“That is complimentary for us,” said Frank, ruefully.
“Very!” nodded Bart. “It makes me feel jolly!”
“It makes me feel jollied,” declared Merry.
“Oh, you are a flirt by nature,” asserted Hattie, speaking to Frank. “You can’t help it.”
“This is growing jollier and jollier!” murmured Merriwell. “It is a very warm evening.”
“Just a trifle,” nodded Hodge. “This time Diamond has the start on you, Merry. He’s won the admiration of both of these girls without trying to do so.”
“Well, Miss Mischief,” said Frank, “you are right about Jack Diamond—he is a splendid fellow. He has his odd streaks, like anyone else. Sometimes he is petulant and almost offensive, but his heart is all right, and I never permit any of his moods to change my feelings toward him.”
“That’s right,” agreed Hodge. “Merriwell will stand more from Diamond than from any other fellow living. I don’t know why, but I do know that anybody else would have cut Diamond long ago.”
“Doesn’t he always come around right in the end?” asked Frank. “Among all my friends there is not a man who will fight for me quicker or harder than Jack Diamond. You know that, Bart.”
“Well,” admitted Hodge, reluctantly, “I suppose it’s only right to give the fellow his due, and I know he would lay down his life for you if necessary.”