“He’s certainly got something on his mind,” said Randy, in telling the others of the incident. “And I must confess I’m growing really sorry for him.”
On the next day came another surprise for the Rovers. All of them were out on the campus when they saw Brassy Bangs leap a side hedge and start toward the school. At the same time they saw a tall man wearing a slouch hat hurrying off in the opposite direction.
“Hello! there is that fellow Brassy had trouble with in town,” exclaimed Randy.
“Just look at Brassy!” whispered Fred, after the youth had passed them and gone into the Hall. “Why, he’s as pale as a ghost!”
“It certainly is a mystery about Brassy and that strange man,” was Jack’s comment. “Just as much of a mystery as about Professor Duke’s doings.”
Soon the boys were busy packing up, getting ready to leave. Then came the usual jolly times just previous to saying good-bye to their fellow-cadets and the teachers. The students were to scatter in all directions and the majority of them expected to have a glorious time during the summer vacation. Phil Franklin was to go back to the oil fields, to visit his father.
At the railroad station the Rovers met Mary and Martha and also some of the other girls, and here many good-byes were said.
“I hope you get a chance to get out to Big Horn Ranch,” said Jack to Ruth.
“So do I, Jack. But I haven’t received permission to go yet. If I don’t get there you must write to me.”
“I certainly will, Ruth. And you must write also. But come out if you possibly can.”