“I hope so myself,” answered Jack. His heart had given a little jump on first receiving the news, thinking that possibly something had happened at home. He lost no time in opening the envelope, and while he did this Fred and the twins crowded around him.
The telegram was from Jack’s father, and read as follows:
“Your Uncle Sam and I have volunteered for the army. We have both received commissions. Tell Fred of this and break the news gently to Mary and Martha. Uncle Tom will manage business and remain head of Liberty Loan Committee. Colonel Colby will tell you more.
“Richard Rover.”
“What is it?” queried Fred.
“It’s great news, Fred; especially for you and for me,” answered Jack, whose eyes had traveled swiftly over the telegram.
Then he read the message aloud. Bob Nixon had retired, and Randy had closed the door after him.
“Well, what do you know about that!” ejaculated Fred. “My father in the army! Good for him!”
“And to think my father is going, too!” remarked the oldest of the Rover boys. “And he also has a commission.” He looked at Andy and Randy and wanted to go on, but somehow could not.
“And they are going to make our father remain at home and take care of the business,” remarked Randy soberly. “That’s what I call tough luck!”