"There is the doctor's residence, over there," indicated Tom. "I trust the fire is all out," he added, half sarcastically.
"Humph! Yes, it's out, but I ain't done with it yet," and the farmer nodded his head vigorously. "I've got some suspicions, and I've come t' tell 'em. I want t' have a talk with Doctor Meredith about that fire."
"Here he comes now," said Jack, as the tall form of the head master was seen approaching over the campus. Seeing the group of lads, and recognizing them, the doctor turned and approached Tom and his mates. Mr. Appleby, assuming an air of importance, stood waiting.
"Well, boys, none the worse from the excitement of last night, I hope," began the head of the school. "At least I see you are able to resume football practice," and he smiled at the rather soiled appearance of the lads.
"Yes, we're all right," assented Jack.
"Be you Doctor Meredith?" broke in the farmer.
"I am," was the quiet answer, and a pair of eyes that had an uncomfortable habit of seeming to bore right through one, looked sharply at the farmer. "Did you wish to see me?"
"Yes, I'm Mr. Appleby. It was my hay stacks that burned last night."
"Oh, yes, I heard about it. I am sorry for you. I understand that had it not been for some of my students the fire would have been much worse. You have come to thank them, through me, I take it."
"Well, no, Doctor Meredith, I don't know as I have," and the farmer's voice seemed harsh and grating.