Creighton had made no mistake in saying a large number of college lads would be present. It seemed that there were at least two hundred in the theatre, and it was apparent that they were there for "a racket."
The moment Creighton's party entered the box a tall young man in the first row of orchestra seats arose and faced the house, soberly saying:
"Ladies and gentlemen, this is a most auspicious, not to say suspicious, occasion. It is probable that many of you were not aware that we were to be honored to-night by having the privilege of witnessing
the performance in company with royal personages, but such is the fact. The party that has just entered the box on the right is the Prince of Chow-chow, who is accompanied by the Duke of Dublinstout, the Earl of Easytogetajag, the Emperor of Buginhishead, the High Mogul of Whooperup, the Chief Pusher of Whangdoodleland and the Great Muckamuck of Hogansalley. Gentlemen, it is your privilege to salute them."
Then every college boy in the house arose and bowed with great gravity toward the box.
"Well, this is sure to be a hot time!" laughed Merriwell, delighted.
"You bet it is!" assured Charlie Creighton. "We'll make Simon Legree regret that he is living."
An usher came down the aisle and remonstrated with the tall student. The tall student replied to the usher with exaggerated politeness, declaring that he meant no harm, but that he had felt it his duty to inform the audience that such distinguished personages were in the box.
Then when the tall young man sat down, as if by a prearranged signal, there was a wild outburst of ap