"Barker," said one of the masked figures in a sepulchral voice, "do you desire to join our mystic band?"
"You bet!" answered Sam.
"No levity," was the stern reply. "Before you are admitted you must swear solemnly not to divulge the secrets of the association."
"I won't," said Sam.
"'Tis not enough. You must swear!"
"All right, I swear."
"Kiss this book, and swear with uplifted hand."
Sam did so.
"Do you know what will be the penalty if you violate the oath?"
"I'll be 'bounced,' I expect."