“I think we ought to pay something,” suggested Charlie. The club resolved that each member should pay a cent a month.

“And what do with the money?” asked the governor.

“Buy swords,” replied the martial Jugurtha.

The idea spread like wild-fire, and, not stopping to count how long at the above rate it would take to accumulate money sufficient to buy a sword for every one, the club voted Juggie’s proposition a wise and patriotic one.

“I think,” said the self-forgetful Sid, “that the president ought to have the first sword.”

“And the governor next,” said Rick.

“And the treasury next,” said Charlie.

“I’m that, Charlie, too, and I want one,” clamored Pip.

“A sentinel ought to have one fust, ’cause he’s at de door, and might hab to dribe away down-townies,” said Juggie.

“No, me first,” said the governor.