“Ask whose there,” suggested Bob.
“Who—who’s—there?” stammered Bill, as though it cost him an effort.
“It is I—Mr. McNibb. Are there any persons in your room besides yourselves?”
“Ye—yes,” stammered Bill. Lying was not permitted by the school honor code.
“Open the door!” came the command.
Bill looked appealingly around. Some of the boys made motions as though to dive under the beds.
“Face the music!” ordered Cap sharply, for he detested sneaking tactics.
“Open the door,” came the command again, in stern tones.
There was no choice but to obey, and Bill arose to draw the bolts.
He slowly opened the portal, and, as it swung back the banqueters peered forward to behold the smiling countenances of Ward and Merton, two of the biggest seniors in the school.