ing rather than to fall into the hands of Old Eli's sons, and I think he was right."
Creighton came around to inquire how it happened that Merriwell disappeared so suddenly the previous evening.
Since the boat race Creighton had sought Merriwell's company, although he had scarcely given Frank any attention before that.
Creighton was a prominent society man and had considerable influence at Yale; his friendship was of value to any fellow on whom he saw fit to bestow it.
His father was rich, and Charlie spent money freely, as his whims dictated. Not even those with whom he was not on friendly terms, however, could justly accuse him of being a cad.
"Awfully jolly time last night," yawned Creighton. "It was rather kiddish, but it is a relief to play the boy once in a while. It capped the whole business when the actors themselves finished the fun by giving the manager away in the last act."
Frank smiled, but did not explain his connection with the crowning event of the evening.
"Jove! I'm hungry," Charlie declared. "Come on,
Merriwell and Rattleton, we'll go down to Bob's, and have a chop."
He would not take no for an answer, and so, a few minutes later, the trio crossed the campus, Creighton in the middle, his arms locked with those of the other lads. All were laughing and joking in a light-hearted manner.