It sounded like old times to hear Ephraim express such a wish, and Frank smiled a bit.
The other actors in the office were showing anxiety. They had huddled in a little group, and were talking in low tones.
Zenas Hawkins entered. He was tall, thin and ministerial in appearance.
“Just the man we want to see,” said Haley. “Come over here.”
Then he drew Hawkins and Havener into a corner, where the telegram was shown to the thin “manager,” who read it through, puckered up his face and scowled.
A confidential talk between the three men followed. Havener seemed struck by a sudden idea. He turned and looked over the room, his eyes resting on Frank.
“Come here, Merriwell,” he called.
Frank rose and approached the group, wondering what they wanted of him.
Haley pursed his thick lips and stared coldly at Merriwell as Frank came up.
“Too young,” he grunted.