"I am very much obliged to you," I interposed; "but I want you to understand that I don't ask any one to get himself into a scrape for me."
"When we protect you, Thornton, we protect ourselves. Your cause is our own. We won't say anything more about that matter. We are here now in a state of rebellion, and we must make the best of our situation. When Mr. Parasyte will give us fair play, we will return to the Institute."
"We will," replied some of the boys; but I am free to say that they hoped he would not give them fair play until they had spent a week or more in camp.
"Now, fellows, we will see how we stand, and make arrangements for the future. We have boats and tents, and these are about all we have. We have provisions enough for supper and breakfast. We must get a supply of eatables to-night or in the morning. It will require money, but I suppose all of you have some; at any rate, I told you to bring your money with you, if you had any."
Most of the boys had some funds, which had been saved from their pocket money for a Fourth of July Celebration, planned months before.
"We need some officers, and as I don't believe in one-man power, I shall ask you to elect them. Please to nominate a treasurer."
"George Weston!" shouted one of the students.
"George Weston is nominated. All in favor of his election will manifest it by raising the right hand."
It was a unanimous vote, and the nominee was declared elected.
"Now we want to raise the money, we need to buy provisions, fairly. If any one will make a motion, it will be in order," added the chairman.