"I'd like a few moments to speak with you in private, if you can spare the time," said Tad in a low voice, at the first opportunity.
"At your service now, sir."
"No; not here."
"Then come to my room at the hotel. I'll fix it with the others," said Mr. Marquand, observing at once that the lad had some serious purpose in mind.
"My friend Chunky will go with me, if agreeable to you?"
"That's all right. Professor, if you have no objection I should like to have these two young men go to my quarters with me for a little while. I—"
"Certainly. Don't stay out too late, boys."
"No, sir."
"Wonder what they've got up their sleeves?" muttered Ned, watching the receding figures of his two companions and Mr. Marquand.
"You may talk," smiled the latter after they were well started.