And so, with the snake in the box safely confined to the care of Pete Bumps in the automobile, Professor Snodgrass went back to dine with the colonel, while the three chums hastened to their delayed mess.
“You never know when he is going to turn up,” remarked Ned.
“That’s right,” agreed Jerry. “I wonder what he’s after now?”
They did not have long to wait before learning. Soon after mess they saw the professor coming down their company street and, as they had a brief respite from drills on account of the strenuous work of the morning, the boys took him to a quiet spot and began to ask him questions.
“But first of all, tell us if there is anything the matter?” begged Jerry. “You look worried. Are you?” 28
“Yes,” admitted the little scientist, “I don’t mind admitting that I am worried—and puzzled, too.”
“What about?” asked Bob. “Ticula hasn’t got loose, has she?”
“No, I went over to see, after dining with your colonel, whom I found to be a most delightful man, though his ignorance of reptiles and insects is painful. But, as I say, I assured myself of the safety of Ticula. Pete has her in the auto.”
“Then what’s worrying you?” demanded Ned.
“Well, I have a problem to solve and I don’t know how to do it,” was the answer.