But the colonel had barely seated himself before a new thought entered his mind. He pondered for a moment, and then swung around in the swivel-chair and faced the boy who stood waiting, cap in hand.
"Young man," he said, "it just occurs to me that I can serve your school as well, and please myself better, by making a donation of the flag instead of subscribing to the fund. Does the idea meet with your approval?"
The proposition came so unexpectedly, and the question so suddenly, that Aleck hardly knew how to respond.
"Why, yes, sir," he said hesitatingly, "I suppose so. You mean you'll give us the flag?"
"Yes; I'll give you the flag. I am about starting for New York. I will purchase one while there. And in the spring I will provide a proper staff for it, in order that it may be flung to the breeze."
By this time Aleck comprehended the colonel's plan.
"Why," he exclaimed enthusiastically, "that'll be great! May I tell Miss Grey?"
"You may be the sole bearer of my written offer to your respected teacher."
He swung around to the table and picked up a pen.
"Your teacher's given name is—?" he inquired.