A week after the rescue of George Strong some of the cadets learned that Captain Putnam’s birthday was at hand. They asked the master of the Hall if they could celebrate, and he gave the desired permission. Money was raised among the cadets to present the captain with a fine set of encyclopedias, and of this gift Captain Putnam was justly proud.
“All things considered, you are doing very well,” said the master to his pupils. “I am proud of you, and happy to think that Putnam Hall is earning such a good reputation for itself.”
“I shouldn’t want to go to a better school,” said Jack. “It just suits me exactly.”
“So say I,” came from Pepper. “Of course we might do without Baxter and that crowd——”
“Every school seems to have its bully,” put in Andy. “All we can do is to make him keep his place.”
“Don’t bother with Baxter!” broke in Dale. “Let us enjoy ourselves.”
Just then Stuffer burst into the dormitory, his face wreathed in smiles.
“Come to the mess-hall!” he called out. “Such a spread! I’m going to eat the meal of my life!”
“That settles it,” laughed Jack. “Hurry up, all of you. If Stuffer gets there first, there will be nothing left!”
And they rushed down the stairs pell-mell; and here let us leave them and say good-bye.