"It's my opinion that this is all foolishness," declared Ned. "I'm going to see your mother."
Tad laid a hand on Ned's arm. "Please say nothing to my mother about it. My mind is made up, and that's all there is to it. Of course, it will be a bitter disappointment to me not to go with you, but I guess I shall get over it. It would be more bitter to me if anything—anything happened to mother."
"And Professor is coming on next week," muttered Walter. "I guess we had better give it up for this season, fellows."
"No. I won't have it that way," urged Tad. "You'll make me feel worse about it if you do anything like that. Your plans are made."
"Yes, we will let things stand as they are for the present," agreed Rector. "But I shan't give up the idea that you are going with us. Why—but what's the use in talking about it? Walt, is your father at home?"
"He is at the bank."
"Then I'm going over to see him."
"What about?" questioned Tad suspiciously.
"I've got a little matter of business that I want to talk over with him."
"Want to borrow some money, eh?" grinned Chunky.