“Good!” came in an enthusiastic chorus. “Let’s start right away,” added Jack.
“No, not until after dark,” advised Tom. “We will be caught if we go before.”
The sandwiches and other things which the Seniors had provided made a welcome addition to the slim dinner. Professor Skeel came in as the boys were about to arise from the table, probably to gloat over them. He was received with a storm of hisses.
“Stop that, instantly!” he cried, his face pale with anger.
“Keep it up,” ordered Tom, and keep it up the boys did, until the discomfited instructor had to withdraw, vowing vengeance on the lads whom even a diet of bread and water, and the humiliation of being made prisoners, could not subdue.
“But I’ll break their spirit yet!” said the professor, grimly.
The preparations for the escape went on. Several ropes were made from torn sheets and light blankets, and fastened to heavy objects as anchors, in various room whence the lads were to take French leave. Several were to drop from Tom’s window.
The storm grew worse, and the boys put on their heaviest garments. Night approached, the bread and water supper was served, and Mr. Blackford remarked to his wife:
“I don’t see what makes the boys so cheerful.”
“Maybe they are up to some mischief,” she suggested.