“Oh, well, it doesn’t matter,” said Jack, taking off his waistcoat and hanging it up over his coat.
“You can have my bed if you want it, Jack,” said Arthur. “I don’t see why Billy is so disobliging.”
“Well, I did not mean it for him,” thought Billy, “but it will be his own fault if he makes the change.”
“Billy’s is better,” laughed Jack, “but still I don’t mind changing with you if you don’t object.”
“Not in the least,” said Arthur. “You’re an obliging fellow, Mr. William Manners.”
“Very bad manners, I should say,” laughed Harry.
“Oh, well, I am a bit particular, I suppose,” said Billy, “but I get accustomed to a thing and don’t like to change. It’s the same with a seat at table or a desk in the schoolroom.”
Billy had been in a hurry to get ready for bed in case the boys tried to persuade him to change his mind, and now he threw back the covers and plumped himself in without further delay.
In a moment there were several surprises.
First, the bed went all to pieces and let the rather stout young fellow down upon the floor in the most unceremonious fashion.