cliff. Suddenly Dave leaped -forward.</p> - -<p>"Look! look!" he cried, and held up a handkerchief -covered with blood. In one corner were the -initials, F. A. B.</p> - -<p>"Frank A. Bond," said Roger. "We must be -on the right track."</p> - -<p>"Oh, if only we don't find the poor fellow -dead!" murmured Dave.</p> - -<p>Further on the rocks were very rough, and then -came a cleft leading into a small cavern. The -entrance was dark and partly covered with brush.</p> - -<p>"See, the bushes are torn and broken," was Ben's -comment. "Somebody has been walking in and -out."</p> - -<p>They gazed into the cavern, but for a few seconds -could see nothing.</p> - -<p>"Frank!" called out Dave. "Frank Bond!"</p> - -<p>"Help!" came back, in a faint voice. "Help -me!"</p> - -<p>"He is here!" exclaimed Dave. "Has anybody -a match so we can make a light?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[193]</a></span></p> - -<p>Buster Briggs had some matches, which he used -for his bicycle lamp, and with one of these the four -boys set fire to some dry brushwood they pulled up. -The glare from the flames lit up the interior of the -cavern, and they gazed inside, to behold poor -Frank Bond lying in a corner on some leaves. The -young student was utterly exhausted and lay with -his eyes closed.</p> - -<p>"Frank, are you hurt?" asked Dave, bending -over him. "I mean, are you hurt very -badly?"</p> - -<p>At the sound of Dave's voice the youth on the -leaves opened his eyes for a moment.</p> - -<p>"Take me back to school!" he gasped. "Don't—don't -let the trolley run over me!"</p> - -<p>"Frank, you are safe now—nothing is going to -hurt you," said the senator's son. "Tell us where -you are hurt."</p> - -<p>"I—I——" Frank Bond stared around him. -"I thought it was the Plum crowd after me! -Whe—where did you come from?"</p> - -<p>"From the school. We came out to look for -you."</p> - -<p>"Oh!"</p> - -<p>"What about your hurts?" asked Ben.</p> - -<p>"Oh, I got my arm hurt, and my leg, and I fell -down and cut my face," answered the sufferer. -"I—I don't know how I got here, and I didn't -know the way home, and I got hungry and sleepy, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[194]</a></span> - -and—and——" Frank Bond could not go on, -but burst into tears.</p> - -<p>"We'll fix you up," said Dave, kindly. "We've -brought some lunch with us and you shall have all -you want. Start up that fire briskly, fellows."</p> - -<p>The fire was built up in good shape, and two -torches were brought into the cavern. Then -Frank Bond was propped up against a wall and -given something to eat and to drink. He was very -hungry and ate up fully half of what the four boys -carried. Water was then brought in from the -creek and his several wounds were washed and -dressed. Fortunately none of them was serious, -although they had been very painful.</p> - -<p>The small student was still in a highly nervous -state and the others did all they could to quiet him. -He remembered being tied to the trolley track and -running away, but could not tell how he had -reached the cavern or how long he had remained -there.</p> - -<p>"I guess I was plumb crazy," he declared. "I -thought sure the trolley car was going to run over -me!"</p> - -<p>At last the others managed to get him to his -feet. But he was too weak to walk more than a -few steps at a time.</p> - -<p>"I—I can't do it," he gasped. "Oh, how will -I ever get back to the Hall?"</p> - -<p>"Let us take turns at carrying him," suggested - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[195]</a></span> - -Dave. "Frank, you can hold on to my back, can't -you?"</p> - -<p>The small student said he would try, and putting -out the fire the whole party quitted the cavern, the -hurt lad on Dave's back. It was quite a load for -Dave to master, but he managed it for several -hundred yards, when each of the others took a turn. -Thus, after hard work, they got Frank to the roadway.</p> - -<p>A loud yelling brought some other boys and -Andrew Dale to the scene. One of the boys had -his wheel and, riding on this, he went back to the -academy and had Jackson Lemond come for Frank -with a carriage. Then a pistol was fired off three -times,—this being the signal showing that the missing -one was found. Soon pupils and teachers came -trooping back to Oak Hall, all anxious to listen to -Frank's story.</p> - -<p>As soon as he arrived at the Hall, the small -student was taken to a private bedroom and a doctor -was sent for to attend him. In the meantime -he was given something hot to drink and rolled in -blankets, that he might not take cold. Not until -that evening did Dr. Clay attempt to get the details -of his story from the sufferer.</p> - -<p>When the physician arrived he said that Frank's -hurts were not of a serious nature. "He has been -more frightened than anything else," said the doctor. -"He must be kept very quiet for at least a - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[196]</a></span> - -week, and after that, Dr. Clay, you had better let -him go slowly with his studies for a month or -so."</p> - -<p>"I'll do it," answered the master of Oak Hall.</p> - -<p>"This lad is of a high-strung temperament and -he has been under an unusual mental strain."</p> - -<p>"You do not think he will suffer permanently?" -asked the good doctor, anxiously.</p> - -<p>"Oh, no, but he must be kept quiet."</p> - -<p>In an easy kind of way Dr. Clay drew from -Frank Bond his whole story of the initiation into -the D. D. A. Club. From the lad he learned that -Plum and Jasniff had been the prime movers in -the so-called fun, and that Poole had backed them -up. He at once sent for the three to come to his -private office.</p> - -<p>"I reckon we're in for it now," growled Plum, -on receiving the summons.</p> - -<p>"Deny everything," advised Nick Jasniff. He -thought nothing of telling a falsehood whenever it -suited him.</p> - -<p>When the three entered the office Dr. Clay faced -them sternly.</p> - -<p>"I want to have a talk to you three young gentlemen," -said the master of Oak Hall. "I have -learned the truth of the Frank Bond affair and I -want to know what you mean by such conduct."</p> - -<p>The three tried to excuse themselves, but it was -to no purpose. The doctor read them through - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[197]</a></span> - -and through, and then gave each a lecture that was -never forgotten.</p> - -<p>"Fun is fun, but this was not fun," said he. -"Bond is a delicate and highly nervous boy, and to -do what you did was to make him suffer most horribly. -It is a wonder that you did not drive him -insane. As it is, he will suffer for a long time to -come, and if his parents see fit to prosecute you it -will be your own fault if you are sent to jail. -More than that, you have disgraced this school, -and for that I intend to punish you myself. Each -of you must remain inside of the academy grounds -for the next two weeks, and in addition I will give -you some extra lessons in history to learn, and I -want them learned thoroughly. And more than -this, if you are ever concerned in such a disgraceful -proceeding again I shall dismiss you from Oak -Hall."</p> - -<p>When the three students left the doctor's office -Nat Poole was so cowed that he trembled in every -limb. Plum, too, was subdued, but Jasniff was -boiling with inward rage.</p> - -<p>"I didn't come here to be bulldozed," he declared. -"If I want some fun I am going to have -it. If old Clay sends me away, I guess I'll find -some other school just as good." Jasniff was certainly -a bad youth, but the others were still to find -out how really bad he was.</p> - -<p>After this a week slipped by rather quickly. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[198]</a></span> - -During that time Dave got word from the Lawrences -that Phil was a trifle better physically, but -that his head hurt him a great deal. He was still -in bed and there was no telling when he would get -around again.</p> - -<p>"I trust it doesn't hurt his head permanently," -said Dave, for at least the fiftieth time. He had -heard of a boy who had had his head hurt -by a water-wheel and had become silly in consequence.</p> - -<p>"Let us hope for the best," answered Roger. -"Poor Phil! It would certainly be awful if he -didn't get around all right again!"</p> - -<p>The injuries received by Phil and Frank Bond -put something of a damper on the school and for -some time matters ran along very quietly. Plum -was troubled in more ways than one. He was -afraid he was going to hear from Frank Bond's -father or the police, and he was also worrying over -his football wagers. He had lost all his spending -money and he owed about thirty dollars, and his -friends were pressing him to pay up. He had -gone to Poole for a loan, but Nat had all he could -do to pay his own losses. Jasniff had promised to -do something, but since the Bond affair had said -nothing more on the subject.</p> - -<p>"Say, Nick, I thought you were going to help -me get some money," said he one day to his crony, -when he could keep silent no longer.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[199]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Haven't you got some money from home?" -asked the other boy, with a leer.</p> - -<p>"No, my dad can't spare any just now," answered -the bully, bluntly. He was growing -desperate. His father had written that he must -get along without spending money for at least a -month more.</p> - -<p>"Well, I'll let you know what I can do in a week -or so," answered Jasniff, slowly.</p> - -<p>"You said that before—right after the football -game."</p> - -<p>"Well, I haven't been able to see those fellows -yet."</p> - -<p>"What fellows?"</p> - -<p>"Those I want to talk to."</p> - -<p>"Can't you hurry it up, Nick? I want some -money the worst way—ten or fifteen dollars at -least."</p> - -<p>The two were alone, down at the old boathouse, -and Jasniff was smoking a cigarette on the sly. -He blew a cloud of smoke to the ceiling.</p> - -<p>"Wonder if I can trust you to keep mum?" he -said, slowly and deliberately.</p> - -<p>"About what?"</p> - -<p>"About a little plan I've got to make some -money."</p> - -<p>"Haven't you always been able to trust me, -Nick?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly, but—this is out of the ordinary."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[200]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I never went back on you yet."</p> - -<p>"Will you promise to keep silent if I tell you -something?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"I've got a scheme to get hold of several hundred -dollars."</p> - -<p>"That's good."</p> - -<p>"It will take some—er—quiet work on the part -of both of us to do the trick."</p> - -<p>"Well, as I said before, I am with you."</p> - -<p>"Can I trust you absolutely?" demanded Jasniff, -looking Plum closely in the face.</p> - -<p>"You can."</p> - -<p>"Then take a walk and we'll talk the matter -over. But remember, if you say a word to anybody -about it—well, you had better not, that's -all!"</p> - -<p>They walked to a secluded spot and there, slowly -and cautiously, Nick Jasniff unfolded a plot to get -money which filled Gus Plum with curiosity, fear, -wonder, and fascination.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[201]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII"></a>CHAPTER XXII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">A BOY AND A MOTOR CYCLE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">With</span></span> all the excitement Dave had not forgotten -his studies and each day he spent all the -time that was necessary in preparing his lessons. -He had a faculty of concentrating his mind upon -what he was doing and this made learning easy.</p> - -<p>"Going in for the medal of honor, I suppose," -said Roger one day, as he observed Dave grinding -away at a Latin exercise. "Well, if you win it I -guess you'll deserve it."</p> - -<p>"I am going to do what I can, Roger. I didn't -come to Oak Hall just to cut up."</p> - -<p>The medal of honor had been promised by Dr. -Clay to the pupil who should stand highest in lessons -and deportment at the end of the term. It -was a beautiful medal of solid gold, and many -students secretly hoped to win it. So far Polly -Vane was in the lead, with Dave, Buster Beggs, -Sam Day, Roger, and a student named Langdale -close behind.</p> - -<p>"Langdale says he is going to win or die in the -attempt," went on the senator's son. "He is - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[202]</a></span> - -studying day and night, and so far his deportment -has been about perfect."</p> - -<p>"Well, mine hasn't been—at least, not according -to Job Haskers," answered Dave. "He marks -me down whenever he can."</p> - -<p>"He does that to all of us," said Sam Day, who -was near. "I wish he'd mark us up once."</p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind of a story," came from -Shadow Hamilton, who was resting on the end of a -bed. "A clothing dealer was going to have a fire -sale. So he lit some damp paper in his stove and -turned off the draught, so that his stock got all -smoked up. Then he called his son Moses up. -'Make out new brice tickets,' says he to Moses. -'All right, fader,' says Moses, and goes to work, -and the next day he put out suits of clothing labeled -like this: 'Great Fire Sale! Suits marked down -from $9.00 to $7.98.' Soon a man came along to -buy a suit. 'Why,' says he, 'that suit was only -$5.50 two days ago.' 'Yes,' says Moses. 'Vos -it? Vell, ve haf der fire since, and now der suits -vos all moth-broof!'"</p> - -<p>"Phew! that's enough to drive all the lessons -from a fellow's head!" cried Dave, after a short -laugh. "Where did you get it, Shadow?"</p> - -<p>"Maybe he picked it out of the Old Farmers' -Almanack," said Buster Beggs.</p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind," began Shadow -calmly. "A boy——"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[203]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Not to-day!" interrupted Roger. "That's the -fiftieth you've told this week. I'm going out for -a spin, boys."</p> - -<p>"Going to try that new motor cycle?" queried -Dave, looking up.</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"Well, don't let it run away with you," and -Dave smiled broadly.</p> - -<p>"No fear," said Roger, with a laugh, and left -the dormitory.</p> - -<p>The senator's son had received a new motor -cycle the day before. It was a beautiful nickel-plated -affair and Roger was very proud of it. He -knew a little about motor cycles, so it did not take -him long to get the machine in trim for use. He -took a spin up and down the road, and let Dave and -some others try it, and all pronounced it a beauty.</p> - -<p>Roger was soon on the motor cycle and speeding -in the direction of Oakdale. In the town he made -a few small purchases, and then came away for a -spin in the direction of Rockville, taking a side -road which he thought in better condition than the -main road.</p> - -<p>The senator's son had covered a mile when he -saw two boys on bicycles approaching him. He -reduced his speed, and as the pair came closer he -recognized Plum and Jasniff.</p> - -<p>"Got your motor out, eh?" said the bully of Oak -Hall, rather sourly.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[204]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Yes," returned Roger, briefly.</p> - -<p>"Can you get it to work?"</p> - -<p>"The machine works perfectly."</p> - -<p>"I'd rather have my bicycle," sneered Jasniff. -"That thing makes too much noise for me."</p> - -<p>"So would I," added Gus Plum. "Too much -noise and too much smell."</p> - -<p>"I'd rather have the motor cycle, so there you -are," answered the senator's son, and moved on -again, while the others did the same. "I guess it's -a case of sour grapes," he told himself.</p> - -<p>Roger had just passed a bend of the road when -something happened to the battery which supplied -the electric spark to ignite the gasoline. He set -the motor cycle against a rock, and it was a full -quarter of an hour before he could make the battery -work. During that time somebody came -through the bushes near him and looked at the -youth, but Roger took no notice.</p> - -<p>The motor cycle ready for use once more, the -senator's son hopped on the saddle and turned on -the power. All seemed to go well and presently, -to make up for lost time, he put on all speed.</p> - -<p>"It won't do to be late for supper," he reasoned. -"Haskers will catch me sure."</p> - -<p>He passed another turn, between some high -bushes. The way was now downhill, leading over -a small stream flowing into the Leming River. -The motor cycle took the down-grade at a rapid - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[205]</a></span> - -rate of speed, and fearing an accident, Roger attempted -to turn off the power and put on the brake.</p> - -<p>To his horror he could not move the power -lever, which had become caught in some manner. -The motor cycle was now bounding down the road -at a terrific rate of speed. Just ahead was the little -bridge. Roger gave a vain tug or two. Then -the machine struck the rough boards of the bridge, -made a turn against the stone wall, and heels over -head the senator's son went sailing over the stone -wall to the rocks and water below!</p> - -<p>It was a terrible fall, much worse than that experienced -by Dave and Babcock when they had run -into the fallen tree, and no sooner did Roger land -than his senses forsook him. His legs and part of -his body went into the water, while his head and -arms rested on some sand.</p> - -<p>The short autumn day drew to a close and Roger -did not appear at Oak Hall. The other students -went to supper and then for the first Dave learned -that the senator's son had not gotten back.</p> - -<p>"Where is Master Morr?" demanded Job Haskers, -severely.</p> - -<p>"He went out on his new motor cycle," answered -Dave. "Perhaps he had a breakdown."</p> - -<p>"If he was not sure he could get back in time -he should not have gone out," snapped the disagreeable -teacher.</p> - -<p>Supper over, some of the students retired to - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[206]</a></span> - -their dormitories while others sought the library -and the gymnasium. Dave and Ben looked around -for Roger, but as he did not put in an appearance -they obtained permission from Andrew Dale to go -out on their bicycles and make a hunt for the missing -one.</p> - -<p>"He must be somewhere in this vicinity," said -Dave.</p> - -<p>"He said he was going to Oakdale and would -then come back by the Cass Brook road," returned -Ben.</p> - -<p>"Let us take to the Cass Brook road then, Ben. -Maybe we'll meet him."</p> - -<p>With their bicycle lamps lit and turned up -brightly, the pair set off, and were soon out of sight -of Oak Hall. The road was smooth and they -made rapid progress. Ben took to one side of the -road while Dave pursued the other. All was dark -and quiet, not a breath of air stirring the almost -leafless trees.</p> - -<p>A mile covered, they slowed down, to peer into -the bushes beside the road. They were now -within half a mile of the bridge where Roger had -taken the tumble.</p> - -<p>"Hello! here comes somebody!" cried Dave, -presently, and looked ahead. The rays of the -bicycle lamp fell on a figure covered with dirt and -dripping wet. "I declare, it's Roger!"</p> - -<p>Dave had scarcely uttered the words when the - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[207]</a></span> - -figure tottered and fell. Riding up, the two boys -dismounted and rushed forward. Roger lay in -the middle of the road, his face resting on one arm.</p> - -<p>"Roger what is it?" asked Dave. "Are you -badly hurt?"</p> - -<p>"I—I took a header—over the bridge!" gasped -the senator's son, when he could speak. "I—fell -in th—the water!" His teeth began to chatter. -"My, but it was co—co—cold!"</p> - -<p>"Any bones broken?"</p> - -<p>"I—I reckon no—not. But I am awfully we—weak!"</p> - -<p>"Where is the motor cycle?" asked Ben.</p> - -<p>"I—I do—don't know."</p> - -<p>"Here, put on my sweater," said Dave, and hastened -to take off that which was wet. "We must -get him to the Hall somehow," he added.</p> - -<p>"If he isn't hurt he had better walk," returned -Ben. "It will help to get his blood in circulation."</p> - -<p>"Maybe I can walk if you'll help me," answered -Roger.</p> - -<p>The two bicycles were hidden in the bushes and -Dave got on one side of the senator's son and Ben -on the other. Thus supported, the sufferer started -again for Oak Hall. He was hurried along as -fast as possible, and arrived there feeling somewhat -warmer than when discovered by Dave and -Ben. Under Dr. Clay's directions he was put to -bed and given some hot tea to drink. Only his - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[208]</a></span> - -left hand was bruised and this was washed and -plastered up.</p> - -<p>Having gotten Roger to Oak Hall, Dave and -Ben received permission to go back to the brook -road for their wheels. They found the bicycles -where they had left them, and then went on a hunt -for Roger's motor cycle.</p> - -<p>"It certainly ought to be at the bridge," said -Ben.</p> - -<p>"If it didn't blow up," answered Dave, "or run -off of its own accord. Roger said he couldn't shut -off the power."</p> - -<p>"If it ran off alone I don't think it would go very -far, Dave."</p> - -<p>The bridge reached, they looked around in all -directions but could see nothing of the motor cycle. -They went down to where Roger had landed and -saw the impression of his body and feet in the wet -sand.</p> - -<p>"He can thank his stars that he didn't break his -neck," said Dave. "This beats the fall Paul and -I took."</p> - -<p>"It's queer you never got to the bottom of that -accident, Dave."</p> - -<p>"Maybe I will, some day. I am certain that -tree didn't fall of itself."</p> - -<p>Having spent fully a quarter of an hour in looking -for the motor cycle without success, there -seemed to be nothing to do but to return to Oak - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[209]</a></span> - -Hall. This they did, and stored their wheels in -the room set apart at the gymnasium for that purpose.</p> - -<p>"Didn't find the motor cycle, eh?" said Sam -Day, who was practising on the rings. "That is -certainly queer."</p> - -<p>"Maybe the motor cycle was stolen," suggested -Shadow.</p> - -<p>"Who would steal such a machine?" asked Ben. -"Very few know how to run them."</p> - -<p>"They might have taken it away in a wagon. -Some people are mean enough to steal anything -they lay hands on."</p> - -<p>Dave and Ben spent some time in cleaning their -bicycles and in oiling them. Then they left the -gymnasium in company with Sam Day and several -others. As they approached the Hall, Macklin -came running out.</p> - -<p>"Did you hear the news?" cried the younger -student.</p> - -<p>"News?" queried Dave. "What news?"</p> - -<p>"About Roger Morr?"</p> - -<p>"We know he had a bad tumble, and we know -we can't find his motor cycle," said Ben.</p> - -<p>"Oh, so the machine is gone too," went on Chip -Macklin. "Well, that certainly beats all!"</p> - -<p>"What beats all?" asked Dave.</p> - -<p>"This whole affair about Roger. When they -put him to bed they didn't give his clothing much - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[210]</a></span> - -attention. Now they have just found out that he -either lost everything he had or else he was -robbed."</p> - -<p>"Lost? Robbed?" cried Dave. "Are you -sure of this?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. You can go up yourself if you wish."</p> - -<p>"I will," said Dave, and ran up to the dormitory. -Several boys were present and also Dr. Clay -and Andrew Dale.</p> - -<p>"This is remarkable and must be investigated," -Dr. Clay was saying. "Ah, here is Master Porter -now. Did you find the motor cycle?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir, it wasn't in sight anywhere. Ben and -I looked high and low for it."</p> - -<p>"Then that must have been stolen too," said -Andrew Dale.</p> - -<p>"They tell me Roger was robbed," said Ben. -"What did he lose?"</p> - -<p>"Lost a whole lot of things," replied Roger -himself. "My watch and my diamond stickpin, -and a gold ring, some loose change, and forty dollars -that father sent me for some new books I've -been ordering! Somebody cleaned me out for -fair!" And the senator's son spoke very disconsolately.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[211]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXIII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">WHAT A RUNAWAY LED TO</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">The</span></span> news that Roger had been robbed while -unconscious spread rapidly, and many were the -speculations as to who had done the wicked deed.</p> - -<p>"I suppose it was somebody who just happened -to come along," said Dave. "But what a mean -thing to do! That person did not know but that -Roger was dying, and made no effort to assist -him!"</p> - -<p>Roger's story was a brief one. How long he -had remained unconscious he did not know. He -came to his senses with a shiver, to find himself -lying on some rocks under one end of the stone -bridge. The lower portion of his body was wet -and the chill had aided in reviving him. When he -felt strong enough he had crawled up to the road -and looked for his motor cycle. Not finding the -machine, he had started for Oak Hall on foot. -He felt himself growing weaker every step and fell -prostrate, as already described, just as Dave and -Ben discovered him.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[212]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I am awfully glad you came along," said the -senator's son to his two chums. "I don't know -what I should have done if you hadn't."</p> - -<p>"And you didn't know a thing about being -robbed, then?" queried Ben.</p> - -<p>"No, all I knew was that I was cold and as weak -as a sick cat," was the answer.</p> - -<p>A hunt was made for the robber, and the students -spent several hours in searching around the -spot. Nothing was found, and the local authorities -were notified.</p> - -<p>This robbery, coupled with those that had gone -before, aroused the whole community. Many felt -that they were no longer safe in their homes, and a -meeting was held in Oakdale and a reward of two -hundred dollars put up by the citizens for the capture -and conviction of the offenders.</p> - -<p>"I will get a private detective to look into this," -said Dr. Clay and did so. The detective, a quiet-looking -individual named Merivel, arrived the next -day and went to work immediately. But the task -proved too much for him, and inside of a week he -gave it up.</p> - -<p>"I reckon I am out my machine and my valuables," -said Roger, who was around once more and -as well as ever. "But I do wish I could lay hands -on the rascal who went through me!"</p> - -<p>The days slipped by, and again Dave and his -chums devoted themselves to their studies. It was - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[213]</a></span> - -now growing colder and there was a suggestion of -snow in the air.</p> - -<p>"It won't be long before we have snow and ice," -said Sam. "Hurrah for some fine skating!"</p> - -<p>"And snowballing," added Buster. "Don't -forget the fun we had last year."</p> - -<p>"How we did pelt Pop Swingly!"</p> - -<p>"And old Haskers!"</p> - -<p>"You've got to be careful what you do to Haskers," -said Shadow. "He is just watching for a -chance to get somebody into trouble."</p> - -<p>"Do you remember how Dave beat Plum in that -race on the ice?" said Roger. "That was great!"</p> - -<p>"By the way, Plum is cutting quite a dash -again," said Buster. "His father must have sent -him a lot of spending money."</p> - -<p>"Then he can pay up those bets I heard about," -said Macklin.</p> - -<p>"He has paid them up, so I was told," replied -another student. "But I'll wager it made him -mad to do so."</p> - -<p>"He had no business to bet against his own -school," said Sam. "It was a mean piece of business. -I've cut him dead for doing it."</p> - -<p>What was said about Gus Plum having money -was true. He had paid all his debts and in addition -had spent several dollars in having a so-called -"good time" with Jasniff and Poole in a tavern on -the outskirts of Rockville. But he was not - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[214]</a></span> - -particularly happy, if one was to judge by the -worried and scared look that often showed itself on -his face. At times it looked as if he wanted to -draw away from Nick Jasniff, but that student -clung to him closer than ever.</p> - -<p>One Friday afternoon Dave, Roger, and Ben -got out of school a little early and resolved to walk -to Oakdale, just for the exercise and to buy a few -things of trifling importance. They were soon on -the way, and arriving at the town lost no time in -making their purchases. In Oakdale they met -Mrs. Fairchild and asked her if she had heard anything -concerning the robbery at her house.</p> - -<p>"Not a thing," said the widow; "and I suppose -I never shall."</p> - -<p>With their purchases in their pockets, the students -left the town and started on the return to the -academy. As it was nipping cold, they walked -rapidly, only stopping on the way to pick up some -chestnuts which were handy.</p> - -<p>Each had his pocket filled with chestnuts, when -all heard a commotion around a bend of the -road.</p> - -<p>"What's that?" questioned Dave, looking -ahead.</p> - -<p>"Sounds like a runaway!" exclaimed Ben.</p> - -<p>"If it is we had better be getting out of the -way," said Roger. "I have no desire to be run -over."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[215]</a></span></p> - -<p>The noise came closer and from a distance they -heard a man shouting wildly.</p> - -<p>"Sthop! Sthop, I said! Vot you vants to run -avay for, annahow?"</p> - -<p>"It's Zumm, the baker!" cried Dave. "His -horse must be running away!"</p> - -<p>The sounds of hoofs could now be distinguished, -and in a moment more the steed came in sight, -dragging a baker's wagon behind him. The vehicle -swayed from side to side, threatening to go over -any instant.</p> - -<p>"Look out!"</p> - -<p>"He is running away and no mistake!"</p> - -<p>"Where is Zumm?"</p> - -<p>"He must have been thrown out!"</p> - -<p>Nearer and nearer came the frightened horse. -He was less than a hundred feet away when he -swerved to one side, running two of the wheels of -the wagon into some low bushes.</p> - -<p>"I am going to stop him if I can!" cried Dave, -with sudden determination.</p> - -<p>Before Ben or Roger could stop him he was out -in the road and leaping for the head of the frightened -horse. He caught hold of the bridle and -hung fast.</p> - -<p>"You'll be killed, Dave!"</p> - -<p>"Don't go under his feet!"</p> - -<p>"Sthop him, sthop him!" came from the German -baker who owned the outfit. He was running - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[216]</a></span> - -after the horse and wagon as rapidly as his somewhat -bulky form permitted.</p> - -<p>Dave paid no attention to the cries but clung -fast. The horse did a good deal of dancing and -prancing but it was of no avail. Finally he backed -into the bushes until the back of the wagon struck -a tree, and there he remained, trembling violently -in every limb.</p> - -<p>"Good for you, Dave!" sang out Ben, in admiration. -"I must say, you know exactly how to -handle a horse."</p> - -<p>"Pick up those lines," panted Dave, and stepping -forward, Roger did so. Then Ben came up -on the other side of the frightened animal and soon -they had the horse completely subdued and standing -quiet.</p> - -<p>"Is he—is he all right, yes?" panted the German -baker, coming up all out of breath.</p> - -<p>"I think so," answered Dave. "He had a big -scare, though."</p> - -<p>"Yah, dot's so."</p> - -<p>"What made him go off?"</p> - -<p>"Noddings but a biece of baber in der road. -Ven he see dot, he got so oxcitements like neffer vos -alretty!"</p> - -<p>"Did he throw you out?" asked Ben.</p> - -<p>"No, I vos got out to bick up some chestnuts, -and I let him valk along py himselluf. Den all to -vonce he kicks up his heels and runds avay kvick! - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[217]</a></span> - -Next dime ven I go avay I ton't let him alone a -minute!"</p> - -<p>The German baker was anxious concerning his -stock in trade, and while the boys continued to hold -the horse he climbed into the wagon to look after -his bread, and pastries.</p> - -<p>"Chust vot I dink!" he groaned. "Dem nice -cakes vos all cracked alretty! Now vot I got to -do, tole me dot?"</p> - -<p>"Cracked cakes?" queried Roger, with a grin.</p> - -<p>"Yah. You see, I vos make some nice cakes for -Mrs. Dill's barty. Da vos sphoiled and now I haf -to make more."</p> - -<p>"Don't throw them away," said Dave. "We'll -eat a cracked cake any day."</p> - -<p>"So? All right, my poys. You do me a favor -to sthop mine horse, I vos gif you der cakes, yes," -answered Mr. Zumm.</p> - -<p>He was a liberal-hearted man and without delay -brought out several large cakes, somewhat crushed -and broken but still well worth eating. The sight -of such good things set Dave to thinking.</p> - -<p>"Fellows, I've got an idea!" he said. "Let's -buy Mr. Zumm's cakes and pies and have a feast -to-night!"</p> - -<p>"Just the thing!" came from both Ben and -Roger.</p> - -<p>"I not sell you dem cakes," said the baker, when -the matter was explained to him. "You vos goot - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[218]</a></span> - -poys, yes, and I like you. I gif you four pig cakes, -mit der pastepoard poxes to carry dem in."</p> - -<p>"Thanks, you are very kind," said Dave, and -the others said the same. They insisted, however, -upon purchasing several pies, and also some chocolate -éclairs. The goodies were put into several -pasteboard boxes, and then the boys hurried off -towards the Hall and Mr. Zumm resumed his -journey to town.</p> - -<p>The three boys had some little difficulty in getting -into Oak Hall with their pasteboard boxes. -They were going up a back stairs when Nat Poole -caught sight of them.</p> - -<p>"Hello, something doing, I'll be bound!" said -Poole to himself. "Guess I'll watch and see what -it means!"</p> - -<p>He crouched out of sight in a dark angle of the -hallway and allowed Dave, Roger, and Ben to -pass him. Then, when the dormitory door was -closed, Nat Poole tiptoed up to it.</p> - -<p>"Put the cakes on the top shelf," he heard Dave -say. "The pies can go over in that corner."</p> - -<p>"A spread!" murmured Nat Poole to himself.</p> - -<p>"I don't think we ought to start too early," came -in Ben's voice. "Let us make it exactly midnight -just for the fun of the thing."</p> - -<p>"That suits me," answered the senator's son. -"Who is to be invited?"</p> - -<p>This was talked over, and it was decided to ask - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[219]</a></span> - -all the inmates of Dormitories No. 11 and 12 and -also a few of the students in No. 8, including Henshaw -and Babcock.</p> - -<p>"But we want to be very quiet about it," cautioned -Dave. "If Haskers should hear of it, he'd -make all the trouble he could for us."</p> - -<p>"Mum's the word, and I'll tell the other fellows -so," answered Roger.</p> - -<p>"Don't let Plum, or Poole, or Jasniff get an inkling -of this," cautioned Ben. "They would like -nothing better than to spoil our fun."</p> - -<p>"Yes, we certainly must be careful of that -crowd," answered Dave.</p> - -<p>The three boys remained in the dormitory for -quarter of an hour, talking matters over and making -their arrangements for the midnight feast, and -Nat Poole took in every word that was said. -Then, as Dave, Ben, and Roger started to come -out into the hallway, Poole ran off and managed to -get down into the dining hall ahead of them.</p> - -<p>"I've got news," he whispered to Gus Plum, -who sat beside him. "I'll tell you all about it -after supper."</p> - -<p>"What kind of news?" questioned the bully.</p> - -<p>"About a feast. The Porter crowd expects to -pull off something big to-night, and I know exactly -how we can block their game and land them in all -kinds of trouble!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[220]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV"></a>CHAPTER XXIV -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">MORE PLANS THAN ONE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">Dave</span></span> and his chums waited impatiently for bed-time -and in the meanwhile the invitation to participate -in the coming feast was extended to all who -had been mentioned as possible guests. All accepted -with pleasure, and Babcock said he expected -to have a "whang-bang time," whatever that might -mean.</p> - -<p>About nine o'clock Dave and Roger got ready to -retire to the dormitory. They were just going upstairs -when Chip Macklin came rushing up to -them.</p> - -<p>"Come with me," cried the small student, in -breathless tones.</p> - -<p>"Where to?" questioned Dave.</p> - -<p>"Never mind—come on, and be quick about it."</p> - -<p>Seeing that something unusual was up, Dave and -Roger followed Macklin to a back hallway. Here -the small student looked around cautiously, to -make sure that they were not being observed.</p> - -<p>"It's all off!" were Macklin's first words. "The - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[221]</a></span> - -sooner you get rid of that cake and stuff the -better!"</p> - -<p>"What makes you say that?" demanded Dave.</p> - -<p>"I just overheard Nat Poole talking to Plum and -Jasniff. They mentioned your name and something -about breaking up a feast, and I made up my -mind something was in the wind. I don't like to -play the sneak any more"—Macklin got red as he -said this—"but I felt I had to in this case. Poole -told his cronies all about the stuff hidden in our -dormitories and about the feast to be had at -midnight, and they planned to go to old Haskers -and to Dr. Clay and have us all caught red-handed!"</p> - -<p>At this announcement the faces of Dave and -Roger fell for a moment.</p> - -<p>"So you'd better get the stuff out of the way at -once," went on Chip Macklin.</p> - -<p>"Tell me just what was said," said Dave, after -an awkward pause, and Macklin did as requested. -As he proceeded Dave's eyes lit up in sudden merriment.</p> - -<p>"So that is their game," he said. "Well, we'll -pay them back,—just wait and see!"</p> - -<p>"One thing is certain, the feast is off," said -Roger, with a sigh.</p> - -<p>"Not a bit of it," answered Dave. "Didn't you -hear what Chip said? They are going to rouse up -Haskers and Dr. Clay about eleven o'clock, so as - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[222]</a></span> - -to catch us red-handed. What's the matter with -having our little jollification before that time?"</p> - -<p>"Good for you, Dave! But we'll have to be -careful——"</p> - -<p>"Leave it to me, and I'll fix the whole thing," -replied Dave.</p> - -<p>It was not long after that when all the pupils of -Oak Hall retired to their dormitories. In the -meantime Dave lost no time in going among his -chums and acquainting them with the new order of -things.</p> - -<p>Dave's plan worked like a charm. He rightfully -guessed that Nat Poole would be listening at -one of the dormitory doors. Accordingly he spoke -in a loud voice after the door was locked.</p> - -<p>"We'll have to wait until twelve o'clock before -we touch a mouthful," he said. "In the meantime -let us fix that lemonade and those other things. -All of the other fellows will come in at exactly -quarter to twelve. The feast is to last from twelve -to one o'clock."</p> - -<p>"I'm sorry I've got to wait until twelve o'clock," -said Ben, in an equally loud tone. "But if that is -the rule of this club, why, I'll have to obey."</p> - -<p>"Those other good things won't arrive until -quarter to twelve," said Roger.</p> - -<p>So the talk ran on until the boys were undressed -and ready to retire. Then the lights were put out -and all became quiet.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[223]</a></span></p> - -<p>In the darkened hallway Babcock was on guard. -Soon he came in with a broad grin on his face.</p> - -<p>"You've fooled 'em completely," he whispered. -"They have arranged to call up the doctor and old -Haskers at exactly half-past eleven, and they are -going to pounce in here just a few minutes after -twelve,—when they expect everything to be in full -blast. Plum says he will help smash down a door, -if it is necessary."</p> - -<p>"Well, it won't be necessary," answered Dave, -dryly.</p> - -<p>As soon as all was quiet, the good things were -brought forth and all the invited guests lost no -time in "making themselves at home," as Buster -Beggs expressed it. Growing boys always have -tremendous appetites, and it did not take long for -the larger portion of the cakes and pies to disappear.</p> - -<p>"Ah!" sighed Sam Day, at last. "I must let -up, I am too full for utterance."</p> - -<p>"I can't eat another mouthful," said Polly Vane, -as he finished a chocolate éclair. "It was delicious, -though."</p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind of a story," said -Shadow, who sat on the edge of a table eating a -quarter of a pumpkin pie. "A poor boy went to a -Sunday school picnic, and when eating time came -he filled up on sandwiches and cake and lemonade -until he was ready to burst. Then they brought - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[224]</a></span> - -around some ice-cream. 'Johnny,' says a lady, -'you'll have some ice-cream, won't you?' Johnny -looked at her for a minute, his face full of sorrow. -'Can't,' says he. 'Why not?' says the lady. 'Because,' -says he, 'I—I kin melt it, ma'am, but I can't -swaller it!'" And a laugh went up.</p> - -<p>"What are you putting away?" asked Roger of -Dave, who was filling two large paper bags with -cake crumbs and pie crusts. "Going to feed the -birds?"</p> - -<p>"No, I've got a little plan. Won't these do -more good in Plum's dormitory than in ours?"</p> - -<p>"Eureka!" shouted Buster, and then checked -himself. "It's a splendid plan!" he whispered.</p> - -<p>"Wait till they go off to rouse up the doctor and -old Haskers," said Ben.</p> - -<p>"That's what I had in mind to do."</p> - -<p>The boys assembled went over the dormitories -with care, cleaning up every evidence of the feast. -Everything that was left was put in paper bags, -which Dave had provided. Then came a rather -tedious wait on the part of the majority, Dave and -Roger meanwhile slipping out to learn what the -enemy was doing.</p> - -<p>At last came the opportunity for which Dave -was waiting. He saw Poole, Plum, and Jasniff -leave their dormitory and hurry towards the rooms -occupied by the master of the Hall and his second -assistant.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[225]</a></span></p> - -<p>"There they go, Dave!"</p> - -<p>"I see them, Roger. Quick! back to the room -with you!"</p> - -<p>They ran to their own dormitory and in a minute -reappeared with the bags of broken cake and pie -crusts. With these they rushed to the dormitory -occupied by the bully of the school and his cronies. -The door was ajar and all was dark inside, the students -not in Poole's plot being sound asleep.</p> - -<p>With deft hands Dave and Roger distributed -the broken cake and the pie crusts, putting some on -a table, some on a desk, a portion in the beds occupied -by Plum, Poole, and Jasniff, and the remainder -on the window sill and the floor. Then -they overturned a chair, and shoved one of the -beds partly against the door, so that it could not be -readily closed.</p> - -<p>"Now for the alarm!" cried Dave, and lit -several gas jets. Then he and Roger set up a -sudden yell and ran with might and main for their -own room.</p> - -<p>Dr. Clay and Job Haskers had just been -awakened by Poole and his cronies when the alarm -sounded. This aroused Andrew Dale and fully -two score of students, and all rushed into the hallways -to learn what it meant.</p> - -<p>"A feast in Dormitory 12, eh?" said the worthy -master of Oak Hall. "I'll see about this!" And -he donned his dressing gown.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[226]</a></span></p> - -<p>By the time he reached Dormitory 12 the whole -school was in an uproar. Some thought there -might be a fire, and there was great excitement.</p> - -<p>"If the place is on fire, I want to get out!" cried -one student.</p> - -<p>"There is no fire!" answered Dave. "I think -it's a false alarm."</p> - -<p>"Didn't the alarm come from Plum's room?" -asked one pupil.</p> - -<p>"I think it did," answered another.</p> - -<p>"Let us go see what is up!"</p> - -<p>Many rushed in that direction, followed by Andrew -Dale. Then came a cry of astonishment -from the first assistant.</p> - -<p>"What does this mean? A feast, I declare."</p> - -<p>"A feast!" said Dr. Clay, who was in the rear. -"I was told there was a feast going on in Dormitory -No. 12!"</p> - -<p>"You can see for yourself, Doctor."</p> - -<p>"I do see," answered the master of the Hall, -severely. "Plum, what does this mean?"</p> - -<p>"I—er—I don't know," stammered the bully. -He was so amazed that he could not collect his -senses.</p> - -<p>"Poole, can you tell me what this means?"</p> - -<p>"N—no, sir. I—I haven't had a thing, sir."</p> - -<p>"Jasniff, what about this?"</p> - -<p>Nick Jasniff shrugged his shoulders. "I thought - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[227]</a></span> - -there was something going on in Porter's room. -Poole said so."</p> - -<p>"Well, who sounded that alarm here?" thundered -Dr. Clay.</p> - -<p>To this question there was no answer.</p> - -<p>"We had better look in No. 12," suggested Job -Haskers, who had just come up, wrapped in a -flannel robe and wearing slippers.</p> - -<p>The doctor and his assistants turned to the -dormitory occupied by Dave and his chums, and -then looked into the bedroom adjoining. Everything -was as clean and orderly as could be. The -boys were up, but they were not dressed.</p> - -<p>"What's the row?" asked Buster Beggs, -sleepily. "Oh, Doctor, is that you? I thought I -heard some noise."</p> - -<p>"Didn't you hear the alarm?" asked Dave. "I -thought it woke up everybody."</p> - -<p>The doctor said little but looked around the -rooms with care, and so did Job Haskers.</p> - -<p>"Some mistake evidently," muttered the assistant.</p> - -<p>"I am going to find out what the crumbs in that -other dormitory mean," answered Dr. Clay.</p> - -<p>He passed out, and meeting Poole in the hallway -caught the pupil by the shoulder.</p> - -<p>"Just come with me," he said, and led the way -back to the room Nat occupied with his cronies. -"Now, explain this!" he demanded.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[228]</a></span></p> - -<p>Of course poor Nat Poole could not explain, and -neither could Plum nor Jasniff. They tried to tell -their story, but for once the doctor was too impatient -to listen.</p> - -<p>"As there was no cause for that alarm, I want -you all to go to bed," said he, after listening to a -few words. "It is midnight and I want all of you -to get your night's rest. In the morning I'll make -an investigation."</p> - -<p>"What of this muss?" faltered Poole.</p> - -<p>"Clean it up, every bit of it!" thundered the doctor, -and passed out and to his own room once more.</p> - -<p>"I won't touch the stuff!" snarled Nat Poole.</p> - -<p>"Neither will I," came from Plum.</p> - -<p>"Nor I," added Jasniff.</p> - -<p>"Are you going to disobey?" demanded Job -Haskers, who had remained on the scene.</p> - -<p>His manner was so menacing that the three students -shrank before him.</p> - -<p>"It wasn't our fault——" began Plum.</p> - -<p>"Enough. I can see through your doings. -You tried to get others into trouble to hide your -own tracks. This plot will not work with me. In -the morning you must clean this apartment -thoroughly, or I will punish you severely!" And -having thus delivered himself Job Haskers stalked -off, leaving Plum, Poole, and Jasniff the maddest -students Oak Hall had ever known.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[229]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV"></a>CHAPTER XXV -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">THE FIGHT IN THE GYMNASIUM</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"This</span></span> is some more of Porter's doings," -growled the bully of Oak Hall, when he and his -cronies found themselves alone.</p> - -<p>"That's it," agreed Jasniff. "Confound him, -I'd like to wring his neck!"</p> - -<p>"I suppose they had their feast on the quiet," -grumbled Poole. "We were foolish that we did -not watch them more closely."</p> - -<p>The three went to bed and in the morning set to -work to clean up the dormitory. Then they had -to go downstairs, to be interviewed by Job Haskers, -who gave them some extra lessons to learn, -as a punishment. He would listen to no explanation -from them, happening to be in a thoroughly -bad humor himself.</p> - -<p>The next few days proved unusually cold, and -then came a snowstorm which covered the ground -to the depth of several inches. The students got -as much fun out of the downfall as possible, snowballing -each other with great glee. They also took - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[230]</a></span> - -shots at Pop Swingly and Horsehair while the pair -were engaged in cleaning off the walks.</p> - -<p>"Hi! hi! stop that!" roared Swingly, as a snowball -from Ben took him in the back. Then one -from Roger knocked off his hat. At the same time -Dave, rushing by, threw some loose snow down -Jackson Lemond's back.</p> - -<p>"Whow!" spluttered the driver, dropping his -broom and working at his neck. "Who did that? -Birr! it's as cold as a cake o' ice!" And he began -to shiver and dance around.</p> - -<p>"This weather will surely make ice," said Sam, -and he was right, for that night several inches of -ice formed on the river, and this made all the students -look forward eagerly to the time when there -would be skating.</p> - -<p>Frank Bond had quite recovered from the shock -he had received at the hands of Plum and his cohorts. -But he was still the pale, delicate, and nervous -boy as of old and shrank from contact with the -more boisterous students. He appreciated what -Dave and his chums had done for him and did his -best to give the bully of the Hall a wide berth. -He was a studious lad, and soon a warm friendship -sprang up between him and Polly Vane and they -often studied their lessons together, Polly giving -the younger lad all the assistance he could.</p> - -<p>During those days Dave looked eagerly for letters -from the Wadsworths, Caspar Potts, and his - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[231]</a></span> - -Uncle Dunston. The letters came and were full -of kind words and best wishes, yet the communication -from his uncle filled him with anxiety. In part -this letter read as follows:</p> - -<blockquote> -<p>"Strange as it may appear, I have not yet received -a line from your father or your sister Laura. -I cannot imagine where they can be that they do -not send word of some kind. If they had received -even one letter from me concerning you, I feel sure -your father would not lose a moment in answering. -I have sent to a dozen places for information, but -all in vain."</p> -</blockquote> - -<p>"This is certainly a mystery," Dave said to -Roger. "What do you make of it?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, I shouldn't worry too much," answered the -senator's son, hopefully. "Your father and sister -are probably traveling in some out-of-the-way place -in Europe where the letters and cablegrams haven't -reached them."</p> - -<p>"Waiting is very hard, Roger."</p> - -<p>"I know it must be. I suppose you want to -know what your father and sister are like."</p> - -<p>"That's it, and I want to be with them, too," answered -the former poorhouse youth.</p> - -<p>Dave wanted to find Ben, to get a book the latter -had been reading. He was told that Ben was -down to the gymnasium and so strolled in that - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[232]</a></span> - -direction. The building was almost deserted, not -more than half a dozen students being present.</p> - -<p>In one corner was Gus Plum and not far away -Jasniff lounged on a bench. Between the pair -stood Frank Bond, his face having a white and -scared look upon it.</p> - -<p>"Please, Plum, I don't care to do such things," -Frank was saying. "I'd rather you'd excuse me."</p> - -<p>"You'll do what I want you to do!" answered -Plum, brutally. "You can't back out now."</p> - -<p>"But I don't want to——" began the small boy, -when of a sudden the bully of Oak Hall caught -him by the ear.</p> - -<p>"See here, you imp, you listen to me!" snarled -Plum. "I haven't forgotten what trouble you got -me into before. Now you mind me——"</p> - -<p>"Oh, let go, please let go!" screamed Frank. -"Don't pull my ear off!"</p> - -<p>He tried to break away, but the bully held him -fast. The next moment, however, Dave stepped -between.</p> - -<p>"Plum, I want you to let Frank alone," said -Dave, quietly but firmly, and at the same time looking -the bully squarely in the eyes.</p> - -<p>"Look here, this is none of your affair," blustered -Plum.</p> - -<p>"Let him go, I say—and at once," and now -Dave clenched his fists.</p> - -<p>"You want more trouble with me, eh?" growled - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[233]</a></span> - -Plum, releasing the small boy and sticking his chin -in Dave's face.</p> - -<p>"No, I do not want trouble, but I am able to -meet it if it comes," answered Dave, not budging -an inch. "You ought to be ashamed to bulldoze -such a small chap as Frank. Why don't you leave -him alone, as the doctor told you to do?"</p> - -<p>"See here, I don't want you to preach to me!" -roared Plum. "I know my own business and I -don't want you to put in your oar!"</p> - -<p>"That's the talk," came from Jasniff.</p> - -<p>Instantly Dave swung around on his heel.</p> - -<p>"This is certainly none of your business, Jasniff," -he said, coldly.</p> - -<p>"Ain't it? Well, Gus is my particular friend, -and what concerns him concerns me," blustered -Jasniff.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Dave, let us go away," whispered Frank, -growing more frightened than ever.</p> - -<p>"You can go away if you wish, Frank. I am -not afraid of these two bullies; Plum knows that, -even if Jasniff does not."</p> - -<p>At this home thrust Gus Plum winced, for he -had not forgotten the drubbing received from -Dave in times gone by. Jasniff, however, was undismayed, -and striding closer, he pushed in between -Plum and Dave.</p> - -<p>"I've heard of the unfair advantage you once -took of Gus, but you can't take such an advantage - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[234]</a></span> - -of me," he said, loudly. "I am not afraid of anybody -in this school, and I want you to know it."</p> - -<p>His manner was so offensive that it caused the -quick blood to rush to Dave's face. Plum fell -back and so did Frank Bond. There was a moment -of suggestive silence.</p> - -<p>"Jasniff, I never took any unfair advantage of -Plum, and everybody in this school knows it," said -Dave, steadily. "Plum is a bully,—and you appear -to be built the same way."</p> - -<p>"So I'm a bully, eh?" stormed Nick Jasniff, putting -up his fists.</p> - -<p>"You are."</p> - -<p>"Do you want me to fight you?"</p> - -<p>"No, I'd prefer not to dirty my hands on -you."</p> - -<p>"Maybe you think you can lick me?"</p> - -<p>"I am not doing any thinking on that subject."</p> - -<p>"You can't talk to me like this—I won't allow -it," stormed Jasniff, putting up his fists again. "If -you want to fight, say so!" So speaking, he gave -Dave a sudden shove that sent him up against -Frank Bond.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Dave, don't let him hit you!" gasped the -little lad. "He is so big and strong——"</p> - -<p>Dave did not answer—indeed, it is doubtful if -he heard the words. With a quick leap forward, -he caught Nick Jasniff by both arms and backed -him against the side of the building.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[235]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Let go!" screamed Jasniff, in a rage. "Let -go, I say!"</p> - -<p>"Listen to me, Jasniff," returned Dave, still -holding the squirming student. "I don't want to -fight, but if you attack me, I'll not only defend myself, -but I'll give you the worst thrashing you ever -had in your life. I understand you thoroughly. -You are not only a bully but worse. Why Dr. -Clay allows you to remain here I don't know. I -want you to understand once for all you can't bulldoze -me."</p> - -<p>"That's the talk!" said Shadow, who had -walked up.</p> - -<p>"Make him keep his distance, Dave," added -Buster, who was with the youth who loved to tell -stories.</p> - -<p>"Bulldoze you?" stormed Nick Jasniff. "I'll -show you what I'll do—you poorhouse rat! I'll -make mincemeat of you!"</p> - -<p>So speaking, he tore himself loose from Dave -and backed away a few steps. Then, with -clenched fists, he rushed in and aimed a heavy blow -at Dave's face.</p> - -<p>The fist struck Dave's ear, for the latter did -what he could to dodge. Then came another blow -on the shoulder and one on the chin, all delivered -with lightning-like rapidity. Nick Jasniff was a -boxer, and could use his fists better than he could -learn his lessons.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[236]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Good!" shouted Gus Plum, gleefully. "That's -the way to do it, Nick!"</p> - -<p>"Knock him out!" added Nat Poole, but keeping -safely in the background.</p> - -<p>Dave backed away a step or two and again Jasniff -came at him, hitting him a light blow in the -arm. Then the boxer struck out again for Dave's -face.</p> - -<p>But this blow did not land. Instead, Dave -leaped to one side and struck out himself, hitting -Jasniff in the left ear. This was followed by a tap -on the chin and another in the ribs. Jasniff tried -to land on Dave's chest, but failed, and Dave came -back once more with a crack on his opponent's nose -that caused the blood to spurt.</p> - -<p>"A fight! A fight!"</p> - -<p>"Look at that blow!"</p> - -<p>"Jasniff is quick, ain't he?"</p> - -<p>"First blood for Dave Porter!"</p> - -<p>Again the two boys went at it, and for several -minutes blows were given and taken with remarkable -rapidity. With his skill as a boxer, Jasniff -had anticipated an easy victory; he was astonished -at the manner in which Dave parried some of his -blows. Around and around the gymnasium floor -circled the two boys, and as the shouting grew -louder the crowd increased.</p> - -<p>The blood was now flowing not alone from Jasniff's -nose but also from a scratch on Dave's chin. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[237]</a></span> - -A few more passes and the two clinched, Jasniff -getting Dave's head under his arm. But with a -sudden turn Dave cleared himself, and hit his opponent -in the teeth, again drawing blood. Wild -with rage, Jasniff threw prudence to the winds and -leaped forward literally to crush the youth who -dared oppose him.</p> - -<p>To him who loses his wits in such a situation as -this, all is lost. Blinded by rage Jasniff forgot to -guard himself and in a trice received a blow in the -left eye that made him see stars. Then, as he -plunged forward again, another swift and heavy -blow hit him squarely on the chin. His head went -up and back with a jerk, his form swayed from -side to side, and down he went on the floor with a -thud, and lay there like a log.</p> - -<p>"My! what a blow!"</p> - -<p>"Jasniff is knocked out clean and clear!"</p> - -<p>"I never saw anything like it in my life!"</p> - -<p>So the cries ran on, while Nick Jasniff lay where -he had fallen. For the moment nobody approached -the prostrate youth, then Plum stepped -to his side, shaking, he knew not why.</p> - -<p>"Nick! Nick!" he called, softly, as he raised the -fallen one's head. "I say, Nick!"</p> - -<p>"Sh—shall I get some water?" faltered Nat -Poole. He too was shaking.</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>While the water was being brought, Jasniff was - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[238]</a></span> - -helped to a sitting position. He was still all but -overcome. His cronies bathed his face and did -what they could to bring him around. In the -meantime Dave and his friends withdrew to another -corner of the gymnasium.</p> - -<p>"So he knocked me out, eh?" snarled Jasniff, -when he was able to speak. "Just wait, I'll fix -him yet!"</p> - -<p>"What, you're not going to fight again?" asked -Plum, in astonishment.</p> - -<p>"Ain't I?" snarled Nick Jasniff. "I'll either -lick him, or he'll kill me!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[239]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI"></a>CHAPTER XXVI -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">THE DISAPPEARANCE OF NICK JASNIFF</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"Here</span></span> comes Jasniff again!" exclaimed Shadow. -"He looks mad enough to eat you up, Dave!"</p> - -<p>"I thought he was done for," said Ben, who had -been wiping the blood from Dave's chin.</p> - -<p>The crowd parted as the boy who had been -knocked out strode forward. His gait was unsteady -and from his eyes there gleamed a wild fire -awful to behold.</p> - -<p>"Thought you had got rid of me, eh?" he cried. -"Well, I am not done for yet!" And with this he -struck Dave in the shoulder.</p> - -<p>"If you want more you shall have it, Jasniff!" -retorted Dave, and struck out in return. Then the -blows came as rapidly as before. Dave was hit -twice in the chest and came back with a crack on -Jasniff's ear and one in the right eye that made the -youth see more stars than ever. Then, as they -circled around the floor, Dave watched his chance -and hit his opponent once more in the nose, causing -him to slip and pitch over on his side.</p> - -<p>"Another knockdown!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[240]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Jasniff, you had better give it up."</p> - -<p>"Porter has the best of you, Nick."</p> - -<p>If ever a boy was mad that boy was Nick Jasniff. -Half blinded from the blow in the eye he rolled -over and got up on his knees. Then he leaped to -his feet and ran to the wall of the gymnasium.</p> - -<p>"I'll fix you! I'll fix you!" he snarled, and -pulled from its resting place a wooden Indian club -weighing at least three pounds. "You shan't crow -over Nick Jasniff, not much!"</p> - -<p>"Hold up, what are you going to do?" cried -Ben, who stood near.</p> - -<p>"I'm going to smash his head for him!" -answered Jasniff, and before anybody could stop -him he made a dash for where Dave was standing. -He swung the Indian club around so recklessly -that the crowd parted right and left to let him -pass.</p> - -<p>Dave saw him approach and for the moment -hardly knew what to do. He had not dreamed of -such unfair play. It was easy to see that Jasniff -was in a frame of mind fit for any foul deed.</p> - -<p>"Don't!" he cried, as the half-crazed lad leaped -before him. "Stop, I tell you!" And then as the -Indian club was swung over his head, he leaped to -one side and caught the other boy around the waist -with both arms. "Drop that club, you brute!"</p> - -<p>"Drop the club! Drop the club!" came from -all sides, and in a twinkling Ben and Shadow - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[241]</a></span> - -leaped in and wrenched the Indian club from Jasniff's -grasp.</p> - -<p>"What an outrage!"</p> - -<p>"Jasniff, you ought to be lynched for that!"</p> - -<p>"This is a young gentlemen's school, not a resort -for toughs."</p> - -<p>So the cries ran on. Jasniff tried to speak, but -nobody would listen to him, and even Plum and -Poole knew enough to keep silent. Dave retained -his hold a few seconds and then pushed his opponent -from him.</p> - -<p>"I am done with you, Jasniff," said he, in a clear, -hard voice. "Done with you, understand? I'll -never dirty my hands on you again. If you dare -to molest me in the future, I'll hand you over to -the police. They are the only ones to handle such -a coward and brute as you."</p> - -<p>Everybody heard the words and many applauded -them. Plum and Poole fell back and the -face of each grew scarlet. Nick Jasniff stood -stock still, breathing heavily. He wanted to do -something terrible,—but he did not dare. Dave -was pale and his jaws were firmly set. The tension -all around was extreme.</p> - -<p>Then Jasniff moved, turning his back on Dave. -He looked at Plum and Poole, but they cast their -eyes to the ground. The crowd parted and Jasniff -walked away, slowly and unsteadily. In a -minute he left the gymnasium, slamming the door - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[242]</a></span> - -after him. There was a long sigh of relief over -his departure.</p> - -<p>"Dave, I really think he meant to kill you!" said -Ben, coming up and clutching his chum by the arm.</p> - -<p>"That's what he did!" said Buster Beggs. -"His eyes had a terrible look in them."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps you are mistaken," answered Dave, -in an odd voice that sounded strange even to himself. -"But I—well, I don't propose to fight a fellow -with Indian clubs."</p> - -<p>"He ought to be bounced out of this school," -said Luke Watson.</p> - -<p>"I'll never speak to him again," asserted Babcock.</p> - -<p>"Wonder what Dr. Clay will say when he hears -of this fight?" said Roger, who had come in during -the wind-up. "I suppose he won't like it at all."</p> - -<p>"He can't blame Dave," answered Ben.</p> - -<p>"Porter started the quarrel by interfering with -me," said Gus Plum.</p> - -<p>"What, Gus, do you stand up for Jasniff?" demanded -Shadow.</p> - -<p>"Well, I—er——"</p> - -<p>"I don't see how anybody can stand up for Jasniff," -said Messmer. "I used to go with him, but -I am glad now that I cut him."</p> - -<p>"I am not standing up for that Indian club affair," -said Gus Plum, lamely, and walked away, -followed by Nat Poole.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[243]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Oh, Dave, you did fight him most beautifully," -cried Frank Bond, his delicate face glowing. "Oh, -I wish I was as strong as you!"</p> - -<p>"Perhaps you will be some day, Frank. Go out -in the fresh air all you can, and take plenty of -exercise here in the gym. Do you know what -made me strong? Working on a farm,—cutting -wood and plowing, and things like that."</p> - -<p>Dave retired to the washroom and there bathed -his face and hands, and combed his hair. The -blood soon stopped flowing from his chin and the -scratch showed but little. Many wanted to congratulate -him on his victory, but he motioned them -away.</p> - -<p>"Thank you, boys, but I don't want you to do -that," he said, quietly. "I want to tell you plainly -that I don't believe in fighting any more than Dr. -Clay does. It's brutal to fight, and that is all -there is to it. But every fellow ought to know -how to defend himself, and when he is attacked as -I was he has got to do the best he can for himself. -If Jasniff hadn't pitched into me roughshod I -should never have fought with him."</p> - -<p>"Do you really mean that, Porter?" asked a -voice from the other side of the washroom, and -Andrew Dale stepped out from behind a high -roller-towel rack. The first assistant teacher had -come in just as the encounter was ending.</p> - -<p>"Oh, is that you, Mr. Dale? Yes, sir, I do - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[244]</a></span> - -mean it," answered Dave. "Did you see the fight, -may I ask?"</p> - -<p>"I saw Jasniff attack you with the Indian club, -but I was too far off to take a hand. You say he -attacked you first?"</p> - -<p>"He did, and some of those here can prove it."</p> - -<p>"That's right," said several of the students.</p> - -<p>"What was the quarrel about?"</p> - -<p>"It began between Plum and myself. Plum was -browbeating Frank Bond and I told him to stop. -Then Jasniff put in his say, and I told him it was -none of his business. Then he wanted to know if -I wanted to fight, and I told him I preferred not to -dirty my hands on him. Then he shoved me and -struck me two or three times. Then—well, then I -sailed in and knocked him down twice. Then -he got the Indian club, and you know the -rest."</p> - -<p>"That's the truth of it, Mr. Dale," said Frank.</p> - -<p>"Absolutely," added another student, who had -seen the whole affair.</p> - -<p>"Well, Porter, you had better come to the doctor's -office and we'll investigate further," said the -teacher, and a little later Dave found himself confronting -the master of Oak Hall. He told his -story in a straightforward manner and mentioned -the names of several who had witnessed the affair. -Then he was told he could go, and Frank was -called in, and then Ben, Shadow, Buster, and later - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[245]</a></span> - -still Plum and Poole. The doctor questioned all -closely, and finally sent Andrew Dale after Jasniff, -but the youth could not be found.</p> - -<p>"Has he left the school grounds?" questioned -Dr. Clay.</p> - -<p>"I could not find that out," answered the assistant. -"Nobody seems to have seen him since he -left the gymnasium."</p> - -<p>"Well, as soon as he shows himself, send him to -me."</p> - -<p>"I will, sir."</p> - -<p>"From what I can learn, he is a thoroughly bad -boy," went on the master of Oak Hall, beginning -to pace the floor of his office. "I must confess I -hardly know what to do with him."</p> - -<p>"He is a bad boy, no doubt of that," answered -the teacher. "And he has a bad influence on some -of the other boys."</p> - -<p>"You mean Plum and Poole?"</p> - -<p>"I do."</p> - -<p>"I believe you are right. Do you think he -ought to be sent from the school?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, unless he will make an earnest endeavor -to mend his ways, Doctor."</p> - -<p>"There is one trouble in the way, Mr. Dale. -His folks are now in Europe for the benefit of -Mrs. Jasniff's health. If I send him off, he will -have no place to go to."</p> - -<p>"You can write to his father explaining the situation. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[246]</a></span> - -He may write to his son and that may help -matters."</p> - -<p>"I have already determined to send a letter. -But Mr. Jasniff knows his son is wild—he wanted -me to tame him down. But I don't see how I can -do it. Supposing he had brained Porter!" Dr. -Clay shivered. "I should never have gotten over -it, and it would have ruined the school!"</p> - -<p>"There is another thing to consider, sir," pursued -the assistant. "It may be that Porter will -write to his uncle about this, and his relative may -be afraid to let the boy remain here while Jasniff -stays."</p> - -<p>"No, I questioned Porter about that. What do -you think he said?" The master of Oak Hall -smiled slightly. "He said he could take care of -himself and he could make Jasniff keep his distance. -He certainly has courage."</p> - -<p>"He is the grittiest boy in the school—and one -of the best, too," answered Andrew Dale, heartily. -And there the conversation came to an end.</p> - -<p>The fight between Jasniff and Dave was the sole -topic discussed that evening at Oak Hall. The -boys who had not witnessed the encounter could -scarcely believe that Dave had knocked the other -student down twice and blackened his eyes, and -they could scarcely credit the fact that Jasniff in his -rage and humiliation had attacked Dave with the -heavy Indian club. Some went to Jasniff's dormitory, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[247]</a></span> - -only to learn that the student was missing.</p> - -<p>In the dormitory Plum and Poole sat in a warm -corner, talking the affair over in a low tone. To -do them justice, both were horrified over the club -incident. Each had seen that awful look in Jasniff's -eyes and each had expected to see Dave -stretched lifeless on the gymnasium floor.</p> - -<p>"I—I didn't think it of Nick!" whispered -Poole. "He certainly went too far."</p> - -<p>"He was so wild he didn't know what he was -doing," answered Plum. "It doesn't pay to get -that way. If he had really killed Porter——"</p> - -<p>"Oh, don't say it, Gus! Why, it makes me -tremble yet," whined Nat Poole. "If Nick is -going to act like that, I'm going to have nothing -more to do with him. What if something had -happened? He might have dragged us into it -somehow—we've been so thick with him."</p> - -<p>To this Gus Plum did not answer, but a far-away, -thoughtful look came into his eyes.</p> - -<p>"It doesn't pay to be too thick with a fellow like -that," pursued Nat Poole. "He'll get you into a -hole some time or other."</p> - -<p>"Maybe you're right, Nat." Gus Plum drew a -long breath. "I wish——" The bully of Oak -Hall suddenly checked himself.</p> - -<p>"What do you wish?"</p> - -<p>"I sometimes wish I had never been thick with - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[248]</a></span> - -Nick. But he——" Again Plum checked himself. -"By the way," he resumed, "did that new -allowance come in yet?"</p> - -<p>"No. My dad wrote he wouldn't allow me a -cent until next month. Why?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, it doesn't matter." The bully drew another -long breath. "I thought perhaps you'd lend -me a little."</p> - -<p>"Why, I thought you had what you wanted!" -cried Poole, in astonishment.</p> - -<p>"I did have, but I——Well, it doesn't matter, -Nat. I'll get along somehow." And then -Gus Plum heaved a deeper sigh than ever. Evidently -there was something on his mind which worried -him considerably.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[249]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII"></a>CHAPTER XXVII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">WHAT HAPPENED AT ROCKVILLE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"Boys</span></span>, how is this for weather!" called out -Roger, the following morning. "Isn't it cold -enough to freeze the hind leg off a wooden horse?"</p> - -<p>"I guess the bottom has dropped out of the -thermometer," answered Dave, as he followed -Roger in rising.</p> - -<p>"How do you feel, Dave?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, pretty good. My chin is a little swollen -and my shoulder is somewhat stiff, that's all."</p> - -<p>"Wonder if Jasniff is back yet," said Ben.</p> - -<p>All the boys wondered that, and Luke Watson -took it upon himself to dress in a hurry and go out -for information.</p> - -<p>"Nothing seen of him yet," announced Luke, on -returning.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps he has run away for good!" cried -Buster.</p> - -<p>"He's afraid the doctor will punish him -severely," said Polly Vane. "It was such a—er—outrageous -thing to do, don't you know."</p> - -<p>"He's a tough boy," was Roger's comment.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[250]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Oh, say, speaking of a tough boy puts me in -mind of a story I heard yesterday," said Shadow, -who sat on the edge of his bed, lacing his shoes. -"A young married lady——"</p> - -<p>"Gracious, Shadow, how can you tell stories on a -cold morning like this?" interrupted Dave.</p> - -<p>"Shadow would rather tell stories than keep -warm," said Roger, with a smile.</p> - -<p>"Maybe this is a hot one," said Ben, grinning.</p> - -<p>"Now you just listen," pursued Shadow. "A -young married lady went and bought a barrel of -best flour——"</p> - -<p>"Four X or Not At Home brand?" questioned -Buster, innocently.</p> - -<p>"If you interrupt me I'll throw the soap at you, -Buster. This was a barrel of guaranteed flour. -Two days later she came back to the grocer with a -very indignant look on her face. 'That flour is no -good,' says she to Mr. Grocer. 'Why not?' says -the grocer. 'Because it is tough,' says the lady. -'I made doughnuts with it yesterday and my husband -thought they were paperweights!'"</p> - -<p>"No well-bred lady would say that," came softly -from Dave.</p> - -<p>"O my! what a pun!" cried Roger. "Well, she -wasn't well-bred, she was poor-bread." And then -a general laugh went up.</p> - -<p>It was indeed cold, with the sun hiding behind a -gray sky and a keen north wind blowing. When - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[251]</a></span> - -they went below they ran into Babcock, who had -been down to the river.</p> - -<p>"The ice is coming along finely," said Babcock. -"I think we'll be able to skate by to-morrow."</p> - -<p>All the boys hoped so, and as soon as they could -went down to the river to look at the ice. It was -moderately firm and some lads were already sliding -on a stretch of meadow. But Dr. Clay would not -let them go on the river proper until it was safe.</p> - -<p>That day the master of Oak Hall sent out -Andrew Dale and Swingly the janitor to look for -Nick Jasniff. But the search proved of no avail. -Wherever the student was, he managed to cover up -his tracks completely.</p> - -<p>By Monday of the following week skating was -at its best, and many hours were spent by Dave and -the others on the ice. They skated for miles, and -also had half a dozen races, including one between -Dave, Roger, and Messmer, in which the two -chums came out even, with Messmer not far -behind.</p> - -<p>During those days came word that Phil was -slowly but steadily improving. This news was -greeted with satisfaction by all his friends, who -hoped that he would soon be able to come to school -again.</p> - -<p>"We can't get along without him," said Dave, -and Roger echoed the sentiment.</p> - -<p>The senator's son had received word from two - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[252]</a></span> - -of his friends, who were now students at one of the -leading colleges. Both belonged to a glee club -which was to give an entertainment at Rockville -Hall on Tuesday night.</p> - -<p>"I'd like to go to that entertainment and hear -Jack and Joe sing," said Roger. "I wonder if the -doctor will let me off?"</p> - -<p>The matter was explained, and in the end it was -agreed to let the senator's son go to the entertainment, -taking Dave and Shadow with him for company. -As skating was so good, the students decided -to go by way of the river, walking the distance -from Rockville Landing to the hall where -the entertainment was to take place.</p> - -<p>It was a bright moonlight night when the three -started and all were in the best of spirits. There -were a few skaters out, mostly grown folk, so the -way was by no means lonely. They had plenty of -time, so did not hurry.</p> - -<p>"We don't want to overheat ourselves," said -Roger. "Perhaps the hall will be warm, and then -we won't be able to stand it."</p> - -<p>Arriving at Rockville Landing, they took off -their skates and left them at one of the boathouses. -Then they walked through the town, past the -brightly lighted shops, and stopped at one place for -some candy and glasses of hot chocolate.</p> - -<p>"Well, I never!" cried Dave, suddenly, as they -were leaving the shop.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[253]</a></span></p> - -<p>"What's up?" queried Shadow.</p> - -<p>"Did you know that Gus Plum was coming -here?"</p> - -<p>"I certainly did not," answered the senator's -son. "Where is he?"</p> - -<p>"I just saw him over there. He passed around -that corner."</p> - -<p>"Maybe you were mistaken in the person," ventured -Shadow.</p> - -<p>"I think not."</p> - -<p>"He may have come over,—to go to the entertainment, -just as we are doing."</p> - -<p>"He doesn't care for music."</p> - -<p>"I know that."</p> - -<p>The three boys walked to the corner and looked -down the side street. Nobody resembling the -bully of Oak Hall was in sight.</p> - -<p>Five minutes later found them at the place -where the entertainment was to take place. Roger -took his chums around to the stage door and in, -and introduced Dave and Shadow to his friends, -and then the students from Oak Hall went around -to the front and secured seats near one of the -boxes.</p> - -<p>The programme was a light and varied one—such -as are usually given by college glee clubs—and -Dave and his chums enjoyed it thoroughly. -One bass singer rendered a topical song, the glee -club joining in the chorus. This was wildly applauded, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[254]</a></span> - -and the singer had to give at least a dozen -verses of the effusion.</p> - -<p>"This is all right!" whispered Dave. "I wish -our glee club could do as well."</p> - -<p>"Maybe it will—when the boys are as old as -these fellows," answered Shadow.</p> - -<p>"These fellows are the best singers at the college," -said Roger. "They can't get into the club -unless they have first-class voices."</p> - -<p>The concert came to an end about half-past ten -o'clock, and Roger waited for a while, in order to -talk to his friends again. Then he, Dave, and -Shadow started on the return to Oak Hall.</p> - -<p>Their course took them past the railroad station -and a row of small dwellings. Just as they were -between the station and the dwellings a light from -a street lamp fell full upon two persons standing -some distance away.</p> - -<p>"Look! there is Gus Plum again!" cried Dave.</p> - -<p>"Yes, and that is Nick Jasniff with him!" said -the senator's son, in a tone of great surprise.</p> - -<p>"Let us go over and make sure," suggested -Shadow.</p> - -<p>The three started across the street, and as they -did so Plum and Jasniff moved away in the direction -of one of the dwelling houses. Before they -could be stopped they had mounted the porch, -opened the door, and gone inside. Those outside -heard the door locked, and then all became quiet.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[255]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Well, I never!" came from Dave. "This is -certainly a mystery."</p> - -<p>There was good cause for his words. The front -of the dwelling was entirely dark and the lower -windows had the solid wooden shutters tightly -closed.</p> - -<p>"Shall I ring the bell?" asked Roger, after a -pause in perplexity.</p> - -<p>"There is no bell to ring," answered Shadow.</p> - -<p>"I wouldn't knock," advised Dave. "What's -the use? We may only get into a row."</p> - -<p>"The doctor ought to know that Jasniff is here," -said Roger.</p> - -<p>"We can tell him that, even if Plum won't," -added Shadow. "I agree with Dave, it will do no -good to knock."</p> - -<p>"I'd like to know if they saw us," said Dave, as -he and his chums continued on their way up the -street.</p> - -<p>"If they didn't it's queer why they should get out -of sight in such a hurry," replied the senator's son.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps Jasniff is going to get Plum to smooth -matters over with the doctor," was Dave's comment. -"He may be sick of staying away from the -Hall."</p> - -<p>"Dave, what are you going to do if he does come -back?" asked Shadow, curiously.</p> - -<p>"Do? Nothing."</p> - -<p>"Aren't you afraid of him in the least?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[256]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Oh, I shall keep on my guard, for fear he may -play me some foul trick."</p> - -<p>"I'd rather he'd go away for good."</p> - -<p>"So would I," added Shadow.</p> - -<p>"Oh, I don't know. He may reform. If he -wants to reform, I'd like to give him the chance."</p> - -<p>"He'll never reform," said Roger, decidedly. -"He is a bad egg through and through."</p> - -<p>"Just what I think," said Shadow. "To my -mind, he is much worse than Plum or Poole."</p> - -<p>"Oh, I know that," returned Dave.</p> - -<p>Arriving at the boathouse, they got out their -skates and put them on. While they were doing -this, two men, wrapped up in heavy overcoats, -walked up over the ice and passed down the street -in the direction from whence the students had -come.</p> - -<p>"There's the long and the short of it," said -Roger, with a laugh. He had noticed that one -man was unusually tall and the other unusually -short.</p> - -<p>"Well, men can't all be of a size," laughed Dave. -"That little man had all he could do to keep up -with the big fellow," he added.</p> - -<p>The skate to the school was a fine one and they -arrived at Oak Hall just as the silvery moon was -sinking behind the distant hills. Swingly let them -in, and inside of quarter of an hour the boys were -in bed and in the land of dreams.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[257]</a></span></p> - -<p>The next day was a busy one for Dave. He -had some extra hard lessons, to which he applied -himself with vigor. An examination was soon to -take place and he was determined to come out at -the top if it could possibly be accomplished.</p> - -<p>"Gracious, I can't grind like that," said Roger, -but half in admiration.</p> - -<p>"Dave has his eye on that medal of honor," said -Ben. "Well, it is certainly well worth working -for."</p> - -<p>The weather had changed and by noontime it -was snowing furiously. Dave had not seen Gus -Plum in the morning, but the bully was at the dinner -table as usual. Shadow had reported seeing -Nick Jasniff in Rockville to the doctor, but had -given no particulars. Dr. Clay had said he would -look into the matter, and sent Andrew Dale to -Rockville for that purpose.</p> - -<p>It was not until evening that the assistant -teacher returned from the neighboring town. He -had seen nothing of Nick Jasniff, although he had -hunted thoroughly and even visited the house -Shadow had mentioned.</p> - -<p>"The house was locked up, and when I knocked -on the door nobody came to answer my summons."</p> - -<p>This was as much as Andrew Dale could tell -concerning the missing student. But he brought -other news, which was flying over the country-side - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[258]</a></span> - -like wildfire. During the night thieves had broken -into the railroad station at Rockville, opened the -old-fashioned safe, and stolen nearly three hundred -dollars in money, some checks, and several bundles -of railroad tickets.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[259]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII"></a>CHAPTER XXVIII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">AN ICE-BOAT RACE</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"What</span></span> do you think of that?" cried Roger, -when the news was circulated among the boys.</p> - -<p>"I think the deed was done by the same fellows -who robbed Mrs. Fairchild and Mr. Lapham," -said Ben. "The authorities are dead slow that -they don't catch the rascals. They must certainly -be hanging out somewhere in this district."</p> - -<p>"Boys, I've got an idea!" cried Dave. "Mrs. -Fairchild said the man she saw was rather tall. -Don't you remember the tall man we saw last -night?"</p> - -<p>"To be sure, and the short fellow with him," exclaimed -Roger. "They may be the very rascals!"</p> - -<p>"Let us tell the doctor of this," said Shadow, -and forthwith they went to Dr. Clay, who listened -to their story with interest.</p> - -<p>"I will notify the authorities," he said. "How -did the men look in the face?"</p> - -<p>"I didn't see their faces," answered Roger.</p> - -<p>"One had a beard, I think," ventured Shadow.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[260]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Both had reddish beards," answered Dave, -"and they had reddish mustaches, too."</p> - -<p>This was as much as the boys could tell. Later -it was learned that the tall and the short man had -been seen before and it was pretty clearly established -that they had had something to do with all -of the robberies throughout that district. But the -men were missing, and what had become of them -nobody could tell. The local papers came out -with a full account of the robbery and not only -mentioned the money that had been taken but also -the names on the checks, and the lists of stolen railroad -tickets. These accounts Dave and his chums -read with interest.</p> - -<p>"Say, I saw a funny thing just now," said Ben, -coming to Dave and Sam Day a little later, while -both were doing some sums in algebra. "I was in -the library and so were a lot of fellows, including -Plum and Poole. Plum has been on the sick list -to-day and wasn't downstairs when the news came -in about that Rockville affair. He took up one of -the papers and began to read about the robbery, -and all at once he staggered back. I thought he -was fainting. He grabbed the paper with all his -might and his eyes almost started out of his -head. He would have gone over, only Poole -caught him and led him to a chair. Then he -said his head hurt him and he went to his dormitory."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[261]</a></span></p> - -<p>"That was certainly queer," said Dave, thoughtfully.</p> - -<p>"He acted just as if that news was some kind of -a blow to him," went on Ben.</p> - -<p>"I don't see how it could affect him," said Sam -Day. "I guess it was just his sickness."</p> - -<p>Sam did not know that Gus Plum had been seen -in Rockville the night the robbery occurred, and -Dave did not feel called upon to enlighten him. -But Ben knew, and he and Dave walked away to -talk the matter over, being joined a moment later -by Roger and Shadow.</p> - -<p>"Plum was certainly in Rockville," said Shadow, -"but I don't see how that connects him with the -robbery." He was voicing a thought that had -come to the minds of all.</p> - -<p>"I don't believe he was connected with it," said -Dave. "It's an awful thing to think a fellow is a -thief." He looked at Shadow, who understood -him thoroughly, as my old readers will understand. -"But—he was there with Jasniff," he added, -slowly.</p> - -<p>"Do you think Jasniff had anything to do with -it, Dave?"</p> - -<p>"I should hate to think any boy was a thief."</p> - -<p>"I don't believe a fellow like Jasniff could open -that safe," came from Roger. "Those robbers -must have had regular burglars' tools."</p> - -<p>"But what made Plum so afraid, or dumbstruck, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[262]</a></span> - -or whatever you may call it?" asked Ben. "It was -no small thing, I can tell you that."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps he got scared, thinking he was at -Rockville with Jasniff at the time of the robbery," -answered Dave. "He knows Jasniff is a kind of -outcast just now. Perhaps he himself suspects -Jasniff."</p> - -<p>The students speculated over the affair for some -time. At first Dave thought it might be best to let -Dr. Clay know, but finally concluded to keep quiet -and see what the next few days would bring forth.</p> - -<p>The bully of the school was certainly ill at ease -that day and also the next. He missed nearly all -his lessons and was sharply reprimanded by Job -Haskers.</p> - -<p>"I've got a headache," he said. "It has ached -for several days. I wish you would excuse me." -And this getting to the ears of the doctor, he was -told to take some headache tablets and retire.</p> - -<p>Some of the students who were of a mechanical -mind had built themselves ice-boats and these were -now being used on the river whenever the opportunity -afforded. Messmer and Henshaw had a -boat, and one afternoon after school they asked -Roger and Dave to go for a sail down the river. -Ice-boating was something of a novelty to Dave, -and he accepted the invitation gladly and so did the -senator's son.</p> - -<p>The ice-boat built by Messmer and Henshaw - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[263]</a></span> - -was about twenty feet long, with a single sail, and -was named the <i>Snowbird</i>. It was by no means a -handsome craft, not being painted, but under -favorable conditions developed good speed, and -that was all the builders wanted.</p> - -<p>"We didn't build her for beauty, we built her -for service," Henshaw explained.</p> - -<p>"Well, as long as she'll go that's all we want," -answered Roger. "I shouldn't give a cent for a -boat that was good-looking and couldn't get over -the ground."</p> - -<p>"Did you ever see a boat get over the ground, -Roger?" asked Dave, quizzically.</p> - -<p>"Well—er—not exactly, but you know what I -mean, Dave."</p> - -<p>"So I do, and I agree with you."</p> - -<p>The start of the trip was made in fine shape, -and for a little while they sailed along in company -with two other ice-boats belonging to other students. -But then the others turned back, and the -<i>Snowbird</i> continued on the course alone.</p> - -<p>"This is certainly grand!" cried Dave, enthusiastically. -He was sitting at the bow, holding -fast with one hand and holding on his cap with the -other. "My! but we are rushing along."</p> - -<p>"It's just the right kind of a breeze," said Henshaw.</p> - -<p>"Beats skating, doesn't it?" came from Roger. -"We must be making about a mile a minute!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[264]</a></span></p> - -<p>"We won't dare to go too far," said Messmer. -"Remember, we've got to get back, and that will -take longer."</p> - -<p>"Maybe the wind will change."</p> - -<p>"No such luck, I am afraid."</p> - -<p>On they went, the runners of the <i>Snowbird</i> making -a sharp skir-r-r on the smooth ice. They were -passing an island and as they reached the end they -came in sight of another ice-boat, carrying a number -of boys in military uniform.</p> - -<p>"Hello! there is an ice-boat from Rockville -Military Academy!" exclaimed Dave. "That's a -pretty good-looking craft." This was a deserved -compliment, for the ice-boat was gayly painted and -decorated with a small flag.</p> - -<p>"Hello!" yelled one of the Rockville students, -as the other craft came closer. "Where did you -borrow that old tub?"</p> - -<p>"From the fellow who swapped it for that barn-door -you're riding on," retorted Dave, quickly.</p> - -<p>"I'll give you ten cents for it," went on another -Rockville cadet.</p> - -<p>"Thanks, but we don't want to rob you," answered -Roger, merrily.</p> - -<p>"Maybe you think you can beat us," said Henshaw, -who had been eying the other ice-boat -critically.</p> - -<p>"We don't think so—we know it," was the quick -rejoinder.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[265]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Come ahead then, and prove it," exclaimed -Messmer.</p> - -<p>In a moment more the race was on. There was -a straight course of two miles ahead and over this -the rival ice-boats flew, at first side by side. Then -an extra puff of wind took the Rockville craft -ahead.</p> - -<p>"What did I tell you!" cried one of the cadets. -"You're too slow for us. Good-by!"</p> - -<p>"You're not leaving us yet," answered Henshaw, -who was steering, and he threw the <i>Snowbird</i> -over a bit from the shore. The wind was coming -over the top of a hill and now both craft got the -full benefit of it. On they rushed, with Rockville -slightly ahead. Then, slowly but surely, the Oak -Hall boat began to crawl up.</p> - -<p>"We are gaining!" cried Dave.</p> - -<p>"Oh, if I only had a bellows, to help make -wind!" sighed the senator's son.</p> - -<p>They had still half a mile to go when of a sudden -the <i>Snowbird</i> shot ahead. Those on the -Rockville craft were amazed and their faces -fell.</p> - -<p>"Here is where we beat you!" cried Henshaw. -"Good-by! We'll tell 'em you are coming."</p> - -<p>"Oh, go to grass!" growled one of the Rockville -cadets, and then the <i>Snowbird</i> continued to forge -ahead, leaving the rival ice-boat far behind.</p> - -<p>"They feel sick," said Dave. "I must say I - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[266]</a></span> - -didn't think this ice-boat could do it. You've certainly -got something worth having."</p> - -<p>"Even if we are not all painted up and haven't a -flag," added Messmer.</p> - -<p>They continued on the course for quarter of a -mile further. Then they came to a number of -islands, and rounding one of these started to tack -back. Meanwhile the rival ice-boat passed on -down the river.</p> - -<p>"Not so much fun in this," observed Roger. "I -like to rush right before the wind."</p> - -<p>"That's like the small boy who wanted to go -down hill on his sled all the time and never wanted -to walk back," answered Henshaw. "But going -back will not be so much of a hardship as you -think."</p> - -<p>"Oh, I'll like it well enough," answered the -senator's son, quickly.</p> - -<p>They were soon opposite one of the islands not -over a mile from Oak Hall. It was a lonely and -rocky spot and one seldom visited by any of the -students.</p> - -<p>"Somebody is out skating here," said Dave, and -he pointed out two persons who were close to the -island.</p> - -<p>A moment later the ice-boat was thrown over on -the other reach and came close to the island. Then -Roger uttered an exclamation:</p> - -<p>"The tall man and the short man!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[267]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Can they be the robbers?" queried Dave, -quickly.</p> - -<p>He watched the pair, and saw them disappear -behind some bare bushes which fringed the shore -of the island.</p> - -<p>"Roger, I think we ought to try to find out something -about those fellows."</p> - -<p>"I think so myself."</p> - -<p>"If those are the rascals who robbed the Rockville -railroad station, we ought to try to capture -them," said Henshaw.</p> - -<p>"How can we do that?" asked Messmer. "We -are not armed."</p> - -<p>"Let us follow them up anyway," said -Dave.</p> - -<p>This was agreed to by all on board the <i>Snowbird</i>, -and in a few minutes the craft was run close -to the shore and the sail was lowered.</p> - -<p>"I am going to arm myself," said Roger, and -suited the action to the word by picking up a heavy -stick that lay handy. Seeing this, the others also -procured sticks, and thus armed, all made their -way to the spot where the two men had last been -seen.</p> - -<p>"Here are their tracks in the snow," said Dave, -pointing to the drift which the wind had swept up -from the river. "It will be easy enough to follow -their tracks."</p> - -<p>"We had better go slow and make no noise," - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[268]</a></span> - -cautioned Roger. "If they hear us they'll be on -guard and may run away."</p> - -<p>Slowly and silently after that the students followed -the trail, through the snow and over the -wind-swept rocks. They passed under some tall -trees, crossed a frozen-over gully, and then came -to where a pile of rocks appeared to bar their -further progress.</p> - -<p>"They passed along this way!" whispered Dave, -pointing to the footmarks, close to the base of the -rocks. "Go slow now, or——"</p> - -<p>"Hush!" interrupted Roger. "I hear voices."</p> - -<p>"I see a cabin, just beyond the turn of these -rocks," said Henshaw. "The two men must be -there."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[269]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX"></a>CHAPTER XXIX -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">THE CABIN ON THE ISLAND</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">The</span></span> four boys came to a halt, to consider what -they should do next. They did not know but that -the two men might be desperate characters and -ready to fight hard if cornered. They might even -be ready to do some shooting.</p> - -<p>"I'll go ahead and take a look around," said -Dave. "You others had better remain here for -the present."</p> - -<p>This was agreed to, and with extreme caution -Dave made his way around a corner of the rocks -and along some bushes, to one side of the cabin. -The building was of logs, very much dilapidated, -having been erected by some campers many years -before.</p> - -<p>As Dave came close to one of the windows of -the cabin he saw a man cross the floor in the direction -of a rude fireplace. Then a match was struck, -and some paper lit. Soon a fire was blazing in -the room, casting a ruddy glare over all.</p> - -<p>Both men were present, each still wrapped in his -overcoat and with his hat pulled down over his - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[270]</a></span> - -forehead. That they were the individuals he had -seen in Rockville the night of the concert and the -robbery the youth was quite sure.</p> - -<p>Dave was anxious to hear what the two fellows -might have to say, and so crept closer to the window, -which was wide open. Near the window a -log was loose, leaving quite a crack, and by putting -his ear to this the boy made out nearly all that was -being said.</p> - -<p>"We were simple, I think, to come here, Pud," -said the tall man, as he threw some more wood on -the fire. "We ought to be miles away by this -time."</p> - -<p>"I ain't going away yet, Hunk," was the reply -from the short man. "You know what I came for. -Well, I am going to stick it out."</p> - -<p>"But it is getting more dangerous every day," -pleaded the man called Hunk.</p> - -<p>"Oh, you only think so."</p> - -<p>"No, I don't. Didn't I read the papers,—and -didn't you read them too? They are after us, I -tell you."</p> - -<p>"Well, they haven't got us yet."</p> - -<p>After that there was a pause, during which one -of the men put some water in a pot to boil and -brought out some provisions in a flour bag.</p> - -<p>"Who is next on that list of yours?" asked the -man called Hunk, presently.</p> - -<p>"Paul Barbridge, and I want to do him up good. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[271]</a></span> - -He was the foreman of the jury that sent me up for -two years."</p> - -<p>"Has he got money?"</p> - -<p>"I think so—leastwise, I am going to find out," -and the speaker gave a low chuckle. "Oh, I ain't -going to let up until I run through the whole -twelve or their families. And then I am going to -strike the judge—and strike him good and hard. -I'll show 'em that they can't send Pud Frodel to -prison and not get paid back! I said I'd get -square when I was sentenced and I am going to -keep my word. Fairchild died on me, but I reckon -I fixed his widow for it."</p> - -<p>There was another pause, during which both -men prepared to eat some of the provisions they -had brought with them. Dave was on the point -of rejoining his companions, when the men began -to speak again and now their words filled him with -amazement.</p> - -<p>"You're a queer one, Pud," said the man called -Hunk. "A queer one, I must say. Sometimes I -wonder to myself how I can stick to you."</p> - -<p>"Well, you haven't got to stick if you don't -want to."</p> - -<p>"I know that. But you want me, don't you?"</p> - -<p>"I like to have somebody, and—you like your -share, eh?" And the short man laughed harshly. -"I've been square, haven't I?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, to the cent—and that is why I stick to you. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[272]</a></span> - -But you do such queer things. Now, for instance, -those schoolboys——"</p> - -<p>"Oh, don't bring that up again, Hunk. I -know just what I am doing. I told you that -before."</p> - -<p>"Well, one of those boys may be all right, but I -shouldn't trust the other."</p> - -<p>"Both of 'em want money—want it just as bad, -almost, as we do. One of 'em up and told me so."</p> - -<p>"Yes, but——"</p> - -<p>"When fellows like that want money—actually -want it—they get desperate. At such a high-toned -school they have to keep up a front, and they -can't do that unless they have got the coin in their -pockets."</p> - -<p>"When are you going to see them again?"</p> - -<p>"To-morrow."</p> - -<p>"Where?"</p> - -<p>"At the old mill, near Nabill's."</p> - -<p>"Well, if you——What's that?"</p> - -<p>The speaker broke off short, as a sound from -outside reached his ears. Tired of waiting for -Dave, Roger and the other students had come -closer and Henshaw had stumbled over a loose -stone and gone crashing into a hollow among some -bushes.</p> - -<p>"Somebody out there!" ejaculated Pud Frodel, -and caught up a club that stood handy.</p> - -<p>"Maybe they're following us!" returned his - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[273]</a></span> - -companion. "Come on and see. We don't want -to be cornered in a place like this."</p> - -<p>"Oh, my ankle!" came in a painful cry from -Henshaw. He had given that member a severe -wrench.</p> - -<p>"Some of the schoolboys!" cried one of the men.</p> - -<p>"Let us get out," added the other.</p> - -<p>"Are those two fellows we know in the crowd?"</p> - -<p>"No, these are all strangers."</p> - -<p>After having run out of the cabin, the two men -went in again. Then they seemed to suddenly disappear.</p> - -<p>"Hullo, Dave!" sang out Roger. He could see -but little in the gloom of the coming night, for it -was now nearly supper time.</p> - -<p>"I am here, Roger."</p> - -<p>"Where are the men? And what kept you so -long?"</p> - -<p>"I don't know where the men are," answered -Dave, ignoring the other question. "They just -stepped back into the cabin."</p> - -<p>"Look out that somebody isn't shot," said Messmer, -nervously.</p> - -<p>"Are they the fellows we are after?" asked the -senator's son.</p> - -<p>"I am pretty sure they are," whispered Dave. -"But I want to talk to you about it later," he added, -giving Roger's arm a knowing squeeze. "There -is something of great importance in the air."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[274]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I should think there would be—if these are the -thieves, Dave."</p> - -<p>"It's more than that. But don't ask me about -it just now."</p> - -<p>After some hesitation, the four boys entered the -cabin. The fire was burning brightly, so that they -could see with ease. All looked in consternation. -Not a sign of the two men was to be seen anywhere.</p> - -<p>"Where are they?"</p> - -<p>"They certainly came in here!"</p> - -<p>"That is true—they did come in here," said -Dave. "Perhaps they are in hiding."</p> - -<p>The boys began to search around the cabin and -presently the senator's son found a piece of a log -that was loose. He gave a push and it rolled -away, showing a dark hole, leading through some -thick bushes and past some rocks.</p> - -<p>"This is the way they went!" he shouted. "It's -a clever outlet."</p> - -<p>The passageway was so dark the boys hesitated -for a moment about entering it. Then Dave -caught up a firebrand and went in. Soon the -others heard him shout from some distance behind -the cabin.</p> - -<p>"Come right through!" he called. "It's all -right."</p> - -<p>They went through and next found themselves -under some tall trees. Beyond was an open space, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[275]</a></span> - -and here the tracks of the two men were plainly to -be distinguished. They led to the shore of the -island and disappeared on the ice beyond.</p> - -<p>"They've gotten away from us," said Henshaw, -disappointedly. He was limping badly.</p> - -<p>"How's the ankle?" asked Dave.</p> - -<p>"I gave it a bad twist, but I guess I can walk to -the ice-boat."</p> - -<p>Nothing could be seen in the fast-gathering -darkness, and after remaining at the shore for a -few minutes, the four retraced their steps to the -dilapidated cabin. Here the fire was replenished -and the students looked around for evidence -against the two men.</p> - -<p>"They are certainly the two men who committed -the robberies in this district," said Dave. "They -as much as admitted it themselves. The short, -stout fellow is the leader and he is doing the work -for a particular reason. He was once sent to -prison for two years. He vowed he would get -square on the twelve jurymen and the judge who -convicted him. So now he is going around robbing -one after another of the thirteen."</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Fairchild wasn't a juryman," said Messmer.</p> - -<p>"No, but her husband was—the fellow mentioned -that."</p> - -<p>"It's a pity we didn't catch them," said Roger. -"We got tired of waiting for you and were afraid - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[276]</a></span> - -you had gotten into some kind of trouble," he -added, to Dave.</p> - -<p>They looked around the cabin with care, but -could find little outside of the provisions previously -mentioned. There were some evidences that the -men had been there a number of times, but that -was all.</p> - -<p>"This is not their regular hanging-out place," -said Dave. "They must have another resort—where -they have at least some of their plunder."</p> - -<p>"I think the best thing we can do is to get back -to the Hall and notify Dr. Clay," said Roger. -"He can then set the authorities on their track."</p> - -<p>This was considered good advice, and putting -out the fire, so that it might not destroy the cabin, -they left the place once more and started for the -spot where they had left the <i>Snowbird</i>.</p> - -<p>To Henshaw the walk was a difficult one, and -the others had to help him over the trying places. -Consequently, when they at last reached the shore -it was pitch dark. A cold north wind caused all -to shiver.</p> - -<p>"It will be no easy job steering back to the Hall -in this darkness," said Messmer. "A fellow can't -see fifty feet ahead of him."</p> - -<p>"Oh, I know the course well enough," answered -Henshaw.</p> - -<p>The ice-boat was found exactly as they had left -it, and soon the craft was shoved out on the lake. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[277]</a></span> - -Then all got aboard, the sail was hoisted, and off -they started for Oak Hall.</p> - -<p>"Phew! but it is getting cold!" was Dave's remark, -as he buttoned up his overcoat.</p> - -<p>"Those men will have a cold walk, wherever -they may be going," returned Messmer.</p> - -<p>"They said something about the old mill," answered -Dave. "I'll tell you the story after I've -seen Dr. Clay."</p> - -<p>On and on sped the <i>Snowbird</i> with the wind -shifting in her favor. It was so cold the tears -streamed down the cheeks of all the boys and -Roger declared that his ears were about frozen. -They tried to look ahead, but could see next to -nothing.</p> - -<p>"Henshaw, are you sure of your course?" asked -Dave, presently.</p> - -<p>"I think I am," was the hesitating response. -"But it is dark, no two ways about it."</p> - -<p>The wind now took another turn and the ice-boat -bore away to the left bank of the river. Henshaw -did what he could to bring the craft about, -but two minutes later came a grating jar and everybody -was pitched off into a snowbank, some heels -over head.</p> - -<p>"I guess we've landed!" spluttered Roger, as he -pulled himself to his feet. "Henshaw, what did -you do that for?"</p> - -<p>"I—I didn't know we were going ashore," replied - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[278]</a></span> - -Henshaw, who had gone head first into the -snow himself. "Anybody hurt?"</p> - -<p>One after another got up. Fortunately nobody -had been hurt. Messmer had some of the snow -down his back and Dave had some up his coat -sleeve. The ice-boat was as good as ever.</p> - -<p>"Now we want to be more careful," said Dave, -as they hauled the craft on the lake once more. -"One such spill is enough."</p> - -<p>"That's true," said Roger. Then the journey -was resumed, nobody dreaming of the accident so -close at hand.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[279]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXX" id="CHAPTER_XXX"></a>CHAPTER XXX -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">DAVE'S HEROISM</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">As</span></span> the ice-boat swept along Dave revolved in his -mind all that he had heard at the old cabin.</p> - -<p>He could place but one meaning on the words -spoken by the two criminals regarding two schoolboys. -They must refer to Nick Jasniff and Gus -Plum.</p> - -<p>"Can it be that those two are in with such rascals?" -he asked himself. "I might think it of -Jasniff, but I never dreamed Plum could be quite -so bad. And yet last season he did some pretty -crooked work with the valuable postage stamps -that disappeared."</p> - -<p>On and on swept the <i>Snowbird</i>, through the -darkness of the night. It was growing colder -each moment, and the cutting wind made each of -the lads shiver. Dave wanted to tell Roger his -tale in full, but now was no time for connected conversation.</p> - -<p>Suddenly out of the darkness loomed a strange -object, moving in almost the same direction as the -<i>Snowbird</i>. It was the ice-boat belonging to the -Rockville cadets.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[280]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Look out!" yelled Henshaw, while Messmer -gave a scream of fright. Then both ice-boats appeared -to turn toward each other, there came a -grinding, rending crash, and in a twinkling Dave -found himself spinning on his back over the ice -with Roger beside him.</p> - -<p>Fortunately for Dave he landed in such a -fashion that he received little more harm than a -thorough shaking up. He slid a distance of two -hundred feet and then came to a stop in a small -ridge of snow.</p> - -<p>"Hello, I wonder if anybody is hurt?" he asked -himself, and got to his feet as quickly as possible. -He walked back to the scene of the collision and -soon ran into the senator's son.</p> - -<p>"Are you all right, Dave?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, Roger; how about you?"</p> - -<p>"Got shaken up, that's all."</p> - -<p>"Help! help!" came faintly from one of the ice-boats, -and running back Dave and Roger saw Henshaw -on the ice, with the overturned <i>Snowbird</i> on -top of him. Close at hand lay the second ice-boat, -and it was plain to see that both craft were much -damaged.</p> - -<p>Messmer was near, suffering from a cut on -his hand, yet he was willing to go to Henshaw's -assistance. The bow end of the <i>Snowbird</i> was -raised and Henshaw dragged himself forth.</p> - -<p>"Are you badly hurt?" asked Dave, anxiously.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[281]</a></span></p> - -<p>"My left leg got a pretty good squeeze," answered -Henshaw, trying to limp around on the -member. "I am afraid I can't walk on it." And -he sat down on the edge of the overturned ice-boat.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile the Rockville cadets were pulling -themselves together. All had been bruised -and scratched a little, but that was all. Their ice-boat, -too, had gone over, and the runners were -partly broken.</p> - -<p>"That was your fault!" growled one of the -cadets, striding over to the students of Oak -Hall.</p> - -<p>"No more our fault than yours," answered -Dave.</p> - -<p>"You ran right into us."</p> - -<p>"You did as much of the running in as we did," -answered Roger.</p> - -<p>"Do you suppose I got my leg hurt for fun?" -growled Henshaw.</p> - -<p>"Are you hurt?" questioned another of the -cadets.</p> - -<p>"I am."</p> - -<p>"Well, I am sorry for that."</p> - -<p>The fact that Henshaw was hurt caused the -Rockville boys to become a little more friendly, -and two of them said they would do what they -could for the sufferer. No more was said about -the cause of the accident, which was in reality the -fault of both parties equally.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[282]</a></span></p> - -<p>Nothing much could be done for Henshaw. It -pained him to stand on the injured leg and so he -remained sitting down. The other boys began to -inspect both ice-boats. It was found that they -were badly broken at the bow and both masts were -loosened. As a consequence, while they could be -used, progress on the river, even before the wind, -would be slow.</p> - -<p>"This is too bad," observed Dave. "We ought -to get back to Oak Hall as soon as possible, and -tell the doctor what we have learned."</p> - -<p>After a good deal of tugging both ice-boats were -righted and each party boarded its own craft. On -they went in the darkness and soon separated, the -craft from Rockville doing a little better than that -containing our friends.</p> - -<p>"I don't think we'll get back to the Hall much -before midnight," said Dave, and this proved to be -the case. It lacked just ten minutes of that time -when they tied up at the boathouse. Henshaw's -leg was now stiff and the others had to carry him -to the door.</p> - -<p>"Ha! so I have caught you!" exclaimed Job -Haskers, as he suddenly showed himself. "What -do you mean by coming in at this late hour?"</p> - -<p>"We've had an accident—Henshaw is hurt," -answered Roger.</p> - -<p>At this announcement the teacher's face took on -a sour look.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[283]</a></span></p> - -<p>"An accident, eh? You are quite sure?" he -demanded, with a suspicious look at Henshaw.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I'm sure," grumbled the hurt one. "We -had a collision with another ice-boat, and when our -craft turned over I was caught underneath."</p> - -<p>"What is the trouble there?" came in Dr. Clay's -voice, and he showed himself at the top of the -stairs and then came down. After asking a few -questions he had Henshaw taken to a private bed-chamber, -where the injured limb was carefully examined -and then bathed with liniment.</p> - -<p>"I wish to see you in private, Dr. Clay," said -Dave. "Perhaps Morr and Messmer will want to -see you too."</p> - -<p>"Very well, come into the office," answered the -master of Oak Hall, and led the way. He made a -light and then faced the three students who had -followed him.</p> - -<p>In a plain, straightforward manner Dave told -of the visit to the rocky island and the old cabin, -and of what the two men had said. He did not -mention the talk about the two schoolboys, although -strongly tempted to do so. He said the -two men expected to go to the old mill, near Nabill's -farm, the next day.</p> - -<p>"This is very important," exclaimed the doctor, -when he had finished. "I must notify the authorities -at once, and we must do everything we can to -capture the rascals."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[284]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Can I do anything?" asked Roger.</p> - -<p>"I think not. As you say one man is very tall -and the other very short, it ought not to be a very -difficult matter to recognize them if they show -themselves. The old mill is also well known, so -there can be no mistake."</p> - -<p>"Of course, they may not go to the mill now," -went on Dave.</p> - -<p>"That is true. But I will have the authorities -keep a close watch all around this district and also -at the railroad stations. As he has been in prison -this Pud Frodel must be known."</p> - -<p>After that the doctor told the boys they had -better go to bed, and they did so. But it was an -hour before Dave could get to sleep. Once he -thought of getting up and visiting Gus Plum's -dormitory, but gave up the idea, knowing that all -the others would want to know what was doing.</p> - -<p>In the morning the weather changed. It was -not so cold, but the snow was coming down thickly -and the wind sent it swirling in all directions. Already -the ground was covered to a depth of several -inches, and there was no telling when the storm -would cease.</p> - -<p>"This will make it hard to track those men," -observed Roger, as he and Dave came down for -breakfast.</p> - -<p>"Roger, I want to tell you something," said -Dave, and as the pair walked to a secluded corner<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[285]</a></span> -of a hallway Dave told his chum what had -been on his mind since the visit to the lonely cabin.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Dave! can this be true?" cried the -senator's son, in horror. "Can Jasniff and Plum -really be mixed up in this?"</p> - -<p>"It looks like it to me, Roger," was Dave's slow -reply. "And yet I shouldn't want to say a word -until I was certain. Jasniff I know is bad,—and -so is Plum, for the matter of that. But there is a -difference between them."</p> - -<p>"I know it, Dave. Jasniff is wicked at heart, -while Gus is more a bully and headstrong." The -senator's son paused. "What do you propose to -do?"</p> - -<p>"I've been thinking of having a straight talk -with Plum. Of course, if he is really in with those -robbers I'll have to expose him."</p> - -<p>The chums talked the matter over for several -minutes and then went in to breakfast. Plum was -there, but Dave noticed that the bully ate little. -Soon Plum arose and left the dining room abruptly. -Dave followed, why he could hardly tell. -But he had a feeling that he must follow Plum -then and there.</p> - -<p>The bully of Oak Hall passed from the hall to -the coat room, and there donned his overcoat, hat, -and rubbers. Then he walked to a side door, and -opening it cautiously, stepped out into the howling -storm.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[286]</a></span></p> - -<p>Dave was now certain something unusual was in -the wind, for the school session would begin in -twenty minutes and he knew Plum would not go -out in such a storm without good reason. Quickly -he donned his own coat, hat, and rubbers and followed -to the outside of the school building. He -saw Plum running across the campus and he followed. -Then the bully leaped the boxwood hedge -and came out on a road leading to a village called -Bagor, a short distance from Rockville.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps he is going to meet Jasniff," Dave -reasoned. "He must be pretty well upset. I -don't believe he even got permission to leave."</p> - -<p>The road led through a wood and then up a long -hill. The snow was so thick that Dave had all he -could do to keep Plum in sight. The bully of the -Hall walked rapidly, his head bent low and his -hands rammed well down in his overcoat pockets.</p> - -<p>The high ground at the top of the hill gained, -Plum struck off to the southeast, in the direction of -the railroad tracks. Inside of five minutes he -reached a point where the tracks ran through a -deep cut. On either side were tall trees, and the -sloping banks of the cut ran down almost to the -rails, now covered with snow.</p> - -<p>At the edge of the cut Plum paused again. He -looked up and down the opening, as if undecided -in what direction to turn. Far away a locomotive -whistle sounded and a freight train appeared in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[287]</a></span> -sight, rolling forward rapidly on a slight down-grade.</p> - -<p>As the freight train came closer Plum prepared -to climb down the steep slope of the cut. All was -covered with ice and snow, and he had taken but a -dozen steps when he lost his footing and his hold -and rolled over and over. Then he struck a projecting -rock and the next instant pitched forward -on his head, rolled over and over once more, and -landed squarely on the tracks below!</p> - -<p>Dave was close to the edge of the cut and saw -the whole occurrence. When Plum struck on his -head he uttered a deep groan, showing that he was -injured. Then, as he lay on the tracks, he did not -move.</p> - -<p>"He is unconscious!" thought Dave, and a chill -of horror swept over him. He looked along the -cut. The freight train was sweeping forward, -directly for the unconscious youth. In half a -minute more it would reach Plum and run over -him. He heard a fierce whistle, as the locomotive -engineer gave the signal for brakes, and the engine -itself was reversed. But the grade was too great -and the train too heavy for a sudden stop.</p> - -<p>Dave's heart leaped into his throat. Was Plum -to be ground up under his very eyes? He had no -great love for the bully, but at that moment his -heart went out to him as if he were a brother.</p> - -<p>"I must save him—if I can!" he told himself. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[288]</a></span> - -"He must not be killed if I can help it!" And -then, throwing himself face downward, he slid -over the ice and snow to the bottom of the cut. -His hands and face were scratched, but he paid no -heed. As he touched the bottom he leaped up. -The train was less than fifty feet away, the wheels -grinding sharply on the tracks. He made one -wild leap forward, caught Plum by the feet and -dragged him out of harm's way. Then the train -rolled on, coming to a stop a few seconds later.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<div class="figcenter"><a id="He_made_one_wild_leap"></a> -<img src="images/p288.jpg" alt="" width="326" height="500" /> -<div class="topspace1"></div> -<div class="caption">He made one wild leap forward.—<i>Page 288.</i></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[289]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXI" id="CHAPTER_XXXI"></a>CHAPTER XXXI -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">GUS PLUM'S CONFESSION</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">"You</span></span> did this for me, you! Oh, Dave Porter, -how could you do it? How could you?"</p> - -<p>It was Plum who spoke. He sat on a fallen -tree not far away from the railroad cut. His forehead -was swollen and there was a cut on his cheek, -but otherwise he had quite recovered from the -shock received. The train, after stopping for a -few minutes, had gone on, and the two youths were -alone.</p> - -<p>Plum's voice was choked with emotion. He -had come to his senses to find Dave and the fireman -of the train bending over him. It was the fireman -who had told of Dave's brave deed.</p> - -<p>"Pluckiest thing I ever see in my born days," the -fireman had said. "He came down the slope pell-mell -and hauled you off the track just as we hit the -spot."</p> - -<p>Then the fireman and the train had gone on and -Dave had done what he could for the bully. Plum -was trembling like a leaf and found it next to impossible - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[290]</a></span> - -to control himself. Twice before he had -tried to speak but his voice had failed him.</p> - -<p>"You are sure you are not hurt?" asked Dave. -He himself hardly knew what to say. The excitement -of the occasion had put him in a dripping -perspiration.</p> - -<p>"Oh, I don't care if I am!" replied Plum. "I—I -wish—I wish I was dead!"</p> - -<p>"Plum!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I do! I—I—but I can't talk about it. -And to think you did this for me, you! Why, I -thought you hated me!"</p> - -<p>"Perhaps I did, Gus. But I didn't hate you -when I saw you on the tracks unconscious."</p> - -<p>"You did more for me than I should ever have -done for you."</p> - -<p>"Maybe not."</p> - -<p>"I know it, Porter, for—well, you know how I -have hated you. But I am not going to be that -way any more—I couldn't!"</p> - -<p>After this there was a silence. Each boy wanted -to say something, but hardly knew how to get at it. -Finally Dave broke the ice.</p> - -<p>"Gus, what brought you to this spot this morning?" -he questioned.</p> - -<p>"Oh, don't ask me! I was crazy, I guess. I -wanted to get away—I never wanted to see Oak -Hall or anybody again!"</p> - -<p>"Were you going to run away?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[291]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I guess so—I don't know. I didn't sleep last -night nor the night before."</p> - -<p>"Gus, tell me the truth, will you?" went on -Dave, boldly. "Are you working with those fellows -who robbed the Rockville railroad station and -those other places?"</p> - -<p>"No! no! Oh, Porter! Dave! What do you -know about this—about me?" Plum's face grew -as white as the snow around them. "I—I heard -what you told Dr. Clay last night—I was listening -at the door. Do you—do you know anything -more?"</p> - -<p>"I do and I don't, Gus. Those men said something -about two schoolboys, and I and some others -saw you in Rockville the night of the robbery. -More than that, I know what sort of a fellow Nick -Jasniff is, and you and he are always together."</p> - -<p>"Dave, I didn't steal any money, I give you my -word I didn't! I was led along by Jasniff. I was -in debt and I needed money badly. Jasniff said he -knew where he could borrow some for me, and he -did get me fifty dollars. Then he introduced me -to that short man, who went by the name of Sloan, -and to the tall man, who went by the name of Carson. -It seems Jasniff knew Sloan, or Pud Frodel, -years ago, before he was sent to prison. The tall -man isn't over-bright and he is simply Pud Frodel's -tool. One day I was talking to the tall man and I -soon found out what sort of a crowd they were, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[292]</a></span> - -although the tall fellow didn't say so in so many -words. Then I wanted to cut them, and cut Nick -Jasniff too, but Jasniff said if I did, he'd write a -letter to Dr. Clay exposing me. Jasniff, after he -ran away from the Hall, went right in with the -robbers and he wanted me to go in, but I up and -told him I wouldn't have anything more to do with -him and with those rascals."</p> - -<p>"Good for you, Gus!" cried Dave, heartily. "I -am glad to hear that."</p> - -<p>"Wait, I am not done yet. Jasniff tried to -smooth matters over and asked me to meet him at -Rockville. I did so, as you know, and I met the -men too. We had a meal together and I was -drugged. After that I don't know what I did. -When I was myself again Jasniff said I had helped -to rob the railroad station."</p> - -<p>"But did you?"</p> - -<p>"I don't think so, although I remember being -taken to somewhere in a carriage and seeing the -lights of the station. After that, I had some hot -words with Jasniff and came back to the Hall. -Then Jasniff sent a letter, stating he would surely -expose me if I opened my mouth to anybody. -Then came your news to the doctor. If those men -are captured, and Jasniff with them, they will -surely drag me into the affair! How am I going -to face it—especially after what happened last -summer? Oh, I wish I was dead!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[293]</a></span></p> - -<p>Gus Plum's lips began to tremble and the tears -stood in his eyes. His better nature was struggling -to the surface, and he was a most miserable object -to behold. Dave pitied the lad from the bottom -of his heart.</p> - -<p>"It certainly does look black, Gus," he said. -"But if you are not guilty I'd face the music if I -were you. If those men are brought into court -you can turn witness against them, and against -Jasniff too. I know it will hurt you in school—but -if you don't want to stay here you can go to -some other academy."</p> - -<p>After this Dave talked to Gus Plum for a full -half-hour, giving the other boy his best advice. -Both lads were so excited that neither minded the -snow and the cold. Plum was in a deeply penitent -mood and during the course of the conversation -told how he and Jasniff and Poole had cut down -the tree and let it fall on the roadway, so that Dave -and Babcock had been pitched off their wheels, and -he also told of how Henshaw had been drugged -previous to the football game, and of several other -mean things that had been accomplished.</p> - -<p>"And then to think that on top of it all you -saved my life," Plum went on. "Oh, Dave, I -can't understand it! You're the best boy -alive!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, no, I am not," answered Dave. "I've got -lots of faults of my own, Gus, lots of them!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[294]</a></span></p> - -<p>"But you're not mean like me—and not dishonest. -I don't wonder the fellows like you."</p> - -<p>At last they started back for the school, the snow -pelting them in the face as they journeyed along. -Each boy was busy with his thoughts and but little -was said. When they came in sight of the Hall -Gus Plum halted.</p> - -<p>"Oh, I can't do it! I can't!" he almost sobbed.</p> - -<p>"Come, I'll go with you to Dr. Clay," answered -Dave, and linked his arm in that of the other -youth. Thus they entered a side door and passed -directly to the office. Here, when confronted by -the master of Oak Hall, Gus Plum burst into bitter -tears and it was several minutes before he could -utter a word.</p> - -<p>When the confession had been finally made Gus -Plum's face wore a more peaceful look than it had -for many a day. He kept nothing back, nor did -he try to defend himself in the least. He wanted -Dave to remain in the office and addressed his -words quite as much to his fellow student as to the -master of the Hall.</p> - -<p>"I know I am not fit to remain here, Dr. Clay," -he said at last. "And if you send me home I shall -not complain. But please don't hand me over to -the police! Anything but that!"</p> - -<p>It was then that Dr. Clay spoke, and never had -Dave seen him more stern and at the same time -dignified. In well-chosen words he told Plum - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[295]</a></span> - -what he thought of his pupil's meanness and baseness.</p> - -<p>"By your own confession, you acknowledge -doing things of which I did not dream a pupil of -mine could be guilty. You have endangered the -very lives of Porter and Babcock, as well as the life -of little Frank Bond. More than this, you have -been guilty of drinking and gambling, and you -have been the companion of common criminals. -And this on top of what happened last year! -Plum, I do not see how I can forgive you. You -have been a discredit to this school, and if I hand -you over to the police it will serve you right."</p> - -<p>"Dr. Clay!" It was Dave who spoke. He -was filled with emotion that he could not suppress. -"Please don't do that! For my part, I am willing -to forgive Gus for what he did to me. Please -give him another chance, just one! If you hand -him over to the police you'll blast his reputation -forever!"</p> - -<p>The doctor turned to the speaker in surprise, -and as Dave went on, pleading the cause of his -former enemy, the master's face gradually relaxed. -He sat back in his chair, folded his arms, and cast -a searching gaze on Gus Plum's pale, haggard -features.</p> - -<p>"Plum, listen to me," he said, and now there was -a trace of kindness in his tones. "If I give you -one more chance——"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[296]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Oh, Dr. Clay, if you'll do that!" sobbed the -boy, "I'll—I'll try to be better! I'll try to give up -my bad habits! I never realized until now how -really bad I have been! Just give me the chance, -and I'll be better! I'll do as Chip Macklin is -doing. Chip was never as bad as I've been, but -you know how he has changed. I want to do better—I -want to make something of myself, as Porter -is doing. Please give me one more chance!"</p> - -<p>"I'll do it!" said the doctor, softly, almost -fatherly.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[297]</a></span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXII" id="CHAPTER_XXXII"></a>CHAPTER XXXII -<br /><br /> -<span class="small">THE MEDAL OF HONOR—CONCLUSION</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap"><span class="xlarge">Throughout</span></span> Oak Hall there was an air of -mystery that day. Gus Plum did not show himself -and Dave did not come to his class until after -dinner. When Dave did appear many wanted to -question him, but he evaded the crowd and took no -one but Roger into his confidence, although later he -told Babcock and Henshaw how Plum had confessed -to what had been done previous to the football -game.</p> - -<p>"That was dastardly," said Babcock.</p> - -<p>"I know it," said Dave. "But believe me, Plum -is suffering for it. He has a great deal on his -mind, and it will be a real act of charity on your -part if you forgive him. He has promised Dr. -Clay that he will reform, and I think we ought to -help him to do it."</p> - -<p>"He can't reform—it isn't in him," said Henshaw, -promptly.</p> - -<p>"I can't believe you," answered Dave. "If you -had seen what I saw you'd think better of Gus. -He has a good side to him as well as a bad side. I - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[298]</a></span> - -am going to give him a chance and I hope all the -other fellows will too."</p> - -<p>"But what is it all about?" insisted Buster -Beggs. "Jasniff?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, Jasniff is mixed up in it, and he did his -best to get Plum into a lot of trouble. Perhaps -you'll hear all about it some day. I have promised -to keep quiet, so I can't say anything,—and I don't -want to speak about it anyway," added Dave, with -feeling.</p> - -<p>The snowstorm lasted for three days, and during -that time no word came in from the authorities -who were trying to catch Pud Frodel and his companion -in crime. The doctor had notified the -representatives of the law of the proposed meeting -at the old mill, and some officers had gone there, -only to find that the evildoers had changed their -plans.</p> - -<p>It was hard for Dave to settle down to his lessons, -yet he did his best, for the examinations were -now close at hand and he still had his eye fixed on -the medal of honor. Plum came back to his class -and was a changed person. Whenever he recited -he did so in a low voice, and the minute he was dismissed -he disappeared, where, none of the pupils -seemed to know. He was occupying a small room -by himself and kept the door locked.</p> - -<p>At last the storm cleared away and then came in -word that one of the men, the fellow called Hunk, - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[299]</a></span> - -had been caught. He was closely questioned, and -being rather simple-minded, as previously mentioned, -said that Pud Frodel had gone to New -York, in company with Nick Jasniff. He said that -Jasniff was now hand-in-glove with Frodel, and -that the two were planning more mischief.</p> - -<p>Upon this news Dr. Clay sent a cablegram to -Mr. Jasniff, who was in London, that Nick had -run away from school and also sent a letter of -particulars. Later word came back that Mr. Jasniff -would have a relative look for Nick and would -be back himself as soon as he could arrange certain -business matters.</p> - -<p>At last came the day for the school examinations. -Dave was fully prepared for them, and when he -came out three points ahead of everybody else nobody -was surprised. Polly Vane stood second, -Roger fourth, Ben sixth, and Shadow eighth. Gus -Plum stood tenth, much to the surprise of many -who had imagined he would come out close to the -end.</p> - -<p>"Dave Porter wins the medal of honor!" said -a dozen.</p> - -<p>"Hurrah for Dave!" cried Roger, and the -cheers were given with a will.</p> - -<p>The medal was presented to Dave by the doctor. -The entire school was assembled for the occasion, -and Dr. Clay made a neat address, in which he -complimented the winner on the creditable showing -he had made.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[300]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I am highly pleased to give Master David Porter -this medal," said the master of the Hall. "He -deserves it in more ways than one. Why, some -one else will tell."</p> - -<p>And then, to the amazement of all, Gus Plum -got up from his seat, walked quietly but firmly to -the platform and faced his fellow students, his face -red but determined.</p> - -<p>"I want to say a few words about Dave Porter," -he said, looking around from one face to another. -"You all know me and you know how I have acted -towards Dave. Well, Dave saved my life, and -more than that, he has proved himself my best -friend. He stood by me at a time when I guess -every other fellow in the world would have turned -his back on me. That's why he deserves a medal -of honor,—and would deserve it even if he was at -the bottom of the class." Plum paused a moment. -"I ought not to speak about myself—I guess the -doctor didn't think I would. But I want to say -before you all that I am going to try to be different -from what I used to be. The doctor might have -sent me away from this school for what I did, but -Dave Porter spoke up for me, and now I am to -have another chance here—and I am going to -make the best of it. That's all."</p> - -<p>Gus Plum bowed and walked back to his seat. -There were murmurs all around, and a few hisses, -but the majority of the students looked at Plum encouragingly. - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[301]</a></span> - -He kept his eyes down, looking at -nobody. Roger reached over and shook hands, -and then a number of others did the same.</p> - -<p>"What Plum has said about Porter is strictly -true," said the doctor, coming forward again. -"Therefore I take the greatest of pleasure in presenting -the medal of honor to the winner, and with -it I wish him the best of luck throughout life!"</p> - -<p>A cheer went up, in which Gus Plum joined -heartily. Then other prizes were presented, after -which school was dismissed for the day.</p> - -<p>Plum's speech had a tremendous effect. All -wanted to know how Dave had saved his life and -the story had to be told over and over again. Little -was said about why the former bully had left -school that snowy morning, and the boys knew -enough not to ask too many questions.</p> - -<p>"I really think he'll turn over a new leaf," said -Ben. "He seems to have awakened to a realization -of how he was drifting."</p> - -<p>"I hope with all my heart he does try to do better," -said Roger. "I am going to do as Dave is -doing—encourage him all I can." And then Ben -and a number of others said the same.</p> - -<p>That day came a welcome letter from Phil Lawrence. -He was getting better rapidly now and expected -to come back to Oak Hall in a few weeks.</p> - -<p>"This is glorious news!" cried Dave. "Poor -Phil! How he has suffered!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[302]</a></span></p> - -<p>"And all for the glory of a football game," answered -Roger. "Pretty rough sport, no mistake -about it."</p> - -<p>"Well, that's what makes it exciting," said Buster -Beggs.</p> - -<p>"Which puts me in mind of a story," came from -Shadow. "A boy went to the country for his -health. After he had been there a week he wrote -to his mother: 'Having dead loads of fun. Fell -from the cherry tree and sprained my wrist, had -the bull horn me over a fence, got sick eating green -apples, and yesterday, when I fell in the well, I lost -the dollar pop gave me. Send another dollar and -it will be all right.'" And the usual short laugh -went up.</p> - -<p>On Monday came in news that Pud Frodel -had been captured. It was also learned that -Nick Jasniff had sneaked on board of a steamer -and sailed for Europe. The next day Gus -Plum received a letter which he showed to -the doctor and to Dave. It ran in part as follows:</p> - -<blockquote> - -<p>"You were a fool to go back on me. If you -had stuck to me we could have made a lot of -money. They are after both of the men, so I am -going to clear out. I've got several hundred dollars -and I expect to have a good time in Europe -on it."</p></blockquote> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[303]</a></span></p> - -<p>This communication was unsigned but was in -Nick Jasniff's handwriting. Gus Plum shivered as -he perused it.</p> - -<p>"I am glad I did not stick by him," said he. "I -am sorry I ever had anything to do with him."</p> - -<p>"His influence in this school was certainly very -bad," said Dr. Clay.</p> - -<p>Later on the two men were tried and convicted, -and each received several years in prison as a punishment -for their crimes. Only a small amount of -the stolen goods was recovered, which made Mrs. -Fairchild, Mr. Lapham, and a number of others -mourn. Much to the surprise of everybody it -came out that Frodel and the other man had -robbed Roger while he lay unconscious at the -bridge and had also made off with his motor cycle. -They had wanted to pawn this, but had not dared, -and it was found where they had placed it, under -some hay in a barn near Oakdale. During the -trials Gus Plum was called as a witness for the -state to testify and did so, doing nothing to shield -himself. This was considered to his credit, and -when he returned to Oak Hall many thought more -of him than ever. There was now a coolness between -the former bully and Nat Poole, who seemed -to be left in the cold all around.</p> - -<p>"I don't think we'll ever see anything more of -Jasniff," said Dave one day to Roger. But in this -surmise Dave was mistaken, and how will be related - -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[304]</a></span> - -in another volume of this series, to be entitled, -"Dave Porter in the Far North; or, The -Pluck of an American Schoolboy." In this volume -we shall meet many of our friends again, and learn -what Dave did towards finding his father and his -sister who had so mysteriously disappeared during -their tour of Europe.</p> - -<p>Thanksgiving was now at hand, and many of -the boys prepared to return to their homes for the -holidays. Dave was going to Crumville and so -was Ben. Roger was going home too, along with -Shadow and Buster Beggs and Sam Day.</p> - -<p>"I am going to stop to see Phil," said Dave, and -Ben went with him. Phil was delighted over the -visit, and amazed to learn the news concerning -Plum and Jasniff.</p> - -<p>"Dave, you're a dandy!" he cried. "You're -one boy in a thousand!"</p> - -<p>"Say one boy in ten thousand!" answered Ben.</p> - -<p>At this Dave smiled quietly.</p> - -<p>"I only tried to do my duty," said he.</p> - -<p>The homecoming was full of pleasure to the -boy, and here, for the time being, we will leave -Dave. He had won the medal of honor, and no -one begrudged him the pleasure it gave him to -wear it.<br /><br /></p> - -<p class="center">THE END</p> - -<hr class="full" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div class="transnote"> -<p>Transcriber's Notes.<br /><br /> - -1. Every effort has been made to replicate this text as faithfully as -possible.<br /><br /> - -2. Simple spelling, grammar, and typographical errors have been silently -corrected.<br /><br /> - -3. An Index of Illustrations has been created by the transcriber.</p> -</div> -</div> - - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Dave Porter's Return to School, by -Edward Stratemeyer - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK DAVE PORTER'S RETURN TO SCHOOL *** - -***** This file should be named 53407-h.htm or 53407-h.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/5/3/4/0/53407/ - -Produced by David Edwards, Brian Wilsden and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -book was produced from scanned images of public domain -material from the Google Books project.) - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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