The boys had come to understand in a measure Diamond's chivalric nature and sentiments, and it did not seem strange that he should see something improper in stealing turkeys from a farmer; but it did appear rather remarkable that Merriwell should maintain such an idea after he had taken a hand in the game.
"It must be that you chaps intend to become parsons after you leave college," said Walter Gordon, rather derisively.
"And Merriwell would pay for the dog if he killed the beast!" exclaimed Uncle Blossom. "How about the turkey? I should have thought you'd paid for that."
"I did."
"What!"
That word was a roar, and it seemed to leap from the lips of every lad in the room, with the exception of Diamond and Merriwell. The boys were all on their feet, and they stared at Frank with bulging eyes, as if they beheld a great curiosity.
Merriwell simply smiled. He was quite cool and unruffled.
"You—you paid—for—the—turkey!" gasped Lucy Little, as if it cost him a mighty effort to get the words out.
"Exactly," bowed Frank.
"How? When? Where?"