But that moment of hesitation had been sufficient for Fred and his followers to make good their escape, and as the Firsts rushed into No. 1, the last boy reached the campus and with a mocking wave of his hand, Buttons shouted:
"Try the Thirds! They're slow but tame!"
CHAPTER VI
HIS FATHER'S FAILURE
Bronson's action in standing treat for Buttons and his crowd did much to establish him in their good graces, and the lads soon became better acquainted.
"I say, have you picked out your boarding-place, Clothespin?" Soda asked presently. "If you haven't, we may be able to save you getting into one of the 'Old Ladies' Homes.'"
"That's the Baxter name for several boarding-houses managed by elderly maiden ladies," explained Fred. "They——"
But he was interrupted by Soda's announcement:
"The lunacy commission will now consider the sad case of Fred Markham, star athlete of the Second Form, who is so far out of his head as to call the harpies that collect the rent and dish out the prunes at the 'Old Ladies' Homes' maiden ladies. It——"
"I realize that all sense of politeness and respect for your elders is lacking in you, Soda," broke in Fred, "but you must remember that Bronson has been accustomed to associating with well-bred people."