“Oh, yes, I thought I’d have Professor Smuller furnish some music—harp and violin.”
“Fine! They can sit in the alcove, and we’ll put some of our palms around them,” returned Jason Sparr.
“Remember, this is for next Saturday night, seven o’clock sharp,” said Phil. 119
“I’ve got it down,” returned the hotel proprietor, as he wrote in his book.
“And don’t say anything to anybody about it. I want to surprise my friends.”
“Very well, mum’s the word,” and the hotel man looked very wise and knowing.
Leaving the place, Phil and Ben sought out the home of Professor Smuller, a violinist, who, with a friend who played the harp, often furnished music for dances and other occasions.
“Yes, yes, I can furnish music,” said the violinist. “Just tell me what you want.” Business was slow and he was glad to get any sort of an engagement.
The matter was explained, and the professor promised to be on hand and bring the harpist with him. He said he could play anything the students desired, including the well-known school songs. He would fill the engagement for the boys for eight dollars, although his regular price was ten. But he would have to have cash in advance.
Again Phil paid out his money, and then, the business concluded, he and Ben left the professor’s home and hurried along the road leading to Oak Hall.