The news that three cadets had caved in the snow house spread, and before the day was over Captain Putnam did his best to locate the offenders. But Baxter, Paxton, and Coulter said nothing, and they were not exposed.
“This was a mean and serious trick to play,” said the captain, on addressing the scholars. “Had it not been for the prompt work done to rescue those under the snow, one or more lives might have been lost. I wish to hear of no more such actions at Putnam Hall. If I learn who is responsible I shall punish that party severely.”
“Phew! we had a narrow escape,” said Baxter, when he and his cronies were safe in their dormitory. “Bart Conners saw us from the lake shore.”
“Yes, but he didn’t recognize us,” added Coulter.
“I hope no one else saw us,” said Paxton.
“I reckon we are safe. But we want to stop talking of it, or somebody may overhear us,” said the bully; and there the subject was dropped.
On the following day the boys had a big snow fight. Company A went into the snow fort to defend it, while Company B did its best to capture the stronghold. Andy and Pepper did not take part, as Captain Putnam thought it best for them to keep quiet. But the other lads went at the fight with a will, and the contest lasted for three hours, when the fort capitulated. During the fight Stuffer was hit a heavy blow in the ear, and Dan Baxter got a black eye from a “soaker.”
“I wish I knew who threw that soaker!” howled the bully of Putnam Hall. “I’d give him something, and don’t you forget it!”
“I think Jack Ruddy threw it,” said Mumps, although he had no reason for such a statement.
During the fort fight Jack and Baxter had had something of a row, and the bully was willing enough to believe what the sneak said. When Jack went down to the gymnasium after the fight was over, the bully followed him.