Hodge was unusually talkative, although his talk was of a serious nature. Browning managed to crack a joke now and then, and he was able to eat and laugh as heartily as anybody.
Not a word did any of them say about Merriwell’s new position of responsibility till the meal was over and their appetites satisfied.
Then Browning produced cigarettes and offered them to the others, laughing as he did so.
No one accepted a cigarette.
“I don’t suppose anybody will object if I smoke,” said Bruce, as he selected one.
“Yes,” said Frank, quietly, “I shall object, old man.”
With no little surprise, Browning saw Merriwell was in sober earnest.
“Great Scott!” he exclaimed. “Why should you object?”
“I have a very good reason. I may want you before the season is over.”
“Want me?” cried Browning. “What for?”