The Reverend was a man of guile. He didn't bat an eye.
"How many students has the college?" he inquired.
"We've got a hundred, all studying books and learning things," said Petey proudly.
"Reahly, now?" said the Reverend; "I say, reahly? And these cows! Might I ask if these cows are a part of the college?"
"Sure thing," said Petey. "Sophomore roping class uses 'em. Great class to watch."
"I say now, this is extraordinary," said the Reverend. "You don't mean to tell me you tie up cows?"
"Rope 'em and tie 'em and brand 'em," said Petey. "What's college for if it ain't to learn you things?"
"I say now, this is extraordinary," said the Reverend. I gave him four more "extraordinaries" before I did something violent. He'd used two hundred that morning. "Might I see the class at work?" he inquired.
Petey didn't even hesitate. "Sorry, Reverend," says he. "But the Professor of Roping and Branding has been drunk for a week. Class ain't working now."
The college bell tapped three times. "That's cleaning-up bell," said Petey.