“I guess he’s learned one lesson, all right enough,” was Randy’s comment.
“Gee, but putting those stones in the cannon was a serious piece of business,” declared Fred. “Why, some of the cadets might have been killed!”
At the end of the week came a surprise for the boys. Sam Rover had had to take a business trip to a city not far from Haven Point, and drove over in his automobile, first to call on the girls and then to visit his son and his nephews.
“Uncle Sam!” cried Jack, who was the first to greet him. “This sure is a surprise! I’m awfully glad to see you!” and he shook hands warmly.
“Thought I’d drop in and see how you’re making out with your final examinations,” said Sam Rover. “Is everything going along all right?”
“We hope so,” answered the young major. “Some of the questions are pretty stiff though, I can tell you that!”
“Well, nothing that’s worth while in life is very easy,” answered Fred’s father, and then the others came up and there was a general rejoicing all around. The boys took the older Rover into the Hall, where he was greeted by his old chum, Colonel Colby.
“It always seems like a touch of old times when you or Dick or Tom come around,” said Colonel Colby to Sam Rover, when they were left alone for a few minutes. “It’s a pity we can’t get together oftener.”
“How are the boys making out? I hope they’re putting their minds down to their studies.”
“They’re doing very well, especially Fred and Jack,” answered the master of the Hall. “It seems to be a little more difficult for the twins. They take so much after Tom,” and Colonel Colby showed a twinkle in his eyes.